Government Coins: Recent Episodes
GovLia
Government Coins is a podcast for small businesses that would like to scale up their businesses by selling to the government. Government contracting is a largely misunderstood topic, ShaKeia and Christlie are here to dispel the myths and share play-by-play with guests such as government buyers, prime contractors, and of course government contractors killing it in their industries. ShaKeia is the Founder of GovLia, a supplier management and engagement firm. Christlie is the Founder of Christlie G Consulting on a mission to introduce millions of black-owned businesses to government contracting. Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/governmentcoins/support
John Tigert currently serves as the Assistant Purchasing Manager for the City of Virginia Beach, Virginia - the most populous city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Prior to his work at the City of Virginia Beach, John also served as the Purchasing Services Manager for Dorchester County, South Carolina, and the Procurement Manager for St. Louis County, Missouri.
John has a Master's degree in Public Administration, and holds the NIGP-CPP, CPPO, and CPPB certifications from NIGP and the UPPCC, respectively. His areas of focus during his public procurement career have been on construction procurement, procurement process & policy development, and cooperative procurement.
John is currently an active member of the Virginia Association of Governmental Procurement (VAGP) and serves the membership of VAGP on the Board of Directors.Want to learn more about the City of Virginia Beach:https://virginiabeach.gov/Connect with John Tigert on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdt001/
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Dr. Cheryl Sutton has worked for over two decades advocating for the utilization of minority and diverse-owned businesses in the public and private sectors. She has mastered relationship building and uses this skill as a powerful conduit to provide resources and opportunities to minority firms throughout North Carolina.She is passionate about providing equitable opportunities for diverse firms with the ability and readiness to participate in the evolving marketplace. When she identifies a need, her goal is to find solutions through her mantra, “Make Connections Count”.Throughout her career, she has left her fingerprint on multiple initiatives helping to support, empower, educate, and bring recognition to minority business owners. Most recently, she has received the following: 2023 - North Carolina’s POWER 100 (Black Business Inc.) 2024 - Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Leader of the Year (Hispanic American Chamber ofCommerce) 2024 - Corporate Partner of the Year (NAWBO – GR) 2024 - NC Women Business Owners Hall of Fame Inductee (Advocacy honoree)A sampling of her signature programs includes the Women’s Owned Business Symposium (City of Dayton), UNC Wilmington’s HUB Academy, and she founded the Cape Fear Region Minority Enterprise Development Week (Wilmington, NC). Since joining the North Carolina Education Lottery in 2022, she created the Diversity Champions Resource Group to help facilitate ongoing conversations regarding inclusivity in purchasing decisions.Grateful for her professional success, when asked what is most important, she unapologeticallyacknowledges that “Family comes first, at all times”.
Want to learn more about NC Education Lottery:https://nclottery.com/Connect with Dr. Cheryl Sutton on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-cheryl-d-sutton-06506812/
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Meet the Experts: Michael Greene & Lisa Goodman | Procurement ProfessionalsJoin us as we feature two seasoned procurement professionals who are making an impact in the City of Tempe!Michael Greene, Procurement Administrator for the City of Tempe, has over 30 years of experience working in public sector organizations like the Arizona Department of Transportation and local school districts. With certifications as a C.P.M. and CPPO, Michael is an expert in the field. He holds a bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management and a Master’s in Public Administration from Arizona State University.Lisa Goodman, Senior Procurement Officer for the City of Tempe, brings over 28 years of purchasing experience to the table. She holds certifications including NIGP-CPP, CPPO, and CPPB. An advocate for public procurement, Lisa is an active member of the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing and the National Procurement Institute. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management from Arizona State University.Learn more about their journeys and insights in public procurement!Want to learn more about the City of Tempe, AZ:https://www.tempe.gov/Connect with Michael & Lisa on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-greene-1b634810/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisamgoodmanaz/
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In this episode of the Government Coins podcast, we dive into the process of doing business with the City of Kirkland, Washington! Our host, ShaKeia Kegler-Gray, is joined by Jay, the Purchasing Agent for the City of Kirkland, who shares invaluable insights on how small and minority-owned businesses can effectively work with the city.
Jay Gewin is the Purchasing Agent for the City of Kirkland, WA. He has worked for the city for 10 years and serves a population of approximately 92,000. Kirkland recently launched an Equity in Procurement program to engage with minority- and women-owned businesses. Jay enjoys traveling, outdoor activities, and cheering for Seattle sports teams and the University of Washington.
Whether you're a local business owner, entrepreneur, or someone interested in public procurement, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn how to navigate the city's purchasing processes and grow your business!
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As senior supplier diversity manager, Jessica manages Brasfield & Gorrie’s efforts to champion inclusion through business opportunities with diverse suppliers and trade contractors. She conducts training and strategy sessions with preconstruction and project teams to establish project proposal strategies and coordinate outreach events. Jessica manages the EQUIP program, which was established in 2019 to provide industry education, meaningful networking, and access to upcoming project opportunities for our database of diverse suppliers and contractors. Additionally, she facilitates relationships with diverse industry/trade associations, representing the company at professional and community events throughout the region. Beyond our doors, she's on the social responsibility committee for the Georgia Hispanic Contractors Association, President of the Georgia Chapter of the U.S. Minority Contractors Association, co-chairs the Programs/Education Committee for the Atlanta Chapter of the National Association of Minority Contractors, and co-chairs the communications committee for the National Association of Minority Supplier Development Council’s Construction Industry Advisory Group. At home, she is married to her partner Jeff and together they have one child, Noah, who just started kindergarten, and a dog and a cat.Want to learn more about Brasfield & Gorrie:https://www.brasfieldgorrie.com/Connect with Jessica on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-mcmahan-248331166/
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William C. Randolph joined the federal government as a contract specialist in 1995 after graduating from college and enlisting in the United States Navy. During his federal career, William reached the highest level of civil service by being selected into the Senior Executive Service in 2009. In August 2016, William retired from the federal government with over 26 years of public service. After retirement, he joined an acquisition consulting firm as a Senior Consultant and Leadership Coach/Facilitator. In 2019, William founded THINK Acquisition, a government contracting firm, focused on increasing the individual and team effectiveness of all participants (government, industry, and academia) in the government contracting space in the areas of acquisition, contracting, program management, and leadership. He has to date consulted with over 20 government agencies and organizations and over 40 industry clients in the areas of acquisition strategy, program management, and strategic business development.
William is a decorated United States Navy veteran (1988-1993), a David Packard Excellence in Acquisition Award winner, a Federal Executive Institute (FEI) graduate and the recipient of the Navy/Marine Corps Meritorious Civil Service medal – and now the founder of MicroMarket.co, an online marketplace for government micro-purchase services.
Want to learn more about MicroMarkets:https://www.micromarkets.coConnect with William on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-randolph-thinkacq/
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Les McGaugh currently serves as the Procurement Director for the City of Fayetteville. Les brings innovation and strategic vision to his role, striving for efficiency and effectiveness in procurement processes. In addition to his professional endeavors, Les is deeply committed to public service and professional development. He serves as the President of both the Arkansas Chapter of the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing (ARNIGP) and the Arkansas Public Fleet Professionals Association (APFPA), where he advocates for excellence and innovation in governmental practices.Beyond his professional affiliations, Les is a dedicated spiritual leader, serving as a Pastor in his community. Les is also a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, having served in Operations Enduring Freedom (OEF), Iraqi Freedom (OIF), and the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT).With a diverse background encompassing various levels of public and community service, Les McGaugh brings unique perspectives on leadership and innovation.Want to learn more about Fayetteville, AR:https://www.fayetteville-ar.gov/Connect with Les McGaugh on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/les-mcgaugh-624291187/
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Shante’ is the catalyst for positive change consistently paving the way for success among diverse businesses in the construction sector partnering with Samet. With a decade-long tenure as an educator in the Durham public school system Shante’ passion for empowerment and palpable in every endeavor. Leveraging her teaching background, she infuses projects with a drive to up with other strategically guiding teams to meet MWE bid criteria and exceed HUB/MWBE goals, thereby nurturing growth within their teams and resumes alike. Drawing upon her intense project management, Shante's empathetically navigates the challenges faced by minority firms throughout the bidding process and on-site work. After helping others with their businesses, she finds time to nurture and grow her art business StrokesbySMS.Want to learn more about Sumet Corporation:https://www.sametcorp.com/Connect with Shante' Stewart on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shante%E2%80%99-stewart-36808390/
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Nita Piano is a creative entrepreneur, she started her professional journey as a church musician at age 12, igniting her passion for music and prompting her to share it through piano instruction. Transitioning to the business domain in 2017, she boldly presented her services to government entities, later pivoting to support small businesses during the COVID-19 crisis. Today, as the visionary founder and CEO of a distinguished creative program and project management agency called Bold Growth Agency, Nita spearheads projects that focus on minority contract recruitment, business development, project management, vendor development, and business inclusion programming. Her commitment to fostering diversity and small business inclusion is evident in her collaborations with both government bodies and multi-billion dollar corporations, where she champions transformative initiatives through Bold Growth Agency. By empowering minority-owned businesses, Nita strives to create a more inclusive and equitable business environment, constantly innovating to address small businesses' distinctive challenges and disparities. Her agency's groundbreaking work extends to launching educational workshops and programs, dedicated to promoting collaboration, diversity, and positive change within the small business contract landscape.Want to learn more about Bold Growth Agency:https://www.theboldgrowthagency.com/Connect with Nita Piano on: https://www.instagram.com/nitapiano/https://www.linkedin.com/in/nitapianothebrand/
