GovCon After Hours

Heartcast Media

Welcome to GovCon After Hours, where the world of GovCon meets the art of conversation, one drink at a time. Join Dr. Robin Desmore and Ms. Caitlin Ruiz, our seasoned industry experts, as they lead you through relaxed evenings of insights and inspiration.  Each episode is an exploration of the stories and experiences of good and successful humans who have thrived in the competitive world of government contracting.  But we're not just about business here; we're about connections, cocktails, and real conversations. Every episode features a signature cocktail of the week, tying the theme to a delightful drink recipe for you to enjoy while tuning in.  At GovCon After Hours, we believe that meaningful conversations hold the key to success. Join Dr. Robin Desmore and Ms. Caitlin Ruiz, sip alongside them, and elevate your understanding of the industry. It's not just a podcast; it's a community of professionals finding clarity amidst the chaos, one drink and one conversation at a time.

Episodes

  1. Feb 19

    Grit on the Rocks: Sarcasm, set-asides, and surviving the new era of GovCon

    In this powerful episode of GovCon After Hours, hosts Dr. Robin Desmore and Caitlin Ruiz sit down with Colonel (Retired) Irene V. Glaeser, CEO of Spahr, an SBA certified SDVOSB and WOSB small business. Irene brings 31 years of military service as a Military Police Officer, federal leadership experience, and hard-won entrepreneurship wisdom to discuss what it really takes to survive and thrive as a veteran and woman-owned business in today's complex federal contracting environment. Key Takeaways Grit, Resilience & The Three PsLeadership Through CrisisThe Reality of Set-AsidesCommunity Over CompetitionBarriers for Emerging Small BusinessesTimestamped Chapters 00:00:00 - Welcome & Introduction00:03:15 - What We're Drinking00:08:42 - Disruption Isn't New00:14:20 - The Three Ps: Pivoting, Perseverance & Pinot Grigio00:19:56 - The Fork in the Road00:26:33 - The Human Cost of DOGE00:33:18 - Humor as Leadership Strategy00:42:30 - The Politics Pause00:51:12 - Set-Asides: Leverage or Liability?00:58:29 - Cultural Lessons from Kuwait01:06:45 - What's Not Being Talked AboutWhat Veteran & Women-Owned Founders Face vs. What They're Told The Reality We Face DOGE cuts decimating contracts overnightEmployees with families to support being laid offCMMC, FAR Part 2, and compliance costs piling up simultaneouslyZero past performance but expected to compete with established firmsAbsorbing pressure from every direction as leadersBeing told "don't rest on your categories" while needing every advantageWhat We're Told to Do "Just pivot to commercial""Don't rely on your socioeconomic categories""Get DCAA compliant, hire HR, get CMMC certified""Join a team" (but have no past performance to offer)"Stay positive and keep networking""It's not because you're a woman"Guest Information Colonel (Retired) Irene V. Glaeser CEO of Spahr, an SBA certified SDVOSB and WOSB small business delivering IT services including cyber strategy, software enterprise solutions, and cloud migration to DOD and federal customers. Irene served 31 years in the U.S. Army as a Military Police Officer in Cold War Germany, Iraq, and Afghanistan. After military retirement, she held federal leadership roles at the DOD Office of Inspector General and U.S. AbilityOne Commission. She holds degrees from George Mason University, Webster University, and the U.S. Army War College. She serves on the Board of Directors for the National Veteran Small Business Coalition and recently authored "Choose Your Battles," chronicling her journey as a woman in the armed forces. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irenevglaeser/Website: https://www.SpahrLLC.comBook: "Choose Your Battles" by Irene V. GlaeserCall to Action Connect With Your TribeHelp Other Small BusinessesUse Humor as a Survival ToolDon't Rest on Categories AloneShore Up Your ResourcesStay in the Fight

