Fed Gov Today

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

The Army’s new Joint Innovation Outpost is changing how military capability gets from industry to the battlefield. Colonel Tom Monaghan explains how the JIOP embeds acquisition professionals directly with the 18th Airborne Corps to rapidly test, refine, and scale new technologies based on real-time soldier feedback. From anti-drone systems to modular drone transport cases designed by soldiers themselves, the initiative is streamlining the “last mile” of military innovation. Monaghan details how the Army is cutting through traditional procurement timelines, partnering directly with industry, and creating a model that could expand to every corps headquarters across the service.

VA Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs Sam Brown joins the program to discuss how the National Cemetery Administration is transforming the veteran and family experience through modernization, outreach, and collaboration. Brown explains why customer experience is central to NCA’s mission, the surprising reality that only 18% of eligible veterans choose national cemeteries, and how the VA is working to increase awareness of burial benefits. He also reveals a major modernization effort with Arlington National Cemetery to replace decades-old systems with a shared platform designed to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and better serve veterans and their families for generations to come.

Former DISA Director Lt. Gen. Bob Skinner joins Fed Gov Today to explain why digital forensics is no longer just a post-breach investigative tool—it’s now the frontline of cyber defense. Skinner breaks down how AI-powered platforms like Mythos are changing the cybersecurity landscape, why the line between criminals and nation-state adversaries is disappearing, and what agencies must do to stay ahead of increasingly complex threats. He also shares why the federal government needs more “operational technologists” who understand both mission and technology, and why critical thinking—not just technical skill—will define the next generation of cyber talent

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

The General Services Administration is launching a major restructuring of the Federal Acquisition Service, consolidating acquisition programs into five new portfolios designed to modernize procurement and improve efficiency across government. Former FAS Deputy Commissioner Tom Howder joins Fed Gov Today to explain why GSA is moving from an industry-based model to a product-based approach, what it means for Multiple Award Schedules, GWACs, and assisted acquisition services, and how artificial intelligence and automation fit into the agency’s future. Howder also discusses the uncertain future of TTS, why communication is critical during large reorganizations, and how agencies and vendors could be impacted.

Jim Kaplan, Director of External Affairs at the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, explains how the Thrift Savings Plan is modernizing the rollover experience for federal employees and service members. Kaplan discusses the TSP’s concierge service, which helps participants transfer retirement savings from private-sector accounts into the TSP with personalized support throughout the process. He also shares how the agency is improving participant experience through technology upgrades, strengthening cybersecurity protections, encouraging secure direct deposit setup, and helping younger federal employees take advantage of Roth retirement options. The conversation highlights the TSP’s focus on security, customer service, and making retirement planning simpler and more accessible for participants at every stage of their careers.

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

DC3 CIO Eric Oliver says the Pentagon Cyber Crime Center is in a race to modernize before AI-driven threats outpace traditional defenses. In this episode of Fed Gov Today, Oliver explains how DC3 is transforming aging infrastructure, moving sensitive operations to the cloud, and implementing zero trust security while supporting cyber investigations, counterintelligence, and the defense industrial base. He also discusses how emerging AI tools could dramatically accelerate vulnerability discovery and why autonomous AI systems will create entirely new investigative challenges. Oliver warns DC3 must stay ahead of evolving threats because the organization itself is a prime target for foreign intelligence services.

Project Maven’s evolution into a full program of record marks a turning point for AI in defense. Former JAIC Director Jack Shanahan and former NGA Director Trey Whitworth break down how Maven Smart System is shifting from an experimental capability to a globally deployed decision-support engine. With stable funding, expanding integration, and potential ties to Joint All-Domain Command and Control, Maven is redefining how commanders reduce complexity and act faster. The conversation explores human-machine collaboration, the rise of AI-driven reasoning, and the future of military decision-making—where agility, accountability, and smarter insights could reshape operations across the battlefieldSubscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

Former CIA case officer Tom Mulligan breaks down why artificial intelligence isn’t replacing human intelligence—but transforming it. From AI “co-workers” assisting analysts to the growing threat of AI-generated deception, Mulligan outlines five critical lessons for the intelligence community. He explains how AI is supercharging surveillance, reshaping tradecraft, and enhancing persuasion, while also making human judgment more valuable than ever. Despite rapid technological advances, Mulligan argues HUMINT remains essential—and may become even more important as AI spreads globally. The future of intelligence isn’t man vs. machine—it’s how humans and AI work together to outthink adversaries.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

SAP executive advisors Tahera Zamanzada and Brian Laird explore how federal agencies are shifting from legacy, siloed systems to AI-enabled, standards-based architectures. They discuss reducing technical debt, improving interoperability, and leveraging shared services to scale best practices across government. Rather than “big bang” overhauls, they emphasize incremental pilots, high-value use cases, and progress over perfection—especially when integrating AI with imperfect data. The conversation also highlights cultural challenges, workforce readiness, and the growing demand for modern tools. Ultimately, success lies in aligning technology with mission outcomes, fostering collaboration, and building adaptable, data-driven foundations for the future.

