Best With ACTIAC Podcasts (2025)

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ICYMI: Keynote Fireside Chat, Transformation Reimagined 33:50

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8h ago33:50

33:50

In this insightful fireside chat, Joe Adamo from SAIC and Dr. Kelly Fletcher, Chief Information Officer of the United States Department of State, discuss the Department's ongoing digital modernization efforts and the role of technology in global diplomacy. Dr. Fletcher highlights the State Department's unique mission, emphasizing the importance of …

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The Future of Customer Experience (CX) in the Public Sector 35:16

7d ago35:16

35:16

We get to talk with Lee Becker, Senior VP and Executive Advisor for Public Sector and Healthcare at Medallia, to discuss the evolving role of customer experience (CX) in government. Lee shares his journey from being a Navy corpsman to becoming an advocate for improving government services through technology. He emphasizes the importance of collabor…

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Camino de Santiago to Government Tech 21:52

14d ago21:52

21:52

In this episode of the Buzz we get to talk to Todd Hager, the Vice President of Strategic Advisory at Alpha Omega. Todd reflects on his extensive career journey, starting from his early tech roles in the hotel industry, transitioning to government contracting, and becoming a key player in fostering industry-government collaboration. He discusses th…

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Relaunching Partners 2026: Building Tomorrow's Leaders Today 1:09:25

23d ago1:09:25

1:09:25

DJ Dart, Chief Strategy Officer at Inadev, and Marisa Roinestad, recently retired after 25 years in federal service, discuss the relaunch of ACT-IAC's Partners 2026 program. They share their personal journeys and experiences that shaped their leadership styles, emphasizing the importance of empathy, creativity, and community in the evolving landsca…

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ICYMI: AI Revolution in the Acquisition Life Cycle AI Acquisition Forum- 2025 53:29

1M ago53:29

53:29

This panel discussion, moderated by Joanie Newhart, Associate Administrator for Acquisition Workforce Programs at the Office of Management and Budget, delves into the impact of AI on the acquisition lifecycle in government agencies. The panel includes Bonnie Evangelista, Jonathan Mostowski, and Kaprice Tucker, who share their diverse experiences an…

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ICYMI: Opening Keynote AI Acquisition forum 33:47

1M ago33:47

33:47

In this episode, Kareem Fidel of CGI Federal introduces Zach Whitman, Chief Data Scientist and inaugural Chief AI Officer at GSA, who discusses GSA's AI strategies and initiatives. Whitman elaborates on the practical experimentation and deployment of AI systems, the importance of data hygiene, benchmarks for AI performance, and the challenges and o…

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From Molecular Oncologist to Team Strategist: Trust the Collaborative Journey 51:25

1M ago51:25

51:25

In this episode of The Buzz, LM Bennett discusses her transition from bench science to team science at the NIH and NCI, co-authoring a field guide, and her new book, 'How to Succeed at Collaborative Research: A Practical Guide for Teams.' The conversation delves into the significance of trust, emotional intelligence, and effective communication in …

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Building Collaboration in Government: Insights with Acquisition COI 40:52

2M ago40:52

40:52

In this episode of The Buzz, Scott Simpson, the acquisition COI Government chair at ACT-IAC, shares his unexpected journey into the governmental acquisition field. We delve deep into Scott's experiences, the crucial role contracts play, and the impactful mentorship that shaped his career. Scott discusses the significance of building a reliable netw…

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Fellows Speaker Series: Small Business 1:14:11

2M ago1:14:11

1:14:11

Fellows-only panel focused on small business success in the GovCon space. Whether you're looking to grow, partner, or simply gain deeper insight into the current landscape, this episode is your chance to learn from leaders who have built, scaled, and sold small businesses in today’s evolving environment. Featured Speakers: Kim Hayes, KBR (Former Ow…

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Leadership and Collaboration Strategies in a Hybrid World 36:14

2M ago36:14

36:14

In this episode of The Buzz podcast by ACT IAC, the focus is on our Voyagers program, a leadership development initiative aimed at emerging leaders across federal government and industry. We get to talk with Ankur Saini, CTO at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and Robert Turman, Director of Consulting and Delivery at CGI Federal. Th…

