In this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire welcomes Darren Ash, Executive Advisor at Management Science and Innovation (MSI) and former CIO of the Department of the Interior, to share his journey from decades of public service to his new role in industry. Darren reflects on his 20+ years as a senior federal executive across agencies like the IRS, USDA, and Department of Transportation, offering an inside look at how mission-driven leadership, innovation, and collaboration can transform government operations. He discusses what drew him to MSI, the importance of organizational culture, and how former federal leaders can bridge perspectives between government and industry to drive real impact. From lessons learned at USDA and Interior to insights on partnership, networking, and the power of strong C-suite collaboration, Darren’s story is a masterclass in public service, transition, and purpose-driven leadership. If you’re a current or former Fed—or simply passionate about improving government through innovation—this conversation will leave you inspired and energized. To connect with Darren, visit his LinkedIn profile here.Learn more about Management Science and Innovation by visiting their website here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution.

In this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Vinay Singh, former CFO and Chief AI Officer at HUD and now Chief Experience Officer of Velocity Group Solutions, to talk all things AI, innovation, and impact. From spinning records as a college DJ to spinning up national AI strategy, Vinay brings a refreshingly human perspective to the fast-moving world of artificial intelligence. He and Shelley dig into how the federal government is adopting AI, the balance between innovation and risk, and what real transparency should look like in this space. Vinay also unpacks why fear of AI is often misplaced, how “AI literacy” is the new must-have skill for every professional (and parent), and why the future of AI should be focused on connection, not control. His take? AI should give us back time to think, create, and, most importantly, talk to each other again. If you’ve ever wondered how to navigate the hype, the headlines, and the human side of AI, this episode delivers grounded insights and optimism from someone who’s been on both sides of the government–industry divide. To connect with Vinay, visit his LinkedIn profile here.Learn more about Velocity Group Solutions by visiting their website here.

In this episode of Former Fed Friday, hosts Shelley McGuire and Hunter Gros sit with Meikle Paschal, Senior Solutions Director at Amivero and former RPA Program Manager at USCIS’ Center of Excellence. Meikle brings a career rooted in national security and IT modernization, from testing border security systems at CBP to leading automation initiatives at DHS. Now, less than a year into his role on the industry side, he’s leveraging that federal experience to drive innovation, human-centered solutions, and mission outcomes for DHS and beyond. He shares stories from his time working hands-on with border technology, standing up automation programs inside USCIS, and now tackling industry challenges where precision, passion, and transparency define success. Meikle also reflects on what makes for strong government-industry relationships when delivering high-stakes IT solutions—and why good work leads to even better work in the future. Tune in for insights from a leader who’s built his career on bridging mission needs with modern technology, and who’s not afraid to add a little humor along the way. To connect with Meikle, visit his LinkedIn profile here.Learn more about Amivero by visiting their website here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution.

In this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Richard Klemmer, President of Black Box Strategies and Partner at Catapult Growth Partners. Richard’s career path is anything but ordinary. He started as a wage grade 4 in a warehouse and rose all the way to Acting CIO at the Department of Commerce’s NTIA. With over 25 years of leadership spanning technology, cybersecurity, finance, and mission support, Richard shares how he built his career step by step, from self-taught programming to overseeing major federal IT portfolios. He also reflects on the leap from public service to industry, the lessons learned in navigating uncertainty, and why perseverance and collaboration are the keys to thriving in today’s federal contracting landscape. To connect with Richard, visit his LinkedIn profile here.Learn more about Black Box Strategies by visiting their website here.Learn more about Catapult Growth Partners by visiting their website here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution. Don't know vTech yet? You should as vTech Solution is a trailblazer in the IT services domain with key offerings that include Digital Modernization, including Application Modernization; Managed Cloud infrastructure; and Cybersecurity.

Fresh out of federal service, Mark Canfield joins the Former Fed Friday podcast with Shelley McGuire to share his journey from Deputy Director at CMS to Founder & CEO of 5pointe. In this candid conversation, Mark talks about why he left after nine years at CMS, what it was like leading high-profile programs like hospital quality reporting and the CQP platform, and how he’s now helping organizations navigate federal challenges with clarity and precision. From building custom golf carts to building a new consulting firm, Mark brings humor, perspective, and practical insights on bridging the gap between government and contractors. If you’re curious about CMS, federal IT modernization, or the leap from public service to entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with real talk and inspiration. To connect with Mark, visit his LinkedIn profile here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution.

