#GovCom Unfiltered

• Tech Transitions & Taking Charge: Indira Rice Donegan's Playbook for Career Growth

  From commanding signal battalions in combat zones to advising on billion-dollar federal tech strategies, Indira Rice Donegan has built a career rooted in service, strategy, and entrepreneurship. Now the founder and CEO of RIDO Technology Consulting, Indira joins us to share her journey from Army Signal Officer to GovCon entrepreneur, and the mission that continues to drive her work. Indira brings over 20 years of military and federal experience to the table, with a track record spanning cyber strategy, enterprise IT modernization, and leadership in billion-dollar public sector technology programs. She shares her powerful insights on building a business with purpose, leading with conviction, and navigating the GovCon landscape with boldness and grace.Discover:The pivotal moments that defined Indira’s leadership style—from commanding tactical units to shaping multi-billion-dollar federal tech portfoliosHer powerful transition from military service to founding RIDO Technology Consulting—and the mission that continues to drive her workWhat it takes to lead as a woman, veteran, and entrepreneur in a competitive GovCon marketHer strategies for growing a business through courage, cold calls, and convictionPractical advice for veterans making the leap into government contracting and entrepreneurshipThe best (and worst) career advice she’s received—and how it continues to influence her journeyHer take on mentorship, faith, and the values that anchor her personal and professional lifeA candid look at balancing leadership, business, family, and service—with purpose as her north starFor veterans, industry leaders, and GovCon professionals, this episode offers rich insights into leadership, growth, and resilience in the face of challenge. Tune in as Indira shares her inspiring story, hard-won lessons, and vision for empowering the next generation of federal tech leaders.

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• Beyond P&L: Carrie Kramer on Leading with Heart in GovCom

  In today’s complex and highly competitive federal contracting space, building strong relationships and executing innovative, cost-effective solutions is key. In this episode, we sit down with Carrie Kramer, Chief Delivery Officer at DRT Strategies, to discuss her approach to business development, strategic account planning, and delivering large enterprise contracts across classified and unclassified environments. Carrie is a senior leader with over 25 years of experience and a career spanning professional services, software development, IaaS/PaaS, and operations and maintenance programs. Carrie has mastered the art of winning, managing, and executing government contracts. From leveraging strategic partnerships to driving continuous improvement, she shares her firsthand insights on thriving in GovCon and navigating the challenges of the federal market. Discover: • The pivotal career moment that shaped Carrie’s leadership style and approach to federal contracting • An unconventional strategy she’s used to win contracts or advance in government services—one that others may hesitate to try but should consider • The person who unexpectedly opened a door for her and how that experience influences the way she mentors and supports others today • Effective approaches to networking and building meaningful, mutually beneficial relationships in the GovCon space • Her advice to professionals just starting out, including insights on balancing competition and collaboration in this industry • The critical role of P&L management and strategic account planning in executing large enterprise contracts • The future of professional services and IT solutions in government contracting For federal contractors, industry leaders, and professionals navigating the GovCon landscape, this episode offers valuable insights on securing contracts, driving growth, and leading with strategy. Tune in as Carrie shares her journey, key lessons, and vision for the future of federal contracting!

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• Service Now & Beyond Navigating Government Innovation with Alex Khayo

  In today’s fast-evolving federal IT landscape, adapting to change and leveraging the right technology is critical. In this episode, we sit down with Alex Khayo, CEO of LEIDIT, to discuss how his experiences—from working with ServiceNow to making bold career moves—have shaped his approach to IT modernization and leadership in GovCon.With over 28 years of experience, Alex has built a career on strategic decision-making, networking, and innovation. From navigating risks and life-changing decisions to balancing competition and collaboration, he shares firsthand insights on growing in the industry and seizing new opportunities in IT.Discover:• How ServiceNow influenced his approach to IT modernization• The pivotal risks and career-defining moments that led to his success• The mentors and unexpected opportunities that shaped his journey• The power of networking and how to build strong industry relationships• Strategies for balancing competition and collaboration in GovCon• Emerging opportunities in IT and what’s next for digital transformation• Leadership lessons on growth, resilience, and navigating the federal spaceFor IT professionals, government contractors, and industry leaders, this episode is packed with insights on navigating GovCon, embracing technology, and building a career in federal IT.Tune in as Alex shares his journey, the lessons he’s learned, and his vision for the future of digital transformation! 

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• AI, Project Management & GovCon: Kathleen Walch on Cognilytica’s Next Chapter

  AI is transforming project management, creating an urgent need for qualified professionals. In this episode, we interview Kathleen Walch, Director of AI Engagement and Learning at Project Management Institute (PMI), who co-developed the first and only AI Project Management methodology now recognized in government proposals.As co-creator of the CPMAI methodology, Kathleen has pioneered AI best practices that have helped government agencies, multinational corporations, and NGOs successfully navigate AI implementation. Following PMI's strategic acquisition of Cognilytica, she continues to drive innovation that's reshaping how projects are managed and delivered.Discover:• Why this certification could soon be in explosive demand• How AI is revolutionizing traditional project management• Critical challenges and opportunities for AI in government contracting• Practical strategies for AI risk management and accountability• Cognilytica's roadmap under PMI leadershipFor project managers, government contractors, and technology leaders, this episode delivers insider knowledge you can't afford to miss. Listen now as Kathleen shares the methodology that's becoming the gold standard for AI project management certification!

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• Breaking Barriers: Ryan Connell on Defense Innovation and Leadership

  Get ready for an engaging conversation with Ryan Connell. Joined today in his personal capacity, Ryan is a defense acquisition professional with over 15 years of experience and a passion for innovation in integrating cutting-edge technologies. In this episode, Ryan shares personal stories and lessons learned from navigating the complex world of defense acquisition, collaborating with nontraditional contractors, and exploring how commercial technology can support national security. Drawing from his leadership roles, including on the NCMA Boston Board of Directors and with the Defense Entrepreneur Forum, Ryan dives into the challenges and opportunities of modernizing acquisition processes and building bridges between government and industry.This episode isn’t just about what Ryan does—it's about how his journey has shaped his perspectives on leadership, technology, and breaking down barriers for innovation. Whether you’re curious about defense, tech, or leadership, you’ll leave inspired by Ryan’s stories and actionable insights. Don't miss it!00:00 Open1:26 - How Did You Get Drawn Into Public Service?3:05 - How Close Are You to Who You Wanted to Be Growing Up?4:52 - Reflections on Boston7:06 - 5 Keys to Better Connecting with Remote Team Members9:54 - The Importance of Doing Something Creative13:14 - How Do You Stay Current with Technology?18:39 - What Do You Love About Working in Government?22:30 - How Can Contractors Improve?24:48 - What Do You Find Truly Delightful?27:17 - Advice for Success32:01 - What Is Your Superpower? 

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