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com

Bill Greenwalt argues the Pentagon’s biggest obstacle isn’t technology—it’s budget rigidity. While civilian agencies enjoy flexible funding, DoD remains stuck in a decades-old PPBE system that limits speed and innovation. Greenwalt explains how Congress must decide whether to modernize or scrap the system entirely, and why new acquisition models like portfolio-based investing can’t succeed without financial agility. The conversation highlights how outdated rules hinder competition with global adversaries and explores real-world examples of flexibility across government. Ultimately, meaningful reform depends on congressional will—and a shift in how defense funding is managed.

The federal government has spent over a decade trying to reduce its massive, underused real estate footprint—but progress has been slow and costly. In this episode, GAO’s Dave Marroni breaks down why disposing of excess federal property remains such a persistent challenge, from funding hurdles to data gaps and lengthy timelines. He explains how new legislation and GSA’s more proactive approach—including private-sector brokers—could accelerate change and save billions in maintenance costs. The key? Better data, clearer performance goals, and smarter strategy. This conversation reveals why managing federal property isn’t just about buildings—it’s about accountability, efficiency, and mission success.

This episode of Fed Gov Today explores a major OMB memo reshaping how federal CIOs manage IT contracts and spending. Former USDA CIO Gary Washington explains how the guidance reinforces CIO authority, improves transparency, and pushes agencies toward enterprise thinking. The policy requires detailed reporting of contracts, pricing, and approvals, aiming to eliminate silos and standardize procurement data. While challenges remain around compliance and enforcement, the memo signals stronger oversight, better pricing leverage, and a cultural shift toward treating IT as a strategic mission driver across government agencies today. Ultimately it highlights the ongoing evolution of federal technology leadership priorities.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

The Space Force is scaling faster than ever, and Vandenberg Space Force Base is at the center of it all. Colonel James Horne explains how a surge to 70+ launches annually is driven by commercial partnerships, reduced launch costs, and a “second space race” mindset. He breaks down the shift to service-based acquisition, the rise of dual-use innovation, and how automation and AI are transforming operations. From infrastructure overhauls to workforce expansion, the Spaceport of the Future vision is redefining national security space strategy and accelerating America’s ability to compete—and win—in orbit.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Thrift Savings Plan is hitting record-breaking milestones, from soaring participation rates to lightning-fast 11-second call response times. Jim Kaplan explains how default enrollment, financial literacy, and a relentless focus on customer service are reshaping retirement outcomes for federal employees and service members. The conversation dives into how managed services transformed support operations, why cybersecurity remains a top priority, and how AI is quietly boosting efficiency behind the scenes. With participation in the Blended Retirement System surpassing expectations, TSP’s success highlights a broader cultural shift toward proactive financial planning and continuous improvement across government programs.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

Outgoing DHS CISO Hemant Baidwan reflects on the evolving cybersecurity landscape and the urgent shift from compliance-driven security to real-time risk reduction. He highlights how AI is transforming both defense and adversary tactics, making continuous monitoring and automation essential. Baidwan introduces the concept of a Risk Operations Center (ROC), emphasizing visibility, attack path analysis, and actionable intelligence to “burn down” cyber risk to acceptable levels. He also discusses the future of self-healing infrastructure and the cultural changes required across government. The conversation underscores a pivotal moment for federal cybersecurity strategy and innovation.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

In this episode of Fed Gov Today, former Federal Acquisition Service Commissioner Alan Thomas breaks down sweeping proposed changes to GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule, including expanded transactional data reporting and a controversial new AI clause. Thomas explains how broader TDR requirements could add complexity for vendors—especially for services and configurable products—while raising questions about how the government will use the data. He also warns the AI provision, now delayed for further review, could unintentionally stifle innovation and deter new entrants. With industry feedback mounting, the discussion highlights the delicate balance between oversight, modernization, and maintaining a competitive, innovation-friendly federal marketplace.