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Shenê Commodore is a known figure in the contract management field for her expertise and dedication in formulating winning strategies for businesses navigating the complexities of government contracts. As the Founder and CEO of Commodore Consulting, LLC, she has been at the forefront of guiding organizations toward success in government procurement for 35 years. From her tenure as a government buyer across diverse sectors including healthcare, IT, engineering, and construction projects, to her role as a contractor, she possesses a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics of government contracting from various industries.Drawing from this extensive background, Ms. Commodore leverages her expertise to develop procurement and leadership development courses to teach buyers and sellers. Her insights are informed by her credentials as a Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) and Fellow, reflecting her unwavering commitment to excellence in facilitating better business practices for federal government engagement.Notably, Ms. Commodore has played an instrumental role in advancing the contract management profession, having served on the National NCMA Board of Directors. She continues to contribute significantly by lending her expertise to the NCMA National Board of Advisors and NCMA DEI Council.Driven by her passion for advocating for small businesses, Ms. Commodore is deeply committed to empowering entrepreneurs to achieve financial freedom through innovative government contract solutions. Her dedication has earned her recognition, including being named one of the 25 Influential Women In Business by Minority Enterprise Advocate Magazine. Ms. Commodore was honored with the Security Industry Association’s Government Policy award in 2014 for her impactful work in addressing government regulation challenges that create barriers for small business in the physical security industry.At Commodore Consulting, Ms. Commodore leads a team that offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to guide organizations through the intricate landscape of government compliance and procurement processes. From contract management and strategic planning to proposal writing, GSA services, 8a, and specialized training, Commodore Consulting remains steadfast in its commitment to facilitating client success in the realm of government contracting.https://www.commodoreconsulting.com/
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Melanie Patterson is the founder and CEO of Team Integrity Empire-Team Integrity Knowledge Center and Integrity Global Logistics. She is birth from the Chicago landscape and has turned her pain into purpose. From alternative school to an advanced Master's degree in Emergency Room Nursing she has showcased her leadership as an innovative businesswoman. From mentoring over 200 students to a $2.5M Government contract in transportation she is bound for the greatest impact on other minority women.https://www.teamintegrityknowledgecenter.com/https://www.integritygloballogistics.com/
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In this episode, Thiané D. Carter, Director of Small Business Programs at the Raleigh-Durham International Airport Authority (RDU), discusses her experience in managing and implementing programs that ensure equal opportunities for small, minority, and women-owned businesses in the airport contracting process. Ms. Carter has over a decade of experience in DBE/ACDBE program development and administration and will share her insights on navigating these programs for contracting success.https://www.rdu.com/
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Kourey is a seasoned professional, distinguished by her passion for creating opportunities and fostering inclusion in procurement and supply management. She currently serves as the manager of the Office of Supplier Diversity at the City of St. Petersburg, where she leads a dynamic team of professionals and where she is championing change in procurement processes and policies centered around workforce development, wages, and small and diverse business communities. Armed with a background in interdisciplinary studies and law, she possesses a distinctive perspective that fuels her prowess in process implementation, program development, and compliance.Throughout her career, Kourey has been an advocate for enhancing opportunities and fostering an environment where small and diverse businesses are equipped to succeed. Her approach is characterized by a commitment to seeing the bigger picture, considering multiple perspectives, and pinpointing opportunities for improvement in processes and policies. Kourey is an advocate for diversity, actively engaging in outreach efforts, industry events, and conferences to amplify the importance of supplier diversity. Learn more about the City of St. Petersburg, FL and the work they do: https://www.stpete.org/Office of Supplier Diversity https://www.stpete.org/business/procurement/supplier_diversity.phphttps://www.stpete.org/business/index.phphttps://www.stpete.org/business/small_business_assistance/index.phphttps://www.stpete.org/business/procurement/index.phphttps://www.usf.edu/business-finance/purchasing/doing-business-with-usf/index.aspx
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Join us this Thursday featuring Jessica Gaskins, a seasoned professional supporting the SBA Office of Government Contracting Area III in Atlanta, GA. With extensive experience as a Procurement Center Representative (PCR), Jessica's journey began in 2009 with the Army Contracting Command before transitioning to SBA in 2019. She has demonstrated versatility, having served as a PCR and later as a Size Specialist. Jessica briefly explored a role as a Contracting Officer Representative at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center in Hohenfels, Germany, showcasing her international experience before returning to SBA in 2023. Her academic qualifications include a bachelor’s degree from Pennsylvania State University and a master’s degree from Norfolk State University. Notably, Jessica is certified in FAC-C Professional and FAC-COR, underlining her expertise in the field. Tune in to learn from Jessica's rich professional journey and insights into government contracting.Doing Business with SBA Area IIIhttps://www.sba.gov/federal-contracting/counseling-help/contracting-area-directors
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Join us in this insightful interview with E. Darlene Bullock, Director of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU). With over 27 years of experience in procurement, federal assistance, and acquisitions management, Ms. Bullock brings a wealth of expertise to her role.Prior to her current position, Ms. Bullock served as a Division Director and Contracting Officer in the DHS Office of Procurement Operations (OPO), overseeing billions of dollars in procurement annually. Notably, she led the award process for the first DHS-wide Program Management, Administrative, Clerical, and Technical Services (PACTS) Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Contracts, valued at $1.5 billion and set aside for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs).Ms. Bullock's distinguished career includes leadership positions at various Federal and local agencies, including the U.S. Agency for International Development, U.S. Department of Commerce, and the District of Columbia Government. She began her acquisition career with the U.S. Army and is a Certified Federal Contract Manager (CFCM) with the National Contract Management Association (NCMA).Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Ms. Bullock's insights and experiences in fostering small and disadvantaged businesses within the DHS procurement landscape. Subscribe now for more updates and interviews with industry leaders.Doing Business with DHShttps://www.dhs.gov/topics/do-business-dhsBusiness Opportunities at DHShttps://www.dhs.gov/business-opportunitiesFor questions: dhsosdbu@hq.dhs.gov
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Welcome to Government Coins podcast, the podcast designed to dismantle entry barriers by educating the small business community and providing them with more insight on how to navigate the government contracting landscape. In this episode, we will delve into the initiatives driving inclusion and opportunity within the Dallas Independent School District (DISD) through its Minority/Women Business Enterprise (M/WBE) Program. Join us as we explore how DISD is fostering an environment where diversity isn't just celebrated but actively cultivated in its contracting and purchasing endeavors.We'll highlight the various facets of DISD's M/WBE Program, from providing equal opportunities for participation to monitoring contract compliance and promoting networking and outreach initiatives. Whether you're a vendor looking to engage with DISD, a community member interested in economic empowerment, or simply passionate about fostering diversity and inclusion, this podcast offers valuable insights and inspiration. Join us as we champion diversity and equity within the Dallas ISD and beyond. Learn more about Dallas Independent School District and the work they do: https://www.dallasisd.org/Page/52108
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Dwan Courtney is the Director of UF Small Business & Supplier Diversity (SBSD), which promotes and facilitates the use of small and diverse businesses by UF departments and academic units. Through collaborative relationships with the campus, the local community, agencies, and business leaders, she develops programs and services aimed at encouraging and supporting small business participation in university procurement opportunities.Prior to returning to the institution, Dwan was the Small Business Program Coordinator at the City of Gainesville. Proceeding this position, Dwan was the Marketing and Communications Specialist in Small Business & Vendor Diversity Relations, in which she was instrumental in administering many of the department’s outreach events, including the UF Mentor ProtégéProgram, monthly business development workshops, and the annual vendor fair. Dwan loves what she does because she believes in the mission.https://www.ufl.edu/
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In this episode meet Dr. PJ – Porscha Jackson, PhD – a powerhouse in Houston’s small business ecosystem!As the Business Development Manager at the City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity (OBO), she's not just managing programs; she's the secret sauce for small businesses hungry for success. Picture her as a go-to mentor, helping entrepreneurs navigate the business labyrinth and representing OBO with flair at community events. Beyond her city role, Dr. PJ is an author, penning "Pursuing Legacy" and contributing her brilliance to academic texts and anthologies. With a heart for the underdog, she's not just a professional rockstar but a community champion, fighting for inclusivity and brighter futures.Learn more about the City of Houston, TX, and the work they do: https://www.houstontx.gov/
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Michele Torres is the Business Inclusion Manager for the Charlotte Business Inclusion Office, City of Charlotte. Michele provides operational leadership to the Office of CBI, inclusive of office management, budget operations, coordinating outreach events, and serving internal and external committees. In addition, Michele is tasked with planning and coordinating programs and activities overseeing development, compliance, and reporting.Before entering her current role, Michele was the Business Diversity Programs Manager, and later, Office of Civil Rights Manager at Charlotte Douglas International Airport for seven years. In her role at the Airport, Michele was responsible for administering the Charlotte Business Inclusion (CBI), Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE), Limited English Proficiency, Davis Bacon Act, and the ADA Programs. In her role, she sat on various boards including the Airports Council International Business Diversity Steering Group, where she represented large hub airports in the United States and Canada in the area of business diversity, equity, and inclusion. Michele also currently serves as the chair of an Airport Cooperative Research Program panel dedicated to increasing minority and women-owned business participation at airports.Michele moved to the Charlotte area from New Jersey almost 9 years ago. She has a Bachelor’s degree from Montclair State University and a Master’s degree from the University of Phoenix.Learn more about the City of Charlotte, NC, and the work they do: https://www.charlottenc.gov/Home
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Shemeka Davis is an MWBE Analyst in transition to become the MWBE Officer for the City of Rochester effective January 15th, 2023. As the MWBE Analyst supporting the MWBE Officer, Shemeka processes the MWBE plans for public works construction, professional services, as well as commodities goods and services. Shemeka gathers and reports all MWBE participation for the City of Rochester. To maintain meeting the MWBE goals, Shemeka's work provides technical assistance to certified MWBE firms to ensure equitable access to contracting opportunities. Business owner who wish to apply for the MWBE certification can contact Shemeka to receive assistance.
Shemeka also provides training workshops on how to do business with the City of Rochester.
Shemeka has a Bachelor of Science in Urban Planning from Alabama A & M University. Her urban planning background, skills, and experience have been utilized throughout her tenure at the City of Rochester many projects and programs are implemented and are still used today. Prior to working with the City of Rochester, Shemeka managed a computer and electronic repair facility for over a decade. It is those entrepreneurial skills and experience that provide understanding to the constituents she serves every day.
Outside of the City of Rochester, Shemeka is active in the community as a member of Mount Vernon Baptist Church, Shemeka helps support the needs of women as a board member of the non-profit Dress For Success and also volunteers for a non-profit that supports families affected by the criminal justice system. Shemeka is a mother to an eight-year-old daughter and enjoys all things nature-related including gardening.Learn more about the City of Rochester, NY, and the work they do: https://www.cityofrochester.gov/
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Sylvia Warren, a native Floridian, is a graduate of St. John’s River State College where she received a degree in Business Administration and Management, Santa Fe College where she received a BAS Degree in Organizational Management, and Saint Leo University where she received her MBA. She is also currently a 2023 doctoral candidate.