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ICYMI: Closing Keynote - AI Acquisition Forum 2025 22:12

2M ago22:12

22:12

In this final keynote, Jeff Sage, Director of Enterprise Service and Analysis Division at NASA's Office of Procurement, discusses the integration of AI in NASA's procurement processes. Introduced by Andrew McAllister, Jeff elaborates on NASA's historical and current use of AI, particularly focusing on its role in optimizing procurement operations a…

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ICYMI: Enabling the Workforce to Capitalize on the AI Opportunity 36:30

3M ago36:30

36:30

This episode features a panel discussion on the role of AI in workforce development within federal agencies at the AI Acquisition Forum 2025. Led by David Vennergrund, Vice President for AI at GDIT, the panel includes distinguished guests: Andrea Brandon from the US Department of the Interior, Florence Kasule from the Department of Education’s Fede…

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Human-Centered Design in Government: COI's Journey from the former Soviet Union to Qualtrics 45:25

3M ago45:25

45:25

In this episode of The Buzz, host Yohanna Baez speaks with Sydney Heimbrock, the Chief Industry Advisor for Public Sector at Qualtrics and co-chair of the ACT-IAC's COI (community of interest) on talent. She shares her extensive career journey, including her transformative experience in the former Soviet Union and her efforts to integrate human-cen…

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Exploring Digital Health Technologies in Federal Research 51:45

3M ago51:45

51:45

In this episode of The Buzz, expert guests delve into a new white paper by the ACT-IAC Health Community of Interest titled 'Digital Health Technologies in the Federal Health Research'. The discussion covers the intersection of technology, health, and research, particularly focusing on the use of wearables, mobile apps, and in-home monitors to enhan…

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ICYMI: Health Innovation Keynote Fireside Chat 22:05

3M ago22:05

22:05

In this keynote and fireside chat, Acting Assistant Secretary Andrew Gradison of the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) discusses his vision and efforts for making America's children and families healthier. Gradison highlights the President's priorities on efficiency, reducing waste, and supporting low-income families. He discusses the …

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ICYMI: Health Innovation Summit Closing Keynote 28:41

4M ago28:41

28:41

In this episode, Angela Wilson from Alpha Omega introduces the keynote speaker, Colonel Kris Saling, a US Army officer and talent strategist. Colonel Saling shares insights into her work modernizing workforce strategy, integrating AI into talent systems, and building human-centered solutions for the future of defense. The conversation covers the ro…

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From Engineering to Federal Contracting: A Mid-Career Voyage 26:07

4M ago26:07

26:07

In this episode of 'The Buzz from ACT-IAC,' host Yohanna Baez delves into the professional journey of Eric Ritz, a mid-career professional working with Accenture Federal Services for 15 years. Eric shares his experiences before, during, and after participating in the ACT-IAC Professional Development Voyagers Program. The discussion covers the progr…

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Live at Emerging Tech Demo Day: Insights from Next Phase Solutions 41:26

4M ago41:26

41:26

Insights from the Emerging Tech Demo Day at the Carahsoft Conference and Collaboration Center in Reston, Virginia. Joined by Warren Miller, Corporate Chief Architect at Next Phase Solutions, and Lisa Wolff, the President and CEO, the episode delves into the innovative technologies showcased and their applications in government and commercial sector…

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Exploring the Integrated Value Network 48:18

4M ago48:18

48:18

The Integrated Value Network (IVN), a transformative tool for effective governance. Joined by guests Basil White, a senior informaticist, and Beth Martin, a user experience and digital services expert, the discussion highlights the significance of IVN in mapping complex government interactions. The conversation covers their experiences, the practic…

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Innovators Unite: ET&I Conference Highlights Part 2 24:16

5M ago24:16

24:16

We are still live at the Emerging Tech and Innovation Conference, talking with amazing folks, like, Elizabeth McNamara, Health IT Innovation Officer at Next Phase Solutions Services, Virginia Huth a 30-year civil servant who is now CEO of Vanalytix, and Basil White, Senior Informaticist. Discussions revolve around the importance of innovation in pu…