This episode of Fed Gov Today features Francis Rose in conversation with federal data expert Kshemendra Paul on why data—not AI—is the real foundation of innovation. They explore how poor data governance fuels AI risks like bias and hallucinations, and how agencies can unlock high-fidelity AI by improving data quality, sharing, and standards. From the President’s Management Agenda to real-world interoperability challenges, Paul explains why shifting from agency silos to ecosystem-driven governance is critical. The discussion highlights how aligning CIOs, CDOs, and data strategies can drive smarter, more efficient government services in the AI era.

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

The State Department’s massive $10 billion Evolve contract is finally live—marking a milestone in federal acquisition. Former Senior Procurement Executive Mike Derrios breaks down the strategy behind bringing contract management in-house, the challenges of handling over 100 proposals, and why perseverance was key to success. He explores whether Evolve could be the last of its kind amid growing pressure for contract consolidation and GSA-led solutions. Plus, insights on the sweeping FAR overhaul and the cultural shift agencies must embrace to truly modernize procurement. This episode unpacks what it takes to transform government contracting at scale—and what comes next.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

The Department of Veterans Affairs is expanding the use of generative AI tools across the Veterans Health Administration, including an ambient AI scribe that automatically documents conversations between doctors and patients. While the technology aims to improve efficiency and reduce administrative burden for clinicians, the VA’s Office of Inspector General is raising an early warning. Inspector General Cheryl Mason explains that the primary concern isn’t the technology itself—but the lack of standardized safeguards and reporting processes to track potential AI errors, including “hallucinations.” Mason joins Fed Gov Today to discuss oversight of emerging AI tools in healthcare, how VA is responding to the alert, and what steps could strengthen patient safety moving forward.

Trust—not technology—may be the biggest barrier to deploying advanced AI on the battlefield. In this episode of Fed Gov Today with Francis Rose, Marine Corps Warfighting Lab Science and Technology Director Colonel Kenneth Jones explains how the military is evolving unmanned systems from simple drones into complex networks of sensors, shooters, and autonomous platforms. Jones outlines how Marines aim to control multiple systems from a single interface while reducing cognitive load through AI-driven orchestration. But true adoption depends on experience. Just like early aviation, Jones says thousands of operational hours are needed before operators fully trust autonomous systems to identify targets, deliver logistics, and support combat missions.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

The Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Darryl Caudle, is rolling out new fighting instructions designed to reshape how the Navy prepares for combat and delivers naval power around the world. On this episode of Fed Gov Today, Admiral Caudle joins Francis Rose to explain the thinking behind the guidance and why he believes it represents a fundamental paradigm shift for the fleet. Rather than relying on an “all-or-nothing” approach to combat certification, Caudle wants the Navy to tailor naval forces to specific operational problems and deliver the right capability at the right time. He describes how his team developed the instructions, the role of single accountable officials in implementing them, and how the Navy will measure progress through existing leadership battle rhythm meetings. Caudle also discusses the cultural challenge of shifting centuries-old practices and why empowering leaders across the fleet will be critical to making the vision a reality. Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

On this episode of Fed Gov Today, Francis Rose speaks with Samdesk Founder and CEO James Neufeld about how the Air Force and other agencies are adapting to a rapidly evolving information landscape. Neufeld explains why modernization and readiness are now inseparable, highlighting the need for a “resilience stack” built around frameworks like OODA and Samdesk’s ADAR model—anticipate, detect, analyze, and resolve. The conversation also explores how artificial intelligence is becoming core infrastructure and why agencies must break complex problems into targeted AI applications to improve decision-making speed and mission success.

This episode of Fed Gov Today dives into a provocative question shaking the intelligence community: Are battlefield secrets a thing of the past? Former NGA Director Vice Admiral Trey Whitworth (US Navy, Ret.) joins Francis Rose to unpack the rise of open-source intelligence (OSINT), the balance between speed and accuracy, and why corroboration remains the “coin of the realm.” Whitworth challenges the idea that traditional analysts resist OSINT, emphasizing instead that leaders want “everything”—but validated and decision-ready. From social media’s role in military operations to the evolving definition of open source, the conversation explores how AI is transforming validation, accelerating analysis, and reshaping national security tradecraft.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

On this edition of Fed Gov Today, CX expert Martha Dorris explains how the Government Service Delivery Improvement Act is redefining accountability and governance across federal agencies.The VA offers a powerful model—combining operational and experience data, challenging “myth vs. law” requirements, and embedding human-centered design into care delivery. From wayfinding volunteers in medical centers to innovative transportation partnerships, VA shows how low-tech and high-tech solutions can work together.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Thrift Savings Plan has launched Roth in-plan conversions, allowing participants to move traditional TSP funds into a Roth account and pay taxes now for tax-free withdrawals later. TSP’s Jim Kaplan explains the tax implications, new planning calculators, and why consulting a tax advisor is critical. The change follows participant feedback and was built through extensive upgrades to the Converge system. Kaplan also discusses increased digital tools, reduced call volumes, shutdown-driven account activity spikes, rising Blended Retirement System participation, and TSP’s ultra-low 3.4 basis point expense ratio—helping millions of feds retire with dignity.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

