Month: April 2025

In this episode of The Daily Windup, we dive into a variety of topics related to government contracting opportunities, discussing the importance of not pursuing expired contracts and emphasizing the need to respond but not harass. We talk about the importance to investigate whether an opportunity ever materialized into a contract before pursuing it further. 

I also highlight the comprehensive scope of contracts and the government’s move towards modernization, the importance of following precise instructions for submitting inquiries and responses, and paying attention to subject lines and details to maximize your chances of success.

Join me in this information-packed episode as I shares valuable insights and actionable advice for navigating the world of government contracting.

Today’s show was brought to you by our sponsor Encore Funding. Have you or someone you know recently been awarded a government contract and cannot secure funding? Encore Funding has your back, with a recently launched Government division they are funding your receivables so you can just focus on the work. Visit encoregov.com for more information on how to get the money you need to continue growing your business.

On this episode of the GovCon Giants Podcast, I sit down with Sylvia Kapushinski, a former war photographer turned federal contractor who went from zero experience and no money to winning a government contract solo. She shares how one video on vendor credit gave her the belief that she could actually do this—and she ran with it. From watching YouTube to attending site visits, building vendor relationships, and digging deep into solicitation details, Sylvia’s story is a masterclass in what happens when you stop self-eliminating and start showing up.

She walks us through how she became the only bidder on a modular building contract, how she leveraged a free SBA line of credit to unlock $500K in bonding, and the exact vendor credit strategies she used to deliver without upfront capital. We even talk about why paying attention to the details most people skip is the reason she outperformed veteran contractors. If you’re a solopreneur, feeling intimidated, or unsure of where to start—this episode is your blueprint.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylwiakapuscinski/

Company Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hj-gov-contracting-corp/

Website: https://www.hjgovcontractingcorp.com/ 

In this episode of The Daily Windup, we dive deep into the power of mindset and the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive people. Today, we highlight the significance of shifting from a mindset of doubt to one of unwavering belief.If you surround yourself with individuals who don’t believe in your dreams, you’re more likely to falter. However, by changing your mindset to “when I achieve it” instead of “if I can,” you open yourself up to greater possibilities and success.

I am joined by special guest Eugene, who shares his inspiring journey of building an organization from the ground up. Eugene relates his upbringing in a small Alabama town, where he learned the importance of adaptation and survival. Despite facing skepticism from those around him, Eugene held onto his skills and found support in his mother’s unwavering belief in him. Eugene emphasizes the need to surround oneself with like-minded individuals who uplift and inspire, rather than those who discourage and doubt. Listen now!

In today’s episode, we have Lynnwood Owens Jr., the founder and president of LBO Technology, LLC. Lynnwood and he shares the story behind his company, which was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Leesburg, Virginia. LBO Technology specializes in professional services, including PMO support, data analytics, administrative support, and organizational training and development, particularly in diversity, inclusion, and equity training. They also offer full lifecycle software development, system maintenance, help desk support, and cybersecurity services.

Lynnwood discusses his participation in events and exhibitions, emphasizing the importance of being selective as a small business due to potential cash flow challenges. He highlights the networking opportunities and benefits of exhibiting, particularly when targeting specific agencies and stakeholders. Lynnwood also shares insights into financing a startup, mentioning his experience as a consultant that provided him with the necessary capital to launch the company without dipping into personal savings.

In this episode we have an intriguing conversation with Jim, and Jerry. We discuss the challenges and innovative solutions in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) and software development.

Discover how this innovative approach opens doors for professionals from various fields to contribute to AI and no-code development efforts. Tune in to this captivating episode and learn how these cutting-edge technologies are transforming the landscape of business and technology.

Don’t miss out on this episode of The Daily Windup, where you’ll find insights, inspiration, and practical applications in under 10 minutes!

In today’s episode we explore the complexities faced by contractors when taking over projects. We talk about the difficulties contractors encounter when accessing employee files from incumbent contractors who have lost the contract. Privacy issues arise, making it challenging for the new contractor to receive necessary assistance or information. 

We delve into a case from the Obama administration, where a contractor had to engage in extensive litigation and deposition to prove that a worker deemed unqualified by the agency was indeed ineligible for employment. Today’s conversation highlights how the Department of Labor (DOL) plays a crucial role in addressing complaints under the Service Contract Act, being the sole outlet for workers seeking to hold contractors accountable or vindicate their rights. Tune in now to gain insights into the intricate challenges faced by contractors in managing workforce transitions, navigating privacy concerns, qualifications, and the legal processes involved in the Service Contract Act.

In this episode, I delve into the world of government contract opportunities and provide valuable insights for entrepreneurs. I talk about the importance of conducting thorough research beyond relying solely on public government websites like Sam.gov and the significance of tailoring your approach by understanding the specific needs of your business.

I also share the concept of marketing yourself to government agencies and organizations, highlighting that reimbursement from the government for this process is not a viable option. The need for genuine interest, capability, and technical expertise are important when responding to government solicitations.

Join me in this engaging episode of The Daily Windup as I unravel the intricacies of government contracts and provides actionable advice for entrepreneurs looking to seize such opportunities.

In today’s episode, we dive into the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its connection to the vast amount of data generated in recent years. We discuss the staggering statistics that 90% of the world’s data was created in the last two years and that 80% of this data remains unstructured. 

AI plays a crucial role in managing the overwhelming amount of unstructured data available on the internet. With AI algorithms, computers can process and extract meaningful insights from vast data sets, including web pages, audio, and documents. By formulating precise questions, AI can sift through this data and provide valuable answers. Tune in to this episode now to learn more!

Register at The Proposal Bootcamp 2025 now: [email protected]

In this episode of The Daily Windup podcast, we have Mr. Eric Crusius, a partner at Holland Knight, a renowned law firm specializing in government contracts. Our conversation dives into the services provided by Holland Knight’s government contracts group, such as compliance guidance, contract negotiation, dispute resolution, protest filing, and handling audits.

Eric sheds light on the significant impact of two key areas affecting small businesses: cybersecurity requirements and evolving labor regulations. He discusses the Department of Defense’s cybersecurity mandates and the changing landscape of labor laws, including non-displacement rules and the proposed $15 minimum wage. Want to know more? Listen to this episode now.

Register at The Proposal Bootcamp 2025 now: [email protected]

Ever been burned by finance companies, I know I have. So often as small minority owned businesses we do not get the best rates, offers or just out right get taken advantage of because of what we don’t know. Thanks to our new partner, Encore Funding we are now bringing you a trusted source for government contract financing. With more than $500M in funding going to minorities alone in 2024 Encore is here to support your business. Visit encoregov.com for information on how to apply. 

On this episode of the GovCon Giants Podcast, I sat down with Jon Barker—a government pricing expert who’s been in the federal space since 2000, helping companies win and manage billions in contracts. We pulled up a real opportunity from SAM.gov and walked through the entire thought process behind pricing a government proposal the right way. From analyzing Section B to understanding wage determinations and deliverables, Jon broke it all down like a true pro. He emphasized why understanding the customer, not just the solicitation, is key to winning—not just bidding.

We also talked about the dangers of blind bidding and why alignment with your customer’s mission can be the difference between scoring solid past performance or being stuck with a contract you can’t execute. Jon dropped gold on evaluating milestones, building pricing strategies from the scope of work, and even using USAspending to uncover historical pricing. Whether you’re brand new or seasoned in GovCon, this episode is your crash course in leveling up your pricing game. Don’t miss it.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-barker-4648b84/

Company Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stratgrowthpartners/

Website: https://strategicgrowthpartners.com/