GovCon Coffee & Issues

Carroll Bernard & Michael LeJeune

Carroll Bernard (Govology) and Michael LeJeune (RSM Federal) have joined forces to help new and seasoned government contractors find tried-and-true solutions to challenges that keep them from succeeding in the government marketplace. They pull from their combined experience in selling to federal, state, and local governments and coaching others on how to do it right to offer you honest, no-BS answers and advice. To follow this podcast, submit an issue, and register for the live show, go to https://govology.com/issues.

  1. 04/06/2024

    Ep 28: 2024 Cybersecurity Compliance Update

    In this episode of GovCon Coffee & Issues, we’re excited to have Adam Austin (Totem Tech) back on the show to tell us about the latest developments in Cybersecurity Compliance in 2024. We discuss who is affected by cybersecurity regulations and the practical steps small businesses can take to meet cybersecurity compliance standards set by the Department of Defense and other federal agencies. And that’s not all! We also discuss Adam’s innovative CMMC Level 1 Cohort, a program tailored to assist small businesses in getting the necessary training and support to take the first steps toward cyber compliance without burning a hole in their pockets.

    52 min

  2. 03/04/2024

    Ep 27: No Strategy or Game Plan for 2024

    As the great Benjamin Franklin once said, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail!” So, if you’re looking to conquer the world of federal sales in 2024, you need a solid game plan. That’s where Carroll Bernard and Michael Lejeune come in. These two experts have all the best practices and insider tips to help you chart a course for government market success. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!

    1h 24m

  3. 02/29/2024

    Ep 26: Tackling Short SAM.GOV Solicitation Windows

    In the world of federal contracting, the saying goes, 'If you're waiting until opportunities are posted on SAM.gov, you may be too late.' Unfortunately, this holds true in many cases as the solicitation windows on SAM.gov are often too short for contractors to properly prepare, develop proposals, and meet submission deadlines. But fear not! In our next Coffee & Issues episode, Carroll Bernard and Michael LeJeune will spill the beans on how to stay ahead of the game and prepare for opportunities long before they appear on SAM.gov. Remember, the early bird gets the worm, or in this case, the contract.

    1h 5m

  4. 02/29/2024

    Ep 25: New Requirements for SDVOSBs and VOSBs in 2024

    If you are a veteran seeking government market opportunities, this episode is for you! Effective January 1st, 2024, you must secure formal certification from the SBA to participate (and be eligible for award) in veteran (and service-disabled veteran) owned small business set-aside and sole-source contracting opportunities. Self-certification will no longer be accepted. Despite many efforts by the SBA, APEX Accelerators, Govology, VBOCs, and others to get the word out, most veterans registered in SAM still have not achieved formal verification through the VA or certification through the SBA. Here are the numbers as of 10/11/2023, according to the SBA's Dynamic Small Business Search Database (DSBS.SBA.GOV): there are currently 82,537 self-certified veteran-owned small businesses listed in the database, of which only 18,947 SDVOSBs have an active certification (less than 23%) and only 5,692 VOSBs show an active certification (less than 7%). In this episode, Carroll and Michael discuss the implications of such low numbers of certified SDVOSBs and VOSBs and share resources to help veterans get their certification done as soon as possible.

    50 min

  5. 02/29/2024

    Ep 24: SBA's 8(a) BD Program: New Requirements and How to Meet Them

    In this episode, Carroll and Michael host Government Contracting Attorney Nicole Pottroff to discuss the recent court ruling that has significantly changed the SBA's 8(a) business development program. In addition to breaking down the impacts and updates of the ruling, Nicole shares tips and best practices for developing a strong 8(a) social disadvantage narrative, which is now required for participants who didn't submit one with their initial application. Whether you're already certified or planning to apply in the future, this episode is a must-watch.

    49 min

  6. 02/29/2024

    Ep 23: What Every Contractor Must Know About Cybersecurity

    In this episode of Coffee & Issues, Carroll and Michael welcome Adam Austin from Totem Technologies (https://www.totem.tech/). Together, they delve into cybersecurity in government contracting and tackle the essential topics every contractor needs to navigate to thrive in this rapidly evolving landscape. They explore how contractors can discern whether cybersecurity requirements apply to them and, if so, at what level. They also discuss the costs of cybersecurity and the challenge of deciphering the guidance, information, and resources provided by the Department of Defense (DoD).

    1h 7m

  7. 02/29/2024

    Ep 22: GSA Schedule Contracts: Opportunities, Issues, and Pitfalls

    In this episode, Michael LeJeune and Carroll Bernard host a special guest Rich Earnest (Certified Coach with RSM Federal). The trio discuss the issues, pitfalls, and prevalent misconceptions that often lead contractors astray. Their focused exploration centers on two critical aspects: the perilous decision to pursue a GSA Schedule contract without proper guidance and thorough market research and the intricacies of generating post-award sales once a GSA Schedule contract has been obtained. It is worth noting that post-award sales do not always materialize automatically, and, regrettably, data reveal that more than 52 percent of small businesses lose their GSA Schedule contract after two years due to their failure to meet minimum sales requirements. This episode is a must-watch for those contemplating pursuing a GSA Schedule contract for their business and those who have obtained a GSA contract but do not (or don't know how to) generate sales.

    49 min

  8. 07/18/2023

    Ep 21: Secrets of Successful Government Contractors

    Have you ever wondered why some government contractors are "showered" with opportunities while others struggle to win a single contract? In this episode, Carroll Bernard and Michael LeJeune will draw from their extensive coaching and training expertise to share invaluable insights and real-world stories that shed light on what sets successful government contractors apart from their unsuccessful counterparts. From strategic decision-making to effective execution, discover the key factors that drive success in this competitive arena. Gain practical knowledge and actionable tips to navigate the complex landscape of government contracts and unlock the secrets to thriving in the GovCon space.

    56 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Carroll Bernard (Govology) and Michael LeJeune (RSM Federal) have joined forces to help new and seasoned government contractors find tried-and-true solutions to challenges that keep them from succeeding in the government marketplace. They pull from their combined experience in selling to federal, state, and local governments and coaching others on how to do it right to offer you honest, no-BS answers and advice. To follow this podcast, submit an issue, and register for the live show, go to https://govology.com/issues.

Information

  • Creator
    Carroll Bernard & Michael LeJeune
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2024
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Carroll Bernard & Michael LeJeune
  • Show Website
    GovCon Coffee & Issues