Ep 367: How to Interview a GovCon BD Rep (Without Getting Fooled)

In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune dives into a powerful guide for interviewing business development (BD) reps in the GovCon space. Michael shares how to spot red flags, detect lies, and ask strategic questions that reveal whether a candidate can execute—not just interview well. You’ll learn how to test coachability, uncover true experience, evaluate how they handle rejection, and assess their ability to research and strategize. This episode is packed with tactical advice that will help you hire smarter, avoid costly mistakes, and find the right BD talent to drive contract wins. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or making your first BD hire, this is a must-listen.

Featured Guest: Michael LeJeune Company: Partner, RSM Federal
Email: mlejeune@rsmfederal.com Phone: (636)-577-5005
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Ep 366: Why Agile Proposals Are 30% Faster (and How to Switch from Waterfall)

In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune welcomes Tony Gray to unpack the major differences between traditional waterfall and agile proposal development. Tony shares how agile proposals—led by skilled writers with deep customer and technical insight—deliver faster, more cohesive, and higher-quality responses. You’ll learn how agile methods cut development time by 30%, reduce burnout, improve SME collaboration, and integrate seamlessly with AI tools. Tony also explains how to overcome resistance to change and how agile helps leaders better allocate B&P resources using gap-based tracking. Whether you’re a small business owner, BD pro, or proposal manager, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you scale smarter and win more contracts.
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Featured Guest: Tony Gray Company: Volunteer, GBDA
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Ep 365: How Winners Think: A Mindset Blueprint for GovCon Contractors

In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune shares the critical mindset shifts needed to succeed in government contracting. From filtering out distractions like political noise and LinkedIn negativity to focusing on what you can control—like building relationships, refining your pipeline, and improving your skills—this episode delivers a roadmap for mental resilience and business growth. Michael outlines daily, weekly, and monthly habits for success, emphasizing the importance of long-term thinking, adaptability, and consistent action. Whether you’re new to GovCon or looking to level up, this episode will help you reframe your focus and build a strategy for winning more contracts.

Featured Guest: Michael LeJeune Company: Partner, RSM Federal
Email: mlejeune@rsmfederal.com Phone: (636)-577-5005
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Ep 364: How to Attract and Retain Top Talent in the Cleared Community

In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune welcomes Kathleen Smith from ClearedJobs.Net to discuss the biggest recruiting challenges in the government contracting space. Kathleen shares insights from her new Cleared Recruiting Challenges newsletter and podcast, highlighting top hiring challenges such as SCIF stress, salary competitiveness, and candidate engagement. They also explore solutions, including improving employer branding, offering workplace flexibility, and building stronger candidate relationships. If you’re struggling to find and retain top talent in the cleared community, this episode provides practical strategies to help you stand out in a competitive hiring market.
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Featured Guest: Kathleen Smith Company: ClearedJobs.net
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Ep 363: GovCon Negotiation: Pricing, Value, and Relationship Building

In this episode of Game Changers for Government Contractors, host Michael LeJeune breaks down the art of negotiation in government contracting. Learn how to research agency priorities, build relationships before negotiations, and justify your pricing with data. Michael shares insights on how to articulate value beyond price, navigate contract terms, and balance when to push or concede. Whether you’re negotiating a sole-source contract or in a competitive bid, these strategies will help you secure better deals while strengthening long-term relationships. If you want to improve your negotiation skills and win more contracts, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you succeed in the GovCon space.

Featured Guest: Michael LeJeune Company: Partner, RSM Federal
Email: mlejeune@rsmfederal.com Phone: (636)-577-5005
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