Podcasts Archives – GovCon-Biz

The Ethics of Prediction

Linda Rawson — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 20:45:05 +0000

Linda Rawson explores how AI-driven predictions are shaping destinies, not just calculating probabilities. The episode highlights that prediction is a form of power and authority, influencing decisions in areas like criminal justice, hiring, and policing. Linda reveals how prediction is a form of control, and why designing AI that honors the future requires humility, transparency, and a sense of purpose.

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Clarity in Contracts

Linda Rawson — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 02:29:06 +0000

Have you ever signed something you didn’t fully understand? Maybe a software license, a medical waiver, or even a business agreement. You trusted the process, but did you trust the language? In the world of AI, contracts are everywhere. They govern how data is used, how algorithms behave, and how accountability is defined. But too often, they’re written in a language that feels distant, opaque, or emotionally disconnected. In this episode, Linda Rawson dives into the fine print. Not just the legal language of contracts, but the ethical and energetic imprint they carry. Because in the age of AI, a contract isn’t just a document, it’s a declaration of values.

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Can Algorithms Earn Trust?

Linda Rawson — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 23:45:09 +0000

Can algorithms earn our trust? In this debut episode of GovConBiz, Linda Rawson delves into the heart of AI, revealing how ethics, clarity, and wisdom can transform government technology. Drawing on her background in government contracting and her emerging voice in Trusted AI, Linda explores how artificial intelligence systems can, and must, reflect ethical design, transparency, and human values. She introduces actionable principles for responsible AI, including clarity, empathy, intentionality, accountability, and how technologists can design systems that serve not only programs, but also people.

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Employee Retention Credit Delays

Linda Rawson — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 19:14:18 +0000

In this episode of GovConBiz, host Linda Rawson discusses the significant delays in processing Employee Retention Credit (ERC) claims by the IRS, causing financial strain to small businesses. The ERC, part of the CARES Act of 2020, was meant to help businesses retain employees during COVID-19. Fraudulent claims have led to increased IRS scrutiny and processing delays, with a reported 1.2 million claims still pending as of late 2024. Although efforts are being made to address the backlog, the IRS faces challenges, including resource constraints, complexity of claims, and reduced workforce. Linda shares real fraud cases, highlights the impact on small businesses, and offers advice for those waiting for their ERC claims.

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Emphasis on Efficiency and Cost Savings

Linda Rawson — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:34:01 +0000

In this episode of the GovConBiz podcast, host Linda Rawson delves into the Trump administration’s focus on efficiency and cost savings within federal government contracting. The administration emphasizes reducing waste, streamlining operations, and achieving measurable performance improvements. Key initiatives include establishing the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), leveraging digital tools and data analytics, and simplifying contracting processes. Small businesses might benefit from increased contract opportunities but face challenges adapting to new requirements and upskilling. The administration has also mandated a return to the office, offering buyouts to federal employees to reduce the workforce. These efforts create both opportunities and potential downsides for federal contractors and employees.

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Executive Order, DEI and the SBA

Linda Rawson — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 18:27:23 +0000

President Trump’s recent inauguration marked his return to the White House as the 47th President of the United States. Linda Rawson, host of the GovConBiz podcast, discussed President Trump’s executive order to end DEI programs and the role of the SBA, both of which could impact federal government contractors. President Trump’s Executive Order could potentially roll back the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) advancements established under EO 13985, likely diminishing the goals and outreach efforts for underserved groups.

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Navigating the Current GovCon Landscape with Actionable Tips

Linda Rawson — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 21:48:38 +0000

The federal government contracting landscape is evolving. Linda Rawson, host of the GovConBiz podcast, explores some key trends, discusses unique challenges, highlights potential opportunities, and provides Actionable Tips in this space. She discusses increased competition and a focus on small businesses, driven by President Trump’s deregulation efforts. How Women, minority, and veteran business owners can benefit from various support programs and set asides. She provides Actionable Steps to succeed, including why businesses should research opportunities, build relationships, develop compelling proposals, and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and certifications, including cybersecurity.

