In this episode of The Buzz, we sit down with Amanda Mahoney, Head of Marketing and Communications at Karsun Solutions, to discuss federal technology modernization with a specific focus on AI. Amanda delves into Karsun's platform Redux, highlighting how AI is used to modernize legacy systems efficiently. She also shares insights about the company's innovative processes, their collaborative culture, and the evolving landscape of AI applications in government. This conversation provides a glimpse into the future of federal tech and the importance of collaboration and curiosity in driving innovation.

Small Business Alliance | ACT-IAC

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ACT-IAC Gives Back: Wreaths Across America 2026 | ACT-IAC

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Intro/Outro Music: See a Brighter Day/Gloria Tells
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound

(Episodes 1-159: Intro/Outro Music: Focal Point/Young Community
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound)

We get to talk with Kathryn Wayman, an early career professional who shares her journey through the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates (PDA) program. Kathryn highlights her background, experience in government and consulting, particularly at Accenture Federal Services, and her involvement in developing a playbook for federal readiness for quantum computing. They discuss Kathryn's passion for public service, the diverse opportunities provided by the PDA program, and the significance of quantum computing and cryptography in federal agencies. The episode wraps up with a fun acronym challenge, showcasing Kathryn's competitive spirit.

Small Business Alliance | ACT-IAC

Become a Member | ACT-IAC

ACT-IAC Gives Back: Wreaths Across America 2026 | ACT-IAC

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode! For more from ACT-IAC, follow us on LinkedIn or visit http://www.actiac.org.

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Donate to ACT-IAC at https://actiac.org/donate.
 
Intro/Outro Music: See a Brighter Day/Gloria Tells
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound

(Episodes 1-159: Intro/Outro Music: Focal Point/Young Community
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound)

This panel features a discussion on innovative approaches to cybersecurity within various federal agencies. Key contributions come from James Donlon, Vice President at Oracle Group, and panelists Beckie Koonge (CIO of the National Weather Service), Anthony Brannum (CISO at the Department of Agriculture), and Jonathan Kraden (former federal policy advisor). The panel emphasizes the importance of balancing innovation with safety, tackling cybersecurity challenges, and leveraging AI for efficiency. They also highlight the need for cultural shifts within agencies to foster innovation, the significance of public-private partnerships, and practical steps for integrating new technologies while maintaining secure operations. The speakers advocate for better communication, both within the government and between the government and private industry, to enhance cybersecurity measures effectively.

Small Business Alliance | ACT-IAC

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ACT-IAC Gives Back: Wreaths Across America 2026 | ACT-IAC

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode! For more from ACT-IAC, follow us on LinkedIn or visit http://www.actiac.org.

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Intro/Outro Music: See a Brighter Day/Gloria Tells
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound

(Episodes 1-159: Intro/Outro Music: Focal Point/Young Community
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound)

In this brief New Year episode host Yoanna Baez extends a heartfelt thank you to the federal community for their unwavering commitment and quiet perseverance over the past year.

Small Business Alliance | ACT-IAC

ACT-IAC Gives Back: Wreaths Across America 2026 | ACT-IAC

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode! For more from ACT-IAC, follow us on LinkedIn or visit http://www.actiac.org.

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Donate to ACT-IAC at https://actiac.org/donate.
 
Intro/Outro Music: See a Brighter Day/Gloria Tells
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound

(Episodes 1-159: Intro/Outro Music: Focal Point/Young Community
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound)

This episode reviews the standout moments in government innovation and leadership from 2025. Key themes include the humanization of technology, the evolution of government contact centers, reimagined leadership in a hybrid world, the integration of AI in procurement, and the future of value creation through digital networks. Discussions highlight the importance of mission-first thinking, leveraging human-first design, embracing networks, and investing in emerging talent.

Small Business Alliance | ACT-IAC

ACT-IAC Gives Back: Wreaths Across America 2026 | ACT-IAC

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode! For more from ACT-IAC, follow us on LinkedIn or visit http://www.actiac.org.

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Donate to ACT-IAC at https://actiac.org/donate.
 
Intro/Outro Music: See a Brighter Day/Gloria Tells
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound

(Episodes 1-159: Intro/Outro Music: Focal Point/Young Community
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound)

Keynote event featuring Dustin Goetz, Acting Chief Information Officer for the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The event covers crucial topics such as modernization strategies, asset inventory, data standardization, and cybersecurity integration. Goetz emphasizes the importance of seamless cybersecurity integration, automating tier one security operations, and preparing for evolving threats, including AI and post-quantum computing. The episode underscores ICE's commitment to modernization and collaboration with industry to enhance cybersecurity capabilities.