    Grit on the Rocks: Sarcasm, set-asides, and surviving the new era of GovCon

  2. 09/29/2025

    The GovCon Martini: 1 Part Access, 2 Parts Timing, Served with a Twist of Power

    Welcome to GovCon After Hours. In this episode, hosts Caitlin Ruiz and Dr. Robin Desmore engage in a meaningful discussion on government contracting. Joining them is Cherylyn Harley LeBon, co-chair of the Government Contracting group at Cohen Seglias, bringing over 25 years of expertise in legal, government, and strategic advisory services for small business contractors. Together, they explore the critical factors that determine success in GovCon. Cherylyn highlights the importance of timing and strategic intelligence, identifies common mistakes small businesses encounter in long-term growth planning and acquisition preparation, and offers actionable advice. The conversation covers building robust company foundations, managing complex transactions, selecting appropriate legal partners, and leveraging the federal budget for business expansion. The episode also addresses significant challenges, including the upcoming FAR rewrite and its implications for small businesses, as well as the complexities of mergers and acquisitions. For a straightforward and insightful perspective on navigating the government contracting landscape, join us for this enlightening episode of GovCon After Hours. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 00:09 - "Govcon Expert and Advocate" 05:02 - Defining Client Business Goals 07:19 - GovCon Strategy: Follow the Budget 13:03 - "Preparing Small Businesses for Acquisition" 17:05 - Valuation Expertise in Professional Services 19:13 - Valuing Unique Business Ventures 23:20 - "Follow the Plan, Not Feelings" 27:36 - Strategic Business Planning for Profitability 31:02 - Navigating New Opportunities 34:08 - "CMMC Impact on Small Businesses" 36:16 - Confidential Legislative Rewrite Concerns 39:23 - Outro Quotes: "Build and scale your business—the path is clear and success awaits."- Cherylyn Harley LeBon "Trust your plan over your feelings. That's how you win in GovCon."- Caitlin Ruiz "Resilience lets you pivot, survive, and emerge stronger from any storm."- Dr. Robin Desmore Key Takeaways: Timing is Tied to Intel—Stop Throwing Darts Start With a Goal—Not Just a Plan Deviating from the Plan? Get Back On Track Fast Invest, Reinvest, and Find Real Strategic Partners Follow the Money—Budgets Leave Clues Legal Problems? Be Proactive, Not Reactive Thinking About Selling Your Business? Clean House NOW Valuation is a Science—Find the Right Experts Emotional Intelligence—Check Your Feelings at the Door The FAR Rewrite: Advocate, Don’t Stay Silent Connect with the Guest Mrs. Cherylyn Harley LeBon, LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylyn-harley-lebon/ Connect with the Hosts Caitlin Ruiz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlin-ruiz-m-s-cir-65a8962b/ Robin Desmore LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robindesmore/ Call To Action: Listen or watch more episodes on our other platforms Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/user/31jlhc2mmefwdlnf7il4inxlzgue?si=d12f5108888f4dbd LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/govcon-after-hours-podcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GovConAfterHours

    The GovCon Martini: 1 Part Access, 2 Parts Timing, Served with a Twist of Power

  3. 01/12/2025

    Behind the Bar: Mixing ROI-Driven Investments for GovCon

    Welcome to another episode of GovCon After Hours! Host Caitlin Ruiz and co-host Robin Desmore explore "Behind the Bar: Mixing ROI-Driven Investments for GovCon." They discuss strategies for maximizing return on investment in government contracting with guest Lisa Shea Mundt, co-founder of The Pulse of GovCon. The episode addresses the financial implications of event participation, effective follow-up systems, and innovative marketing techniques. They also highlight the importance of strong industry relationships and the challenges small businesses face in GovCon. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating ROI complexities and optimizing your investments in government contracting in this engaging conversation! Connect with Lisa Shea Mundt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasheamundt/ Website: Maintenance Page - The Pulse™ Episode Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 05:39 - Aligning with Like-Minded People for ROI 08:30 - Balancing Life ROI and Networking 10:49 - Optimistic Networking for Future Relationships 13:11 - ROI on Affordable Travel Options 19:22 - Importance of Organic Referrals 22:35 - Approval and Referrals in Business 26:12 - Client Dynamics and Competition 28:21 - Veterans' Networking Challenges 33:11 - Letting Go of Difficult Prospects 36:17 - Strategic Engagement for Events 37:19 - Email Follow-Up for Marketing 40:30 - Managing Booth Costs 45:26 - Outro Quote of the Episode "Inspiring engagement is crucial for turning interactions into lasting relationships." - Lisa Shea Mundt "Effective networking in government contracting fosters growth and innovation." - Lisa Shea Mundt Powered by: Heartcast Media,http://www.heartcastmedia.com

