Author: Eric Coffie

In this episode we discuss the alarming potential of cyber warfare and its unintended consequences with the Former DoD Cyber Crime Director Jeff Stutzman. Jeff highlighted the vulnerability of surveillance systems and physical security protection due to outdated firmware and neglectful maintenance, emphasizing the critical need for constant vigilance in safeguarding critical infrastructure.

Jeff urges listeners, particularly small defense contractors and businesses, to prioritize robust cybersecurity measures, including firewalls, antivirus software, two-factor authentication, and email protection, to mitigate risks in the face of a rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape. Listen now to learn more!

In today’s episode, we dive into the challenges and triumphs of employing Navajo individuals in federal contracting. We highlighted the unique obstacles faced by Navajos in securing jobs, such as outdated technologies and the complexities of obtaining security clearances. Also in this episode, we discuss the cultural context and historical mistrust that influence Navajo perspectives on government involvement.

In this episode, we talk about the importance of recognizing and addressing these barriers, ultimately aiming to empower Navajo leaders within their organization, DDCI. By fostering partnerships and providing valuable experiences alongside company executives, DDCI aims to fulfill their mission of tribal development while honoring the Navajo Nation and creating opportunities for their people. Listen in this insightful episode as we explore the efforts and successes of DDCI in supporting Navajo leaders in federal contracting and creating a positive impact within their community.

In this episode of The Daily Windup, we have expert guests talk about the SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) process. They discuss the challenges of turning an idea into a business and taking it to the commercial market, which is where most entrepreneurs fail. We explore how venture capitalists come in to fund commercialization, but if entrepreneurs do not know how to scale and enter into a business, the funding becomes pointless.

We also talk about how the SBIR process is not just about technology transfer, as entrepreneurs are seeking to control their technology, sell it to the government, and then take it to the commercial marketplace. They caution against throwing ideas at the SBIR that do not match the needs of the agencies. SBIR helps entrepreneurs market themselves by providing a platform to build on their technology and expertise, so listen to this episode to know how.

In today’s episode, I highlight a conversation with Carlton Harris, the Chief Technology Officer of End-End Enterprise Solutions. Harris discusses how his company’s strong cyber background in network security led them to specialize in advanced technologies and services. He also shares how they faced rejection while trying to grow their business and overcame it by getting their SDVOSB certification and forming partnerships with other small businesses to eliminate the “no”.

Harris further explains how the technical solution is not always what a company is looking for. Enterprises are more interested in knowing how it affects their mission and operations and how the solution will support them. Therefore, it is important to approach clients with an agile mindset and provide them with a solution that fits their budget. This episode offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs on growing a small business, overcoming rejection, and building partnerships, so listen now if you want to know more!

In this episode, we talk about the imporance of organizational training programs and project management. We discuss the various types of training programs that can be implemented in organizations, from safety training to soft skills training, and how the government’s contractual requirements dictate which training programs are needed. 

We also talk about project management and the different levels of program management and how our guest expert was able to grow in their role, from resource manager to deputy program manager and eventually a senior program manager responsible for administering enterprise IT requirements.

Overall, the episode highlights the importance of training programs and project management in organizations and how they contribute to their success. Listen in to learn more!

In this episode of The Daily Windup, I interviews a successful entrepreneur, Likia Hawkins, who transitioned from being a contractor in the Intelligence Community (IC) to starting her own business. She shares her experience of planning and executing a solid plan to grow her business while navigating the challenges of increasing brand awareness in the IC community.

Likia also provides insights into the IC community and explains that it includes the top 13 agencies that primarily support national security and protect the borders. She emphasizes the importance of gaining skill sets and experiences before making the transition to entrepreneurship, and her three mantras of education, certification, and experience.

This episode is perfect for those who are interested in entrepreneurship in the IC community and are looking for guidance and tips on how to plan and execute a successful transition, so tune in today!