Parabilis Presents: Spilling the Tea on GovCon

Hosted by Teresa Moon

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Latest episode

Jun 2026

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About the show

Real conversations with the people shaping the federal marketplace. Join Teresa Moon of Parabilis as she sits down with GovCon experts, innovators, and leaders to share lessons learned, personal stories, and practical advice for growing your business with confidence. With a warm, engaging style and a knack for asking the questions everyone’s thinking, Teresa turns every conversation into an opportunity to learn, connect, and level up your GovCon journey. Tune in, get inspired, and take your next step toward success, one episode at a time.

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60 recent

June 11, 2026Episode 9633 min

Advocacy, Strategy & Small Business Success

In this episode of Spilling the Tea on GovCon, Teresa sits down with Sue Tellier, President of JetCo Federal, for an insightful discussion on the realities of government contracting, defense supply chains, and what it takes for small businesses to succeed in today’s evolving federal marketplace. Sue shares how JetCo Federal supports the defense supply chain and reflects on the significant shifts she has witnessed across GovCon, including supply chain disruptions, manufacturing challenges, policy changes, and increasing compliance requirements.Sue breaks down why some small businesses consistently win while others struggle to gain traction, offering practical advice for new entrants looking to build past performance, establish credibility, and avoid common mistakes. She also explains the importance of advocacy organizations such as WIPP and WID, the role of the Rule of Two in protecting small business opportunities, and how contractors can strategically leverage Offices of Small Business Programs (OSBPs) to create meaningful connections and growth opportunities.As the conversation turns toward the future, Sue discusses emerging priorities around cybersecurity, compliance, funding, and market shifts that contractors should be preparing for today. Packed with actionable insights and hard-earned lessons, this episode provides a roadmap for contractors seeking to remain competitive, compliant, and connected in an increasingly complex GovCon environment.Timestamps:00:00: GovCon Kickoff: Supply Chain, Funding & Small Business Realities01:36: What JetCo Federal Actually Does in the Defense Supply Chain03:30: How GovCon Has Shifted: Supply Chain Risk, Manufacturing, Policy Swings07:18: Why Some Small Businesses Win And Why Others Don’t11:42: New Entrants: How to Stand Out, Build Past Performance & Avoid Pitfalls16:37: Why Advocacy Groups (WIPP, WID) Matter for Federal Contractors21:42: The Rule of Two Explained: Why It Protects Small Business Competition27:15: How OSBPs Can Help & How to Actually Use Them Strategically29:23: Preparing for What’s Next: Cyber, Compliance & Market Shifts31:42: Final Takeaways: Focus, Funding, Compliance & CommunityConnect with Sue Tellier on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/suetellierVisit the JetCo Federal website: jetcosolutions.com

May 28, 2026Episode 9556 min

The Domino Effect

In this episode of Spilling the Tea on GovCon, Teresa welcomes back friends of the show, Tan Wilson, President of Entellect, LLC, and Jeff Shapiro, Partner at CohnReznick LLP, for a candid and strategic conversation about the realities of winning, funding, and sustaining growth in government contracting. From the opening moments, Tan and Jeff make one thing clear, capture strategy starts long before the RFP drops. They unpack why waiting for the solicitation is already too late and how successful contractors align business development, pricing, contracts, and finance from the very beginning.The conversation dives into the pricing and compliance traps that derail proposals, how auditors evaluate cost volumes and risk, and the red flags that can expose contractors to trouble—from subcontractor oversight to labor category and T&M concerns. Tan and Jeff challenge common GovCon habits, including chasing contracts instead of customers, pursuing IDIQ vehicles without a strategy, and relying on unsustainable “buy-in” bids or single-contract revenue streams.Listeners will also gain practical insight into bid discipline, budgeting, execution readiness, and pricing transparency, along with a thoughtful discussion on commission-based business development and building accountability across teams. With perspectives grounded in both capture strategy and federal audit expertise, this episode delivers actionable guidance on how to win smarter, scale responsibly, and stay compliant in today’s increasingly competitive federal marketplace.Episode Timestamps:00:00 GovCon Live Kickoff: Pricing, Compliance & Funding Realities01:22 Guest Intros (Tan Wilson and Jeff Shapiro): Capture Strategy + Federal Audit Expertise01:38 Why Capture Strategy Starts Before the RFP Drops03:09 How Auditors Evaluate Pricing, Cost Volumes & Risk04:36 RFP Compliance Traps That Kill Proposals Early08:49 Funding the Domino Effect: Why BD Must Talk to Finance09:43 Audit Red Flags: Subcontractor Risk & T&M Labor Category Exposure13:32 Top BD Mistakes: Chasing Contracts Instead of Customers20:00 Why Seeing the RFP First Is Already Too Late23:26 IDIQ FOMO: The Hidden Cost of “Just Getting On the Vehicle”25:48 How to Align BD, Pricing, Contracts & Finance Early29:15 Speaking a Common Language Across Capture, Pricing & Compliance31:09 Pricing Transparency: Building Trust With the Government32:38 Commission‑Based BD: Accountability vs. Chaos33:29 Unsustainable Growth: Red Flags Contractors Ignore34:06 The Danger of “Buy‑In” Bids That Lose Money36:00 The One‑Contract Trap: Why Overreliance Kills Companies37:11 Diversify Your Pipeline Without Randomly Pivoting38:16 Bid Discipline: Budgeting, Gate Reviews & Saying No41:17 Execution Readiness: Targets, Resourcing & Realistic Planning44:27 Budgeting With Stakeholders: What Mature GovCon Teams Do47:31 Commercial Buying Trends That Are Shaping Federal Expectations49:49 Price Realism, Past Performance & What Evaluators Actually Look For51:32 Final Advice: How to Win, Scale & Stay CompliantConnect with Tan Wilson on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tanvwilsonConnect with Jeff Shapiro on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/jeffshapirocpa

