Untangled

Abhijit Verekar

State and local governments provide vital services to their citizens and keep them safe. They are also one of the largest employers in the country. They employ about 14 million people in the US, not including public schools and hospitals. However, they’re also wrought with antiquated systems, broken processes, paperwork overwhelm, lack of transparency, and underutilization of intelligent technologies.If you are a municipal leader, everyday citizen, or work for a state or local government across the US, you’ve come to the right place! Welcome to Untangled, a podcast for municipal leaders, IT managers, CIOs, and city or county council members that focuses on trends in government IT and its current best practices and challenges. Hosted by Abhijit Verekar, the show features special guests from various municipal agencies across the US, team members at Avèro Advisors, and other experienced professionals in the field to share their insights on how to untangle problems and make the Government more innovative and more efficient.

  1. 5D AGO

    Vaporware Traps: Why Government Keeps Falling for Software Demos

    Software demos are built to sell you a story — not to show you what a product can actually do. And in government, that story can cost millions. Vendors walk in with polished screens, AI “prototypes,” and roadmap features presented as if they’re ready to deploy. But once the contract is signed, the reality looks very different. In this episode, we untangle the truth behind vaporware: why governments trust demos too much, how “coming soon” features get used to win deals, and the red flags that show up long before implementation begins. We also talk about what real verification looks like — proof-of-life demos, driving the mouse yourself, sandbox access, and contracts that hold vendors accountable when the promises don’t match the product. If you’ve ever walked out of a software demo thinking, “This feels too good to be real,” this episode explains exactly why — and how to stop falling for it. #GovernmentIT #Leadership #SoftwareSelection #UntangledPodcast #TechnologyTruth 📅 Let’s Stay Connected: Hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest episode. We also go live weekly with more industry insights, so be sure to join us! And if you’ve got questions, drop them in the comments—we’re here to help! Government IT Modernization and ERP Strategies for 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Public Sector Transformation ➡ https://conference.averoadvisors.com/2025report Top Public Sector ERP Systems: : ➡ https://share.hsforms.com/1ee49ru4aSpe3x4Byzuqifgeexml Learn More About Avero: ➡ https://www.averoadvisors.com Connect With Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/averoadvisors Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/averoadvisors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/averoadvisors TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@averoadvisors Connect With AV: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verekar (865) 415-3848 | info@averoadvisors.com ©2025. Avero Advisors. All Rights Reserved.

    11 min
  2. DEC 11

    From Practitioner to CIO: The Leadership Evolution No One Talks About

    A lot of government CIOs step into the role carrying years of technical experience — but almost no preparation for the executive expectations that come with it. The shift from practitioner to CIO is bigger than most people realize, and it has very little to do with technology. In this Untangled episode, AV and former CIO Robert Kornovich unpack what the job actually requires: communicating without jargon, framing risk for non-technical leaders, navigating politics, aligning teams, managing expectations, and learning how to lead people instead of tasks. They also dig into why many IT professionals struggle with this transition and how mentorship, environment, and organizational culture shape someone’s ability to grow into a true executive. If you're building a career in government IT — or trying to make sense of the leap into leadership — this conversation clears the fog. #Leadership #GovernmentIT #CareerGrowth #CIOPath #UntangledPodcast 📅 Let’s Stay Connected: Hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest episode. We also go live weekly with more industry insights, so be sure to join us! And if you’ve got questions, drop them in the comments—we’re here to help! Government IT Modernization and ERP Strategies for 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Public Sector Transformation ➡ https://conference.averoadvisors.com/2025report Top Public Sector ERP Systems: : ➡ https://share.hsforms.com/1ee49ru4aSpe3x4Byzuqifgeexml Learn More About Avero: ➡ https://www.averoadvisors.com Connect With Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/averoadvisors Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/averoadvisors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/averoadvisors TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@averoadvisors Connect With AV: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verekar (865) 415-3848 | info@averoadvisors.com ©2025. Avero Advisors. All Rights Reserved.

