GovCon Executive Slice

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Welcome to GovCon Executive Slice, the podcast where we hear perspectives from leaders who’ve built, scaled, and delivered while shaping the future of government contracting. Each episode features candid conversations with those who share insights on their company’s growth, challenges they’ve overcome, and the personal milestones that drive their success. From innovation and strategy to leadership and legacy, we uncover the stories behind the titles.

  1. 5d ago ·  Video

    DecisionPoint CEO Brian Flood and Prescient Edge CEO Alexander Granados on Leading Through Change, Innovation, and National Security

    The next generation of federal leaders won't be defined by the technology they adopt. They'll be defined by how effectively they help government solve increasingly complex mission and national security challenges. OrangeSlices recently had the opportunity to sit down with Brian Flood, Founder and CEO of DecisionPoint Corporation, and Alex Granados, CEO of Prescient Edge, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, innovation, growth, and what it takes to build organizations that consistently deliver in today's evolving federal market. Brian has spent his career helping organizations anticipate change and turn complexity into opportunity, building DecisionPoint into a trusted innovation partner delivering enterprise IT, modernization, and mission support solutions that strengthen government performance. Under Alex's leadership, Prescient Edge has emerged as one of the federal market's premier intelligence and national security partners, combining operational expertise with advanced technologies to help the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, and federal agencies stay ahead of rapidly evolving mission challenges. Moderating the discussion is Ryan Reiskin, Partner at The Baldwin Group. The Baldwin Group is a cohesive group of experts in business insurance, employee benefits, retirement planning, and all areas of private and personal insurance. At The Baldwin Group, they help provide the solutions clients need to have confidence and gain peace of mind as they pursue what's possible for themselves, their families, and their businesses. Throughout the discussion, these leaders share candid perspectives on leading through change, investing in innovation without losing operational discipline, building organizations prepared for what's next, and the leadership decisions they believe will define the next generation of successful federal contractors. If you're interested in how respected GovCon CEOs are thinking about growth, mission execution, national security, and long-term competitive advantage, this is a conversation well worth your time. To connect with Brian, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about DecisionPoint Corporation by visiting their webpage here. To connect with Alex, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Prescient Edge by visiting their webpage here. Thank you to The Baldwin Group for sponsoring this podcast.

    DecisionPoint CEO Brian Flood and Prescient Edge CEO Alexander Granados on Leading Through Change, Innovation, and National Security
  2. Aug 3 ·  Video

    OmniTrust CEO David Sequino on Why Digital Trust Is Becoming the Next Cybersecurity Battleground

    What if the biggest cybersecurity challenge facing government and industry isn't stopping the next attack, but proving who, or what, can actually be trusted? As AI, connected devices, software supply chains, and machine identities continue to expand, trust has become one of the most strategic issues organizations face. The organizations that can establish and govern trust across these increasingly complex ecosystems will be far better positioned to manage risk, accelerate innovation, and prepare for what's next. David Blackburn recently sat down with David Sequino, Co-Founder and CEO of OmniTrust, to discuss why digital trust is rapidly becoming a boardroom issue. With decades of experience securing more than two billion connected devices and enabling more than three billion secure software updates annually, David shares how OmniTrust has evolved from securing embedded systems to delivering Trust Lifecycle Management across devices, cloud environments, digital identities, cryptographic assets, software supply chains, and emerging AI ecosystems. During the conversation, they explore why post-quantum security timelines are far more urgent than many executives realize, the technical realities of migrating to quantum-safe cryptography, and why traditional security models struggle in a future where autonomous AI agents are making decisions at machine speed. If you're responsible for cybersecurity, technology strategy, digital transformation, AI, or enterprise risk, this conversation provides a practical look at where digital trust is headed and what leaders should be thinking about today. It's a timely discussion for executives who want to understand not just the technology, but the strategic decisions that will shape the next generation of secure systems. To connect with David, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about OmniTrust by visiting their webpage here.

    OmniTrust CEO David Sequino on Why Digital Trust Is Becoming the Next Cybersecurity Battleground
  3. Jul 30 ·  Video

    Exited Founder Alex Cohen on Why Statecraft Is Reimagining the Future of Government Work

    For decades, we've tried to make government work better by adding more people, more processes, and more technology. But what if the next breakthrough isn't another software platform. What if it's a fundamentally different way of thinking about work itself? David Blackburn recently connected with Alex Cohen, Co-Founder and CEO of Statecraft. Alex is an exited founder who has spent years building technology for government and other highly regulated environments. After successfully building and selling his previous company, he's back with a new venture focused on a bold vision for the future of government work. Statecraft is building what it calls an AI workforce, helping agencies automate the work that slows organizations down so public servants can spend more time focused on the mission. Rather than simply making individual tasks more efficient, the company's vision is to rethink how government work gets accomplished from end to end. In this conversation, Alex shares what inspired him to launch Statecraft, why he believes the timing is right for this next evolution of AI, and how emerging technologies such as AI agents could reshape the way agencies operate. Whether you're a government leader, technology executive, or GovCon innovator, you'll come away with a better understanding of where AI is headed, what challenges still need to be solved, and why this may be one of the most important conversations taking place in the federal market today. To connect with Alex, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Statecraft by visiting their webpage here.