She began her career in the Finance industry, where she gained over nine years of experience. For several years, she served in a supervisory capacity.Sylvia Warren has been employed with the City of Gainesville, Office of Equity & Inclusion, since 2011, where she serves as the Equal Opportunity Manager. She oversees the small business procurement program and affirmative action programs. Some of her responsibilities include conducting independent research, studies, and surveys while making recommendations to the EO Director based on developments in these various areas. She also monitors all hires, transfers, demotions, promotions, and terminations for compliance with equal opportunity laws, policies, procedures, guidelines, and related matters. She is enthusiastic about serving her community and has worked with the City of Gainesville for approximately 12 years, performing equal-opportunity work. These experiences have cultivated in her a desire to work to promote equity in the workplace and the community at large.Learn more about the City of Gainesville, FL, and the work they do: https://www.gainesvillefl.gov/Home
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Adrina Gibson joined the City and County of Denver’s Denver Economic Development and Opportunity (DEDO) in 2019 serving as the Chief Officer of the Division of Small Business Opportunity (DSBO). In this role, she leads DSBO’s key program areas: Certification, Business Utilization, Contract Compliance, Forensic/Investigation, Strategic Development, and Community Engagement/Outreach programs. Fostering a more equitable playing field on public contracts, DSBO encourages and advocates for the utilization of small and disadvantaged businesses on construction projects, professional services projects, and for the procurement of goods and services, as well as local concessionaire opportunities. Gibson leads a dynamic and passionate team that supports the growth, capacity, and sustainability of small, disadvantaged, minority, and women-owned businesses. Most notably, under Gibson’s leadership, DSBO: • Received a unanimous vote from Denver City Council to reauthorize the revised DSBO Ordinance; this law prevents discrimination, maximizes opportunities, and builds equity for small, disadvantaged, minority, and women-owned businesses• Adopted Rules and Regulations of the programs it oversees as additional guidance of the DSBO Ordinance• Implemented and administered the Citywide Mentor Protégé Program and Bridging the Gap to provide strategic development to small businesses• Oversees compliance oversight of nearly $100 million worth of city contracts that are awarded annually to certified small, disadvantaged, minority, and women-owned businesses.• Facilitates the convening of city agency executive leadership and the Mayor’s Office through the Business Equity Leadership Team (BELT) to operationalize key priorities of the small businesscommunity.Prior to joining the City and County of Denver, Gibson worked at the Regional Transportation District (RTD) as the Manager of the Small Business Office, whereby she devoted her leadership to economic development, civil rights, community activism, and capacity growth of small and disadvantaged businesses. After starting out as an intern, she served 12 years in a variety of positions within the Small Business Office of RTD’s Civil Rights Division, as a manager, consultant, and DBE/SBE project manager. As a Denver native, she is dedicated to the community she serves. Gibson’s passion for her community began early in life while in high school she interned several summers at the Metro Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC), while in college conducted research and civic engagement projects on social constructs affecting women and minorities and today volunteers assist underserved communities.Learn more about the City & County of Denver, CO, and the work they do:
https://www.denvergov.org/Business
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Sky Williams, Diversity and Inclusion ManagerSky is a seasoned expert with over two decades of experience in municipal government. She's not your average professional; Sky is a visionary leader and change catalyst, known for her exceptional skills and dedication to fostering equity and diversity. Sky's journey is marked by a strong educational foundation, holding a Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resources Management and an Associate of Arts in Business Administration. Her technical prowess is unmatched, encompassing a wide range of tools, including Excel, Hyperion, and IBM Blueworks. Sky excels in data analysis, project management, and program design, demonstrating her versatility in tackling complex challenges. In her role as Senior Management Analyst at the City of Fort Worth Water Utility, Sky led transformative initiatives, such as the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) workflow mapping, showcasing her ability to find innovative solutions. Sky is not just a data-driven analyst; she's also a people-focused leader. Her role as Administrative Services Coordinator saw her driving organizational culture change and policy standardization. She excels in talent management, performance evaluations, and employee engagement. Recently, Sky embarked on a new challenge within the Diversity and Inclusion Department, where she leads efforts to address race, equity, and diversity. Her mission is to align diversity and inclusion efforts across the organization, making Fort Worth a more inclusive city for all. Sky's accomplishments are too numerous to list exhaustively, but one thing is clear: she is a force to be reckoned with. Get ready to be inspired as she takes the stage to share her remarkable journey and dedication to a brighter, more inclusive future. Sky represents limitless possibilities and an unwavering commitment to positive change.
Christina Brooks, City of Fort Worth Chief Equity Officer
Christina is a results-driven equity, diversity, access, and inclusion professional with twenty years of experience working with underrepresented populations. As the City of Fort Worth's first Chief Equity Officer and Director of Diversity and Inclusion Department, she is responsible for the enforcement of the City’s Non-Discrimination Ordinance for Fair Housing, Fair Employment, Public Accommodations, ADA and Title VI, and the Business Equity Ordinance for equitable access in City contracting and procurement and capacity building of underrepresented businesses. The newly created Department of Diversity and Inclusion supports several City Boards, Commissions, and Advisory groups including the Fort Worth Human Relations Commission, the Business Equity Advisory Board, the Mayor’s Committee on Persons with Disabilities, and the City Diversity and Inclusion Committee for Staff. Before joining the City of Fort Worth, she served in the City of South Bend's Mayor’s Office as the first Diversity and Inclusion Officer for the City under Mayor Pete Buttigieg. Christina holds a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University at South Bend with concentrations in Political Science and History and a Master’s in Non-Profit Administration from the University of Notre Dame Mendoza College of Business. Christina also holds a Master Compliance Administrator certification and holds Municipal Emergency Management Institute certifications from FEMA. Christina and husband Reggie have been married for over 29 years and together have 5 children. Christina was instrumental in facilitating the CDFI Friendly development process in both South Bend and Fort Worth.Learn more about the City of Fort Worth and the work they do: https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/Home
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In this week's episode, we will be guested by Kevin Jennings, founder and CEO of Government Cheese.Kevin Jennings embodies resilience and determination. After facing a complete loss in the 2008 crash, he fought back, carving a niche in real estate and construction, and generating over $350 million in revenue. His tenacity led him to secure significant government contracts and a 10-year Super Bowl deal, with his achievements spotlighted by Rolling Stones Magazine. In 2017, Kevin sold one of his companies to a private equity firm. There, he masterminded acquisitions and mergers exceeding $100 million. Kevin’s story is a compelling testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to turn setbacks into monumental successes.
Learn more about the Government Cheese and the work they do: https://thegovernmentcheese.org/
You can follow Kevin Jennings on his social media platforms:
https://www.instagram.com/gov_cheese/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-jennings-b59727122/
https://www.facebook.com/govcongreats
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Bogdan Avasiloae is a Purchasing Manager at the City of Deerfield-beach Florida. He is working with and under the direction of the Chief Financial Officer, this position is responsible for highly specialized, professional administrative and supervisory work to oversee and unify the City's purchasing and contract administration functions; serves as the City's central point of contact regarding the purchase of contracts for commodities, goods, and services for the City departments and outside agencies; responsible to monitor and ensure the City's consistency and legal compliance with procurement policies, procedures and methods, and requirements of federal, state, and local laws.
Bogdan manages and supervises the procurement of commodities and services used by the City using direct purchase, formal and informal quotes, and various methods of formal competitive solicitations, sole source, or other acceptable methods of acquisition.
He ensures compliance with applicable guidelines, regulations, laws, and ordinances established by the City or other outside agencies. He also prepares and submits Commission agenda items to department directors and/or the City Manager related contract awards and other procurement-related items.
Bogdan negotiates and confers with vendors on terms, conditions, and pricing; analyzes bid and proposal responses for responsiveness. He serves as a consultant to departments for the sourcing of the acquisition of commodities, services, construction, and professional services including CCNA. He maintains accurate records related to the procurement of goods and services in compliance with Florida's Public Records law.
Mr Avasiloae acts, or delegates, as the City's representative for various procurement organizations including the Southeast Florida Governmental Purchasing Cooperative Group, and the National and Southeast Florida Chapter of NIGP. And abides by the NIGP Code of Ethics.
Learn more about the City of Deerfield-beach and the work they do: https://www.deerfield-beach.com/
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Charles Spencer is the Procurement Director for the City of Plantation. He has been working in the Public Procurement/Purchasing profession for the past twenty-three (23) years. He is a Florida Certified Contract Manager and a Florida Certified Contract Negotiator, Certified Public Procurement Associate, and a Certified Public Procurement Professional.
Charles Spencer is an active member of the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing (NIGP), the Southeast Florida Chapter of NIGP, and the Florida Association of Public Procurement Officials (FAPPO). He holds numerous certificates relating to the Procurement profession and is always actively seeking to broaden his knowledge by continuing his education through continuing education courses and seminars.
A few of Charles Spencer’s notable achievements: He wrote the City of Plantation’s first Procurement manual, and he started an annual education session for staff concerning procurement/purchasing to ensure all rules were being followed and to maximize competition. Charles Spencer also streamlined the procurement processes, and successful transition a
Procurement Division to a Procurement Department. He has a passion for Procurement and believes that the process and outcome should end as a “win/win” for both parties and tries to obtain this goal within the State, County, and Local Laws.
Learn more about the City of Plantation and the work they do: https://www.plantation.org/
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Mr. Marcos possesses close to 30 years of public procurement professional experience, with 25 years at the executive/managerial level. He is known to be a transformational organizational leader, a subject matter expert in his profession, and recognized for his leadership in attaining organizational excellence in procurement. Throughout his career, he has implemented new technologies and software programs; re-engineered business practices; mentored employees and changed the organizational culture by encouraging employees to be innovators and forward-thinking; drafted laws, policies, and procedures all in an effort to achieve best practices and high performance in the various organizations he has worked for.
Mr. Glenn Marcos is the Chief Procurement Officer/Assistant Finance Director for the City of Fort Lauderdale. Before serving in his current capacity, he was the former Assistant Director of Purchasing for Broward County; Assistant Director and Director of Purchasing for the City of Miami; and Assistant Director of Purchasing for the City of Coral Gables. Some of Mr. Marcos's career highlights include forming the Lauderhill Police Department in 1994 and both the City of Aventura and the Aventura Police Department in 1996. He also assisted in drafting the City of Miami’s current Procurement Law and authored the City of Coral Gables’ first Procurement Law. Mr. Marcos has also been involved in successfully implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Financial Integrated system at the City of Miami, City of Aventura, Broward County, and Fort Lauderdale.
He has served as an expert witness and testified in legal matters of dispute and controversy in Court, interrogatories, and depositions. He also has been a speaker, moderator, and presenter for national, regional, state, and local public sector professional associations and chapters. Under his leadership, guidance, and stewardship his various procurement organizations have been recognized and bestowed with over 25 major awards for optimizing procurement practices, technology, professionalism, and efficiency.
Mr. Marcos holds a Master’s in Public Administration and a Bachelor of Science with a Degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Mass Communication from Florida International University. He also attended law school at Nova Southeastern. He is currently nationally certified as a Certified Public Purchasing Officer (CPPO) and Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB), and state certified as a Florida Certified Purchasing Manager (FCPM) and Florida Purchasing Agent (FCPA).
https://www.fortlauderdale.gov/
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Sandra Hammerstein is the SBE M/WBE Programs Compliance Officer for the City of West Palm Beach. She is an accomplished professional with over 20 years of experience in the communications and procurement fields. Hammerstein has had extensive experience in community outreach and education, public relations, and communication strategies to reach diverse audiences.
Learn more about the City of West Palm Beach and the work they do:
https://www.wpb.org/
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Natalie Richmond Assistant Director of Procurement
Learn more about the City of Miramar and the work they do: https://www.miramarfl.gov/
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Colette Holt represents public agencies and private firms on issues related to civil rights, public contracting, and affirmative action. She has broad experience in conducting defensible disparity studies, expert witness consulting and testimony, drafting legislation and policies, designing programs, managing initiatives, defending affirmative action programs, and counseling private firms on compliance with diversity requirements. Ms. Holt serves as General Counsel to the American Contract Compliance Association and is an author and frequent media commentator on these issues.
Ms. Holt received her B.A. in Philosophy from Yale University and her J.D. from the University of Chicago Law School. She was a Law Clerk to the former Chief Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. Prior to developing her own practice, she was associated with a large law firm, Assistant Corporation Counsel for the City of Chicago, and Chief Operating Officer of the Chicago Park District. She is a former Adjunct Professor at Loyola University School of Law and the John Marshall Law School.
