The $100,000 DOE Shortcut No One Is Talking About!

Govcon Giants

#Careers #Entrepreneur #Business #Eric Coffie #Far #Govcongiants #Hubzone #Military #Nonprofit #Scorecontracts #Smallbusiness #Veterans #Womenowned #Government #Certification #Federalcontracting #SBA

17:27

Why do so many of us get nervous when public speaking? Communication expert Lawrence Bernstein says the key to dealing with the pressure is as simple as having a casual chat. He introduces the "coffee shop test" as a way to help you overcome nerves, connect with your audience and deliver a message that truly resonates. After the talk, Modupe explains a similar approach in academia called the "Grandma test," and how public speaking can be as simple as a conversation with grandma. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey ! Become a TED Member today at https://ted.com/join Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

about a year ago 6:50

MP3•Episode home

In this episode of The Daily Wind Up, we discuss the importance of learning from the mistakes of those who came before us in the government contracting industry. We also emphasize the difference between working with the Department of Defense (DOD) and non-DOD agencies, highlighting that while DOD has larger budgets, it can be more challenging for newcomers to break into. Non-DOD agencies, on the other hand, are often more forgiving and less restrictive, making them a viable option for those starting out.

We also share insights from my own experience and mentions that even subcontracting for several years before becoming a client is not uncommon. We also share an exciting opportunity for listeners to participate in the Department of Energy's prize program, where you can win $100,000 for your innovative ideas with just a one-page write-up and a three-minute video.

Lastly, utilizing the SAM.gov website to search for award notices is vital so we provide a quick demonstration of how to access relevant information. Tune in to this episode now to learn more.

Register at The Proposal Bootcamp 2025 now: hello@govconedu.com

481 episodes

The $100,000 DOE Shortcut No One Is Talking About!

Govcon Giants

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Lastly, utilizing the SAM.gov website to search for award notices is vital so we provide a quick demonstration of how to access relevant information. Tune in to this episode now to learn more.

Register at The Proposal Bootcamp 2025 now: hello@govconedu.com

481 episodes

#Careers #Entrepreneur #Business #Eric Coffie #Far #Govcongiants #Hubzone #Military #Nonprofit #Scorecontracts #Smallbusiness #Veterans #Womenowned #Government #Certification #Federalcontracting #SBA

All episodes

Govcon Giants

1
279: GovCon in Crisis: What’s Coming, What’s Working, and What to Ditch! 28:37

11 hours ago28:37

28:37

Are you positive that you have the best financing in place? Ever question the charges or fees you're paying? Do you know what is industry standard versus excessive. Recently I had our partner Encore Funding look at 3 of my students previous agreements with finance companies and found many ways that they had been taken advantage of. For far too long this has become the industry norm and now with a trusted ethical company on our side we can rest assured that we are getting the best overall rate. Visit encoregov.com to have them review your current agreements at no charge to see if in fact we can help you keep more money so you can focus on what matters most, growing the business. In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with my good friend Michael to talk about what’s really happening behind the scenes in GovCon right now—and let me tell you, it’s unlike anything we’ve seen before. From canceled contracts and government workforce cuts to the rise of unsolicited proposals and tax incentives in manufacturing, we dive into the new terrain contractors are navigating in 2025. Michael shares how his company is weathering the storm, what it takes to buy and build in uncertain times, and why being lean, agile, and real about your valuation is more critical than ever. We also get into the M&A landscape, private equity interest in $10–20M firms, and the cautionary tale of companies shrinking from $20M to $5M in one year. If you're thinking about scaling, selling, or simply surviving, this conversation is full of battle-tested wisdom. The game is changing—procurement cycles are stalling, FAR rules are shifting, and a lot of people are frozen in fear. But if you’re ready to pivot, innovate, and lead , now is your time. Let’s get into it. Michael Sanders' Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelvaldezsanders/ Company Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/interactivegov/ Website: https://interactivegov.com/ Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/vpKzzFpbAOw…

Govcon Giants

1
It Took 4 Years to Land a Prime Government Contract—Here’s What No One Tells You 9:38

1 day ago9:38

9:38

Today's episode delves into the challenges faced by entrepreneurs on their journey to success. Our guest shares their valuable insights, drawing from their diverse educational background and experiences. Discover how they tackled the hurdles of not winning contracts and the importance of seeking debriefs for growth and improvement. Join us as we explore the significance of education, both formal and self-taught, in shaping an entrepreneur's mindset. Learn about the early stages of financing projects and the strategies employed to manage low overhead costs. In this candid conversation, gain practical tips on leveraging past experiences as your own past performance when starting out. Our guest's unique journey of transitioning from a subcontractor to a prime contractor will inspire aspiring entrepreneurs. Tune in to The Daily Windup and hear how creative financing, prudent financial management, and prioritizing staff can propel your business towards success. Don't miss this enriching episode!…