    Behind the Bar: Mixing ROI-Driven Investments for GovCon

  4. 10/07/2024

    AI Happy Hour: Taking Shots at AI in GovCon

    Welcome to another episode of Govcon! Host Caitlin Ruiz and Dr. Robin Desmore explore AI Discussing compliance, innovation, and the challenging nature of AI in the industry. They touch on executive orders, Responsible AI Toolkits, and Avangard's evolving policies, highlighting AI's impact on processes, biases, and decision-making. From AI-generated resumes to the importance of clean data, human oversight, and industry dialogue, the conversation uncovers the nuances of AI in GovCon. Dive into the world of AI with valuable insights and perspectives in this engaging episode Connect with Dr. Robin Desmore: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robindesmore/ Episode Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 03:28 - AI: Impact on Knowledge and Efficiency 05:34 - Avangard's AI Policy and Client Focus 06:32 - AI Conversations Amid Regulation Gaps 11:34 - Setting AI Standards: Human Responsibility 14:33 - Companies and Data Analytics Models 16:14 - Oral Presentations in Proposal Processes 20:07 - Operating Systems, Browsers, and AI Model 23:17 - User Engagement in AI Integration 27:59 - Secrecy for Competitive Advantage 29:35 - Outro Quotes of the Episode "Learn from others who share insights and guide deeper exploration based on their experiences."-Dr. Robin Desmore "In AI, secrecy is crucial. Sharing details can fuel competition or hinder innovation, based on the approach." -Dr. Robin Desmore

    AI Happy Hour: Taking Shots at AI in GovCon

  5. 09/17/2024

    Stacey Piper Defines Marketing

    Welcome back to another episode of GovCon, Today, we'll discuss effective marketing techniques for reaching and educating target audiences, especially in new markets. Stacey will emphasize the importance of showcasing your company's capabilities and the necessity of nurturing relationships for ongoing success. We'll also explore pilot programs, thought leadership, and account-based marketing. Plus, we'll enjoy some lighter moments discussing our Mini Cooper adventures and pet anecdotes, underscoring the value of genuine professional relationships. Tune in for actionable tips and stories that help navigate the complexities of the GovCon world with expert Stacey Piper. Connect with Stacey Piper: https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceypiper/ Episode Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 05:41 - Marketing's Impact on Small Business Expansion 07:51 - Using Marketing and Demos to Attract Prospects 12:25 - Leveraging Thought Leadership to Showcase Expertise 14:12 - Evaluating Different Outreach Strategies for Recruitment 20:05 - Discussing Typical Budgets and Cost Assessments for Projects 23:23 - When People Turn to Me: Website Troubleshooting 25:51 - The Rapid Response Advantage of Non-Traditional Marketing Agencies 29:27 - Enhancing Retention through a Strong Talent Brand 31:50 - The Full Circle Effect: From Clients to Candidates and Back 33:51 - Closing Remarks and Gratitude with Stacy 34:09 - Outro Quote of the Episode "Use marketing to reach your audience when entering new areas without connections—it helps build new partnerships."-Stacey Piper "Keep the train on the tracks—focus on what you know, deliver your best, and let the results speak before we discuss further." -Stacey Piper Powered by: Heartcast Media http://www.heartcastmedia.com