May 14, 2026Episode 9452 min

SBA/8a Updates

In this episode of Spilling the Tea on GovCon, Teresa welcomes John Shoraka and Trevor Skelly of Gov Contract Pros, for a timely and tactical conversation on the evolving government contracting landscape. From acquisition reform and the potential impacts of a FAR overhaul to growing concerns around socioeconomic program headwinds, John and Trevor break down the policy and compliance shifts contractors need to watch closely.The discussion dives deep into the most common post-award compliance mistakes, risk management strategies, and how businesses can avoid costly terminations. They also explore growth pathways through joint ventures, mentor-protégé relationships, and strategic partnerships, while offering practical guidance on preparing for year-end opportunities and navigating the 8(a) timeline. Packed with real-world insight, live audience Q&A, and actionable advice, this episode is essential listening for contractors looking to grow smarter and stay compliant in an increasingly complex GovCon environment.00:00 Welcome and Mission01:04 Meet the Guests01:37 Why Government Contract Pros05:13 Acquisition Reform Watch12:24 FAR Overhaul Impacts16:37 Socioeconomic Program Headwinds21:22 Post Award Compliance Mistakes25:14 Risk Management and Terminations32:34 Growth Paths JVs and MP40:06 Preparing for Year End44:41 Live Q&A and 8A Timeline49:11 Conferences Networking and WrapConnect with John Shoraka on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johnshorakaConnect with Trevor Skelly on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/trevor-skelly-919267175Visit the Gov Contract Pros website:govcontractpros.com

April 30, 2026Episode 9328 min

Relentless Leadership & Scaling in Federal Construction

In this episode of Spilling the Tea on GovCon, Teresa sits down with Drew DiSilvestro Jr., CEO of AmeriTech Contracting, for a high-energy conversation on what it takes to build and scale in the federal construction space. From lessons learned during deployment to the unexpected influence of his punk rock roots, Drew shares how discipline, mindset, and structure have shaped his approach to leadership and growth.We dive into the importance of systems and processes, balancing relentless leadership with people-first thinking, and how Drew has scaled his company by investing in the right team. He also breaks down what it takes to break into federal construction, offering real-world insight for contractors looking to enter or expand in the space. Drew closes with the daily principles that keep him grounded and focused, making this episode a must-listen for anyone serious about growth, grit, and building something that lasts.00:00 Welcome and Mission00:38 Drew Joins the Show01:46 Deployment Lesson on Systems05:43 Punk Rock Roots09:10 AmeriTech Growth Mindset11:26 Relentless Leadership Balance15:25 Scaling Fast with People20:08 Breaking Into Federal Construction24:12 Daily Principles and Wrap Up27:47 Final Thanks and Sign OffConnect with Drew DiSilvestro Jr. on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/andrewdisilvestroVisit the AmeriTech Contracting Website:AmeriTechContracting.com

April 16, 2026Episode 9229 min

Maximizing Your Largest Asset

In this episode of Spilling the Tea on GovCon, Teresa sits down with John Barnes, CEO of Pendleton Street Business Advisors, to break down what it really means to treat your business like an asset, not just a job. John shares practical insights on financial hygiene basics, why cash flow timing can make or break your operations, and how smart financial discipline lays the groundwork for long-term value.They dive into the key drivers of business valuation, how to make intentional profit allocation decisions, and the most common exit planning mistakes that business owners make. Whether you’re planning to scale, sustain, or eventually sell, John provides a clear roadmap to help you build a stronger, more valuable business from the inside out. This episode is packed with actionable guidance for GovCon leaders ready to think beyond today and plan for what’s next.