Learn more about Colette Holt & Associates and the work they do: http://www.mwbelaw.com/
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Leveraging entrepreneurial vision and drive, Enovia Bedford thrives in startup and early-stage environments, working to drive profitable growth by coordinating clients with industry-leading companies, partners, and sponsors. Her experience encompasses diverse industries, with a special talent for marketing, p.r., social media branding, event planning, and relationship building. Enovia prides herself on developing and implementing engaging and impactful influencer programs, workshops, and campaigns. Originally from New York, Enovia moved to North Carolina in 2015 where she became the Marketing Director for a restaurant group and Co-Founded BLKTECHCLT, the first community for black entrepreneurs and technologists in Charlotte, NC which was acquired in 2021.
Enovia’s current role is Founder in VettDeck, a crowdsourced lead generation platform for the sponsorship and event industry. Vett Deck creates insights for multicultural markets to make impactful decisions about who they partner with and prospect for sponsorship. In previous roles, Enovia has provided creativity, innovation, and leadership to marketing and branding activities, including experiential, print, digital, and social media campaigns. Furthermore, she’s cultivated sponsorships and partnerships with industry leaders such as Keurig, Jim Beam,, Wal-Mart, Candies, JCPenney’s, Top Shop, Airbnb, Tito’s, Jack Daniels, and more. As an effective team leader, she’s astutely managed budgets and all project/campaign resources. Enovia collaborates well with all levels of professionals, from vendors to street teams to CEOs and marketing/sales executives leading to VettDeck serving hundreds of clients.
Enovia is both creative and strategic, providing the vision and direction needed to define company goals, promote a brand to consumers, drive growth, and optimize revenue generation.
Follow Enovia Bedford on IG for all tips and gems about her experiences:
https://www.instagram.com/novey.b/https://www.instagram.com/vettdeck/
Learn more about Vettdeck and the work they do:
https://vettdeck.com/home-page-3/
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Dr. Kizzy M. Parks is the President of GovCon WinnersTMAs a kid, she cleaned golf balls located in an alley behind her friend's house and them through a fence to golfers. She used the money to buy FUNYUNS® and Nutty Bars.Today, she owns and operates multiple businesses and has over $60 million in federal government contract awards. She’s been featured in Entrepreneur® Magazine has a successful YouTube Channel and served on the National Guard (NG) Joint Diversity Executive Council (JDEC). Through GovCon WinnersTM her coaching clients have won over $3 million in federal government contracts in less than 6 months.Follow Dr. Kizzy Parks on IG for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon: https://www.instagram.com/kizzymparks/Learn more about GovCon Winners and the work they do:https://www.govconwinners.com/
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Km! Ra was born in Jamaica. Previously he worked with the State Department, Immigration and naturalization service, the Department of Homeland Security, and Miami-Dade County. And currently the Purchasing & Contracts Director at the City of Palm Beach Gardens since 2012. Km! enjoys playing classical piano, among other things.
Learn more about the City of Palm Beach Gardens and the work they do:
https://www.pbgfl.com/
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“Everything I do is in service of others. Every single thing I do, I was born to do.” Danie Spikes is a certified professional relationship coach, public speaker, and award-winning businesswoman. As CEO of Beloved Inc., Danie approaches every business and project as an opportunity to fulfill the basic needs and desires most humans share: self-love, fulfilling relationships, confidence, and healing. This approach has led her to create a number of businesses. BeLoved Box, a fragrance house and body care brand she leads with her husband, Stephen, started with an all-natural home remedy for his eczema, and can now be found in hotels around the world. Luv and Lavender began as a birthday celebration and has grown into a one-day retreat for women who may not have a whole week to take a vacation but still need to carve out time for self-care. As CEO of a thriving beauty brand, Danie created Hello Beauty to bring together a community of other women in the industry, especially those early in their journeys, to support, encourage, and learn from one another. Learn more about Danie Spikes and the work they do:
https://www.iamdanispikes.com/
https://belovedbox.com/
Follow Danie on IG accounts:
https://www.instagram.com/lovecoachdanispikes/
https://www.instagram.com/belovedbox/
https://www.instagram.com/hellobeauteorg/
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Dr. Lauren Josephs is a Social/Behavioral Scientist and is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Visionary Vanguard Group, Inc. –a consulting firm which uses research, evaluation, training & technical assistance to help organizations eliminate disparities and achieve equitable outcomes. Her work has been done on the national level for both private corporations and governmental entities.In previous roles, she was a Health Disparities Researcher at the Center for Health Futures at Florida Hospital (now AdventHealth) where she was responsible for research, and evaluation of culturally appropriate community initiatives designed to improve the health of underserved, underinsured, and minority populations. Dr. Josephs started her career as a Mental Health A counselor working with juvenile-justice-involved youth. She has been a Florida-licensed psychotherapist, and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) for over two decades.Dr. Josephs has worked collaboratively to address health and healthcare disparities, gender inequities, childhood trauma, as well as other issues impacting minority and under-resourced communities. Her work has been presented at the International Family Violence and Child Victimization Research Conference, the International Conference on Communication in Healthcare, the Florida Health Disparities Conference, the National Youth at Risk Conference, Georgetown Institutes, Baylor University, and numerous others.Dr. Josephs obtained master’s and Specialist Degrees in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Florida (UF). She earned a Ph.D. in Public Affairs, an interdisciplinary program drawing from the fields of public administration, social work, health management & research, criminal justice, governance, and public policy, from the University of Central Florida (UCF). She is currently a member of the Collaborative Community Council, a subcommittee of the AdventHealth Orlando Board of Trustees. She also serves on the boards of Embrace Families Solutions, and Passionate Heart Ministries. She previously served on the executive committee of the boards of Healthy Start Coalition of Orange County, Central Florida Partnership on Health Disparities, and Community Health Centers.Dr. Josephs has received several awards for her work including the Orange County Public Health Equity Heroes Award from the Florida Department of Health in Orange County, in 2016 and the Outstanding Alumni Award from the Doctoral Program in Public Affairs at UCF, in 2017. She was born on the island of Jamaica and currently resides in Orlando, FL.
Follow Dr. Lauren Josephs on IG for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon:
https://www.instagram.com/drlaurenjosephs/
Learn more about VV Group Inc and the work they do:
vvgroup.net
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Althea A. Harris has been helping businesses her entire federal career which began in 1993 at the U.S. Department of Commerce with the late Secretary Ronald H. Brown; there, she traveled worldwide in support of small and medium-sized exporters.
Then she helped small business owners compete for federal contracts while at the U.S. General Services Administration in the Office of Enterprise Development. Having held several positions within the SBA office in Miami since 1999, Althea now serves as the Deputy District Director overseeing a staff that implements SBA’s mission throughout the District’s 24-county territory and advocating on behalf of the estimated 2 million+ small business owners. She is responsible for the daily operation of the District Office in Miami and the Alternate Work Site in Tampa, Florida. Althea is also the Faith- & Community-Based Initiative Coordinator for the office.
A graduate of Howard University and the University of Miami School of Law, Althea is also active in her community. She currently shares her time and talents as the Board Chairman of Greater Miami Youth for Christ and Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Christ Journey Church in Coral Gables. A Washington, D.C. native, Althea shares her life and love with her husband, their four wonderful children, and their Rhodesian Ridgeback.
Learn more about SBA and the work they do: https://www.sba.gov/district/south-florida
Email: althea.harris@sba.gov
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Mrs. Dudly Etienne-Harvard is the President of Dudly’s Professional Services (DPS). DPS is a certified small and woman-owned business within the tri-county areas in South Florida and Atlanta, GA. Mrs. Etienne-Harvard has been providing Community Engagement, Project Control, Technical Services, and Project Administrative and Small Business Support within the construction industry since 2010. Mrs. Etienne-Harvard's expertise spans both individuals as well as organizations. Mrs. Etienne-Harvard earned her B.A. in Construction Engineering Technology from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University (FAMU) in Tallahassee, Florida. Prior to starting her business, Mrs. Etienne-Harvard held several positions in Commercial Construction with an emphasis on Education, Parks & Recreation, Hospitality, Health Care Facilities, and much more. Dudly had service contracts ranging from $1.5 million to $75 million; projects include the Broward County Convention Center & Hotel Center, City of Pompano Beach Surtax Dixie Highway, Café 601 Renovation, American Airline Arenas Capital Improvement Projects, Paramount World Center, Coconut Grove Elementary School, Kenwood K-8 Center, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Cooper High School and more.
Mrs. Etienne-Harvard takes pride in ensuring her clients are knowledgeable on the impact of hiring small businesses on profitable projects and engaging with the community when potential job opportunities arise within their projects. Mrs. Etienne-Harvard believes small businesses and working citizens are the force behind a successful economy. Once an opportunity is given, it will allow that firm or individual to strive further than they can imagine. Mrs. Etienne-Harvard's love for small businesses extends beyond construction. Mrs. Etienne- Harvard purchased a commercial location in the city of North Miami, Florida. There she provides intimate spaces for micro and small business owners. Most small business owners meet clients at their local coffee shops. At our CoSpace location, you can bring your client and team members to a location that is professional, personal, and localized. Venture into our website for more information or let’s customize a package for you. We will be more than glad to serve you.
Currently, Mrs. Etienne-Harvard is the Co-Chair on the Construction Committee for the Miami Dade County Chamber of Commerce, a member of the CBT College Advisory Committee Board (Miami Garden Campus), the City of Fort Lauderdale Economic Development Advisory Board, and the Advisory Board for Florida A& M University Construction Engineering Technology Program. Mrs. Etienne-Harvard was a part of the Marketing board with NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction). Also, Mrs. Etienne-Harvard was Co-Chair of the Marketing committee for the South Florida National Association of Black Women in Construction (NABWIC). During her time with NABWIC, she helped facilitate and organize the first Industry Day Program at Cardozo High School in Washington, D.C. Industry Day helped educate the youth on the various occupations within the Architecture, Aviation, Construction, and Engineering industry. Since the launch of the program, NABWIC frequently conducts Industry Day programs in Washington, D.C., and South Florida.
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Ms. Tisha Blue-Warren is currently the Industry Liaison for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Procurement Operations (OPO). Her role as the Industry Liaison is to interface with the industry, to the maximum extent practicable, to increase awareness of OPO initiatives and priorities and to provide insight on how to do business with DHS.
By trade, Tisha is a seasoned acquisition professional, a contracting officer with over 20 years of experience, and over 10 years of leading people, leading change with a results-driven approach to government contracting and procurement. Previously, she served as an Associate Director for OPO Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Acquisition Division (CWMDAD) where she provided customer support to CWMD Systems Support Division (SSD) and served as the principal business advisor providing oversight for all SSD acquisition program procurements from the cradle to the grave for Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) detection devices, Minor Construction, Architect-Engineer, Inter/Intra Agency Agreements (IAAs) and Advisory & Assistance Services (A& AS) contracts.
Tisha obtained her B.S. in Political Science from Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville, NC, and her M.A. degree in Computer Resources Information Management from Webster University, St. Louis, MO. She is also an active member of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. Sorority.
Learn more about DHS-OPO and the work they do: https://www.dhs.gov/office-chief-procurement-officer
Email: OPOIndustryLiaison@hq.dhs.gov
DHSOSDBU@hq.dhs.gov.
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Mariel Reed is co-founder and CEO of Pavilion, a venture-backed marketplace for state and local public procurement. Pavilion enables public servants to save time and money by purchasing from suppliers that have been pre-qualified by other public entities, and helps reduce the cost of selling into the $2T state and local public sector for businesses.