    Stacey Piper Defines Marketing

  6. 09/05/2024

    Drinks On Us

    Welcome to "GovCon After Hours," the podcast where we explore the world of government contracting over drinks. Hosted by Caitlin Ruiz, a GovCon recruiting specialist, and Dr. Robin Desmore, an expert in contracts and compliance, we aim to share real stories and insights in a casual, after-hours style. In this episode, we introduce ourselves and our vision of building a knowledge-sharing community that challenges the status quo in GovCon. Each episode will feature guests from the industry discussing topics from business challenges to innovative technologies like AI. Join us for an engaging conversation and insider stories from the GovCon sector. Cheers to demystifying government contracting together! Connect with Dr. Robin Desmore: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robindesmore/ Website: https://avantgardeconceptsllc.com/ Episode Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:27 - Key Success Factors: Functionality and Collaboration 03:32 - Unraveling Complexities Through Casual Talks 04:25 - Candid Networking After Hours 05:11 - Uncovering Surprising Insights Across Networks 06:53 - Addressing Hidden Worries in Our Field" 09:01- Exploring the Industry's Unique Aspects 11:42 - Outro Quote of the Episode: "We've learned that after hours, when we shed our outer layers, we open up about our true selves and realize many others share similar experiences." — Dr. Robin Desmore "Let’s talk about the things only a few discuss but everyone should. Let’s not just keep up; let’s get ahead." — Dr. Robin Desmore Powered by: Heartcast Media,http://www.heartcastmedia.com

    Drinks On Us

  7. 09/05/2024

    Small Business Funding in Government Contract

    Welcome to the first episode of "GovCon After Hours." I'm Caitlin Ruiz, joined by Dr. Robin Desmore. Our guest today is Teresa Moon, Director of Business Development and Marketing at Parabilis, renowned for her expertise in securing GovCon contracts for cybersecurity firms. This session focuses on Small Business Funding in Government Contracts. Teresa will discuss strategies for securing solid funding and navigating the challenges in the federal marketplace. We'll explore how Parabilis supports GovCon businesses, bridging the gap between traditional banks and invoice factoring. We'll also cover essential financial readiness components, such as past performance, documentation, pricing strategies, and understanding cash flow versus profitability. Teresa will share insights on compliance, outsourcing benefits, and the impact of certifications like 8a. Join us for a deep dive into the critical aspects of funding and financial management in GovCon, packed with actionable advice for thriving in this competitive sector. Connect with Teresa Moon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresa-moon-060b9611b/ Website: https://parabilis.com/ Episode Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 00:38 - Mastering Contract Acquisition via Strategic Networking 03:42 - Keynote on Financial Advocacy and Strategic :34 - How Federal Regulations Influence Business Growth 11:49 - The Importance of Audits and Pricing in Business Success 13:29 - Addressing Financial Strain from Payment Delays 17:05 - Effective Sales Techniques: Identifying Needs Without Pushing 21:03 - The Role of Financial Documentation in Performance Evaluation 24:21 - Leveraging Peer Advice for Better Decision-Making 29:58 - The Importance of Accessible Funding for Business Viability 32:07 - The Impact of Education and Communication on Financial Health Quote of the Episode: "Securing funding in a crisis invites predatory lending. Always better to have a strategy before the fire starts." — Teresa Moon "Cutting corners on expert help can lead to higher costs later. Invest in a strong team from the beginning to avoid expensive mistakes." — Teresa Moon Powered by: Heartcast Media,http://www.heartcastmedia.com

    Small Business Funding in Government Contract
  • 7 Episodes

About

Welcome to GovCon After Hours, where the world of GovCon meets the art of conversation, one drink at a time. Join Dr. Robin Desmore and Ms. Caitlin Ruiz, our seasoned industry experts, as they lead you through relaxed evenings of insights and inspiration.  Each episode is an exploration of the stories and experiences of good and successful humans who have thrived in the competitive world of government contracting.  But we're not just about business here; we're about connections, cocktails, and real conversations. Every episode features a signature cocktail of the week, tying the theme to a delightful drink recipe for you to enjoy while tuning in.  At GovCon After Hours, we believe that meaningful conversations hold the key to success. Join Dr. Robin Desmore and Ms. Caitlin Ruiz, sip alongside them, and elevate your understanding of the industry. It's not just a podcast; it's a community of professionals finding clarity amidst the chaos, one drink and one conversation at a time.

Information

  • Creator
    Heartcast Media
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Heartcast Media
  • Show Website
    GovCon After Hours