March 26, 2026Episode 9129 min

Navigating GSA Schedules

In this episode, Teresa Moon speaks with Shauna Weatherly, President and Founder of Fed Sub-K, about the intricacies of government contracting. Shauna shares her extensive experience in the federal marketplace, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, understanding contract consolidation, and navigating GSA schedules. The conversation highlights key strategies for small businesses to succeed in the federal marketplace, including the necessity of building relationships with contracting officers and conducting thorough market research. Shauna also discusses compliance requirements and the significance of contractor team agreements. This episode serves as a valuable resource for small businesses looking to thrive in the GovCon space.00:00 Welcome to GovCon Tea01:15 Meet Shauna Weatherly02:52 Why FedSub K Exists05:33 Finding Real Mentors10:18 Contract Consolidation Explained15:23 Do Relationships Still Matter17:16 Three GSA Schedule Must Knows21:35 Quick GSA Go No Go Tips24:24 Key Takeaways and Wrap Up28:52 Final Thanks and OutroConnect with Shauna Weatherly on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/shauna-weatherlyVisit the FedSubK website: fedsubk.com

March 12, 2026Episode 9031 min

Administrative Polices Seeking to Enhance Reliance on Commercial Solutions

In this episode, Teresa Moon welcomes back government contracts legal expert Chris Griesedieck, Jr , Partner at Venable LLP, to discuss recent developments in federal procurement, commercial solutions, and navigating the complexities of government contracting for small and commercial vendors.00:00 Welcome and Mission01:22 Meet Chris at Venable03:25 Commercial Buying Push04:23 NDAA Threshold Changes08:03 GSA Consolidation and Schedules10:38 Will Reforms Actually Work14:19 Termination and Compliance Risks18:24 Barriers for New Vendors21:28 Supply Chain and DEI Uncertainty25:32 Pros/Cons for a Diligent Compliant Company and Closing.Connect with Chris Griesedieck Jr on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/chris-griesedieck-jr-4226b544Visit the Venable LLP website:www.venable.com

February 19, 2026Episode 8929 min

From Micro Engagement to Momentum

In this episode of Spilling the Tea on GovCon, Teresa welcomes back Judy Bradt, CEO of Summit Insight, for a strategic and eye-opening conversation about what it really takes to make progress in government contracting. Building on themes from part one, Judy revisits the power of micro-engagements and small solutions development, explaining how these focused efforts help businesses stay visible, build trust, and create meaningful momentum with buyers.We dig into the critical difference between activity and true progress in GovCon, how to navigate “silent buyers,” and when it’s time to make hard decisions about where to invest your time and resources. Judy also shares how to leverage small engagements into long-term growth and offers thoughtful insight into the evolving role of AI in federal contracting. Packed with practical wisdom and candid advice, this episode will help you shift from being busy to being strategic and ultimately, more successful.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:38 Guest Introduction: Judy Brandt01:24 The Joys of Helping Businesses02:53 Recap of Part One: Micro Engagements03:43 Small Solutions Development03:58 Staying Visible and Building Trust06:02 Activity vs. Progress in GovCon09:13 Handling Silent Buyers14:14 Making Hard Decisions in GovCon16:04 Leveraging Small Engagements22:00 The Role of AI in GovCon25:30 Closing Thoughts and Upcoming EventsConnect with Judy Bradt on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/judybradtVisit the Summit Insight website:GrowFedBiz.com

February 5, 2026Episode 8827 min

Doing Business with USSOCOM

In this episode of Spilling the Tea on GovCon, we’re joined by Ashley Farrier, Director of the Office of Small Business Programs at US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), for an inside look at how small businesses can successfully engage with one of the most dynamic organizations in the federal space. Ashley shares her career journey and the path that led her to supporting small business engagement at U.S. Special Operations Command.The conversation breaks down what it really means to do business with USSOCOM, including current initiatives, acquisition authorities, and the types of opportunities available to innovative small businesses. Ashley offers practical tips, key resources, and real success stories that highlight how companies have effectively partnered with SOCOM to deliver mission impact. She wraps up by sharing how interested businesses can connect, stay informed, and take the next step toward working with USSOCOM. This episode is essential listening for any contractor looking to understand the SOCOM landscape and position themselves for success.00:00 Introduction and Purpose00:38 Guest Introduction: Ashley Farrier01:25 Ashley's Career Journey02:43 Doing Business with US SOCOM03:42 SOCOM Initiatives and Opportunities04:21 Engaging with SOCOM: Tips and Resources08:00 Acquisition Authority and Small Business Engagement23:38 Success Stories and Achievements26:08 Conclusion and Contact InformationConnect with Ashley Farrier on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashley-farrier-6b1b9982Visit the US Special Operations Command website:https://www.socom.mil

January 23, 2026Episode 8730 min

Managing the Aftermath of the Shutdown

In this episode, Teresa is joined by Lenee Lyte, Government Contracts Advisor at Withum, to discuss how government contractors can stay prepared and resilient during uncertainty. Lenee shares insights on Withum’s GovCon services, the importance of strong partnerships, and key lessons learned from navigating government shutdowns.They also explore why banking relationships and contract understanding are critical to survival and growth, and how proactive planning can position organizations for future success. The episode wraps with a look at positive outcomes, future readiness, and upcoming opportunities to stay engaged.00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast00:39 Guest Introduction: Lenee Lyte01:36 Lenee's Background and Expertise02:53 Overview of Witham's Services04:07 Importance of Partnerships in GovCon05:49 Surviving Post-Government Shutdown06:35 Key Issues During the Shutdown10:07 Lessons Learned and Proactive Measures18:07 Importance of Banking Relationships and Contract Understanding22:30 Positive Impacts and Future Preparedness27:05 Upcoming Events and ConclusionConnect with Lenee Lyte on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/leneelyteVisit the Withum website:withum.com/industries/government-contractors/