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The latest CMS forecast is out, and while the total number of opportunities remains steady, the story is in the details. On this episode, JR, Ali, and returning guest Robert Suggs of Dynanet Corporation discuss the shifting CMS procurement landscape, from forecast changes and market research efforts to evolving acquisition strategies and major modernization initiatives.
The conversation explores what recent forecast updates signal about CMS priorities, the growing role of GSA vehicles, and why small businesses should pay close attention to market research opportunities. The team also breaks down new phased procurement approaches, proof-of-concept evaluations, and what recent protest decisions may reveal about how CMS is selecting vendors.
They also dive into the newly created Office of Health Technology and Products (OHTP), discuss the agency’s push toward modernization and in-house expertise, and unpack one of the biggest stories in the CMS ecosystem: Claims Core Modernization. From organizational changes to major contract awards, this episode offers valuable insight into where CMS is headed and what industry should be watching next.
👉 Connect with the Guests:JR Glass – LinkedIn | GovCon Growth SolutionsAli Steer – LinkedIn | Steer Operational SolutionsRobert Suggs – LinkedIn | Dynanet -
What does the future of healthcare program integrity look like when fraud is stopped before the money ever leaves the door?
On this episode of The JR & Ali Show, CMS Deputy Administrator and COO Kim Brandt shares how the agency is transforming its approach to fraud, waste, and abuse through AI, machine learning, real-time analytics, and unprecedented collaboration across government and industry. Kim discusses CMS’s shift from a traditional “pay and chase” model to a proactive “stop and catch” strategy, the creation of Medicare and Medicaid fraud war rooms, and how technology is helping identify suspicious billing patterns before billions of taxpayer dollars are lost.
The conversation also explores the role of interoperability, data sharing, and industry partnerships in building a more connected healthcare ecosystem. Kim offers insight into how CMS balances aggressive oversight with minimizing burdens on legitimate providers, why beneficiary protection remains at the center of every decision, and what the next three to five years could look like as AI becomes embedded across the healthcare landscape.
If you want an inside look at how CMS is modernizing program integrity while protecting beneficiaries, providers, and taxpayer dollars, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
👉 Connect with the Guests:JR Glass – LinkedIn | GovCon Growth SolutionsAli Steer – LinkedIn | Steer Operational SolutionsKim Brandt – LinkedIn -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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On this episode of The JR & Ali show, JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, are joined by Hytham Said, Vice President at Scope Infotech. The discussion explores why opportunities are moving, disappearing, or changing contract vehicles and how smart business development teams are adapting in real time.
From staffing shortages and OMAS transitions to evolving acquisition strategies and increased use of vehicles like Alliant, MAS, and SPARC, the conversation offers a candid look at how agencies are trying to create “easy button” procurement paths while contractors work to stay positioned. The episode also tackles the uncertainty surrounding the SBA 8(a) program, aggressive audits, and how small businesses can pivot through strategic partnerships and teaming relationships.
The group shares practical advice on shaping opportunities before the RFP hits, leveraging market research, preparing for end-of-year “sweeps,” and finding growth opportunities through innovation and AI initiatives.
👉 Connect with the Guests:JR Glass – LinkedIn | GovCon Growth SolutionsAli Steer – LinkedIn | Steer Operational SolutionsHytham Said – LinkedIn | Scope Infotech -
JR & Ali welcome Doug Bergevin to break down one of the biggest shifts happening across HHS and CMS acquisition, what the move to OMAS really means for industry. From organizational changes to the realigning of work, this conversation goes beyond the headlines to unpack what contractors should actually expect in the months ahead.
Part of the conversation is SPARC, why it’s been identified for transition, what that signals for enterprise-wide buying, and how contractors should be thinking about positioning the vehicle across HHS. Doug shares insight into whether SPARC will be extended or re-competed, how it fits into broader category management goals, and why it continues to be a critical tool despite the shift toward best-in-class vehicles.
The discussion also covers practical guidance for navigating the transition: how to engage during uncertainty, who to reach out to, and what to expect with timing, source selections, and new contracting officer assignments. Plus, an inside look at how forecasts may evolve, how technical evaluations will still be driven by CMS, and why flexibility is becoming central to acquisition strategy.