Govcon Giants

1
Certified in 2010, Regret in 2020: The 8(a) Government Contracting Mistake You Can’t Afford 7:39

3 days ago7:39

7:39

In today's insightful discussion, we explore the intricacies of the 8(a) certification process and how to maximize its potential. Our guest shares their journey of seeking out 8(a) certification and the valuable lessons learned along the way. Discover the importance of building relationships with government agencies and the significance of having the right teaming partners to unlock lucrative opportunities. Learn from the experiences of our guest as they navigate the complexities of government contracting, from exploring nix codes to capitalizing on the 8(a) program effectively. Tune in for valuable tips on making the most of the 8(a) certification and avoiding common pitfalls. Join us for an episode filled with practical insights to propel your business in the federal marketplace. Don't miss this episode of The Daily Windup!…

Govcon Giants

1
You Can’t Be What You Can’t See: Why Visibility Matters in Government Contracting 5:57

6 days ago5:57

5:57

In this episode of The Daily Windup,we bring you the inspiring story of Jamecee Pinkney, a successful entrepreneur based in Northern Virginia. We dive into her journey and the challenges she faced while trying to gain recognition in the competitive world of federal procurement. Jamicee shares how he met me at a conference in Nashville, where we discussed the importance of giving credit to talented individuals who often go unnoticed. With a passion for promoting other entrepreneurs, Jamecee found himself in a position to showcase hidden talents and help them gain the recognition they deserved. Join us as we explore Jamis Pinkney's background, his journey from a chemistry graduate to a successful entrepreneur, and how he navigated the government contracting industry. Listen now!…

Govcon Giants

1
How One Strategy Landed $683 Million in Government Contracts 8:44

7 days ago8:44

8:44

Welcome back to another episode of The Daily Windup. Today our guest shares valuable insights on hiring and compensation, particularly when it comes to attracting and retaining top talent. We explore the idea of offering fair salaries, especially to younger professionals fresh out of college, and the benefits of providing regular raises based on performance and growth. In this episode, we discuss the importance of being nimble and flexible as small businesses in setting our own policies and procedures, unlike larger corporations. Our guest emphasizes the need to follow the money and stay informed about government forecasts and market trends. We learn how focusing on specific areas such as professional services, data analytics, cybersecurity, and niche training opportunities can be lucrative in the government contracting realm. Join us as we uncover strategies for success in government contracting, talent acquisition, and identifying core competencies. Don't miss this episode of The Daily Windup!…

Govcon Giants

1
278: Why Private Credit Is the Future of Government Contracting Finance 16:52

8 days ago16:52

16:52

Ever been burned by finance companies, I know I have. So often as small minority owned businesses we do not get the best rates, offers or just out right get taken advantage of because of what we don’t know. Thanks to our new partner, Encore Funding we are now bringing you a trusted source for government contract financing. With more than $500M in funding going to minorities alone in 2024 Encore is here to support your business. Visit encoregov.com for information on how to apply. In today’s episode of Govcon Giants , I’m joined by Joel, founder of Encore Funding—an alternative lending powerhouse that’s now stepping into the government contracting space. We talk real talk about capital: how hard it is to come by as a small, minority-owned business, and how traditional lenders often leave us behind. Joel shares how he bootstrapped his first venture back in 1998, and how Encore has now funded over half a billion dollars just for minority-owned businesses in 2024 alone. This is game-changing, especially for folks trying to scale in federal contracting without the cash flow headaches. We dig deep into how private lending works, the evolving world of alternative credit, and how Encore is creatively funding not just operations—but acquisitions. Joel also drops knowledge on staying in founder's mode , being laser-focused, and the true power of surrounding yourself with a rockstar team. Whether you’re already in GovCon or looking to break in, this is a must-listen for anyone serious about growing with the right financial partner behind them. Joel Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-adelman-cleveland/ Encore Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/encore-funding/ Website: https://www.encore-funding.com/ Govcon Coaching: https://www.govconcoaching.com/home63196883 Pricing: https://www.govconcoaching.com/pricing-page…

