Parabilis Presents: Spilling the Tea on GovCon

Teresa Moon
  • 5.0 (6)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Spilling the Tea on GovCon was created to share resources through open conversations with Industry experts and leaders within government contracting. Parabilis is proud to partner with many outsourcing solutions for services related to supporting the growth of small businesses in the marketplace. We present candid discussions that highlight pertinent information that can assist is your business’ navigation of federal contract acquisition.

  1. FEB 5

    Doing Business with USSOCOM

    In this episode of Spilling the Tea on GovCon, we’re joined by Ashley Farrier, Director of the Office of Small Business Programs at US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), for an inside look at how small businesses can successfully engage with one of the most dynamic organizations in the federal space. Ashley shares her career journey and the path that led her to supporting small business engagement at U.S. Special Operations Command. The conversation breaks down what it really means to do business with USSOCOM, including current initiatives, acquisition authorities, and the types of opportunities available to innovative small businesses. Ashley offers practical tips, key resources, and real success stories that highlight how companies have effectively partnered with SOCOM to deliver mission impact. She wraps up by sharing how interested businesses can connect, stay informed, and take the next step toward working with USSOCOM. This episode is essential listening for any contractor looking to understand the SOCOM landscape and position themselves for success. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose00:38 Guest Introduction: Ashley Farrier01:25 Ashley's Career Journey02:43 Doing Business with US SOCOM03:42 SOCOM Initiatives and Opportunities04:21 Engaging with SOCOM: Tips and Resources08:00 Acquisition Authority and Small Business Engagement23:38 Success Stories and Achievements26:08 Conclusion and Contact InformationConnect with Ashley Farrier on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashley-farrier-6b1b9982 Visit the US Special Operations Command website: https://www.socom.mil

    28 min

  2. JAN 23

    Managing the Aftermath of the Shutdown

    In this episode, Teresa is joined by Lenee Lyte, Government Contracts Advisor at Withum, to discuss how government contractors can stay prepared and resilient during uncertainty. Lenee shares insights on Withum’s GovCon services, the importance of strong partnerships, and key lessons learned from navigating government shutdowns. They also explore why banking relationships and contract understanding are critical to survival and growth, and how proactive planning can position organizations for future success. The episode wraps with a look at positive outcomes, future readiness, and upcoming opportunities to stay engaged. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast00:39 Guest Introduction: Lenee Lyte01:36 Lenee's Background and Expertise02:53 Overview of Witham's Services04:07 Importance of Partnerships in GovCon05:49 Surviving Post-Government Shutdown06:35 Key Issues During the Shutdown10:07 Lessons Learned and Proactive Measures18:07 Importance of Banking Relationships and Contract Understanding22:30 Positive Impacts and Future Preparedness27:05 Upcoming Events and Conclusion Connect with Lenee Lyte on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/leneelyte Visit the Withum website: withum.com/industries/government-contractors/

    30 min

  3. JAN 9

    Mission Comes First

    In this first episode of Spilling the Tea on GovCon for 2026, we sit down with Liseth Velez, CEO of LJV Development, for an inspiring conversation about building a federal contracting business where mission truly comes first. Liseth shares her background and military experience, what motivated her to launch LJV Development, and how those early decisions shaped her leadership style and company culture. We dive into her journey entering the federal marketplace, including the challenges, early wins, and hard lessons that come with competing in GovCon. Liseth discusses the critical role of collaboration, transparency, and integrity, and how managing the right partnerships has fueled sustainable growth. She closes with powerful reflections on resilience, accountability, and staying grounded in your purpose when the pressure is on. This episode is a must-listen for anyone building a values-driven business in government contracting. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast 00:38 Guest Introduction: Liseth Velez 01:08 Liseth's Background and Military Experience 01:22 Starting LJV Development 03:05 Entering the Federal Marketplace 04:17 Challenges and Successes in Federal Contracting 06:44 The Importance of Collaboration 12:32 Transparency and Integrity in Business 20:24 Managing Partnerships for Growth 27:39 Lessons Learned from Challenges 31:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Liseth Velez on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisethvelez Visit the LJV Development website: www.ljvdevelopment.com

    33 min

  4. 12/19/2025

    Pricing Strategies for FY’26

    As federal budgets tighten and scrutiny increases in FY’26, pricing strategy is no longer just about being the lowest bidder, it’s about demonstrating best value. In this episode, Teresa is joined by award winning GovCon expert, Melinda Colon, who breaks down how federal buyers actually evaluate pricing and why higher-priced bids often win over cheaper ones. We dive into what “best value” really means in practice, how agencies balance cost, compliance, performance, and risk, and the red flags that signal a contractor may have priced too low to remain compliant or profitable. Melinda also highlights the most common pricing mistakes contractors make and how to avoid them before they cost you the award. Whether you’re new to federal contracting or planning ahead for FY’26, this conversation delivers practical insight you can apply immediately. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast00:38 Meet Melinda Colon: GovCon Expert02:04 Melinda's Journey into Government Contracting03:48 Understanding Federal Pricing Strategies04:55 Why Federal Buyers Choose Higher Priced Bids09:30 Common Pricing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them20:48 Building Long-Term Relationships in GovCon22:52 Practical Tips for Improving Pricing Strategy28:47 Legacy Builders Unleashed Podcast31:02 Conclusion and Farewell Connect with Melinda Colon on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melinda-colon Visit the Your GovCon Opportunity Matrix website: https://www.yourgovconopportunitymatrix.com

    32 min

  5. 11/25/2025

    What's the Buzz on the HIVE at Shenandoah University?

