What drives a US Navy helicopter pilot to champion women's roles in global peacebuilding? Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Dr. Susan Yoshihara, founder and president of the American Council on Women, Peace, and Security (ACWPS). With 20 years of active-duty service, including combat logistics and humanitarian missions, Dr. Yoshihara transitioned to international advocacy, advising the Defense Department and UN diplomats. She shares the foundational principles of ACWPS, emphasizing the vital role of women in peace efforts and the importance of assembling dedicated teams for impactful results.

In this episode, Dr. Yoshihara highlights the power of strategic partnerships, particularly the collaboration with CountryIntel, and the importance of cultural sensitivity in international collaborations. She discusses the unique challenges of recruiting reliable talent for global initiatives and how small businesses can contribute to significant Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) projects. Tune in to gain valuable insights into advancing gender equality, capturing lessons learned, and creating career paths for women in peace and security.

• Hosted by: Terrell Cummings & Devon Florczak
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In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Sobel, a retired Air Force Colonel and seasoned program manager, to explore his remarkable journey from leading acquisition operations in the military to becoming a key player in the federal contracting space. Jeff opens up about his distinguished career in the Air Force, where he commanded at various levels, culminating as the Senior Materiel Leader at AFLCMC/EB, and how these experiences have shaped his approach to business development on the contractor side.

Our conversation delves into Jeff's current efforts with CountryIntel, where he shares key strategies for sourcing leads, identifying contracting opportunities, and the critical role of networking in building successful client relationships. Jeff also addresses the common challenges faced by small businesses in the contracting industry and offers practical advice on how to overcome them.

Looking ahead, Jeff discusses emerging trends in federal contracting, the technologies that will be essential for future business development, and how small businesses can adapt to stay competitive. For those transitioning from active duty, Jeff provides valuable insights on pursuing work that aligns with personal interests rather than rushing back into civilian or contractor roles.

Join us for an insightful discussion with Jeff Sobel as we explore the nuances of federal contracting, the importance of continuous learning, and the future of business development in this dynamic field.

• Hosted by: Terrell Cummings & Devon Florczak
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In today's episode, we welcome back Antonio Gamble, a recruiting manager at Country Intelligence Group. Antonio reveals how data-driven decision-making and innovative data mining techniques are transforming the way recruiters source top talent. You'll learn the power of platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn and discover how timing and method can enhance your outreach efforts. Antonio shares insider tips on gathering comprehensive candidate information and engaging potential recruits effectively, even when dealing with specialized roles and security clearances.

Stand out in today's fiercely competitive job market with actionable strategies from our discussion. We dive into the art of showcasing your unique skills and experiences through quantifiable data and effective networking. Antonio emphasizes the critical importance of tailoring your resumes and cover letters to company values to bypass applicant tracking systems. We'll also guide you through professional development opportunities on LinkedIn Learning and Coursera and offer expert tips for mastering virtual interviews. Whether you're a recruiter seeking to optimize your process or a job seeker eager to make an impact, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and practical advice.

• Hosted by: Terrell Cummings & Devon Florczak
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What drives a person to shift from handling mortuary affairs in the Army to becoming a passionate recruiter? In this episode, we sit down with Antonio Gamble, our recruiting manager at CountryIntel, to uncover this compelling journey. Antonio recounts his early days in the military, where he started at the age of 19 and quickly rose to become a non-commissioned officer. He shares the pivotal moment when he was "voluntold" to transition into recruiting, his rigorous training at Fort Knox, and his educational pursuits in Florida. His passion for the recruitment field didn't wane—leading him to reclassify as a career recruiter and eventually join us at CountryIntel.

Our conversation with Antonio dives into the intricacies of the recruitment and onboarding process at CountryIntel. Learn why adaptability is key and how we efficiently conduct initial screenings, meet-and-greets, and final offers. Antonio also sheds light on the importance of diverse talent and the unique skill sets that candidates bring. He provides valuable insights into common interview pitfalls, such as candidates being overly modest, and the significance of reviewing social media profiles for a comprehensive understanding of potential hires.

The world of recruitment is rapidly changing, and Antonio shares his perspective on the impact of remote work on this dynamic landscape. Discover the economic and mental health benefits of working from home, and the hurdles faced in filling on-site roles. We explore the booming demand for roles in technology and healthcare, particularly for traveling nurses post-COVID. Antonio also highlights how modern technology, such as applicant tracking systems and virtual communication tools, is revolutionizing the recruiting process, making it more efficient and effective. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of recruiting and the evolving job market.

• Hosted by: Terrell Cummings & Devon Florczak
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Discover what the fourth-quarter surge in government contracts could mean for the fiscal landscape of 2024. Here, we embark on a journey through the intricacies of federal spending and its ripple effects on small businesses. This episode peels back the layers of budgetary patterns and provides actionable insights for those with set-aside contracts, ensuring you’re equipped with the knowledge to thrive in the ever-shifting terrain of government contracting.

Gear up for an engaging conversation on aligning your business strategy with the federal government's fiscal maneuvers. We share expert tips on forging valuable connections with prime contractors and dive into the ways the upcoming election might shape the contracting climate. Whether you're a seasoned contractor or looking to break into the market, our analysis offers a roadmap to successfully navigate the complexities of government budgets and contracts, setting the stage for your success as the fiscal year unfolds.

• Hosted by: Terrell Cummings & Devon Florczak
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Discover the competitive edge that diversity brings to small businesses in the defense sector as we unpack how agility and inclusivity can transform recruitment and problem-solving strategies. Our latest episode is a deep dive into the heart of innovation, showcasing how companies can harness the power of different perspectives to outmaneuver bigger, slower competitors. With insights from industry experts, we reveal the immediate benefits of less bureaucracy and how diverse teams not only challenge the status quo but also steer businesses toward comprehensive, strategic growth.