In part two of Francis Rose’s conversation with former Federal CIOs Tony Scott and Suzette Kent, the focus turns to what’s next for the Technology Modernization Fund. With $5 million in new authorization and roughly $200 million still available to award, the TMF is positioned for a critical new phase. The latest $28 million award to the National Nuclear Security Administration highlights a major shift: artificial intelligence and cybersecurity are now central to modernization efforts.Scott argues AI is transforming both offensive and defensive cyber operations, making continued modernization essential. Kent notes that “new and emerging technologies” are written into the TMF’s mandate, and agencies’ newly released AI inventories could drive strong future proposals.The two also discuss whether the fund is large enough to meet government-wide needs and how disciplined business cases, repayment models, and leadership buy-in have fueled the TMF’s unusually high success rate.

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

In this sponsored episode of Fed Gov Today, Francis Rose sits down with Joe Ditchett, industry executive advisor at SAP, to unpack two forces reshaping federal technology strategy: a contested future and data gravity. Ditchett explains why IT infrastructure is now a prime target in global competition—and how security, resiliency, and distributed operations must be built in from the start, not bolted on later. The conversation dives into edge computing, data sharing, and why trust grows stronger the closer agencies get to their transactional data sources. Ditchett also challenges agencies to move faster by embracing cloud-native systems, rethinking acquisition, and shifting from “fail fast” to “learn fast.” The bottom line: innovation isn’t a side project anymore—it’s the daily work of mission delivery in an increasingly contested worldSubscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

On this edition of Fed Gov Today with Francis Rose, sponsored by Maximus, former Federal CIOs Suzette Kent and Tony Scott dig into that very question as Congress moves to revive the TMF with new funding under the latest budget agreement. With more than $1 billion invested across 70 projects at 34 agencies, the TMF has quietly become one of the federal government’s most durable and bipartisan technology tools. Kent and Scott explain why the fund has survived multiple administrations, how its original vision has evolved, and why it remains critical for agencies that struggle to modernize through traditional budgets. They also unpack the skepticism that comes with spending taxpayer dollars, from repayment expectations to concerns about tradeoffs in federal priorities. Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

Fighting fraud in government starts with leadership, not just controls. On this episode of Fed Gov Today, Francis Rose speaks with GAO’s Rebecca Shea about why culture, accountability, and tone at the top are essential to reducing fraud across federal agencies. Shea explains GAO’s Fraud Risk Management Framework, breaking down its four required components: commit, assess, design and implement, and evaluate and adapt. The conversation explores how agencies measure success, manage fraud risk at both enterprise and program levels, and continuously improve their efforts. The message is clear: effective fraud prevention depends on strong leadership, clear ownership, and a culture that prioritizes integrity.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.

Big changes are coming to how the Pentagon buys, builds, and deploys software. On this episode of Fed Gov Today with Francis Rose, Pentagon Chief Software Officer Rob Vietmeyer explains why paper-based risk assessments and slow approval cycles no longer work in an era of software-defined warfare. Drawing on real-world exercises with Five Eyes and NATO partners, Vietmeyer describes how zero trust, software-defined networking, and CI/CD pipelines enable rapid, secure collaboration across dynamic missions. He also discusses cultural change, automated cyber risk management, acquisition reform, and why speed, resilience, and trust in software pipelines are now mission-critical.Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

This episode of Fed Gov Today with Francis Rose takes you inside GSA’s sweeping push to modernize acquisition and accelerate responsible AI adoption. From the FAR overhaul to new buying guides and culture change for contracting officers, Deputy FAS Commissioner Laura Stanton explains what agencies will need to succeed. CIO David Shive and Chief AI Officer Zach Whitman reveal how GSAi—and its shareable counterpart, USAi—go beyond a chatbot to capture deep observability and telemetry, helping agencies understand real usage, compare model performance, and negotiate from data instead of hype. You’ll also hear how GSA is pairing shared services with OneGov deals to expand options for agencies testing frontier AI at unprecedented prices. Subscribe and listen to the Fed Gov Today Podcast anytime on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at FedGovToday.com

The Fed Gov Today TV Show airs on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. E.T. on ABC 7. You can also watch on Demand on Youtube. Listen to Fed Gov Today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anytime at FedGovToday.com.