    In this episode of Spilling the Tea on GovCon, Teresa is joined by Patricia Young, Executive Director of the Hazel-Pruitt Armory, home of the Hub for Innovators, Veterans, and Entrepreneurs (HIVE) at Shenandoah University. Patricia walks us through the mission and impact of the HIVE, an emerging powerhouse for innovation, veteran engagement, and entrepreneurial growth in the region. She shares how the HIVE’s services and resources not only enrich the university, but also strengthen the surrounding communities through collaboration, education, and opportunity. Patricia discusses key initiatives available to students, veterans, and local residents, highlighting how the HIVE supports technological advancement, research development, and inclusive innovation. She also outlines the long-term goals for the center, including expanding partnerships, enhancing community programming, and deepening its role as a regional innovation hub. Listeners will learn how to get involved, ways to support the mission, and details on upcoming events they can join or champion from afar. Tune in for an inspiring look into how the HIVE is cultivating the next generation of leaders, creators, and problem-solvers, right at the intersection of community and innovation. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast00:34 Guest Introduction: Patricia Young01:35 Patricia's Professional Journey07:31 The Hive at Shenandoah University20:58 Community and Veteran Engagement27:00 Upcoming Events and Opportunities29:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Patricia Young on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/patricia-young-2006954 Visit the Hub for Innovator, Veterans and Entrepreneurs (HIVE): https://www.su.edu/experience/hub-for-innovators-veterans-and-entrepreneurs-hive/

    31 min

  6. 11/21/2025

    Shutdown Survival: Real Talk for Federal Market Businesses

    In this episode, Teresa talks with Evan Henris, Vice President of Credit and Risk Management at Parabilis, about what really happens when the federal government shuts down and why he states “Essential work continues, and small businesses will still be paid” isn’t the whole truth. Drawing on his experience as both a business owner and financial leader, Evan breaks down how shutdowns disrupt cash flow, delay payments, and strain the small businesses that keep federal operations moving. Evan shares a practical roadmap for navigating government shutdowns, from managing loans and maintaining vendor relationships to diversifying revenue streams and leveraging personal assets to stay afloat. He discusses the importance of financial planning, resilience, and trusted partnerships, offering actionable steps business owners can take today to prepare for future uncertainty. Whether you work with federal contracts or simply want to strengthen your business against external shocks, this episode is full of grounded, real-world advice for staying steady when Washington stalls. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast  00:41 Meet Evan Henris: Vice President of Risk and Compliance  01:01 Navigating Government Shutdowns: History and Practical Advice 02:43 Evan's Background as a Business Owner  04:39 Challenges Faced by Small Businesses During Shutdowns  12:09 Strategies for Small Business Resilience  16:50 Practical Steps for Financial Management During Shutdowns  23:09 Navigating Loan Payments During Federal Shutdowns  23:54 Building Strong Business Relationships  26:58 Diversifying Revenue Streams  32:04 Preparing for Future Shutdowns  35:50 Leveraging Personal Assets for Business Survival  38:11 Seeking Expert Help and Resources  40:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Evan Henris on LinkedIn: ⁠linkedin.com/in/evan-henris-483b0574

    43 min

  7. 11/10/2025

    Building Strategic Partnerships

    In this episode, Teresa talks with Ashley Duwel, CEO of Duwel Dev, and Natasha Velez, CEO of Strategic Solutions, to unpack the real value and strategy behind teaming and partnerships in the world of government contracting. Too many small businesses think they can “go it alone,” but Ashley and Natasha explain why teaming is often the difference between staying small and scaling up. They share real-world examples of how strategic partnerships have transformed opportunities into wins (and lessons learned from the near misses), along with candid advice for protecting your business in teaming agreements. From identifying the right partners to setting clear boundaries and expectations, our guests lay out a practical roadmap for collaboration that benefits everyone involved. If you’re a contractor wondering when to team, how to find the right fit, or how to make sure your partnership is fair and future-focused, this conversation is your guide. Tune in for insight, inspiration, and actionable steps to turn connections into contracts and learn how to reach out to Ashley and Natasha to explore teaming opportunities of your own. Connect with Ashely Duwell and Natasha Velez on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/govconhacks linkedin.com/in/natasha-velez35 Listen to the GovCon Hacks Podcast: govconhacks.com  Visit the NVS Strategic Solutions Website: nvsstrategicsolutions.com

    30 min

  8. 10/24/2025

    Reignite the Spark

    In this episode, Teresa speaks with Hannah Romick, CEO at Conscient Strategies for a candid conversation on leadership, culture, and navigating change in the federal marketplace. Hannah explains why culture is inseparable from performance, especially in periods of transition, and how reconnecting to purpose can restore clarity and motivation for leaders and teams under pressure. She shares her approach to consulting and business transformation, highlights real client success stories, and breaks down how she markets intentionally to find the “right fit” partners. Hannah closes with practical encouragement for leaders and change-makers working to build resilient, impact-driven organizations in high-stakes environments. Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast00:39 Meet Hannah Romick: CEO of Conscient Strategies01:59 The Importance of Leadership and Culture03:55 Navigating Changes in the Federal Marketplace07:55 Reconnecting to Purpose and Staying Motivated10:39 Challenges and Strategies for Business Transformation12:55 Hannah's Approach to Consulting and Client Success Stories16:20 Marketing and Finding the Right Fit22:42 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Connect with Hannah Romick on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hannah-romick-307181 Visit the Conscient Strategies website: conscientstrategies.com/

    27 min
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About

Spilling the Tea on GovCon was created to share resources through open conversations with Industry experts and leaders within government contracting. Parabilis is proud to partner with many outsourcing solutions for services related to supporting the growth of small businesses in the marketplace. We present candid discussions that highlight pertinent information that can assist is your business’ navigation of federal contract acquisition.

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