Then, join us as we shift focus to the cultural impact of diversity within the workplace. Our discussion takes you through the creative advantages of having a varied workforce, comparing the U.S. to more homogenous nations and emphasizing our unique position in the global market. Our guest experts share actionable strategies for small business owners to foster a truly inclusive environment where every voice is heard and valued. By integrating a wealth of experiences into their decision-making processes, you'll hear firsthand how top companies are thriving and how these practices can be applied to elevate your own business.

• Hosted by: Terrell Cummings & Devon Florczak
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Unlock the secrets to harnessing predictive analysis in the ever-changing world of consulting. We've come a long way since the humble beginnings of Microsoft Excel, and in this episode, we're sharing just how revolutionary AI and machine learning tools have become for savvy businesses. By translating massive data sets into actionable insights, tools like SPSS and Tableau are no longer just for the data scientists; they're for anyone keen to make informed decisions. And if you've ever wondered how these advancements affect the nuts and bolts of government agencies and the opportunities for small businesses within that sphere, you're in for a treat. We'll give you an inside look at how COVID-19 expedited a tech revolution in government operations and what it means for the likes of Microsoft Teams and the data warehouse Advana.

When it comes to the future of work, the conversation gets even juicier. Are you ready to navigate the new professional landscape that's been reshaped by the remote work revolution? We're weighing in on the great debate: remote versus traditional workplace structures. Discover the strategies companies are implementing to support new employees and maintain a culture of mentorship, all without the confines of office walls. We'll also tackle the unique challenges and benefits from both management and employee standpoints, offering a balanced perspective on this modern work dilemma. Expect a candid discussion that doesn't shy away from the tough questions, whether you're leading a team or forging your own path in today's dynamic work environment.

• Hosted by: Terrell Cummings & Devon Florczak
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Unlock the secrets of navigating the defense contracting sphere as a small business with our expert guest Devin Florzak. Gain invaluable insights into leveraging government initiatives like the SBIR and STTR programs to catapult your company into the big leagues, following in the footsteps of trailblazers like Qualcomm and iRobot. We delve into the nuances of the funding process and share essential tips on crafting compelling proposals that stand out to agencies. If you're an entrepreneur dreaming of transforming your innovative ideas into commercial successes, this is an episode you cannot afford to miss.

From discussing the treacherous path of funding and product development to examining the global economic landscape, we cover ground that's as diverse as it is critical. You'll hear personal accounts of navigating the challenging phases of SBIR funding, strategies for maximizing your proposals' potential, and an exploration of how global events shape the defense industry. We bring it all back home with reflections on Taiwan's delicate position in international relations and the surprising international influence of nations as small as Nauru. Prepare to have your view on the intersection of entrepreneurship and geopolitics entirely reshaped.

• Hosted by: Terrell Cummings & Devon Florczak
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Unlock the potential of untapped markets with our latest Country Intelligence Report, as your hosts Spencer Bentley, Devin Floresack, and Tyrell Cummings guide you through the maze of market expansion for small businesses. We're laying out the roadmap from in-depth federal spending analysis to pinpointing hot industry trends, with a special look at the buzzing energy market. If you're weighing the benefits of hiring market research firms against the intimacy of customer feedback, we've got the insights to make that decision clearer. Plus, we dive into the importance of understanding your competitors and identifying the perfect niche to keep your business thriving while aligning with client needs.

As we navigate the choppy waters of new contracts, we illuminate the art of mitigating risks and the telltale signs of a contract that may be steering you off course. Uncover the treasures hidden within resources like Samgov and FedScope and hear firsthand how strategic partnerships can be your north star in unfamiliar territories. We also tackle the often-overlooked internal landscape, discussing how to maintain the delicate equilibrium between pursuing new directions and preserving your team's spirit and client satisfaction. Our chapter on risk mitigation is a can't-miss for those ready to bolster their business defenses.

Finally, we examine the shift in workplace dynamics with a focus on telework and its profound impact on employee retention and job satisfaction. Reflecting on insights from the Office of Personal Management report, we dissect how generational divides are shaping the future of work-life balance. Hear our personal anecdotes that spotlight the real-world choices job seekers make when they stack telework flexibility against in-office salary offers. And if you've ever pondered the hidden costs of office work compared to remote positions, our financial comparison is an eye-opener. Join us as we continue to explore and inform on the evolving landscape of the workplace with the Country Intelligence Group.

• Hosted by: Terrell Cummings & Devon Florczak
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Are you navigating the turbulent seas of data analytics in the realm of small businesses, particularly within the context of government contracting? Stay tuned as your faithful guides, Spencer Bentley, Tarrell Cummings, and Devin Florzak, unveil the mysteries of integrating data analytics into your everyday decision-making processes with a touch of finesse. We demystify how to effectively navigate the fine line between the cost and complexity of data initiatives against their potential value. Our conversation zeroes in on accurately understanding the client's goals and objectives and the vital role that crystal-clear communication plays in that process.

Buckle up as we switch gears to talk about the pivotal role of data handling in communication and compliance. We shed light on the imperatives of open and constant communication with clients, particularly when it comes to meeting compliance standards and driving operational efficiency. We take you through the labyrinth of various Department of Defense Instructions (DODIs) and Cybersecurity Maturity Models that are mission-critical for small businesses. We underscore the importance of keeping your finger on the pulse of the constantly evolving landscape of training and regulations. Brace yourself for a riveting journey that helps unlock the latent potential of data in your business.

• Hosted by: Terrell Cummings & Devon Florczak
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