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Innovators Unite: ET&I Conference Highlights Part 1 23:03

5M ago23:03

23:03

In this episode of The Buzz, we broadcast live from the 2025 Emerging Tech and Innovation Conference, featuring exclusive interviews with industry leaders like Destinie Harris from Maximus, Jeff Mercurio from OnPoint Consulting, and Ratima Katari from ICF. Destinie discusses Maximus' Total Experience Management (TXM) solution and her journey in tec…

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ICYMI: Top Strategies from Leading Private Sector Contact Centers 42:43

5M ago42:43

42:43

*NEW EDIT* In this episode, panelists from industry share their strategies and experiences for improving contact center operations. The session is moderated by Crystal Philcox, a former federal executive at GSA and IRS. Topics discussed include the importance of customer feedback, leveraging AI and analytics for better customer interactions, proact…

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ICYMI: Contact Center Case Studies - Governments Learn Best from Other Governments 37:54

5M ago37:54

37:54

In this episode, panelists from various government sectors discuss the critical importance of contact centers and share their experiences, challenges, and strategies for improving service delivery. The discussion includes insights into the role of technology, automation, and human factors in transforming contact centers. Key topics covered include …

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Live at the 2025 Contact Center Annual Summit 36:14

5M ago36:14

36:14

In this special live edition of The Buzz, Pete Tseronis interviews key industry leaders on the critical role of contact centers in delivering services, especially through digital and omni-channel strategies. Key speakers, including Martha Dorris of Dorris Consulting International; Amanda Chavez from Qualtrics; Mia Jordan from Salesforce; Marcellus …

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The Human Element in Tech and Mission with CIO, DOC Brian Epley 28:08

6M ago28:08

28:08

In this episode of the Buzz , Pete Tseronis interviews Brian Epley, Chief Information Officer at the United States Department of Commerce. They discuss the intersection of mission-driven technology and humanizing government initiatives. Brian reflects on his journey from the private sector to public service, emphasizing the importance of understand…

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Voyager Voices: Stories of Growth and Impact 25:48

6M ago25:48

25:48

In this special live edition of The Buzz, hosted by Yohanna Baez from Jammin Java in Vienna, Virginia, the focus is on Voyager Talks, celebrating the achievements of the ACT-IAC Voyagers program. The event highlights the importance of collaboration between government and industry, featuring professionals from the program and supporting Canines for …

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The Power of Connection: Lessons from the Voyager Program 29:08

6M ago29:08

29:08

In this special live edition of The Buzz, host Yohanna Baez broadcasts from Jammin Java in Vienna, Virginia, hosting the signature Voyager Talks event. This episode highlights the ACT-IAC Voyagers program, a professional development program for rising leaders in government and industry. Yohanna interviews Andrew Powell, Chief Growth Officer of Stro…

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The Buzz Live: Creativity and Collaboration at Voyager Talks 26:01

6M ago26:01

26:01

In this special live edition of The Buzz, host Yohanna Baez reports from Jammin Java in Vienna, Virginia, celebrating the ACT-IAC Voyagers program and its impact on government and industry leaders. The episode features an inspiring conversation with Colette Creech, Director of Growth Operations at Gunnison Consulting Group, discussing her team's pr…

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Empowering Communities: Christina Binhack and the ACT-IAC Gives Back Initiative 33:50

7M ago33:50

33:50

In this episode, we sit down with Christina Binhack, Director of Operations and HR at ACT-IAC, to dive into her background, experiences, and passion for nonprofit work. Christina shares her journey from the Midwest to the DMV area, her involvement with ACT-IAC, and her dedication to community service through the ACT-IAC Gives Back program. She disc…

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From College to Career: A Talk with an Associates Graduate from IBM 18:57

7M ago18:57

18:57

In our final episode of the Associates graduate series, host Yohanna Baez interviews Lila Najmyar, a senior federal developer at IBM and a recent participant in the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates Program. Lila shares her journey from college to IBM, the valuable experiences and lessons learned during the program, and how it has influen…

