The Peel

The Truth About AI in Proposal Writing with GovEagle’s Akash Mandavilli

In this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn chats with Akash Mandavilli, co-founder of GovEagle, an AI-powered proposal platform built for government contractors. GovEagle acts as a force multiplier, integrating with tools like Salesforce and playing well with “best-of-breed” solutions, rather than trying to be everything. Akash highlights common misconceptions around AI, including the idea that it can fully automate proposals or that training a custom model will outperform foundation models. He encourages teams to start small with tools like ChatGPT or Copilot before leveling up to advanced platforms, and always to request a real-world bake-off to see what the tech can do.
To connect with Akash, visit his LinkedIn page here.To learn more about GovEagle, 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.

CMS Secrets to Success with Raghu Akkapeddi, Bil Westerfield, and Robert Hicks

In July 2024, OrangeSlices hosted a  Lunch & Learn session. Listen in on this panel as three prominent voices in the CMS contracting space - Raghu Akkapeddi, CEO, Index Analytics, Bil Westerfield, President, Magpie Health Analytics, and moderator Robert Hicks, Principal, TransformIT, share their origin stories, hard-won lessons, and the keys to thriving in one of the most competitive federal markets. From the importance of trust-based partnerships to mission-first delivery, this candid conversation delivers valuable takeaways for any GovCon business aiming to break into or grow within CMS.
Whether you're an emerging contractor or a seasoned player, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how authentic collaboration and customer-focused service pave the way for long-term success.
To connect with Raghu, visit his LinkedIn page here.To connect with Bil, visit his LinkedIn page here.To connect with Robert, visit his LinkedIn page here.

Lauren Wingate on People-First Growth in Government Contracting

In this episode of  The Peel Podcast Shelley McGuire sits down with Lauren Wingate, VP of Strategic Development & Partnerships at TJFACT. With over 18 years in the government contracting world, Lauren is a powerhouse of positivity and strategy. The two dive into the realities of navigating the ever-evolving federal landscape including high-stakes challenges of capture management, GSA schedules, BD, and building lasting industry relationships.
She dives into how consistency, collaboration, and a strong internal team are key to success — especially when facing budget delays, procurement shifts, and a rapidly evolving federal landscape. Lauren also talks candidly about learning the full acquisition life cycle, the importance of relationships in government contracting, and how your network can become your greatest asset.

Redefining Government Efficiency with AI-Powered Innovation with Sukumar Iyer

In this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn interviews Sukumar Iyer, CEO, Brillient Corporation. He explores his perspective on patience when working with the federal government and the importance of focusing on outcomes. Sukumar also discusses how an entrepreneurial itch led him to launch Brillient, how the company has evolved through seven versions over 19 years, and why continual reinvention is essential for success. He dives deep into the creation of ArtificiaL Intelligence Cognitive Engines (ALICE®), an AI-driven platform reshaping government efficiency, and explains how Brillient is helping agencies streamline operations, reduce costs, and embrace digital transformation. 
To connect with Sukumar, visit his LinkedIn page here.To learn more about Brillient, visit their website here.

Building a Business with Purpose with Lucy Martin

In this episode of The Peel, David Blackburn chats with Lucy Martin, Vice President of Growth at PingWind, a fast-growing, service-disabled, veteran-owned small business with a unique name, inspiring mission, and impressive track record.
Lucy shares how she transitioned from large firms to helping build PingWind from the ground up—growing the company through smart acquisitions, a rock-solid mentor-protégé relationship, and a people-first culture rooted in continuous learning. Discover the story behind the company’s quirky name, their strategic leap into DOD and VA spaces, and their plan for staying true to their values as they scale into mid-tier and large business territory.
To connect with Lucy, visit her LinkedIn page here.To learn more about PingWind, 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.

Discriminators, Trust, and Agility in Federal Contracting with Joshua Rosenthal

In this episode of The Peel, Shelley McGuire is joined by her daughter Sydney, co-hosting for Take Your Child to Work Day, and featured guest Joshua Rosenthal, Director of Growth and Innovation at Cogent People. The conversation weaves through Joshua’s unexpected sailing background and segues into a rich discussion on government contracting. Joshua breaks down how to assess whether to pursue opportunities, emphasizing customer connection, corporate fit, and resource allocation. He also unpacks the importance of discriminators in proposals, the value of building genuine trust with stakeholders (not just "relationships"), and the need for agility in a rapidly evolving federal landscape. Shelley and Joshua agree that authenticity, awareness of policy shifts, and collaboration are key to staying competitive in today’s changing environment.
To connect with Joshua, follow him on LinkedIn here.Learn more about Cogent People by visiting their website here.

The AI Arms Race: Myths, Barriers & Opportunities with Richard Jacik

In this episode of Orange Slices, host David Blackburn sits down with Richard Jacik, Chief Digital Officer at Brillient, to discuss the reality of AI beyond the hype. With federal agencies racing to implement AI solutions, Richard shares why the current Large Language Model (LLM) frenzy might not be the game-changer it promises to be. From AI’s legal and operational hurdles to its real-world applications in government and beyond, this conversation breaks down the myths, the barriers to adoption, and the opportunities for mid-tier and smaller firms in the AI ecosystem.
Is AI truly revolutionizing mission-critical operations, or are we still just scratching the surface? And what role does collaborative AI play in making real business impact? Tune in for an insightful discussion on the future of intelligent technology, government adoption, and the fine line between innovation and AI inflation.

Lights, Camera, Contracting: Navigating Media in the GovCon World with Patrick Rafferty

In this episode of The Peel Podcast, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Patrick Rafferty of RaffertyWeiss Media—an award-winning producer/director with 25+ years in commercial, nonprofit, and government media. Patrick shares incredible behind-the-scenes moments with icons like Quincy Jones, Bobby Knight, and Bill Gates, while also diving deep into the unique challenges and opportunities of producing media in the federal contracting space. From navigating the evolving GSA environment to pivoting into the commercial market, Patrick discusses what’s working, how to stay ready, and why storytelling still matters—even in times of uncertainty.
He offers insights into strategic marketing, the power of customized assets, bilingual content, 508 compliance, and how teaming with other small businesses could be key to weathering the current storm.
To connect with Patrick, follow him on LinkedIn here.Learn more about RaffertyWeiss Media by visiting their website here.

Innovating Government Operations with Digital Solutions with Lisa Wetzel

In this episode, David Blackburn sits down with Lisa Wetzel, President & CEO of VIKINT, a woman-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned small business transforming government contracting with scalable digital solutions. Lisa shares insights on how Vikint has positioned itself for growth, the importance of documentation in scaling operations, and its focus on federal and commercial expansion in 2025. She also unveils Essence, a powerful digitalization tool designed to revolutionize government operations using Microsoft 365. With a track record of success at the IRS, DoD, and NASA, Lisa and her team are redefining efficiency, innovation, and collaboration in the GovCon space. 
 
To connect with Lisa, visit her LinkedIn page here.To learn more about VIKINT, 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.
 

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.