In this Former Fed Friday episode, Shelley McGuire chats with Mark Junda, Executive Director of Digital Experience at TISTA Science and Technology Corporation and former senior acquisition leader at the VA. With over 20 years in federal service, including roles at the VA TAC, OMB, and USDS, Mark reflects on his journey driving procurement reform, building contracting vehicles like T4 and T4NG, and shaping IT acquisition strategies that still influence the market today. The conversation dives into the evolution of VA’s Technology Acquisition Center, the ongoing debate over GSA’s role in federal IT buying, and lessons learned from scaling T4 contracting vehicles. Mark also shares insights on the shift from buying teams to buying outcomes, how AI is changing procurement, and why relationships between contracting shops and program offices remain critical. To connect with Mark, visit his LinkedIn profile here.To learn more about Tista Science and Technology Corporation, visit their website here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution. Don't know vTech yet? You should as vTech Solution is a trailblazer in the IT services domain with key offerings that include Digital Modernization, including Application Modernization; Managed Cloud infrastructure; and Cybersecurity.

In this Former Fed Friday episode, Hunter Gros sits down with David Gonzalez Rice, Senior VP for Policy at the National Low Income Housing Coalition and former Biden-Harris administration appointee. David shares his journey from nonprofit leadership into federal service—and back again—highlighting how his experiences in housing and homelessness shaped national policy. He opens up about the personal and professional reasons that led him to Washington, the skills that transfer between the government and nonprofit sectors, and what it takes to navigate both effectively. From building coalitions to embracing a fail-fast mindset, David offers valuable advice for public servants considering their next career move and for anyone passionate about advancing housing policy. To connect with David, visit his LinkedIn profile here.To learn more about National Low Income Housing Coalition, visit their website here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution.

In this episode of Former Fed Friday, hosts Shelley McGuire and Hunter Gross sit down with Rob Brown, Senior Vice President of National Security Solutions at Alpha Omega and former CTO of USCIS at DHS. Rob shares his journey from the federal government to industry, reflecting on a decade of leading large-scale IT modernization efforts, cloud adoption, cybersecurity evolution, and building mission-driven teams. He offers insights on vendor relationships, managing major federal contracts, and balancing innovation with the risk-averse nature of government agencies. From pioneering cloud strategies to fostering cultures of curiosity and experimentation, Rob highlights what it takes to modernize technology while staying grounded in mission success. To connect with Rob, visit his LinkedIn profile here.To learn more about Alpha Omega, visit their website here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution.  

On this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire sits down with Thomas Kessler, owner of Kessler Healthcare Consulting and former Senior Advisor at CMS’s Center for Program Integrity. With nearly 37 years of federal service, including 28 at CMS, Tom brings unmatched insight into program integrity, fraud prevention, and the evolving role of technology in Medicare oversight. Tom shares highlights from his career, from leading fraud prevention system reports to Congress, to shaping Medicare payment suspension and prior authorization programs, to exploring AI-driven medical record review. He also breaks down CMS’s latest initiatives—the WISEeR model and the Chili Cook-Off—explaining what they mean for providers, contractors, and beneficiaries alike. To connect with Tom, visit his on LinkedIn here.

In this Former Fed Friday episode, Shelley McGuire chats with Jeffrey Grant, President & Founder of Schedule F Healthcare Strategies and longtime CMS leader, to talk about life after 42 years in government service. From record-setting Marketplace enrollments and navigating tough transitions to building a consultancy that champions former CMS talent, Jeff shares his passion for people, programs, and public service. He also opens up about his love of the outdoors, multigenerational national park adventures, and why the best part of retirement just might be time with his grandkids. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to lead inside CMS, pivot with purpose, or find inspiration on the trail and beyond, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. To connect with Jeff, visit her on LinkedIn here.To learn more about Schedule F Healthcare Strategies, visit their website here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution.  

In this Former Fed Friday conversation, Shelley McGuire sits down with Anita Allen, the fiery redhead you may remember as HHS’s long-time small business specialist for CMS and NIH, now freshly retired and stepping into life as an independent consultant. With over 35 years of federal service under her belt, Anita opens up about her journey, from navigating the sudden closure of much of HHS’s small business outreach office to her recent retirement. She shares tips for small businesses on staying informed and competitive without the once-reliable direct line to a specialist, including leveraging forecasts and free resources to make the most of networking events and podcasts. Anita also hints at her behind-the-scenes efforts to keep transparency alive at CMS and ensure small businesses aren’t left in the dark. It’s equal parts personal storytelling, practical GovCon advice, and a glimpse into what’s next for one of the community’s most passionate advocates. To connect with Anita, visit her on LinkedIn here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution. Don't know vTech yet? You should as vTech Solution is a trailblazer in the IT services domain with key offerings that include Digital Modernization, including Application Modernization; Managed Cloud infrastructure; and Cybersecurity.  