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Building Networks and Skills: A Talk with an Associates Graduate from ABS Consulting 20:08

7M ago20:08

20:08

In this episode of The Buzz from ACT-IAC, host Yohanna Baez interviews Abby Cassell, a business development manager at ABS Consulting and an alumna of the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates Program. Abby discusses her career journey from graduating college in 2020, navigating business development during the COVID-19 pandemic, to joining AB…

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From Nursing to Business Operations: A Talk with an Associates Graduate from Akiak Holdings 31:59

7M ago31:59

31:59

In this episode of The Buzz from ACT IAC, host Yohanna Baez dives into the career journey of Olivia Henry, an early career professional who participated in the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates Program. Olivia discusses her transition from nursing to a leadership role in business operations, fueled by the support and skills gained from th…

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From Courtside to Capitol Hill: Dir. of Professional Development Sarah Hughes on Career Transformation 36:58

8M ago36:58

36:58

We have a different host for this special episode of The Buzz, Pete Tseronis, founder of Dots and Bridges. He interviews Sarah Hughes, Director of Professional Development at ACT-IAC. They discuss Sarah's diverse career across industries, networking, mentorship, and career growth. Sarah shares insights from her journey, including her work with spor…

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Building Confidence and Connections: A Talk with an Associates Graduate from CGI 23:12

8M ago23:12

23:12

On our next episode of The Buzz from ACT-IAC, host Yohanna Baez interviews Paige Kowahl, a senior consultant at CGI Federal, about her experiences in the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates Program. Paige shares her educational and career journey, which began with a pivot from chemistry to computer information systems, leading her to CGI. S…

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From Intern to AI Sales: A Talk with an Associates Graduate from IBM 23:44

8M ago23:44

23:44

In this episode, Yohanna Baez hosts Mackenzie (Kenzie) Downes, a data and AI seller at IBM, to discuss her journey through the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates Program. Kenzie shares her background, how she was inspired by her mother to pursue sales, and her experience working at IBM. She dives into her motivations for joining the ACT-IA…

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From Aviation to GovCon: A Talk with an Associates Graduate from Leidos 21:58

8M ago21:58

21:58

In this episode of The Buzz from ACT-IAC, host Yohanna Baez interviews Ryan Cloghessy, a capture manager at Leidos, about his journey through the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates Program. They discuss Ryan's career trajectory, the impact of the program on his professional growth, and the valuable lessons and experiences he gained. Ryan s…

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Building Bridges in GovCon: A Talk with an Associates Graduate from the Wilco Group 30:04

9M ago30:04

30:04

In this episode of 'The Buzz from ACT-IAC,' host Yohanna Baez dives into the journeys of early career professionals in the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates Program. Senior Digital Transformation Consultant John Rehm from the Wilco Group shares his story, from his communications background to his current role in federal contracting. John …

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New V2X Technology at DOT with Grafton deButts and Brian Cronin 47:35

9M ago47:35

47:35

This week, The Buzz presents a conversation with Grafton deButts from Strongbridge LLC and the ACT-IAC Department of Transportation Federal Insights Exchange (FIE), as they sit down with Brian Cronin, the forward-thinking Director of the Intelligent Transportation Systems Joint Program Office at the U-S Department of Transportation. Together, they …

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Welcome Our New Host: Yohanna Baez 6:33

9M ago6:33

6:33

Welcome Yohanna Baez: A Different Vision for The Buzz In this special episode of The Buzz, new host Yohanna Baez introduces herself and outlines her vision for the podcast's future. She pays tribute to previous host, Colin Larsen, and discusses her plans to explore broader perspectives, amplify diverse voices, and provide actionable insights. Yohan…

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ICYMI: AI, Innovation, and the Future of Government with Alexis Bonnell 34:40

1y ago34:40

34:40

This week, The Buzz presents a session from our Vision 2030 event. In this opening keynote session, Alexis Bonnell, the Chief Information Officer and Director of the Digital Capabilities Directorate of the Air Force Research Laboratory shares her insights on how government agencies can leverage technology to drive innovation and better serve the pu…