Before founding Pavilion, Mariel served at the San Francisco Mayor’s Office, where she worked on two of the greatest challenges and opportunities for local governments: procurement and talent, and was an early employee at Coursera, an education technology startup.
Follow Mariel Reed on LinkedIn for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariel-reed-6b27a917/
Learn more about Pavilion formerly CoProcure and the work they do: https://www.withpavilion.com/
Website for suppliers: https://www.withpavilion.com/about/suppliers
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Entellect is a full life-cycle Business Development boutique company that works with companies to help scale their current processes and resources. Our cadre of experts helps companies scale up by augmenting their current resources and elevating their marketplace status to make them more competitive. In addition, we offer tailored solutions to expand a company’s capabilities and efficiently support enduring success.
Entellect has aided dozens of businesses in understanding the federal procurement landscape, navigating the competitive terrain, and winning contracts totaling more than $150B in value. We employ government contracting thought-leaders, individuals who share their knowledge with their clients and the GovCon community at large. These thought-leaders speak at AFCEA, regional PTACs, VETS, and other venues on GovCon topics, including partnering, debriefings and protests, capture management, pipeline management, and more.
Entellect supports and mentors small businesses to understand and thrive in the GovCon market and provides executive coaching support to SDVOSB, 8(a), WOSB, and other minority-owned small business leaders. We provide various services, including Capture Management, Proposal Management, Strategic Pricing, Contracts Management, Financial Management, and Business Operations Optimization. These services are critical in allowing companies to win bids in the short term and become more efficient, cost-effective firms thereafter.
As President of Entellect LLC, Ms. Tan Wilson provides full-lifecycle business support to primarily small businesses. She is an experienced and successful entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in business development and program management across federal and commercial business sectors. As a supporter of the small business community, Ms. Wilson aids businesses in their strategic planning, business development, capture management, proposal management, partnership development, operations support, and leadership coaching. She brings extensive management experience in leading large project teams of diverse stakeholders, ranging from C-level executives.
In addition, she was the 2021 Chair of AFCEA’s Small Business Committee (SBC), Small Business Person of the Year for 2020, and has provided invaluable support to AFCEA small businesses. Ms. Wilson is also a Board Member on AFCEA International and Emeritus Chair of the SBC.
Follow Tan Wilson on LinkedIn for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanwilsonpmp/
Learn more about Entellect and the work they do: entellectllc.com
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Jakayla Leathers is an entrepreneur, mom of 3, and the owner of Transform Floor Care & JS LLC. Transform is a DBE WOSB Facilities Maintenance firm that provides flooring solutions, installations, maintenance, janitorial services, and more.
Jakayla’s journey with the government included mistakes and lessons that she and her partner ultimately used as a stepping stone to their success. With lots of commitment, Jakayla went on to win her first Subcontract with a Military Housing Company and a 7 Figure Contract within her home state of SC.
She now continues to grow her company while also helping others launch into the world of Government Contracting as a consultant.
Follow Jakayla on Instagram for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon: https://www.instagram.com/officialjakayla/
Learn more about Transform Floor Care & Janitorial Service LLC and the work they do: https://www.transformfloor.com/
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Zach Berke, Founder & Managing Partner at Exygy
Zach oversees Exygy's strategy, design, and engineering work. He serves as the Account Manager for clients such as Children’s Council, CARE, REDF, Benetech, and the SF Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development. Zach founded Exygy in 2004 with a vision: innovation and technology will accelerate progressive social change. This vision led Zach to build Exygy, the market-leading innovation agency in the for-purpose sector. Zach wrote his first line of code at age six, designed his first website at 12, co-founded a non-profit at 18, graduated with High Honors at 22, completed his AmeriCorps*VISTA fellowship at 23, and then started Exygy. A Bay Area native and father of three, today Zach is dedicated to improving the health and resilience of his community.
Learn more about Exygy and the work they do:
https://www.exygy.com/
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Colleen Finnegan is the Executive Director for the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) at the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI). She is responsible for oversight of programs that promote small business participation in DOI procurements, with special emphasis on socio-economic programs including Small Disadvantaged Businesses, Women-Owned Small Businesses, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses, and Businesses located in Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HUBZones).
Ms. Finnegan began her federal career at the Department of Interior in 2007, at the Minerals Management Service. Originally overseeing the management and use of offshore sediment resources for coastal restoration and resiliency projects. Prior to her position with OSDBU, Ms. Finnegan served as the Acting Executive Chief and Deputy Chief of the Office of Strategic Resources within the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, responsible for managing and developing offshore energy and mineral resources.
Learn more about the Department of the Interior and the work they do: https://www.doi.gov/
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Nicole Jews grew up and currently lives in the small city of Rialto, California. Nicole has been in the field of Purchasing for over 15 years. She started her career as a part-time clerical aide with the City of Rialto, moved on to a non-profit as an Accounting Assistant, then worked at the San Bernardino International Airport as a Purchasing Supervisor.
To gain additional contract background Nicole worked for Transportation Corridor Agency, which operates the toll roads, then moved on to OmniTrans, the largest bus transportation agency in San Bernardino. She finally worked her way to her current position as the Purchasing Manager for the City Banning. Nicole has her Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a minor in Human Resources, from California State University, San Bernardino.
She is currently working on her Master of Business Administration from Western Governor’s University. Nicole has two young adult children, Natalie and Austin, who are the center of her world.
Learn more about City of Banning CA and the work they do: https://banningca.gov/
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Allen Thomas Regional Administrator Southeast Region As Region IV Administrator, Allen Thomas will oversee SBA programs, offices, and operations in the SBA’s Southeast region, serving Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
Mr. Thomas is a former three-term mayor, businessman, entrepreneur, and leader in public and private enterprise. As mayor of Greenville, one of North Carolina's largest cities, Mr. Thomas led the post-recession recovery, rapid expansion, and robust economic growth, better connecting the city and region. He was recognized by the White House during the Obama-Biden Administration for community engagement in law enforcement and public safety.
A serial entrepreneur, Mr. Thomas co-founded healthcare technology startup IQMax, which grew to service 160 medical facilities in 36 states, processing 18 million patient records per day. Mr. Thomas was appointed Executive Director of North Carolina Global TransPark by the Governor of North Carolina Roy Cooper, to revitalize the state's global multimodal transportation and logistics hub, spearheading growth in advanced manufacturing jobs, innovation, and investment.
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Al Gordon serves as CEO of National Strategies (NSI).
Since he founded the firm in 1996, Al has helped companies successfully navigate the complexities of legislative, regulatory, and procurement issues in the state and local government market.
Under his leadership, NSI has helped generate over $33 billion in new revenue, as well as executed dozens of successful legislative and regulatory programs, for its clients. The key to NSI’s success is Al’s strategic approach to the government market.
Al has a proven ability to transform clients’ businesses based on an approach rooted in NSI’s extensive network of subject matter experts and consultants across the country who serve as strategic partners and understand the dynamic state and local geopolitical landscape. This concept to better navigate a fragmented marketplace began with his career as a senior aide to former NY Governor Mario Cuomo.
For more than seven years in that capacity, Al oversaw such areas as legislative and intergovernmental relations, which included serving as liaison to local governments. Al’s extensive experience in NY State government and politics also included serving as the Chairman of the NY State Democratic Committee and running several statewide political campaigns.
Al received his B.A. degree in Political Science and History from Clark University and a J.D. from Fordham School of Law.
Learn more about National Strategies (NSI) and the work they do: http://nationalstrategies.com
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Sandy McDonald has been the Director of the Broward County Office of Economic and Small BusinessDevelopment (OESBD) since June 2013. In alignment with OESBD’s mission to stimulate economic development, Mr. McDonald is committed to supporting the growth and development of small businesses in Broward County, which are a great asset to our local economy.
Mr. McDonald also serves as Broward’s designated Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Liaison Officer (DBELO) and works to support the County’s commitment to the Federal Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) programs that OESBD administers along with the County’s local small business programs.
For the past 21 years, Mr. McDonald has worked in Community and Economic Development on both local and federal programs. His expertise includes initiating tax increment financing programs, providing supportive economic development services to local municipalities, brownfield redevelopment, small business development, and disadvantaged business enterprise opportunities. Mr. McDonald continues outreach to the 31 cities in Broward as well as the Local Chambers of Commerce and multiple business organizations to ensure that the public is aware of the programs and services offered by the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development.
Learn more about Broward County and the work they do: http://broward.org/
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandy-michael-mcdonald-8047313/
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Liz Whitehead, CEO, 12PointFive
Co-Mastermind, Diversity Masterminds®
Liz Whitehead is the CEO of 12PointFive, a business development consultancy that specializes in building business development strategies so that diverse business owners can leverage certification and ultimately win new business. She supports her clients in reaching their goals through facilitation, consulting, and one-on-one coaching.
Recognizing that diverse businesses need a program to give them the information they need when they need it, and in a way that drives them to take action, Liz co-founded Diversity Masterminds® with Heather Cox. Diversity Masterminds® is an online curriculum focused on building a roadmap to certification success.
Clients who work with Liz benefit from more matchmaker meetings at national conferences, more business opportunities, and more visibility in the supplier diversity networks.
As the leader of WBEC Greater DMV, Liz oversaw the certification, programs, and partner-building initiatives for the Regional Partner Organization of WBENC. Hired to develop the certification program at WEConnect International, she is very familiar with the global network for diverse business owners and implemented the first WEConnect Academy. She has spoken at countless events to guide diverse business owners to leverage certification such as the NGLCC national conference, the Merck Virtual Education Fair, and WBEC Pacific and WEConnect International conferences.
Liz currently serves on the WBENC National Forum and the WBEC DMV forum. Her awards include WBEC DMV’s 2018 and 2019 WBE Connection awards for completing the most Done Deals™ with other certified WBEs and 2019 Outstanding Women’s Business Advocate Award. In 2021 she was recognized by Women’s Enterprise Magazine (WE USA) as one of the Top WBE CEOs of 2021 and by the Women Presidents Organization as a President’s Award winner.
Follow 12PointFive and Diversity Masterminds on Instagram for all tips and gems about her experiences:
@lcwhitehead12.5
@divmasterminds
Learn more about 12PointFive and Diversity Masterminds and the work they do:
https://12pointfive.com/
https://www.diversitymasterminds.com/
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One of the biggest challenges Government Contractors face is selling their services to the Federal Government. In a market worth billions, competition is high and the sales cycle is long. Small Businesses must be smart about how to spend their time and resources and arm themselves with information that can help them win more at a lower cost.
Often, companies feel they don’t have enough information to make sales decisions, although the Federal Government makes more information available to the public than any other industry! So, why does it feel sometimes like we’re left in the dark?
Breaking the Standard Podcast aims to provide information and insights from two points of view: Industry and Government. Their hosts each have over 10 years of experience as a Contracting Specialist for a Federal Agency and Business Development for Industry. By creating a conversation about the acquisition lifecycle from our individual points of view, we will close the communication and knowledge gap for Small Businesses in GovCon, allowing them Break their Size Standard!