On this episode of Former Fed Friday, Shelley McGuire and Hunter Gros dive into the extraordinary journey of John Binks, former Chief of IT Management and Director of Air Operations at FEMA, now serving as Senior Director of Business Development at Titan Technologies. With 41 years of federal service under his belt, John brings unmatched insight into what it means to lead with purpose in both government and industry. From flying relief missions and modernizing FEMA’s IT systems to writing bestselling books on AI and mentoring the next generation of federal retirees, John’s story is about more than accomplishments — it’s about mission, compassion, and transformation. A veteran, a private pilot, and even a competitive axe thrower, he’s always followed his passion — whether responding to hurricanes that once tore through his childhood home or helping fellow “FEMITES” navigate disaster recovery in the field. Now on the contractor side, he continues to support FEMA’s mission by enabling innovation that works not just in boardrooms but in the trenches — on the ground, with survivors, in the most difficult moments of their lives. John also shares powerful lessons on making the leap from federal service to GovCon: the mindset shift, the real meaning of “mission enabler,” and how to give back by helping others transition with confidence and clarity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes service is personal, innovation must be human-centered, and leadership is about legacy as much as results. To connect with John, visit him on LinkedIn here.Learn more about Titan Technologies by visiting their webpage here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution. Don't know vTech yet? You should as vTech Solution is a trailblazer in the IT services domain with key offerings that include Digital Modernization, including Application Modernization; Managed Cloud infrastructure; and Cybersecurity.  

In this insightful conversation, Shelley McGuire sits down with Donald Bauer, former Chief Technology Officer for Human Resources and Global Talent Management at the U.S. Department of State and now a Partner at Strategic Results Consulting. From writing software for the space shuttle to racing stock cars, Donald dives into the serious business of federal HRIT reform and the lessons learned from decades of government service. He reflects on his viral article The Monday After, published after his departure from federal service, and opens up about the frustration he felt watching skilled public servants pushed out without proper change management. Donald unpacks the bespoke IT systems plaguing federal agencies, the complex reality of HR data, and why simply layering AI onto broken infrastructure won’t solve anything. Now on the industry side, Donald is still deeply committed to the mission of advocating for smarter modernization, data strategy, and systems that are built to adapt. To connect with Donald, visit him on LinkedIn here.Learn more about Strategic Results Consulting by visiting their webpage here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution.

In this episode of Former Fed Friday, Hunter Gros chats with guest Augusto Cangahuala, Principal, Cynuria, who shares his inspiring journey from private sector communications to nearly a decade of federal service—and back again. With a background spanning sales, marketing, IT, and customer experience, Augusto carved out a unique path within agencies like the Peace Corps, EPA, and ACF. He reflects on his transition into public service as a deeply personal way to give back to the country that welcomed him as an immigrant. Now back in the private sector, he’s using his federal experience and leadership as a foundation for business development and growth. Augusto offers powerful insights for those considering a transition, whether by choice or necessity, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, identifying your “why,” and translating public sector experience into private sector success. He encourages former federal employees to recognize their transferable skills, build authentic relationships, and even consider entrepreneurship or consulting. For anyone navigating uncertainty, his message is clear: stay adaptable, stay visible, and lead with purpose. To connect with Augusto, visit him on LinkedIn here.Learn more about Cynuria by visiting their webpage here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution.  

From CMS to CEO: Karen Shields on Purposeful Transition and Ethical Leadership In this episode of Former Fed Friday, Shelley McGuire interviews Karen Shields, a veteran with over 30 years in federal government service and current CEO of K Shields Health Tech Consulting. Karen shares her deep knowledge of transitioning from government roles to the private sector, emphasizing the importance of personal integrity alongside formal ethics guidelines. She encourages former government employees and contractors to identify their unique strengths and leverage them thoughtfully outside of government, as these skills remain highly valuable. Karen highlights the vital partnership between government and vendors, urging contractors to actively contribute to policy discussions and share their expertise to improve service delivery. Despite changes in the market and government priorities, she stresses that core mission needs remain, offering ongoing opportunities for those ready to adapt. Her advice to leaders and professionals is to keep researching, learning, and moving forward with purpose and resilience. Karen’s experience exemplifies how to navigate complex transitions while maintaining strong values and impact. To connect with Karen, visit her on LinkedIn here. Learn more about K Shields Health Tech Consulting, visit their webpage here.