If you’re trying to understand how OMAS, SPARC, and enterprise buying strategies intersect and what it means for your pipeline, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
👉 Connect with the Guests:JR Glass – LinkedIn | GovCon Growth SolutionsAli Steer – LinkedIn | Steer Operational SolutionsDoug Bergevin – LinkedIn -
On this episode, JR and Ali are joined by Phil Surine, President at Medkasa, who returns to unpack the latest CMS budget and forecast and what it all actually means for contractors trying to navigate a rapidly shifting landscape. With FY27 priorities coming into focus, Phil breaks down how past initiatives are resurfacing, where new investments are being made, and why not every big announcement translates into contract opportunities.
From AI and modernization to program integrity and public-private partnerships, this episode explores how CMS is approaching an all-of-the-above strategy and what that means for growth teams trying to align their pipelines. The discussion also dives into key forecast changes, including new opportunities, evolving contract vehicles, and the increasing complexity around major initiatives like the National Provider Directory and Claims Core.
Beyond the headlines, Phil offers practical insight into how to interpret these signals, where to look for real traction, and how to position for both near-term wins and long-term plays. If you’re trying to connect the dots between budget priorities, acquisition strategy, and actual opportunity, this conversation delivers the clarity you need to stay competitive.
👉 Connect with the Guests:JR Glass – LinkedIn | GovCon Growth SolutionsAli Steer – LinkedIn | Steer Operational SolutionsPhil Surine – LinkedIn | Medkasa -
On this episode of The JR & Ali Show, hosts JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, are joined by returning guest Robert Hicks, Principal at TransformIT Professional Services. The trio dives into a rapidly evolving CMS landscape, where one message is coming through loud and clear: CMS is open for business—and actively engaging with industry in new ways.
Fresh off major events like HIMSS and the Quality Conference, the conversation highlights an unprecedented level of accessibility from CMS leadership, with senior officials openly sharing priorities around digital transformation, AI-driven analytics, and fraud prevention. They explore what this shift means for contractors, emphasizing the importance of showing up, engaging early, and thinking beyond traditional approaches.
From the launch of the CRUSH initiative to combat fraud, waste, and abuse, to broader discussions around enterprise modernization and the future of claims processing, this episode unpacks both the opportunities and the complexities ahead. For industry players, the takeaway is clear: this is a pivotal moment to lean in, bring innovative ideas, and help shape the next phase of CMS transformation.
👉 Connect with the Guests:JR Glass – LinkedIn | GovCon Growth SolutionsAli Steer – LinkedIn | Steer Operational SolutionsRobert Hicks – LinkedIn | TransformIT -
On this episode of the JR & Ali Show, hosts JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, chat with guest Jason Cullum, a Vice President with Element Solutions and a seasoned Health IT veteran with more than 20 years of experience, including over 15 years working directly with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
Jason shares insight into a clear trend: CMS is moving toward a show, don’t tell model. Instead of lengthy written proposals, vendors are increasingly being asked to bring working demos, commercial products in production, and real capabilities to the table, sometimes as early as phase one. This shift, influenced by digital service methodologies and modernization efforts, is changing how companies must prepare and compete.
The conversation explores what this means for small businesses—whether it levels the playing field or raises the bar—and how firms should think strategically about partnerships, specialization, and where to invest limited resources.
To connect with Jason, follow him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Element here.
If you'd like to reach out to JR, connect with him on LinkedIn. | Learn More About GovCon Growth Solutions here.
If you'd like to reach out to Ali, connect with her on LinkedIn. | Learn More About Steer Operational Solutions here.