Linked In: Breaking the Standard Page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/breakingthestandard11a1291a8/
Nicole Tripodi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoletripodi/
Morgan Tapp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-m-tapp-59b2338b/
Aubrey Gainfort: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aubrey-gainfort-ab6091a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breakingthestandard/
Morgan Tapp email: mtapp@foxrothschild.com
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Corey McCaster is the Director of the Office of Small Business and Supplier Diversity at Pinellas County Economic Development. There he leads one of the top Small Business Development Centers in the State and a rapidly expanding Small Business Enterprise (SBE) program that connects small business owners to more than $500,000,000 in government contracting opportunities annually.
The SBE Program includes a sheltered market created for qualified vendors that allows small businesses to place bids for County purchases from $5,000 up to $100,000. In addition, small business participation in the program is required for all Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) and Consultants' Competitive Negotiation Act (CCNA) contracts.
As a former small business owner, who has also worked for prominent economic development agencies across the State, Corey understands how vital services like the SBE program are to the health of Florida’s small business landscape and has championed the cause throughout his career by expanding opportunities for start-ups, working to create small business incubator space,
and helping to launch a one-of-a-kind minority business accelerator that has proven to aid Bay Area business owners in realizing strong and sustainable growth for their companies.
Corey is a proud native Floridan who is delighted to see the growth of commerce across the Sunshine State into communities where it hadn’t traditionally flourished.
The University of South Florida Muma College of Business graduate calls Tampa Bay home and loves to golf, fish, and grow his own food.
Learn more about the Department of the Interior and the work they do: https://www.pinellascounty.org/
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Lisette Washington is a member of Dentons’ US Government Contracts Practice, where she provides legal services to companies that maintain business with federal and state government agencies. Lisette’s legal practice focuses primarily on government contract counseling and litigation, and her work includes prime and subcontract disputes, bid protests, contract and regulatory compliance, investigations, cost issues, and terminations.
Prior to joining the Firm, Lisette worked as government contracts attorney at National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Headquarters in Washington, DC, where she advised senior-level government officials on acquisition strategy and policy, challenges to contract awards, contract claims, acquisition integrity, and small business contracting.
While earning her Juris Doctor at The George Washington University, Lisette studied government contract administration, advocacy, and pricing. In law school, Lisette also served as a judicial intern to the Honorable Thomas C. Wheeler of the US Court of Federal Claims; as a judicial intern to the Honorable Sara E. Ellis of the US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois; and as legal intern at government agencies including the US General Services Administration, the US Small Business Administration, and NASA.
Follow Dentons on Instagram for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon: @dentonsglobal
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lswashington/
Learn more about Dentons and the work they do: https://www.dentons.com/
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Judy Bradt, CEO of Summit Insight, brings over 34 years as an expert not just in Federal contracting but also in the biggest challenge so many GovCons face on their road to their goals: how to build the relationships that we need to succeed with Federal buyers. As consultant, speaker, and author, she’s helped thousands of established businesses – small, mid-tier and large -- find their fast track to success in the Federal arena.
Her proprietary Players and Layers Methodology to get in front of the right federal buyers...and to win over $200 million dollars in federal business. She works only with business teams who believe that relationships are the key to Federal contracting...and are committed to getting in front of their perfect Federal buyers and opportunities before their competition does.
She’s an award-winning author, speaker, and consultant. You can pick up her latest book, #1 Bestseller Government Contracts Made Easier (Second Edition) on Amazon along with her companion strategy workbook.
When she’s not doing GovCon, she’s a scuba diver, pilot, and professional rock-climbing instructor. Far from being a daredevil, she loves to explore by learning from the best.
Explore Summit Insight’s private and on-demand programs when you’re ready for a proven, practical, relationship-based approach to Federal business. Judy’s unique mix of consulting, training, and coaching delivers results for people who want to grow their Federal business.
Learn more about Summit Insight and the work they do: http://summitinsight.com
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Calvin J. Mitchell Jr, Director, Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) In 2020, Calvin J. Mitchell Jr. joined the U.S. Department of Education leadership team as the Director of the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU). As Director, implementing policies and initiatives throughout the Department to ensure that all socioeconomic categories of small businesses are afforded opportunities to compete for contracts.
Prior to the OSDBU, Mr. Mitchell was the Deputy Director of Contracts and Acquisitions Management (CAM). As CAM Deputy Director, in the Office of the Chief Financial Officer, he was responsible for overseeing the work of four contracting divisions that provide operational procurement services to the Department of Education. Prior to joining the Department, Mitchell served as the Branch Chief of the Accounts Management Division at the General Services Administration. Mitchell led the organization toward meeting the Government-wide strategic goals to support all 24 CFO Act agency vision, mission, and strategic goals.
Separately, Mr. Mitchell served as a Congressional Fellow for the U.S. House of Representatives Homeland Security Committee reporting to Chairman Bennie Thompson. In this position, he served as the Principal Procurement Advisor to Committee leadership and provided guidance and oversight to Members and Committee staff on procurement, small business programs, and related acquisition issues within the Department of Homeland Security. Mr. Mitchell has also held leadership positions at the U.S Army Corps of Engineers.
Learn more about the Department of Education and the work they do:
https://www.ed.gov/
LinkedIn Profile:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/calvin-j-mitchell-jr-cfcm-a705348/
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Sheena Parker is the Founder & CEO of 4SYT Industries, a Facility Support Services government contracting company providing janitorial, flooring, pressure washing, painting, landscaping, real estate services, and more; to the federal and local government, as well as corporate agencies. Sheena founded 4SYT Industries after working as a Real Estate investor, Acquisitions Manager and Wholesaler for over 5 years. She found an avenue that would bridge the gap between real estate and facility maintenance to government, local and corporate entities by providing value in three ways –
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Understanding clients' wants and predicting their needs
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Bringing craftsmanship and aesthetic pride back to the workplace
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Providing Disney-like customer service at ALL times Sheena is a retired Signal Army Warrant Officer.
As a Warrant Officer in the Information Technology Space with multiple certifications, she has excelled in both the public and private sectors as a strong female leader in the industry holding other civilian sector positions in software development, project management, technology infrastructure, and network administration. Sheena’s passion, however, has always remained in the real estate realm.
After many years within the government contracting industry, Sheena has decided to share her knowledge as a Government Contracting Authority - teaching businesses how to become 3-tier contractors. She does consulting, has a YouTube Channel called: Sheenapreneur, and has developed a Government Contracting Course called “GovCon For Winners”.
She has been featured in multiple articles for her 15+ years of work as a business startup manager with her previous company. Sheena volunteers her time, especially with Veteran Organizations, Women’s Organizations, and Minority Organizations throughout the country. Sheena is a wife and a mother of two children; Nya – 17 and Terrell Jr - 14. Sheena holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Project Management.
A lover of life and all things positive, Sheena is a plant enthusiast, who loves to read, meditate, travel, and spend lots of time with family.
Follow 4SYT Industries on Instagram for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon:
https://www.instagram.com/4syt_industries/
https://www.instagram.com/sheenapreneur/
Learn more about 4SYT Industries and the work they do:
https://4sytind.com
Subscribe to her Youtube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFIHg7tf3ZoDJEXp8w6zedQ
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Gregory K. Spearman is a native of Glenwood, GA, and received his B. S. Degree from Fort Valley State University, Fort Valley, Georgia, a Master’s Degree from Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia, and his M.P.H. degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, TX. He worked for the Houston- Galveston Area Council of Governments as a Healthcare Consultant and then as a Purchasing Planner for the Agency’s Cooperative Purchasing Program where he served as Program Administrator for the Cooperative Purchasing Program for four years. He served as Director of Purchasing for the City of Savannah, Georgia from 1986 to 1991. In the latter part of 1991, he became the Director of Purchasing for the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, North Carolina Purchasing Department, a consolidated City-County Purchasing operation.
In 2000, he went to work in the private sector for Onvia, a company that produces Web-Based Purchasing Software for public agencies. He helped to develop purchasing solutions for agencies needing to improve their purchasing process via automation. Mr. Spearman is a Certified Public Purchasing Officer (CPPO) and has been active in the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing (NIGP) for a number of years as a seminar presenter, instructor, member of the Talent Council, and mentor. He is currently Director of Purchasing for the City of Tampa where he manages a staff of 29 and is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the acquisition of $420M of various goods and services, disposal of surplus property, and Inventory Management for the City. He is an active member of the Tampa Bay Chapter of NIGP and served as Chair of the Planning and Development Committee on the Community Action Board of Hillsborough County for thirteen (13) years, a Community Action Agency whose mission is to help low-income citizens to become self-sufficient. He also is a member of the City’s Emergency Management Steering Committee. He is an active member of the Carmel Friendship Church where he serves in the Prayer Ministry, Pandemic Response Task Force, Men’s Ministry, and Growth Track Facilitator. He is married and has three adult children and one granddaughter.
Learn more about DCAA and the work they do: https://www.tampa.gov/purchasing
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregory-spearman-nigp-cpp-cppo-30060b1a/
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More About Government Coins:
Government Coins is a podcast hosted by ShaKeia Kegler the founder of GovLia.
Government Coins is a brand new podcast focusing on— increasing small and minority-owned business participation in government contracting! Our goal is to dismantle barriers of entry by educating the small minority business community and providing them with more insight on how to navigate the government contracting landscape. Unlike traditional outreach events and tradeshows, our podcast will allow us to connect with a wider range of small businesses both locally and nationally.
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More About The Host: - ShaKeia is the founder of GovLia ( www.govlia.com), specializing in supplier diversity management, engagement, and outreach.
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Connect with us on Instagram Government Coins: https://www.instagram.com/governmentcoins
ShaKeia : https://www.instagram.com/govlia/
Now let's get some of these #GovernmentCoins !
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Joseph Greger
Small Business Program Manager
Mr. Greger is the Small Business Program Manager and is located at DCAA Headquarters in Fort Belvoir, Virginia. In this capacity, he serves as the program manager and audit expert for the small business program with responsibility to provide assistance, consultation and internal control with regard to audit requirements and their application to small business.
Mr. Greger graduated from California University of Pennsylvania with a Master of Science in Business Administration and a Bachelors in Accounting. He began his DCAA career as an Auditor at the Herndon Branch Office in Northern Virginia. He was promoted to Supervisory Auditor then Branch Manager at the Springfield Branch Office. Mr. Greger has also served in Headquarters as an OWD Program Manager in the Operations Directorate.
Mr. Greger resides in Alexandria, Virginia.
Learn more about DCAA and the work they do: https://www.dcaa.mil/
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Nancy has over 30 years of experience helping small business owners at all stages of growth. As President and CEO of the WBDC of Florida, Nancy manages and leads an incredible team of staff, sponsors, partners, and women business leaders who are dedicated to certifying, connecting, and championing women in business. She is committed to promoting women- owned businesses and furthering The Council’s mission to certify, connect and champion women in business. Nancy’s personal motto is Connections, Creativity, and Courage in all endeavors. She holds a Master’s Degree from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS, 1982). She was born in Haiti and raised in South Florida. Nancy is bilingual in English and French and is fluent in Spanish and Creole.