In this episode of Former Fed Friday, Shelley McGuire sits down with Nicole Mayerhauser, co-founder and COO of Emerald One and a former federal executive with nearly two decades of service. Nicole shares her journey from economist at the Bureau of Economic Analysis to senior leadership at the VA, and now to entrepreneurship. She dives into the importance of outcomes-driven work, building meaningful relationships beyond agency walls, and how her government background gives her team a unique edge in consulting.  Nicole also opens up about the misconceptions surrounding federal employees and stresses the urgent need for leadership development even amidst budget cuts. Her reflections offer both practical advice and a passionate defense of the federal workforce. To connect with Nicole, visit her on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Emerald One, visit their webpage here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution.

In this episode of Former Fed Friday, Shelley McGuire talks with Phil Surine, former CMS leader and managing President at Medkasa, about key shifts in federal healthcare programs. Phil explains how Medicare Advantage continues to expand, now covering over half of Medicare enrollees, and why contractors should track this trend closely. He highlights the risk of chasing RFPs tied to declining programs and stresses the importance of understanding where the government is placing its long-term bets. The discussion also covers the rise of mandatory value-based care models, which are now running as long-term programs rather than short pilots. Phil shares how this creates meaningful, stable opportunities for contractors—if they’re informed. Rather than relying solely on capture processes, he urges companies to invest in program knowledge and policy insights. Curiosity, he says, is key to staying relevant and effective in this evolving space. To connect with Phil, visit him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Medkasa, visit their webpage here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution.

In this episode of Former Fed Friday, David Blackburn sits down with Venkat Kodumudi, the Chief Technology Officer at Unissant and former senior leader at TSA. Venkat reflects on his nearly decade-long service at DHS, his smooth but eye-opening transition to the private sector, and the lessons learned along the way. With a deep sense of mission and humility, he shares advice for federal employees considering the leap to industry, highlighting the importance of empathy, adaptability, and understanding both government culture and industry innovation. To connect with Venkat visit him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Unissant here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution. Don’t know vTech yet? You should as vTech Solution is a trailblazer in the IT services domain with key offerings that include Digital Modernization, including Application Modernization; Managed Cloud infrastructure; and Cybersecurity.

In this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Shelley McGuire chats with Carol Sefret, a newly retired federal leader who spent 37 years at CMS, going all the way back to when it was HCFA. Carol reflects offers honest, practical advice for vendors hoping to work with the government. She explains why showing up unprepared is a nonstarter, what agencies are really looking for during meetings, and how vendors can stand out in today’s challenging environment.  She talks candidly about the realities of the acquisition process — why there’s no magic wand to make things move faster, and how much of the change has to start internally within agencies themselves. Carol shares how grace, preparation, and persistence can go a long way in bridging the gap between government and industry. To connect with Carol visit her on LinkedIn here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page. Thank you to our sponsor vTech Solution. Don’t know vTech yet? You should as vTech Solution is a trailblazer in the IT services domain with key offerings that include Digital Modernization, including Application Modernization; Managed Cloud infrastructure; and Cybersecurity.

In this episode of Former Fed Friday, host Hunter Gros sits down with Patrick Eager, a Marine Corps veteran turned government leader and business executive. He is currently the Executive Vice President at Rexley. Patrick’s career spans critical roles in WMD response, federal IT leadership, and business development, offering invaluable insights into navigating both government and private sectors. From his time in the Marine Corps specializing in nuclear, biological, and chemical threats to his leadership at DHS, TSA, and FDIC, Patrick shares how aligning core values with career choices led him to make bold moves—including stepping away from government to build his own business. He discusses the evolving challenges of federal contracting, the rise of AI in business development, and the importance of mentorship in shaping successful careers. To connect with Patrick visit him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Rexley here. Thank you to our sponsor! To connect with Hunter Gros visit him on LinkedIn here. Learn more about vTech Solution by visiting their webpage here. If you liked listening to this episode, view our Former Fed Perspectives page here. To view all of our podcast series, visit our podcast page.