Small Business Alliance | ACT-IAC

Become a Member | ACT-IAC

ACT-IAC Gives Back: Wreaths Across America 2026 | ACT-IAC

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode! For more from ACT-IAC, follow us on LinkedIn or visit http://www.actiac.org.

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Donate to ACT-IAC at https://actiac.org/donate.
 
Intro/Outro Music: See a Brighter Day/Gloria Tells
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound

(Episodes 1-159: Intro/Outro Music: Focal Point/Young Community
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound)

An amazing panel discussion from a recent ACT-IAC CX SUMMIT, focuses on the synergy between financial management and service delivery. Moderated by Steven Boberski, with experts Clarence Crawford, Thomas Coleman, and Sarah Cunningham. They explore the role of CFOs in enhancing customer experience, strategic advising, and leveraging technology, like AI, for efficiency. They also discuss challenges like unfunded mandates and the evolving role of CFOs in the federal government. The episode highlights the importance of collaboration and creative problem-solving in achieving agency goals.

Small Business Alliance | ACT-IAC

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ACT-IAC Gives Back: Wreaths Across America 2026 | ACT-IAC

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Intro/Outro Music: See a Brighter Day/Gloria Tells
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound

(Episodes 1-159: Intro/Outro Music: Focal Point/Young Community
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound)

Angy Peterson explore the transformation of customer experience, with highlights from a recent ACT-IAC CX Summit event. Angy Peterson, VP of the Experience Group at Granicus, shares her journey from newspaper design to helping government agencies build digital-first services. She delves into the potential of AI in government services, reflecting on how it can reshape experiences from convenience to deeper connection and collaboration. Key insights include the need for structured data, proactive content management, and the paradigm shift toward omnichannel, AI-powered interactions. Peterson emphasizes that the future lies in smart systems and richer conversations that truly understand and serve constituents.

Small Business Alliance | ACT-IAC

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ACT-IAC Gives Back: Wreaths Across America 2026 | ACT-IAC

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode! For more from ACT-IAC, follow us on LinkedIn or visit http://www.actiac.org.

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Donate to ACT-IAC at https://actiac.org/donate.
 
Intro/Outro Music: See a Brighter Day/Gloria Tells
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound

(Episodes 1-159: Intro/Outro Music: Focal Point/Young Community
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound)

In this episode we're in conversation with Manjit Singh, the president and founder of Agilious and an instructor at ACT-IAC Academy. They delve into the importance of agile frameworks, particularly scrum, for government IT acquisition and modernization. Manjit shares his extensive technical background and the significance of scrum mastery in managing projects efficiently. He discusses the role of a Scrum Master, common misconceptions, the importance of asking the right questions, and the impact of emerging technologies like AI. The episode also highlights continuous upskilling and the value of lean principles in achieving productivity.

Small Business Alliance | ACT-IAC

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ACT-IAC Gives Back: Wreaths Across America 2026 | ACT-IAC

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode! For more from ACT-IAC, follow us on LinkedIn or visit http://www.actiac.org.

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Intro/Outro Music: See a Brighter Day/Gloria Tells
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound

(Episodes 1-159: Intro/Outro Music: Focal Point/Young Community
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound)

We get to talk to Ken Adams, the Chief Strategy Officer at Foxhole Technology and the long-serving Industry Chair of the ACT-IAC Cyber COI. Ken shares his career journey, insights into the collaborative dynamics within the gov tech community, and the importance of continuity and professional relationships. Ken highlights the significance of volunteer work, the impact of ACT-IAC projects like 'Zero Trust' and 'ATO as Code,' and the balance between day jobs and volunteer commitments. The conversation also touches on the non-sales ethos of these engagements and the value of maintaining a collaborative and supportive environment among industry and government participants.

Small Business Alliance | ACT-IAC

Become a Member | ACT-IAC

ACT-IAC Gives Back: Wreaths Across America 2026 | ACT-IAC

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode! For more from ACT-IAC, follow us on LinkedIn or visit http://www.actiac.org.

Learn more about membership at https://www.actiac.org/join.
Donate to ACT-IAC at https://actiac.org/donate.
 
Intro/Outro Music: See a Brighter Day/Gloria Tells
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound

(Episodes 1-159: Intro/Outro Music: Focal Point/Young Community
Courtesy of Epidemic Sound)