Follow Women's Business Development Council of Florida on Instagram for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon: @WBECFLORIDA
Learn more about Women's Business Development Council of Florida and the work they do: https://www.wbecflorida.org/
Email Nancy : nancyallen@wbec.org
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Dr. Zamora Crawford Olin is the CEO and Co-Founder of Crawford Olin, LLC. As the CEO of Crawford Olin, Dr. Olin has worked with small-medium-sized business to create viable business development strategies and sustainable growth solutions to increase their sales and competitive positioning in the federal marketplace. With over 20 years of experience in federal contracting and procurement, her strong desire to help small businesses build and scale their companies through government contracts served as the fuel to start this company. Since its founding in 2014, Dr. Olin has helped her clients win nearly $7.0 Billion in federal contracts. Dr. Olin began her career in contracting and procurement as an Aviation Storekeeper in the US Navy. During her time in the Navy, Dr. Olin received several awards and commendations for her exemplary leadership and performance in procurement. After an honorable discharge, she worked as a Sr. Buyer within a Fortune 500 company, then as a Contracts Manager for a large DoD Contractor.
In 2008, Dr. Olin began her career as a Senior Contracting Specialist for the Navy. By 2011, Dr. Olin became the Chief of Contracts and Grants and was responsible for the annual spending of $300-$500 million in products and services. During her tenure as a Contracting Officer, she developed a passion for working with and promoting small businesses while working a temporary assignment as a Small Business Advocate.
After leaving federal service, Dr. Olin and her partner founded Crawford Olin to help small businesses navigate the federal business development process. Recognizing the growing divide in the competitive readiness of established small and micro-small businesses, Dr. Olin founded the GovCon GrowthLab in 2019. The GovCon GrowthLab is an online community created to increase the competitive readiness of minority small businesses entering the federal marketplace. Dr. Olin uses her subject matter expertise to teach small businesses how to leverage their professional skills to launch and grow their business, obtain subcontracting opportunities, and how to position and market their capabilities to government agencies and strategic partners.
Since 2007, Dr. Olin has taught contracting, procurement, and operations management at multiple universities. In 2019, under Dr. Olin's leadership, Crawford Olin developed a workforce development program and became a certified provider for the Defense Acquisition University. Dr. Olin is currently pursuing an Executive Education Certificate in Business Analytics through the Harvard Business Analytics Program at Harvard Business School. She holds a Doctorate of Business Administration with a concentration in Global Business Sustainability, a Masters of Business Administration with a concentration in Management, and a Bachelor of Arts (Pre-Law) in Political Science and Criminal Justice.
Follow GovCon GrowthLab on Instagram for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon: https://www.instagram.com/govcongrowthlab/
Learn more about GovCon GrowthLab and the work they do: https://www.govcongrowthlab.com/
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One of the remarkable takeaways from the journey of 26-year-old Akil Alvin is that he began to achieve his dreams as he grew up — not when. From creating programming that revitalized his local library at 7 years old, to getting himself a job on the UniverSoul Circus marketing team at age 10, Akil tapped into his calling at a young age. It was a surprise to no one when, at 18, he launched his own company and took his place among the 3% of Black men who serve as the faces and founders of ad agencies throughout this country. It’s clear the millennial media visionary felt it when he heard these legendary lyrics by the late Christopher Wallace: “Stay far from timid / Only make moves when your heart's in it / And live the phrase ‘Sky's The Limit.’”
As Founder and Global Chief Creative Officer of Detroit Digital Media (DDM), Akil leads a multimedia content creation company that empowers ambitious brands to thrive in contemporary culture through a unique mix of storytelling, insights, and technology, with a dash of irreplaceable #DetroitHustle. Since its launch in 2013 with the help of one of Akil’s teachers at the renowned Detroit School of Arts, DDM has grown to work with some of the world’s leading brands and municipalities. Their undeniable client roster includes McDonald’s, Bank of America, Ford Motor Company, Major League Baseball’s Detroit Tigers, the North American International Auto Show, and Coca-Cola.
The hustle hasn’t been in vain. In 2019, DDM was one of 10 millennial-led companies around the nation to be honored by the National Minority Supplier Development Council, and Akil was recognized as an Emerging Young Entrepreneur, landing a one-year advisory partnership with Warner Media. In 2020, DDM became the first company in history to be advised by the iconic Walt Disney Company. And under Akil's leadership, DDM recently embarked on a full circle and historic moment as the first on record ad agency to sign an exclusive multimillion-dollar agreement with a municipality in the country, handling high-level messaging and rebranding for the CIty of Detroit.
In 2022, Akil was named one of Forbes Magazine 30 Under 30, as one the top 30 advertising executives in North America. Akil has embedded the importance of giving back into DDM’s core, and together the team developed a community engagement program called The Mentoring Loft to mold the next generation of entrepreneurs and creatives. The initiative is one way the self-described “unstoppable dreamer” can help ensure that youth are empowered to grow up as he did, believing that the sky's the limit, and creating opportunities to Authentically. Impact. Culture
Follow Digital Detroit Media on Instagram for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon: @wearedigitaldetroit
Learn more about Digital Detroit Media and the work they do: https://www.digitaldetroitmedia.com/
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Nicole "Nic" Cober, Esquire is the Principal Managing Partner of Cober Johnson & Romney, an award-winning legal & business consulting firm and CJR Development, a real estate development and advisory firm. For nearly two decades, Nic has been an entrepreneur and advocate for the small business community. She is an executive coach & business strategist who specializes in developing management, legal, & branding strategies for leaders in the business world. Her podcast, CEOs & Soul Talk, is produced at the National Press Club.
Nic Cober, Esquire also served as a councilmember of the National Women’s Business Council, a bipartisan council that advises the White House, Congress, & the SBA on matters concerning women in business. Nic chaired the Access to Capital subcommittee and the Communications subcommittee. Her book, CEO of My Soul, was published in 2016 & blends valuable business advice with true accounts of relationships struggles, family triumphs, & self-reflection. No matter the platform, Cober is regarded as an expert on business matters & personal success strategy.
On 2.2.22, Ms. Cober and 50 black women owners founded The BOW Collective, an organization with annual revenue of more than $250M collaborate to scale their businesses through capital, communications, and contracts.
Follow the BOW Collective on Instagram for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon:
https://www.instagram.com/the_b.o.w._collective/
Learn more about the BOW Collective and the work they do:
https://www.thebowcollective.org/
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Caryn Kent Dean, MLIS, CP APMP, CEO of Once Upon an RFP, founded Once Upon an RFP in 2018 after more than 20 years as a Proposal Professional. She and her team consistently create order from chaos, working with B2B and B2Governemnt businesses to stabilize and grow.
Caryn is passionate about connecting other professionals and businesses with opportunity, which has led to the development of new offerings in the form of RFP Bootcamp and SMB Toolkit.
Follow Once Upon an RFP on Instagram for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon: @onceuponanrfp
Learn more about Once Upon an RFPs and the work they do: https://onceuponanrfp.com/
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Laurie Sayles is author, change agent, thought leader, and President & CEO of Civility Management Solutions (CivilityMS), a professional consulting services firm working within the Government and Commercial space. CivilityMS is a certified Small Business Administration 8(a), Women-Owned, and verified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business located in Greenbelt, MD.
Laurie has become an outspoken advocate for Veteran’s as she has served on four Small Business Committee Hearings in both the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives regarding Veteran Entrepreneurship Training, SBA Reauthorization, and parity within the statuses. Along with company being awarded Washington Business Journal “2020 Veterans in Business” award; 2019 Maryland Women Veteran Entrepreneur of the Year and VIB Network’s “Above and Beyond” award; 2018 CivilityMS selected as 1 of 100 Minority Businesses in the Maryland, DC, and Virginia area, and “Compassionate Business Leader” due to her advocacy on behalf of Veterans business owners.
CivilityMS participated in many pilot programs: Department of Veteran Affairs, OSBDU program for Women Service-Disabled Veterans “VetBizLady”; BowieBic 8(a) accelerator program for SBA certified 8(a) programs in Prince George’s County, MD; Baltimore, MD Cohort 1 Goldman Sach’s 10,000 Small Business Program with Babson Entrepreneurship Training at Johns Hopkins University.
CivilityMS has received numerous awards during the past seven years of being established, and a repeat on Inc 5000 list for 2020 and 2021. Laurie received her BS in Social Science and a Minor in Strategic Management and Entrepreneurship, along with a Business Project Management Certification from University of Maryland University College (UMUC) and has been accepted in UMGC Graduates Program and plans to return for MBA.
Her advocacy work also includes Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP), which fights for policy changes for Women Owned Businesses. Lastly, Laurie is an author of her journey of moving through tough challenges, “As My Leaders Go … So Do I,” which has promoted women conferences for empowerment to survive and operates through the nonprofit R3 (Recognize, Repair and Repeat).
Follow CivilityMS on Instagram for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon: https://www.instagram.com/civilityms/
Learn more about Civility Management Solutions and the work they do: https://civilityms.com/
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E. Darlene Bullock serves as the Director of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU). Ms. Bullock has over 27 years of experience in procurement, federal assistance, and acquisitions management. Before joining the OSDBU in January 2011, Ms. Bullock was a Division Director and Contracting Officer in the DHS, Office of Procurement Operations (OPO). OPO is one of the largest procurement divisions in DHS obligating about $4 - 4.5 billion a year. Her division was responsible for supporting the Office of the Secretary and other high-visibility offices at DHS Headquarters.
Ms. Bullock oversaw and managed the award process of the first DHS-wide Program Management, Administrative, Clerical, and Technical Services (PACTS) Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Contracts which were set-aside for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs). PACTS had an estimated value at $1.5 billion. The award of PACTS enabled DHS to meet and exceed the 3 percent SDVOSB goal for the first time in Fiscal Year 2010.
Ms. Bullock has held leadership positions at several Federal and local agencies including the Department of Homeland Security Headquarters, U.S. Agency for International Development, U. S. Department of Commerce, District of Columbia Government, and the U.S. Army. Ms. Bullock began her acquisition career with the U.S. Army successfully completing the Department of Defense contract specialist intern program.
She is a Certified Federal Contract Manager (CFCM) with the National Contract Management Association (NCMA) and maintains her FAC-C Level III Certification in Contracting. She has completed various Federal Executive leadership courses throughout her career. She has an undergraduate degree in Agricultural Business and Resource Economics from the University of Maryland, College Park and a MBA in International Management from Southeastern University.
Doing Business with DHS https://www.dhs.gov/topics/do-business-dhs
Business Opportunities at DHS https://www.dhs.gov/business-opportunities
For questions, email dhsosdbu@hq.dhs.gov
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Matthew Johnson is the U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Industry Liaison and Communications Director for the Office of Acquisition and Assistance. In this role he helps to connect and engage with organizations around doing business with USAID. He has led a number of initiatives in support of these efforts, including the creation of WorkwithUSAID.org, the Agency’s live-feed Business Forecast, and the New Partnerships Initiative.
He has been with USAID since 2008. Prior to joining USAID, he served as the Director of Presidential Personal Correspondence and the Deputy Director of Presidential Writers at the White House. He completed his undergraduate work at Taylor University and has a Masters of Business Administration in Finance and Management from Mount Saint Mary's University.