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The January edition of the JR and Ali Show brings together a powerhouse trio to break down some of the biggest moves unfolding across Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services right now. JR and Ali, who consistently bring sharp perspective and know how to pull in the right voices, are joined by Phil Surine, President of Federal Health Services at Medkasa, for a timely and insight packed conversation you will be glad you did not miss. Phil Surine is one of the most trusted voices in the federal health community. As a former Deputy Director for the Information Services Modernization Group at CMS and now a senior industry leader, he brings rare inside and outside perspective on how policy, funding signals, and early RFIs are shaping what comes next. Medkasa, a HUBZone small business, is known for turning complex legislation into systems that actually work, backed by a team of former federal staff, clinicians, program managers, and technologists with decades of Medicare and Medicaid experience. Together, JR, Ali, and Phil cut through the noise to unpack what is really happening, where momentum is building, and what smart organizations should be paying attention to right now. If you are trying to get ahead of a fast moving and highly dynamic CMS landscape, this episode delivers the clarity, context, and foresight you are looking for. Definitely one you want in your queue. 👉 Connect with the Guests:JR Glass – LinkedIn | GovCon Growth SolutionsAli Steer – LinkedIn | Steer Operational SolutionsPhil Surine – LinkedIn | Medkasa
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JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, are joined by Tim Clark of LMI, a long-standing leader in CMS digital modernization.
The three analyze key shifts in the December CMS forecast, highlighting trends such as continued consolidation of contracts, the impact of government slowdowns, and the rise of limited-invite procurements. They break down major opportunities, including Security Innovation and Operations (SIO), PPI MEDIC, the Risk Adjustment Suite (RAS), and the evolving Data Resource Center initiative. The conversation explores how incumbency, conflict-of-interest constraints, and CMS procurement strategies influence the competitive landscape.
A major theme throughout: CMS is reconfiguring programs with an emphasis on modernization, operational security, interoperability, and data-driven decision-making. This discussion provides BD, strategy, and program leaders with actionable insight into how CMS is signaling priorities, how vendors should position their capabilities, and what trends to watch as CMS moves deeper into modernization and consolidated acquisition strategies.
👉 Connect with the Guests:JR Glass – LinkedIn | GovCon Growth SolutionsAli Steer – LinkedIn | Steer Operational SolutionsTim Clark – LinkedIn | LMI -
The CMS shutdown is behind us. The forecast is out. The pace is picking up fast across OIT and the broader CMS ecosystem. This episode of the JR and Ali Show brings you the kind of insider clarity everyone needs as we head into the final stretch before Thanksgiving. JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, are joined by a guest the CMS community relies on when they want the real story. Hytham Said, Vice President at Scope Infotech, brings years of experience helping translate complex policy and legislation into software that actually works. Scope Infotech is a CMMI Maturity Level 3 and ISO certified Small Disadvantaged Business with a long record delivering for HHS and CMS. Hytham is trusted, connected, and known for cutting through the noise. Together they break down what the reopening means, where the real movement is happening inside CMS, what leaders should be watching within OIT, and how to position for the surge of activity heading into the holidays. It is a timely, no fluff conversation that gives you the insight you need to stay ahead. 👉 Connect with the Guests:JR Glass – LinkedIn | GovCon Growth SolutionsAli Steer – LinkedIn | Steer Operational SolutionsHytham Said – LinkedIn | Scope Infotech
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On this episode of The JR & Ali Show, hosts JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, are joined by Robert Hicks, Principal at TransformIT Professional Services. With more than 25 years driving growth for some of the top names in Federal Health, Robert brings deep perspective on what it takes to lead through uncertainty. One week into the government shutdown and still no forecast in sight, the discussion turns to what really matters now. Together, they unpack the status of key opportunities still in flight, trends emerging as agencies rebundle and reprioritize, and the practical steps contractors can take to stay in the game. It is a timely, informed, and grounded conversation about leadership, preparation, and positioning for the moment when the doors reopen and momentum returns. 👉 Connect with the Guests:JR Glass – LinkedIn | GovCon Growth SolutionsAli Steer – LinkedIn | Steer Operational SolutionsRobert Hicks – LinkedIn | TransformIT
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On this episode of the JR & Ali Show, hosts JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, chat with guest Jason Cullum. They dive into the newly released September CMS forecast, unpacking the shifts, surprises, and opportunities hiding in the details.
From the removal of tier two projects to emerging consolidation trends across service desks, the conversation explores how contractors can prepare and position themselves for what’s next. You’ll also hear insights on CMS’s push toward efficiency with contract consolidation, updates on the health technology ecosystem, and what the administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” priorities mean for upcoming models.