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Farewell Colin! 17:17

1+ y ago17:17

17:17

This week, The Buzz is saying goodbye to Colin Larsen, who has produced and hosted the show since it began in the Spring of 2021. Colin would like to profoundly thank ACT-IAC and the listeners for their support through these more than 150 episodes. Don't worry, The Buzz will continue! As always, stay tuned for more from ACT-IAC. Subscribe on your f…

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Replay: Civil Service in American Government with Donald Moynihan 46:01

1+ y ago46:01

46:01

The Buzz is going on a short hiatus this summer, so our releases will be less regular than usual. In the meantime, we'll be replaying some of our favorite episodes from the past year or so. This week, we're revisiting a conversation we had with Donald Moynihan, Chair of the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University, about the evoluti…

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Replay: The Green Transition Dilemma with James Salzman and J.B. Ruhl 59:27

1+ y ago59:27

59:27

The Buzz is going on a short hiatus this summer, so our releases will be less regular than usual. In the meantime, we'll be replaying some of our favorite episodes from the past year or so. This week, we're revisiting a conversation we had with James Salzman and J.B. Ruhl, environmental law professors at UCLA and Vanderbilt, respectively. They are …

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ICYMI: Creating a Medically-Ready Military at the Defense Health Agency 28:21

1+ y ago28:21

28:21

This week, The Buzz presents a keynote session from our 2024 Health Innovation Summit. In this fireside chat, Kevin Seeley, VP of Strategic Programs for Military Health at GDIT, sits down with Naomi Escoffery, Chief Accelerator Officer at the Defense Health Agency. Together, they discuss efforts towards modernization and innovation to improve healt…

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ICYMI: How NIST is Responding to AI Development 38:04

1+ y ago38:04

38:04

This week, The Buzz presents a session from ACT-IAC's 2024 Emerging Technology and Innovation Conference. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is responsible for developing and issuing guidance around the standards and measurements we use in all kinds of technological development in the US. In the modern era, this includes Arti…

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ICYMI: Venture Meets Mission with Arun Gupta 54:38

1+ y ago54:38

54:38

Last week, ACT-IAC held its 2024 Emerging Technology and Innovation Conference in Cambridge, MD, where leaders and experts from across government, industry and academia met to discuss how government can harness new technology to improve mission outcomes. Our conference kicked off with a keynote presentation and fireside chat with Arun Gupta, a vent…

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ICYMI: Resilient Infrastructure Work at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory 25:30

1+ y ago25:30

25:30

This week, The Buzz presents a session from our 2024 Resilient Infrastructure Summit. In this opening keynote session, Dr. Elizabeth Doris, Director of the Joint Institute for Strategic Energy Analysis at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), discusses the past, present and future work that the laboratory has conducted to assist in the U…

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ICYMI: Academic Perspectives in Resilient Infrastructure 52:12

1+ y ago52:12

52:12

This week, The Buzz presents a session from our 2024 Resilient Infrastructure Summit. This panel focuses on how academic institutions contribute to infrastructure change action through research, sustainable practices, and policy advocacy. Speakers will showcase university-led initiatives and their alignment with government efforts to meet national …

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Dark Patterns and Ethical Design with Colin Gray 45:43

1+ y ago45:43

45:43

Have you ever tried to cancel an online subscription and ended up clicking around in circles trying to find the right button to press? If so, you experienced a "dark pattern" - a deceptive tactic of UX design that tries to trick users into doing something they don't want to do. In the online age, UX designers have enormous power in facilitating our…

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ICYMI: Digital Transformation Strides Driving Citizen Experience in Government 37:31

1+ y ago37:31

37:31

This week, The Buzz presents a session from ACT-IAC's 2024 Digital Transformation Summit. This panel of fedtech experts discusses the progress they have made in their respective agencies to leverage digital transformation to enhance the citizen experience, focusing on policy and process impediments that can derail progress and how to overcome them.…