Doing Business with USAID https://www.workwithusaid.org/
Business Opportunities at USAID https://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/find-a-funding-opportunity
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Derek Sampson is the founder and lead Contract Specialist at LiaiCon, a service-disabled veteran-owned company that provides cradle-to-grave acquisition support to small businesses. As an Air Force veteran and former Contracting Officer, Derek uses his expertise to help small businesses owners navigate the complex world of federal contracting. Derek teaches individuals how to find, compete for, and win federal contracts through his flagship course, Federal Contracting Blueprint for Small Businesses.
He currently supports federal agencies and contractors as an Acquisition Analyst and Technical Writer. Derek is also the owner of a Dream Vacations franchise. He specializes in creating life-long memories and unforgettable experiences for clients. Dream Vacations offers a full range of travel planning services, including river and ocean cruises, excursions, tours, all-inclusive resort vacations, and custom Disney vacation experiences.
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Mr. Mann joined the NASA HQ Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) as a Small Business Program Manager in March 2009. Currently, Mr. Mann is the Program Manager for Marshall Space Flight Center, Stennis Space Center, the NASA Shared Services Center, and the NASA Management Office for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
He also has OSBP responsibility for small business prime and subcontracting goaling and metrics (FPDS-NG and eSRS). From 2003–2009, Mr. Mann worked in various roles at NASA John C. Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, including Contracting Officer, Procurement Analyst, and Small Business Specialist. He has also been a Contracting Officer for the Defense Logistics Agency/Defense Energy Support Center and for the US Agency for International Development.
Mr. Mann is a Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM), has an MBA with a concentration in Contracting from the Florida Institute of Technology, and a bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University.
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For this episode, we will be interviewing Thao Jones-Hill a govtech executive with 22 years of experience leading cloud-based software companies and projects at the Federal, State, Regional, and Local levels. For 10 years, Thao was a member of the founding executive team for Granicus, growing it to become one of the leading local government cloud-based software companies today.
During his tenure there, he led their highest-profile project implementations, including the U.S. House of Representatives, The U.S. Senate, the Tennessee Legislature, and the City of Los Angeles. He has led engineering teams, customer support teams, hosting infrastructure teams, and sales and marketing teams for several govtech companies, including Granicus, Govdelivery, and Public Systems Associates.
He has also worked as a reliability engineering consultant for Facebook, Google, Twitter, LinkedIn, Microsoft, Amazon, Pinterest, and CBS Interactive. He received his electrical engineering degree from Tennessee Technological University. He is currently the product owner for OpenGov Procurement.
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Mr. David Beck is the founder of HUB Venture Partners and Autonomous Directive Ventures also leads a team of engineers in the Government sector in autonomous unmanned systems development. He is an expert in systems engineering and human centered autonomous and smart-city autonomous systems.
Contact David: david@autondir.ai
https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbeckmba/
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In this episode, we will be interviewing Dr. Jennifer Shieh, Chief Scientist and Program Manager Office of Innovation and Technology Office of Investment and Innovation U.S. Small Business Administration. She advances technology commercialization through the Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) programs, building partnerships and coordinating policy across the 11 participating Federal agencies.
She served as the Assistant Director for Entrepreneurship at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), where she led national efforts to improve the transfer of federally-funded technologies from lab-to-market, advance Federal agency coordination on R&D infrastructure, and champion open innovation through prizes and citizen science.
Previously, she managed the Small Business Program for the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and served as a Program Director at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) SBIR Development Center, having joined NCI as an AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellow. She was involved in product and customer development at Syapse, a precision medicine-focused startup, and mobile games startup Subversus Interactive.
Dr. Shieh studied the brain and cognitive sciences at MIT then earned her Ph.D. in neurosciences at Stanford University. She is co-author of the textbook Guide to Research Techniques in Neuroscience.
Visit the page: https://www.sbir.gov/about/leadership
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More About Government Coins: Government Coins is a podcast hosted by ShaKeia the founder of GovLia, Christlie the founder of Christlie G Consulting & Hamza Sabree the founder of Global Connects. Government Coins is a podcast focusing on— increasing small and minority owned business participation in government contracting! Our goal is to dismantle barriers of entry by educating the small minority business community and providing them with more insight on how to navigate the government contracting landscape. Unlike traditional outreach events and tradeshows, our podcast will allow us to connect with a wider range of small businesses both locally and nationally.
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More About The Hosts: - ShaKeia is the founder of GovLia ( www.govlia.com), specializing in supplier diversity management, engagement, and outreach.
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Christlie is the founder of Christlie G Consulting (www.christliegconsulting.com) specializing in human resource and human capital management.
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Hamza is the founder of Global Connects (www.theglobalconnects.com), specializing in facilitating the process of procuring government contracts.
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Connect with us on Instagram Government Coins: https://www.instagram.com/governmentcoins
ShaKeia : https://www.instagram.com/govlia/
Christlie: https://www.instagram.com/christlieg/
Hamza: https://www.instagram.com/globalleader_/
Now let's get some of these #GovernmentCoins !
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In this episode, we will be interviewing Ebony Smith, the founder of Ebenum Equation. Ebony is a leadership development expert with a passion for creating forward-thinking leaders. After 20 years of risk management experience in the Fortune 100 (Sunoco, BP, and World Fuel Services), her full-spectrum-lens view of leadership has empowered her to help individuals hone their goals and reach their full potential.
Ebony has worked in operational risk management as a health & safety advisor and in financial risk management on the derivatives trading desk. Today, she centers her career around transformational risk management where she partners with clients to develop leadership resilience and design foresight strategies for deployment.
Ebony has a B.S. in Chemistry from Jefferson and an M.S. in Environmental Protection and Safety Management from St. Joseph’s University of Philadelphia. After attaining a PPC (Professional Certified Coach) designation, by the ICF (International Coach Federation), she founded the ICF-certified Ebenum Leadership Academy to transform leaders into coaches. She is also a valued faculty member at Florida International University’s Center for Leadership.
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In this episode, we will be interviewing Keel Russell a serial entrepreneur, veteran, speaker, and founder of The Olab Group LLC. d/b/a Orange Lab Media is an award-winning boutique-style marketing laboratory specializing in marketing & communication services. Keel leads a diverse group of marketers, scientists, chemists, astronauts, strategists, designers, writers, influencers, and creative thinkers, who all share a love and passion for creating unique marketing experiences.
Since its inception, Orange Lab has consistently grown each year, almost doubling its revenue year over year. The company has several contracts with Fortune 500 companies and government agencies such as Starbucks, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Royal Caribbean, Mary Kay, JM Family Enterprises, Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Justice, General Service Administration, and several others.
Orange Lab is certified as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), SBA HUBZone, Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE), and Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Keel is an alumnus of Florida International University, where he earned a Master of Science in Management Information Systems and a Master of Science in Marketing. Keel served 12 years in the United States Army, where he served one tour in the Middle East in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
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For this interview, we will be interviewing Mari Cofield, the founder & CEO of DM Consulting. Mari is a former contracting specialist with more than 10 years of experience working for the government. Her company DM Consulting assists heavily with developing proposal and pricing criteria, completing market research, and responding to invitations for bids and requests for proposals. This week, she will share with us tips on pricing your offers and how to leverage market research to develop the best pricing.
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In this episode, we will be joined by Sharna Barnes, CEO, and Founder of Complete Contract Consulting. Sharna assists businesses in winning contracts through her bid proposal writing services, certification assistance, permitting & license, and compliance-related document management. Sharna has assisted hundreds of businesses in acquiring contracts by sourcing the bid, writing the proposal, and submitting the proposal on their business behalf.
She helped quite a few businesses increase their business revenue through government and private sector contracts. Many of her clients received their very first contract through her company.
Follow Sharna on Instagram for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon: https://www.instagram.com/sharna_barnes/
Follow Complete Contract Consulting on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/complete_contract_consulting/
Learn more about Complete Contract Consulting and the work they do: www.completecontractconsulting.com
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In this episode we will be joined by Mimi Louizi a former small business liaison and advocate. She will be sharing how she helped small businesses scale and grow their businesses. Mimi helped manage a contract and helped a contractor not be disqualified from doing government work.
To connect with Mimi Louizi visit her LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mimi-louizi-50b38369
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In this episode, we will be joined by Christine Edwards the CEO and Founder of Amplify Charlotte. Amplify Charlotte provides community engagement consulting for local government public safety, transportation, business & community advocacy. Christine will be sharing her experience in government contracting and how she has been a successful partnership and working with subcontractors to get access to government contracting opportunities.
Christine is also a government employee, we are interested to hear how her experience at work has helped her with her business and getting into the government contracting space, and are there any regulations about her doing work with governments because of her employment status.
Follow Christine on Instagram for all tips and gems about her experience in #GovCon: https://www.instagram.com/thechristineedwards/
Follow Amplify Charlotte: https://www.instagram.com/amplifyclt/
Learn more about Amplify Charlette and the work they do: https://www.amplifycharlotte.com/
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ShaKeia & Christlie will be doing a recap of the last 5 episodes, they will discuss key takeaways and community updates.
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Marcellus Fox Wade @fox_wade is the founder and CEO of @black_fox_group Black Fox is a professional services company that provides innovative technologies in Operational Resilience, Emergency Management, Cyber Security, Information Technology Staff Augmentation, Network Security, Software Development, and Program Management. There is a special treat in this episode because the @fox_wade share with us how is business works with both government agencies and corporate companies to provide information technology services.
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Episode 4: In this episode, we are joined by Keith D. Wright PhD. Acting Director, Business Diversity in the Office of Diversity & Inclusion at the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey. He is here to tell us about how the port authority does business with small businesses. What type of products and services does the port authority buy and if they have programs designed for small & minority-owned businesses to help them compete in this space. More about The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey https://www.panynj.gov/port-authority
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Episode 3: In this episode, we will be interviewing Hamza Sabree from Global Connects LLC about his experience doing business with the government selling different products to the government. He also help other small businesses learn how to do business with the government by selling commodities that government agencies utilize every single day. We will discuss different requirements when doing business with the government, tips on how to succeed in this space and things you should be doing to build relationships to access no-bid contract opportunities. Connect with Hamza Sabree
https://www.theglobalconnects.com/ https://www.instagram.com/globalleader_/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/hamza-sabree-8b18b786
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Episode 2: After the passing of a historic infrastructure bill, we received this question numerous times: "What does the $1 Trillion Dollar Infrastructure Bill mean for small businesses?"
On Thursday, Sept 15, at 1:30PM, we have Adrianna Clark, the Office of Small Business Southeast Region Director, with the U.S. Department of Transportation joining us LIVE to share what this bill could mean for small businesses.
More about the Dept of Transportation Office of Small &Disadvantaged Business Utilization https://www.transportation.gov/content/office-small-and-disadvantaged-business-utilization
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Season 1 Episode 1 of Government Coins: ShaKeia Kegler and Christlie Ganthier introduce themselves and explain the overall objective of the Government Coins Podcast. Government Coins is designed to be a way to inform, educate and connect small, minority and women owned businesses to the world of government contracting. This includes interviews from government professionals, prime contractors and business owners who have been successful in government contracting.
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