    38 min
  3. DEC 4

    Why Avero Isn’t a “Tech Firm” — And What Modernization Actually Requires

    Avero gets labeled a “tech firm” all the time — but that’s exactly what we are not. In this episode, we break down why being vendor-agnostic matters, why we refuse to sell software, and why true modernization has far more to do with vision, culture, governance, and sustainability than technology alone. We revisit what organizations miss when they rush into products, how tech-first decisions undermine outcomes, and why ERP transformations fail when political pressure overrides long-term strategy. We also dive into the difference between an implementer and an independent advisor, how perceived conflicts of interest impact public trust, and why understanding government culture is essential to building solutions that actually work. Modernization isn’t “ready, fire, aim.” It’s clarity, intentionality, and hands-on support grounded in the realities of public-sector operations. And that’s why Avero exists — not to sell products, but to guide decisions that stand the test of time. #GovTech #DigitalGovernment #PublicSectorLeadership #ERPModernization #TechnologyStrategy #VendorAgnostic #AveroAdvisors 📅 Let’s Stay Connected: Hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest episode. We also go live weekly with more industry insights, so be sure to join us! And if you’ve got questions, drop them in the comments—we’re here to help! Government IT Modernization and ERP Strategies for 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Public Sector Transformation ➡ https://conference.averoadvisors.com/2025report Top Public Sector ERP Systems: : ➡ https://share.hsforms.com/1ee49ru4aSpe3x4Byzuqifgeexml Learn More About Avero: ➡ https://www.averoadvisors.com Connect With Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/averoadvisors Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/averoadvisors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/averoadvisors TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@averoadvisors Connect With AV: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verekar (865) 415-3848 | info@averoadvisors.com ©2025. Avero Advisors. All Rights Reserved.

    42 min
  4. NOV 20

    GovAI Summit Recap: Separating Signal from Noise in Government AI

    The GovAI Coalition Summit brought together government leaders, vendors, and innovators to talk about the future of AI in the public sector. But beneath all the excitement, one truth stood out: not everything labeled “AI” is actually meaningful for government. In this episode of Untangled, we break down the state of GovTech AI after two major conferences, what local governments should be paying attention to, and what they should ignore. From the rise of custom software disguised as AI, to vendor red flags, to the reality of pilot projects that actually work, we get honest about what’s hype and what’s real. We also talk about the black box problem, why data cleanup still matters, and why local government expertise—not AI branding—is the real differentiator in this new landscape. For any CIO, CAO, or department leader navigating the AI gold rush, this episode cuts through the noise and brings clarity to where the market is headed. #UntangledPodcast #GovTech #PublicSectorLeadership #GovernmentAI #DigitalGovernment #TechnologyStrategy #GovernmentInnovation 📅 Let’s Stay Connected: Hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest episode. We also go live weekly with more industry insights, so be sure to join us! And if you’ve got questions, drop them in the comments—we’re here to help! Government IT Modernization and ERP Strategies for 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Public Sector Transformation ➡ https://conference.averoadvisors.com/2025report Top Public Sector ERP Systems: : ➡ https://share.hsforms.com/1ee49ru4aSpe3x4Byzuqifgeexml Learn More About Avero: ➡ https://www.averoadvisors.com Connect With Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/averoadvisors Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/averoadvisors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/averoadvisors TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@averoadvisors Connect With AV: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verekar (865) 415-3848 | info@averoadvisors.com ©2025. Avero Advisors. All Rights Reserved.

    57 min
  5. NOV 13

    From Paper to Person: Injecting Life into Vendor Interviews in Public Procurement

    Procurement shouldn’t feel like a cemetery of PowerPoints. In this episode of Untangled, Megan Seaton (VP of Strategic Growth) and Robert Kornovich (VP of Strategic Initiatives) dive into why so many shortlist vendor interviews fall flat — and how both sides can bring them back to life. They share candid advice from years of experience on both sides of the table: - Why cameras should be on - How to turn presentations into conversations - Why authenticity beats sales talk every time If you’re a local government leader, CIO, or procurement professional, this one’s for you. Learn how to make your next vendor interview a real dialogue — not another checkbox. #UntangledPodcast #PublicProcurement #GovTech #DigitalGovernment #PublicSectorLeadership #Modernization #GovernmentInnovation 📅 Let’s Stay Connected: Hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest episode. We also go live weekly with more industry insights, so be sure to join us! And if you’ve got questions, drop them in the comments—we’re here to help! Government IT Modernization and ERP Strategies for 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Public Sector Transformation ➡ https://conference.averoadvisors.com/2025report Top Public Sector ERP Systems: : ➡ https://share.hsforms.com/1ee49ru4aSpe3x4Byzuqifgeexml Learn More About Avero: ➡ https://www.averoadvisors.com Connect With Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/averoadvisors Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/averoadvisors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/averoadvisors TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@averoadvisors Connect With AV: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verekar (865) 415-3848 | info@averoadvisors.com ©2025. Avero Advisors. All Rights Reserved.