If you'd like to reach out to JR, connect with him on LinkedIn. | Learn More About GovCon Growth Solutions here.
If you'd like to reach out to Ali, connect with her on LinkedIn. | Learn More About Steer Operational Solutions here.
To connect with Jason, follow her on LinkedIn here.Learn more about Element here.
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On this episode of the JR & Ali Show, hosts JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, are joined by someone who needs no introduction in the HHS and CMS space: Anita Allen. A respected former HHS small business specialist and relentless advocate for industry, Anita has spent years helping companies navigate the complex, fast-moving waters of the Federal health market. Together, we dig into the latest CMS forecast, dissect some of the most recent high-impact wins, and break down key executive moves that could shift the competitive landscape. Anita also shares candid, insider perspective on how deals take shape, get delayed, or flip entirely behind the scenes — offering valuable lessons for anyone competing in this space. And in some exciting news, we reveal that Anita is officially joining forces with JR, Ali, and GovCon Growth Solutions in a new role aimed at deepening their commitment to industry growth, capture excellence, and mission-driven teaming. If you want to understand the strategies, players, and pivots that define success at CMS, this is an episode you will not want to miss.
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In this episode of The JR & Ali Show, we’re joined once again by Lee Ann Crochunis, Deputy Director of the Office of Information Technology at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. With a career that spans both government and industry, Lee Ann brings valuable perspective on the current priorities at CMS and the evolving role of IT in supporting agency-wide goals.
From navigating mission demands to managing a $1 billion IT portfolio, Lee Ann shares thoughts on what effective collaboration between agencies and vendors really looks like — including the importance of communication, practical solutioning, and mutual understanding.
Hosted by JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, this conversation highlights the importance of agility, relationship-building, and mission alignment in today’s federal health environment.
To connect with Lee Ann, follow him on LinkedIn here.
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In this episode of The JR & Ali Show special guest Mike Sacca, a senior thought leader in federal healthcare contracting with over 40 years of experience, joins the conversation. Together, they dive deep into the evolving landscape of fraud prevention at CMS, the future of Medicare Advantage oversight, and how industry and government can better collaborate to prevent abuse before it happens.
Mike shares candid thoughts on CMS’s Fraud Detection Operation Center (FDOC) and the much-talked-about “crushing fraud” initiative, while offering sharp critique on missed opportunities and the $66B+ black hole in Medicare Advantage funding. The conversation also unpacks CMS’s budget reductions, the future of the MIDS and RMADA IDIQs, and the balancing act between provider burden, real-time fraud detection, and the need for innovation.
For small and mid-tier companies wondering where to lean in, Mike offers straight talk on how to position strategically in a tightening market — from cost competitiveness to teaming for future IDIQ opportunities.
Hosted by JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, this conversation highlights the importance of agility, relationship-building, and mission alignment in today’s federal health environment.
If you'd like to reach out to JR, connect with him on LinkedIn. | Learn More About GovCon Growth Solutions here.If you'd like to reach out to Ali, connect with her on LinkedIn. | Learn More About Steer Operational Solutions here.
If you'd like to reach out to Mike, connect with him on LinkedIn. |
If you liked listening to this episode, click here to view more in this series. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page.
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In this midsummer edition of The JR and Ali Show, listen in to unpack what’s happening behind the scenes at CMS. From a major churn in the July forecast, where 20% of opportunities changed month over month, to the deeper implications of sole-source awards, follow-on extensions, and TBD acquisition paths, they dive into how CMS is trying to keep moving despite resource constraints and workforce reductions.
The conversation explores the ripple effects these shifts are having on the business development community, especially as agencies face hiring freezes, RIFs, and a backlog of procurements. With many contracts delayed or awarded non-competitively, established firms are refining their strategies and using this time to position for the long game, while newer players struggle to gain traction.
Hosted by JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, this episode is packed with valuable insights on navigating uncertainty, building momentum, and preparing to keep ahead of the market.
