Author: Eric Coffie

In this episode of The Daily Wind Up, we discuss the importance of learning from the mistakes of those who came before us in the government contracting industry. We also emphasize the difference between working with the Department of Defense (DOD) and non-DOD agencies, highlighting that while DOD has larger budgets, it can be more challenging for newcomers to break into. Non-DOD agencies, on the other hand, are often more forgiving and less restrictive, making them a viable option for those starting out.

We also share insights from my own experience and mentions that even subcontracting for several years before becoming a client is not uncommon. We also share an exciting opportunity for listeners to participate in the Department of Energy’s prize program, where you can win $100,000 for your innovative ideas with just a one-page write-up and a three-minute video.

Lastly, utilizing the SAM.gov website to search for award notices is vital so we provide a quick demonstration of how to access relevant information. 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, I engage in a conversation with James Davis, an Air Force veteran and owner of a cybersecurity consulting firm. James seeks guidance on proposal writing and marketing himself effectively to secure backdoor deals. However, I emphasize the importance of having a bigger vision and a grand goal of building a multimillion-dollar company. 

Listen to this episode as I share my advise to James to shift his focus from specific tasks to a more significant purpose, such as becoming one of the leading African-American cybersecurity consulting firms in the Southeast and creating programs to mentor and educate underprivileged youth in the field of ethical hacking and cyber defense. Tune in if you want to learn more!

In today’s episode, I discuss the complex landscape of government contracts, focusing on the transportation sector. There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to securing contracts and advises listeners to explore different options that align with their specific situations. While I don’t have direct connections to contracts, I share my expertise in helping individuals navigate the government contract minefield by providing valuable information and guidance.

It’s important to point out various programs and agencies that offer transportation contracts, such as disaster relief contracts and the GSA’s Freight Management branch. The need to identify the right offices and contacts within these organizations is important. Tune in to this episode now to learn more.

In this episode of The Daily Windup, I dive into the topic of government contracts and citizenship requirements. Being a United States citizen is not a prerequisite for securing government contracts. In today’s episode, I share various examples of contract opportunities, highlighting the specialized nature of certain projects and the potential for lucrative returns. 

The episode also delves into specific contract opportunities, such as laundry, dry cleaning, and alteration services. I also provide insights into the request for information (RFI) process and advises listeners on complying with submission guidelines, including page limitations and font specifications. Join me in this episode of “The Daily Windup” for further discussions on government contracting intricacies.

In this episode of The Daily Windup, host Eric Coffie dives into the inspiring journey of a mom who faced the challenges of job loss and motherhood during the COVID-19 pandemic. We discuss the mental and emotional toll of being a mom without a job, compounded by the cloud of COVID hanging over their lives. 

Tune in to this episode of The Daily Windup to gain insights into the experiences of a resilient mother facing job loss, the uncertainties of pregnancy, and the profound impact of COVID-19. Discover how she found strength in the support of other mothers and the power of podcasts during challenging times.

In today’s episode, we delve into the powerful mindset of billionaires and the key lessons I learned from reading books written by these successful individuals. There is importance in having a definite purpose when reaching out to mentors and there is a fundamental difference between regular people’s thinking and the extraordinary mindset of billionaires.

Drawing examples from Steve Schwarzman’s book, I highlight the mindset shift required for massive success. I also share the significance of pursuing worthy fantasies and avoiding small, comfortable endeavors that may hinder long-term growth. By embracing a mindset focused on achieving significant goals, I encourage you to challenge yourself and aspire greatness.

In this episode of The Daily Wind Up, we dive into the importance of persistence and strategic partnerships for entrepreneurs. Highlighting the value of staying committed and continuously reaching out to potential partners, I share my own experiences of calling multiple times until I received positive responses. I also talk about the need to maintain a professional and respectful approach while understanding that busy professionals have their own priorities.

I also discuss the significance of understanding the challenges faced by the individuals I contact and avoiding taking things personally. Building successful business relationships requires consistent effort and highlights the rewards that come with perseverance.

In this episode, we dive into the world of bid opportunities and how they can benefit small businesses. Emphasizing the importance of assisting the government with market research, as it directly impacts the success of small enterprises. We take a step-by-step process using sam.gov, the government’s database, to identify early-stage opportunities before they become public bids.

By accessing source of sought notices, I explain how small businesses can proactively position themselves in front of potential government contracts. Also, by actively participating in the government’s market research process, small businesses can not only increase their chances of winning contracts but also advocate for the inclusion of small enterprises in procurement opportunities. Don’t miss out on this action-packed, informative episode of The Daily Wind Up now!

In today’s episode of The Daily Windup, we share the inspiring story of a determined entrepreneur who stumbled upon her first government contracting success, Angela Chamberlain. Inspired by Eric’s advice, she delved into government contracting and found a remarkable opportunity related to fitness training for the military.

Undeterred by her lack of experience in construction, Angela identified a gym owner with the perfect skill set to pursue the government contract. Listen now as Angela reflects on her remarkable journey, filled with unexpected twists and the realization that government contracting is within reach for anyone willing to seize the opportunities.