    Exited Founder Alex Cohen on Why Statecraft Is Reimagining the Future of Government Work
  4. Jul 20 ·  Video

    Why Most SBIR Technologies Never Reach Phase III. Nicole Tripputi of Bidwell Solutions Explains Why

    Most SBIR companies know how to win research funding. Far fewer know how to turn that success into a funded Phase III contract. In a recent conversation with OrangeSlices Founder David Blackburn, Nicole Tripputi, Founder of Bidwell Solutions and former Air Force Contracting Officer with an unlimited warrant, pulled back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood challenges in the federal market: transitioning innovative technologies from SBIR success to operational adoption. Drawing on more than two decades of experience across contracting, program offices, and industry, Nicole shares what she learned from sitting on the government side of the table, where promising technologies often stall, why contracting teams and industry frequently struggle to align, and what agencies risk when they wait too long to engage with innovative companies. The discussion goes beyond theory, exploring the realities of Phase III execution, stakeholder engagement, acquisition strategy, and the decisions that ultimately determine whether a technology becomes a funded capability or remains a successful prototype. For SBIR awardees, technology innovators, growth leaders, and companies trying to understand how government actually buys innovation, this conversation offers an inside look at the challenges and opportunities that exist between a successful Phase I or Phase II award and a signed Phase III contract. If you've ever asked, "We have the technology, so why isn't this moving forward?" this is a podcast you'll want to hear. To connect with Nicole, follow her on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Bidwell Solutions by visiting their webpage here.

    Why Most SBIR Technologies Never Reach Phase III. Nicole Tripputi of Bidwell Solutions Explains Why
  5. Jul 14 ·  Video

    After 15 Years Driving Acquisition Innovation in Government, Britteny Chappell Brings Her Perspective to Alpha Omega

    Federal acquisition is changing fast, and few people have had a front-row seat to that transformation quite like Britteny Chappell. David Blackburn recently sat down with ⁠Britteny Chappell⁠, Vice President of Capture at Alpha Omega, to discuss the evolving landscape of federal acquisition, technology modernization, and mission delivery. Many across government and industry know Britteny from her work inside federal agencies, where she spent more than 15 years helping shape acquisition strategy and procurement innovation at organizations including NASA, GSA's Technology Transformation Services, FEDSIM, the Department of Transportation, and the Executive Office of the President. Throughout her career, she has been at the forefront of efforts to modernize procurement practices, strengthen supplier engagement, and leverage emerging technologies to improve outcomes across government. Today, Britteny brings that experience to Alpha Omega, where she is helping organizations navigate an increasingly dynamic federal market. As a company focused on digital modernization, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and mission transformation, Alpha Omega continues to support agencies as they pursue new approaches to delivering capabilities faster and more effectively. In this conversation, David and Britteny explore how the federal acquisition environment continues to evolve, what recent innovation efforts may mean for agencies and contractors alike, and how organizations can better position themselves to capitalize on changing priorities and emerging opportunities. For government leaders, industry executives, capture professionals, and anyone interested in the future of federal acquisition, this discussion offers valuable perspective from someone who has successfully navigated both sides of the federal marketplace. Listeners can expect practical insights on modernization, acquisition innovation, technology adoption, and the changing relationship between government and industry as agencies work to deliver mission outcomes in an increasingly complex environment. To connect with Britteny, follow her on LinkedIn ⁠here⁠. Learn more about Alpha Omega by visiting their webpage ⁠here⁠.

    After 15 Years Driving Acquisition Innovation in Government, Britteny Chappell Brings Her Perspective to Alpha Omega
  6. Jul 8 ·  Video

    Building the Next Generation of Federal Technology Companies. A Conversation with Beverly Beavers of ProclivIT, Brandon Muniz of HeiTech Services, and Dr. Zhensen Huang of Precise Software Solutions