If you'd like to reach out to JR, connect with him on LinkedIn. | Learn More About GovCon Growth Solutions here.If you'd like to reach out to Ali, connect with her on LinkedIn. | Learn More About Steer Operational Solutions here.
If you liked listening to this episode, click here to view more in this series. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page.
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In this episode of The JR and Ali Show, Robert Suggs joins the conversation to share his insights on the evolving Federal Health landscape. A former CMS Contracting Officer Representative and Program leader, Robert now serves as a Federal Health leader at rapidly emerging Federal Health player Dynanet Corporation, bringing a unique perspective shaped by experience on both the government and industry sides.
Robert discusses key procurement trends, shifts in CMS operations, and DynaNet’s role as a prime on the ACME BPA. He provides his take on the latest CMS forecast (the first published list in many months), explores the changing dynamics impacting competition, and offers guidance for companies preparing for the upcoming CMS Quality Conference.
Hosted by JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, this conversation highlights the importance of agility, relationship-building, and mission alignment in today’s federal health environment.
If you'd like to reach out to JR, connect with him on LinkedIn. | Learn More About GovCon Growth Solutions here.If you'd like to reach out to Ali, connect with her on LinkedIn. | Learn More About Steer Operational Solutions here.
If you'd like to reach out to Robert, connect with him on LinkedIn. | Learn more about Dynanet Corporation here.
If you liked listening to this episode, click here to view more in this series. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page.
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In this episode of The JR and Ali Show, JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions, chats with guest Jason Cullum, Vice President with Element. They offer a candid, forward-looking view into how CMS is approaching procurement, innovation, and industry collaboration.
Their message is clear: CMS is listening. They’re prioritizing outcomes, updating forecasts, and creating space for meaningful dialogue, including invite-only industry days that are becoming more targeted and mission-focused.
AI and automation are in the mix, but CMS isn’t chasing buzzwords. As JR emphasizes, tools are only as good as their alignment to the mission. Jason echoes the need for solutions that are not only technically sound but grounded in CMS’s unique policy and operational environment. The companies making headway are those who understand nuance and show up prepared to collaborate, not just sell.
Despite challenges in the procurement process, including more manual reviews and compliance demands, JR and Jason point to real progress. CMS is capturing billions in savings and exploring smarter ways to buy. They also hint at broader shifts within HHS, like the potential to consolidate procurement authority in strategic areas such as the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN).
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In this episode of The JR and Ali Show, JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions welcome special guest, former CMS leader Jeffrey Grant shares his personal journey from his retirement from government to launching Schedule F Healthcare Strategies, an organization dedicated to supporting recently laid-off federal employees. With over 30 years in public service, Jeffrey brings deep insight into the recent wave of government layoffs. He dives into the legal and ethical complexities surrounding the dismissal of over 2,000 probationary employees and the systemic challenges facing federal workforce transitions. The conversation also explores Jeff’s philosophy of servant leadership and how he continues to advocate for his colleagues even after leaving government service.
If you'd like to reach out to JR, connect with him on LinkedIn. | Learn More About GovCon Growth Solutions here.If you'd like to reach out to Ali, connect with her on LinkedIn. | Learn More About Steer Operational Solutions here.
If you'd like to contact Jeffrey, connect with him on LinkedIn. | Learn more about Schedule F Healthcare Strategies here.
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In this timely episode of The JR and Ali Show, JR Glass, President of GovCon Growth Solutions and Ali Steer, President of Steer Operational Solutions, welcome special guest Brian Hebbel, President, BARC BusinessAdvisors. With over 34 years of experience inside government contracting and a new perspective from the industry side, Brian dives into the real-time impact of recent Reduction-in-Force (RIF) actions across CMS, NIH, and other HHS agencies. From shocking layoffs and budget cuts up to 35%, to disrupted communication channels, org charts wiped clean, and contractors left in the dark, this episode peels back the curtain on the chaos behind the headlines.
The trio shares practical advice for navigating the storm, including how contractors can support overwhelmed agency staff, prepare for logical follow-ons, and stay mission-focused despite uncertainty. Whether you're a government leader, a contracting officer, or an industry partner trying to make sense of the current climate.
- Visa fler
