The Peel

Marketing Muscle: How Branding Powers GovCon Growth with Alex Love

In this episode of The Peel, Shelley McGuire talks with Alex Love, VP of Marketing and Communications at RIVA Solutions, about why marketing is a critical but often overlooked tool in government contracting. Alex shares how strong branding helps businesses stand out, build credibility, and create opportunities. She explains how shifting government priorities impact marketing strategies and why small and mid-sized businesses should focus on strategic, intentional efforts rather than trying to be everywhere at once. 
To connect with Alex, follow her on LinkedIn here.Learn more about RIVA Solutions by visiting their website here.

VETS25: The Must-Attend Federal Contracting Event of 2025

Listen in as David Blackburn talks with event director Scott Semple about VETS25. Hosted by the National Veteran Small Business Coalition (NVSBC), the conference takes place May 13-16, 2025, in Orlando and is the premier event for businesses navigating the federal marketplace. With 72+ training sessions, 174 exhibit booths, and 2,000 attendees, it offers unmatched opportunities for networking, learning, and business growth. Attendees will hear from industry leaders’ take on contracting trends, business strategies, and federal opportunities.
The conference features five session types, including pre-conference discussions, high-impact keynotes, and in-depth masterclasses. VETS25 is a top event for small and veteran-owned businesses looking to grow in federal contracting. 
Early registration is recommended as the event is expected to sell out. Secure your spot and take your business to the next level!
Click here to learn more and register for the event.

Surviving and Thriving with Your Contracts in an Uncertain Market with Eric Nusbaum

This episode of The Peel, talks with Eric Nusbaum, CEO of ENcompass Consulting Group, to discuss how government contractors can navigate the evolving federal landscape in 2025. With contract consolidations, shifting procurement strategies, and increased scrutiny from agencies like DOJ and GSA, companies must adapt to survive and thrive. Eric breaks down key strategies for protecting existing contracts, revamping business development efforts, and refining proposal writing to align with new government priorities. From understanding executive orders to leveraging AI and strategic partnerships, this conversation is a must-listen for industry leaders looking to stay ahead of the curve.

Need Old RFPs? Goodbye FOIA, hello Capture 411

In this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn sits down with Christina Mee, CEO of Capture 411, to discuss how her new platform is changing the game for government contractors. Capture 411 is a marketplace where business developers and capture managers can buy and sell historical solicitation documents—making the proposal process faster, more informed, and more competitive. Christina shares how the platform works, the inspiration behind it, and the powerful revenue-sharing model that allows contributors to earn from their archived RFPs. They also discuss the importance of security, anonymity, and the future of the platform as it grows to meet industry needs. If you’re in GovCon and tired of scrambling for past solicitations, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.
 
To connect with Christina, visit her LinkedIn page here.To learn more about Capture 411, visit their website here.
If you liked listening to this episode, click here to view more in this series. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page.

Cracking the CMMC Code: Insights from Derek Kernus

Are you ready to crack the CMMC code? On this episode of The Peel Podcast, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Derek Kernus, CEO of Aethon Security, to dive into the complexities of cybersecurity compliance, the real costs of certification, and how businesses can turn compliance into a competitive advantage. This episode is packed with expert advice for government contractors navigating the CMMC landscape. 
To connect with Derek, follow him on LinkedIn here.Learn more about Aethon Security by visiting their website here.
If you liked listening to this episode, click here to view more in this series. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page.

Driving Innovation in Federal Tech with ERP International’s Pradheeshan Coomarasway

On this episode of The Peel, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Pradheeshan Coomarasway, Chief Technology Officer and President of Digital Solutions at ERP International. Brad shares his journey from software engineering to leading cutting-edge digital solutions in healthcare and defense contracting. They dive into the latest innovations in cybersecurity, AI-powered informatics, cloud automation, and federal technology modernization, all while emphasizing the importance of mission-driven work and employee investment. Plus, a little whiskey talk kicks things off! Tune in for an engaging discussion on leadership, technology, and making a meaningful impact in federal contracting.
To connect with Pradheeshan, follow him on LinkedIn here.Learn more about ERP International by visiting their website here.
If you liked listening to this episode, click here to view more in this series. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page.

Leadership, Growth & Giving Back: A Conversation with Kendall Holbrook

Kendall Holbrook didn’t just climb the corporate ladder—she built it. In this episode, the CEO of Dev Technology Group shares her journey from computer science graduate to leading a top IT services company in the GovCon space. She discusses the pivotal moments that shaped her career, the importance of external engagement as a leader, and how she balances passion and strategy in business and community involvement. Plus, hear about her unexpected stint as a children’s bookstore owner and the leadership lessons it taught her along the way. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!
 
Learn more about OrangeSlices AI here.

The Future of AI and the Changing Workforce with Ksenia Kapoor

In this episode of The Peel, host Shelley McGuire has a conversation with Ksenia Kapoor, Chief of Staff at Skyward IT Solutions, to explore the intersection of innovation, AI, and government contracting. With a background spanning journalism, tech startups, and the public sector, Ksenia shares insights on bridging the gap between private and public sector operations, the evolving role of AI, and the importance of strategic governance in technology adoption. From Estonia’s cutting-edge digital advancements to the challenges of scaling startups while maintaining mission alignment, this conversation delves into the future of AI in the public sector, workforce shifts, and how Skyward IT is pioneering a new approach to government innovation.
 
Learn more about OrangeSlices AI here.

How Kia Rorie Built a Thriving Woman-Owned Small Business

Ever thought about breaking out on your own and starting a business in the federal space? In this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn chats with Kia Rorie, CEO & President of KSQUARED Technology Consulting, to talk about her journey from consultant to entrepreneur. Kia shares how she broke through the glass ceiling, built a thriving woman-owned small business, and navigated the challenges of government contracting. She reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her success, from landing a prime award to securing 8(a) certification and advocating for women in digital services through the Digital WOSB Alliance.
Kia also discusses the power of mentorship, the importance of strategic partnerships, and why betting on yourself is always worth it. Additionally, David and Kia discuss being a Maryland Terp.
Learn more about OrangeSlices AI here.

Navigating the Federal Marketplace for Small Businesses with Jeremy Wood

Are you a small business navigating the complexities of federal contracting or just curious about building meaningful relationships with government agencies? In this episode of The Peel, Shelley McGuire welcomes Jeremy Wood, Chief of Enterprise Architecture at the SEC and creator of The Geek Within Podcast. Jeremy shares invaluable advice for small businesses looking to break into the government space, from mastering the bid and proposal process to building credibility through partnerships and incremental growth.
Learn more about OrangeSlices AI here.