    38 min
  6. NOV 6

    Leveraging Technology to Build Trust in Local Government | ICMA 2025

    Trust is the most valuable currency in local government — and technology can make or break it. In this episode of Untangled, AV shares insights from his ICMA 2025 presentation, “Leveraging Technology to Build Trust in Local Government.” He explores how transparency, accessibility, and communication — not just technology — determine whether citizens stay confident in their government. From reducing friction in service delivery to creating AI readiness and strategic technology plans, AV breaks down how agencies can modernize with purpose, not panic. Because modernization isn’t just about keeping up — it’s about leading with trust. #UntangledPodcast #PublicSectorLeadership #DigitalGovernment #ArtificialIntelligence #TechnologyStrategy #GovernmentInnovation #PublicTrust 📅 Let’s Stay Connected: Hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest episode. We also go live weekly with more industry insights, so be sure to join us! And if you’ve got questions, drop them in the comments—we’re here to help! Government IT Modernization and ERP Strategies for 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Public Sector Transformation ➡ https://conference.averoadvisors.com/2025report Top Public Sector ERP Systems: : ➡ https://share.hsforms.com/1ee49ru4aSpe3x4Byzuqifgeexml Learn More About Avero: ➡ https://www.averoadvisors.com Connect With Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/averoadvisors Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/averoadvisors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/averoadvisors TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@averoadvisors Connect With AV: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verekar (865) 415-3848 | info@averoadvisors.com ©2025. Avero Advisors. All Rights Reserved.

    41 min
  7. OCT 23

    From Phoenix to Policy: Reflections on Housing Innovation at NAHRO 2025

    Innovation, AI, and community engagement were front and center at this year’s NAHRO Conference in Phoenix. In this episode of Untangled, Megan Seaton and Robert Kornovich recap key insights from conversations with housing leaders, commissioners, and technology vendors shaping the future of affordable housing. They discuss how AI, modernization, and workforce challenges are redefining how housing authorities serve their communities. This episode covers: How AI is transforming housing operationsRetaining and training the next generation of staffCybersecurity, data privacy, and policy readinessThe evolving role of technology in affordable housing#UntangledPodcast #HousingInnovation #PublicSectorLeadership #DigitalTransformation #AffordableHousing #NAHRO2025 📅 Let’s Stay Connected: Hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest episode. We also go live weekly with more industry insights, so be sure to join us! And if you’ve got questions, drop them in the comments—we’re here to help! Government IT Modernization and ERP Strategies for 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Public Sector Transformation ➡ https://conference.averoadvisors.com/2025report Top Public Sector ERP Systems: : ➡ https://share.hsforms.com/1ee49ru4aSpe3x4Byzuqifgeexml Learn More About Avero: ➡ https://www.averoadvisors.com Connect With Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/averoadvisors Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/averoadvisors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/averoadvisors TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@averoadvisors Connect With AV: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verekar (865) 415-3848 | info@averoadvisors.com ©2025. Avero Advisors. All Rights Reserved.

    37 min
  8. OCT 23

    What’s a Realistic Timeline for Public Sector Transformation?

    Every agency wants modernization to move faster—but how fast is realistic? In this episode of Untangled, Megan Seaton and Robert Kornovich break down the truth about transformation timelines. From readiness assessments to implementation realities, they discuss how leadership, change management, and vendor coordination define what’s possible. They also unpack why timelines often slip, what clients overlook when setting expectations, and how third-party oversight prevents costly mistakes. Because transformation isn’t just about going live—it’s about staying aligned. 📅 Let’s Stay Connected: Hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest episode. We also go live weekly with more industry insights, so be sure to join us! And if you’ve got questions, drop them in the comments—we’re here to help! Government IT Modernization and ERP Strategies for 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Public Sector Transformation ➡ https://conference.averoadvisors.com/2025report Top Public Sector ERP Systems: : ➡ https://share.hsforms.com/1ee49ru4aSpe3x4Byzuqifgeexml Learn More About Avero: ➡ https://www.averoadvisors.com Connect With Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/averoadvisors Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/averoadvisors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/averoadvisors TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@averoadvisors Connect With AV: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verekar (865) 415-3848 | info@averoadvisors.com ©2025. Avero Advisors. All Rights Reserved.

    29 min

About

State and local governments provide vital services to their citizens and keep them safe. They are also one of the largest employers in the country. They employ about 14 million people in the US, not including public schools and hospitals. However, they’re also wrought with antiquated systems, broken processes, paperwork overwhelm, lack of transparency, and underutilization of intelligent technologies.If you are a municipal leader, everyday citizen, or work for a state or local government across the US, you’ve come to the right place! Welcome to Untangled, a podcast for municipal leaders, IT managers, CIOs, and city or county council members that focuses on trends in government IT and its current best practices and challenges. Hosted by Abhijit Verekar, the show features special guests from various municipal agencies across the US, team members at Avèro Advisors, and other experienced professionals in the field to share their insights on how to untangle problems and make the Government more innovative and more efficient.