Govcon Giants

1
Want Government Contracts? This One Tip Will Make Them Take Your Call Every Time! 7:55

9 days ago7:55

7:55

In this episode of The Daily Windup, I interviews a guest who shares insights into the role of a small business advocate within a larger company. Our guest highlights their responsibilities, which include helping small businesses learn about their company, supporting capture managers during proposal processes, and identifying capable small businesses to form teams for bidding on projects. Emphasizing the importance of networking and connecting small businesses with potential customers or partners, even if it may not directly benefit their own company. The guest also underscores the significance of government small business representatives in guiding small businesses through the complex procurement process. The conversation sheds light on the challenges small businesses face in accessing relevant information and finding suitable opportunities. In this episode, we give you practical advice on reaching out to government small business representatives and leveraging their expertise to navigate contract opportunities. Discussing the importance of understanding the procurement landscape within agencies and installations and suggest ways for small businesses to uncover potential customers and forge connections.…

Govcon Giants

1
This Former Developer Cracked the $150M Government Contracting Code! 6:55

9 days ago6:55

6:55

In this episode of The Daily Windup, I interview a guest who shares their career journey from being a software developer to transitioning into business development in the government contracting industry. The guest discusses their experience managing a CSO (Customer Service Operations) and how it led to an opportunity to work for a government contracting company. We delve into the process of joining an 8(a) company that was graduating from the 8(a) program and acquiring CMMI Level 3 certification, which ultimately attracted the attention of GDIIT (General Dynamics Information Technology). We also got insights into the motivations behind GDIIT's acquisition of the company they worked for, including the value of the acquired company's CMMI certification and its strong presence in the civilian market. Also we talk about our guest's own aspirations of future acquisition and passing on the business to their sons. We also highlighted the importance of mentorship and the mentors who played a pivotal role in their transition from program management to business development, learning how to craft effective pitches for different audiences, and gaining confidence in their abilities.…

Govcon Giants

1
277: She Was a Stay-at-Home Mom—Now She’s a Government Consultant 52:04

11 days ago52:04

52:04

In today’s episode, we’re spotlighting Angela Chamberlain, a first-generation Filipino-American and stay-at-home mom who took a bold leap into government contracting—and landed big. With no background in construction, no federal experience, and no traditional “qualifications,” Angela trusted her gut, followed the GovCon Giants blueprint, and turned her mornings into momentum. From hearing me on the Trucking Hustle podcast to closing her first consulting deal and helping a local HVAC company win a $250,000 contract, her story is all about grit, heart, and taking aligned action. Angela breaks down her journey—from waking up at 5AM to study while her kids slept, to attending matchmaking events, forming strategic partnerships, and getting her client ready for bonding and bidding. You’ll hear how she turned curiosity into clarity, made connections at preschool fundraisers, and proved that intuition plus execution is a winning formula. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to jump in—this is your sign. Let’s dive into how she built her confidence, launched her consulting biz, and changed not only her life, but someone else’s too. Watch the episode on Youtube here: https://youtu.be/iDoWRgp99fA Govcon Coaching: https://www.govconcoaching.com/home63196883 Pricing: https://www.govconcoaching.com/pricing-page…

Govcon Giants

1
276: At 23, He Landed His First Consulting Client—Here’s How! 22:36

12 days ago22:36

22:36

In today’s episode I'm joined by my 23-year-old son, Branden Coffie, who just locked in his first government consulting client... with no degree and no prior contracting experience. Branden walks us through how he took what he learned behind the scenes—editing my videos, watching coaching calls, and consuming the content—and turned it into a repeatable action plan that landed him a deal with an 8(a)-certified plastics manufacturer. We break down the exact script he used, how he found the opportunity, and why confidence and clarity matter more than credentials. If you’ve ever doubted whether you’re “qualified” to start, this episode will erase every excuse. Branden didn’t overthink it—he picked up the phone, ran the market research, and made the pitch. Now he’s negotiating terms and walking the walk. Tune in and find out how a Gen Z newcomer proved that when you take action , results follow. This is proof you don’t need experience—you need initiative. Watch this on Youtube: https://youtu.be/_xuKNWVK6EA Govcon Coaching: https://www.govconcoaching.com/home63196883 Pricing: https://www.govconcoaching.com/pricing-page…

Govcon Giants

1
275: Use This Consulting Hack to Tap Into Multi-Million Dollar Government Contracts 25:19