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New Year, New You with SMART Goals!

Linda Rawson — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 22:45:53 +0000

Linda Rawson, host of the GovConBiz podcast, begins the new year by reflecting on past successes and challenges, emphasizing the importance of setting SMART goals for 2025. After a break to avoid burnout, she is eager to share insights with listeners. Personal achievements include international travel, while professional accomplishments feature launching the GovConBiz website, completing the Jumpstart program, writing a book, and fostering client success. Key lessons include prioritizing relationships and trusting intuition. Linda advises breaking down goals into manageable steps, regularly reviewing progress, and adjusting plans as needed. She encourages prioritizing impactful goals, networking, and investing in personal growth. Linda invites listeners to reflect on their past year, set SMART goals, and share their journey using. Wishing everyone a prosperous 2025.

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Conversation with “The Contracting Guy”

Jana F — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 23:01:54 +0000

Dr. James N. Phillips Jr. is the host of “The Contracting Guy” podcast on YouTube and has over 30 years of experience in government contracting, including roles in DCMA and the Department of Veterans Affairs. With 25+ years as a contract manager, he has extensive expertise in the federal government contracting arena. Dr. Phillips helps entrepreneurs understand the government procurement process, emphasizing the importance of trust and demonstrating a clear understanding of requirements to secure contracts and future opportunities.

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How to Win a SBIR/STTR with Nicole Toomey Davis

Linda Rawson — Mon, 12 Oct 2020 14:00:56 +0000

Nicole Toomey Davis is a serial entrepreneur and the President, CEO, and co-founder of Enclavix, LLC, an AI-software company. She has successfully raised millions in investor funding and over $1.2 million in SBIR funding for her ventures. Nicole has also invested in Utah’s tech startups and holds degrees in Electrical Engineering and an MBA. She is an experienced board member, author, speaker, and coach. Nicole offers a workshop on SBIR/STTR programs to help startups and small businesses innovate and transition their technologies to commercial applications. The workshop is continuously updated with new content.

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CMMC with Brian Hubbard

Linda Rawson — Fri, 28 Aug 2020 16:40:57 +0000

Brian Hubbard, a cybersecurity expert at Edwards Performance Solutions in Columbia, Maryland, was a key facilitator of the original NIST framework. He advocates for robust cybersecurity to protect businesses from cyber-attacks. Brian focuses on developing cybersecurity strategies and conducting penetration analysis to help businesses improve their cybersecurity programs. After transitioning from his own business to Edwards Performance Solutions, he now offers services related to CMMC. For more information, you can contact Brian directly via email or get a readiness assessment through their website.

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R&D Tax Incentive with Justin Maxwell

Linda Rawson — Wed, 12 Aug 2020 03:32:48 +0000

Justin, a former schoolteacher, is motivated by his family to provide more value to the world. He pursued extensive education in various financial fields and eventually specialized in the Research and Development (R&D) tax incentives niche. This tax incentive is often overlooked by many CPAs and businesses. Justin emphasizes that qualifying for this credit can lead to significant financial benefits, allowing businesses to grow and innovate. He encourages businesses to sign up for a free report on R&D tax incentives at biglifefinancial.com. Justin believes that innovation drives societal progress and appreciates that the government rewards such efforts.

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Introduction to Government Contracting by Linda Rawson

Linda Rawson — Thu, 30 Jul 2020 15:19:28 +0000

Linda Rawson introduces GovConBiz, a platform aimed at educating small business owners on how to win federal government contracts. As the founder of DynaGrace Enterprises, an Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business, Linda shares her experience and passion for teaching. She highlights the significant opportunities available, with the federal government awarding over $500 billion in contracts annually. While the process is challenging, it offers substantial rewards. Linda encourages subscribing for more tips and strategies to succeed in this competitive market.

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