    Every federal contractor is investing in AI, modernization, and operational efficiency. The real differentiator isn't who adopts new technology first. It's who can successfully turn those investments into measurable mission outcomes. In this episode of CEO Perspectives, David Blackburn sits down with Beverly Beavers, CEO of ProclivIT, Brandon Muniz, CEO of HeiTech Services, and Dr. Zhensen Huang, CEO of Precise Software Solutions for a conversation about leadership, modernization, growth, and preparing organizations for what's next. ProclivIT is helping agencies execute complex enterprise modernization initiatives spanning cybersecurity, enterprise IT, electronic health records, and mission support, building on Beverly's decades of leadership across military healthcare transformation. HeiTech Services continues its 25-year legacy by helping agencies securely manage and leverage massive volumes of mission-critical information through AI, information governance, and enterprise data solutions. Precise Software Solutions has become a trusted digital transformation partner, helping agencies modernize legacy systems, accelerate cloud adoption, and build secure, scalable platforms that improve mission performance. Moderating the discussion is Tyler Stewart, Partner and Retirement Plan Advisor at The Baldwin Group. The Baldwin Group is a cohesive group of experts in business insurance, employee benefits, retirement planning, and all areas of private and personal insurance. At The Baldwin Group, they help provide the solutions clients need to have confidence and gain peace of mind as they pursue what's possible for themselves, their families, and their businesses. Along the way, the conversation explores how leaders are adapting their organizations for a changing market, balancing investment in innovation with operational discipline, rethinking workforce strategy, and preparing for the next wave of federal contracting. If you want to hear how accomplished CEOs are positioning their organizations for long-term success while continuing to deliver for government customers today, this is a conversation worth your time. To connect with Beverly, follow her on LinkedIn here. Learn more about ProclivIT by visiting their webpage here. To connect with Brandon, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about HeiTech Services by visiting their webpage here. To connect with Zhensen, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Precise Software Solutions by visiting their webpage here. Thank you to The Baldwin Group for sponsoring this podcast.

    Building the Next Generation of Federal Technology Companies. A Conversation with Beverly Beavers of ProclivIT, Brandon Muniz of HeiTech Services, and Dr. Zhensen Huang of Precise Software Solutions
  7. Jul 6 ·  Video

    From Conversation to Action: APV's Manuel Miranda on the Federal AI Revolution

    Artificial intelligence is moving into a new phase, and for federal agencies and government contractors alike, the implications are significant. The conversation has shifted beyond asking AI to generate content. Today, organizations are increasingly exploring how AI can execute tasks, automate workflows, and support mission-critical operations through intelligent agents. David Blackburn recently sat down with Manuel Miranda, Chief AI and Growth Officer at APV, to discuss how this evolution is changing the federal technology landscape. Drawing on APV's work developing AI, automation, and emerging technology solutions for government, the conversation explores what separates AI agents from traditional chat tools, where agencies are already putting these capabilities to work, and the governance and security considerations that come with giving AI greater autonomy. The discussion also examines what this shift means for the GovCon community, from how agencies may buy technology differently to how contractors will need to rethink the value they deliver. If you're trying to understand where AI adoption is headed next, and why the move from conversation to action may be the most important technology transition facing the federal market, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. To connect with Manuel, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about APV by visiting their webpage here.

    From Conversation to Action: APV's Manuel Miranda on the Federal AI Revolution
  8. Jul 1

    Automation as a Competitive Advantage: Resolute Solutions and UiPath on Winning in Today's Federal Market

    Winning federal work has never been harder. Yet many contractors are still approaching recompetes, modernization efforts, and operational challenges with playbooks designed for a very different market. David Blackburn recently connected with Christopher Cadle, President of Resolute Solutions, and Hillary Anne Sheehan, Federal Strategic Engagement Executive at UiPath, for a conversation focused on the intersection of automation, modernization, and competitive advantage in today's federal marketplace. As founder and president of Resolute Solutions, Christopher has built a company focused on helping federal agencies improve mission outcomes through intelligent automation, enterprise modernization, SAP transformation, and AI-enabled solutions. Resolute's work spans defense and civilian agencies, helping organizations eliminate manual processes, modernize legacy environments, and increase operational efficiency through practical, mission-focused technology solutions. Joining the discussion is Hillary Anne Sheehan, whose background includes leadership roles across the Air Force and Space Force, where she helped drive acquisition, workforce modernization, and digital transformation initiatives. Today, she brings that government perspective to UiPath, helping agencies and industry partners better understand how automation can accelerate mission delivery and improve operational performance. Together, the group explores how agencies and contractors are adapting to an increasingly competitive environment, where modernization is no longer optional and operational efficiency has become a mission imperative. The discussion examines how automation is changing expectations across government, where organizations may be overlooking opportunities to improve outcomes, and what forward-looking contractors should be doing today to strengthen their position for future growth. For contractors preparing for upcoming recompetes, technology leaders evaluating modernization strategies, and federal executives focused on efficiency and mission delivery, this conversation provides practical insights from leaders who have seen these challenges from multiple perspectives. Listeners will walk away with a better understanding of how automation, modernization, and strategic execution can create meaningful advantages in today's federal market. To connect with Chris, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Resolute Solutions by visiting their webpage here. To connect with Hillary, follow her on LinkedIn here. Learn more about UiPath by visiting their webpage here.

    Automation as a Competitive Advantage: Resolute Solutions and UiPath on Winning in Today's Federal Market

About

Welcome to GovCon Executive Slice, the podcast where we hear perspectives from leaders who’ve built, scaled, and delivered while shaping the future of government contracting. Each episode features candid conversations with those who share insights on their company’s growth, challenges they’ve overcome, and the personal milestones that drive their success. From innovation and strategy to leadership and legacy, we uncover the stories behind the titles.