13 days ago25:19

25:19

If you’re out there grinding with no past performance, no big contracts, and no traction—this episode is your wake-up call. I break down the exact strategy I used in 2008 to go from zero to six figures by leveraging the consultant model —a proven shortcut to skip the five-year contract cycles and piggyback off other companies’ capabilities. We’re not here to chase $25k crumbs—we’re here to build real wealth, and it starts with thinking differently. I even brought in insight from Dan Peña, who used this same model to build a $50B empire from scratch. In this episode, I walk you through the math, the mindset, and the mechanics of becoming a government consultant. Whether you want to get a piece of a $5M contract or land one high-ticket client and represent them in the federal space, I’ll show you why this is the fastest path to revenue. You bring the hustle, they bring the past performance—and both of you win. I’m not teaching theory here. This is the exact model I followed, and it’s the one I want you to adopt. Watch this episode twice if you need to. Watch the episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/g1801TXW3pQ Govcon Coaching: https://www.govconcoaching.com/home63196883 Pricing: https://www.govconcoaching.com/pricing-page…

Govcon Giants

1
274: Turn Your Hustle Into a Government Contracting Consulting Business 38:25

14 days ago38:25

38:25

In today’s episode, we’re tackling one of the most asked-about topics in the game—how to become a successful government consultant . Whether you’re doing this full-time or trying to make it work on the side, this episode lays out the real blueprint. I'm walking you step-by-step through everything I’ve learned in the trenches—how to structure your business legally, how to find and pitch to million-dollar companies, how to position yourself as a value-add even if you’ve got zero past performance. I’m not holding anything back. We’re talking capability statements, payment structures, how to charge, and exactly how to get companies to want you repping them in the federal space. This episode is your no-BS starter kit to making six figures and more as a consultant. If you're out here watching YouTube videos but not getting real traction, stop. You don’t need more theory. You need a partner, a plan, and a path—and this episode gives you all three. I even break down why companies making $10M, $20M, or $30M a year will listen to YOU if you’ve done the work and know how to speak their language. So grab a pen, take notes, and let’s get to work. It’s time to stop thinking and start consulting. Watch the episode on Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1G5y7RROf20 Govcon Coaching: https://www.govconcoaching.com/home63196883 Pricing: https://www.govconcoaching.com/pricing-page…

Govcon Giants

1
273: Here's What It Takes to Start Government Contracting in 2025 22:30

15 days ago22:30

22:30

In this power-packed episode of GovCon Giants , I’m sharing something that could seriously change the game for your business—our First Partner Challenge is back. After a year of demand and dozens of success stories, we’re relaunching our partner program cohort to help companies like yours break into federal contracting the right way . Whether you’re making $5 or $5M, this program is about building strategic partnerships that lead to real contract wins. I walk you through examples of businesses that scaled from $165K to $100M just by teaming up with the right partners—and we’re giving you the roadmap to do the same. I also unpack the three main paths to success—consulting, services, and products—and how AI and new market research tools are leveling the playing field for small and diverse businesses. From the woman who found a partner at daycare to the guy doing $80K/month using subcontractor “Migos,” these are real people winning with real strategies. Join me as I break it all down and show you how this partner challenge could be your launchpad into federal contracting success. Watch the episode on Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/live/b1ARb6dfT_Q?si=rtbzsy37zn6Cs7pP Govcon Coaching: https://www.govconcoaching.com/home63196883 Pricing: https://www.govconcoaching.com/pricing-page…

Govcon Giants

1
The 2 People Every Government Contractor Needs to Succeed 13:04

16 days ago13:04

13:04

In today's episode, we sit down with an accomplished entrepreneur who shares valuable insights into starting and growing a business. Our guest, a diverse supplier and service-disabled veteran, emphasizes the importance of key resources for any business owner - your accountant and your attorney. He vividly recalls his early entrepreneurial ventures, from selling scuba gear to offering mobile car detailing services during high school. The episode delves into the critical role of professional organizations like the Veterans in Business (VIB) Network and the Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) in helping entrepreneurs like our guest connect with valuable opportunities and support. Join us as we uncover the journey of a remarkable entrepreneur and learn actionable tips to build a successful business. Tune in for a powerful dose of motivation and entrepreneurship wisdom on The Daily Windup. See you tomorrow for another inspiring story!…

Govcon Giants

1
The Power of Rejection: How 12 ‘No’s Turned Into Millions in Government Contracts 9:22

17 days ago9:22