Survive & Thrive Ep 8 - Government Contracting in Crisis Survive Now, Win Later

In this episode of Quality Hub – Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis sits down with Brian Reich, Director of Technology, and Anne Siebert, Product Manager at CORE Business Solutions, to unpack the evolving world of password security. They explore how best practices have shifted from complicated character rules to the modern standard of longer passphrases, discuss the risks of password reuse, and share practical advice such as avoiding sticky notes, responding to breach alerts, and recognizing phishing attempts. The team also explains the role of NIST guidelines in shaping security standards, why “longer is stronger,” and how human psychology plays into password habits. The episode closes with a look ahead to Part 2, where they’ll dive into multi-factor authentication, password managers, and additional ways to protect what matters most.   Here is the link to our free download of the Cybersecurity Self-Assessment Glossary:  https://getcertified.thecoresolution.com/cyber-glossary Helpful Resources: For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Cybersecurity:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/cybersecurity CMMC:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/cmmc-compliance-checklist ISO 27001:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-27001-certification Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at [email protected] ISO 9001 Standards: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-90012015-standard-1 Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting  

In this episode of The Quality Hub, Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis sits down with Brenden Lowery, consultant at Core Business Solutions, to explore the critical role of data-driven decision-making in ISO 9001. They discuss how small and medium-sized businesses can leverage simple tools like ERP systems and spreadsheets to track key metrics such as on-time delivery, defects, etc, even with limited resources. Brenden emphasizes the importance of accurate data analysis, avoiding common pitfalls like leadership bias, and fostering a culture of frontline employee involvement in quality improvements. The conversation also touches on practical strategies to turn ISO compliance into a strategic advantage, using real-world examples and actionable insights for organizations striving for continual improvement.   Helpful Resources: How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at [email protected] A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of The Quality Hub, Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis welcomes back Ty Elliott, a seasoned ISO consultant from Core Business Solutions, to demystify the process of writing an effective quality policy under ISO 9001. Together, they explore what a quality policy really is, why it's a cornerstone of a quality management system, and how to craft one that's concise, meaningful, and aligned with your organization’s mission. Ty shares practical tips, common pitfalls, and creative strategies like using acronyms to make policies memorable. Whether you're new to ISO or looking to refine your current practices, this episode offers valuable insights to help you build a policy that drives continuous improvement and resonates across your team.   Helpful Resources: How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at [email protected] A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of The Quality Hub’s Survive & Thrive series, host Xavier Francis is joined by Scott Dawson, President of Core Business Solutions, Jutta Bangs, Counselor with the Tennessee APEX Accelerators, and Kevin Cooper, Strategic Advisor with Tennessee MEP. Together, they discuss how small businesses can shore up their supply chains and build resilience against future disruptions. From supply chain mapping to supplier relationship management, the conversation is packed with practical strategies and real-world insights. Learn how APEX Accelerators and MEPs offer no-cost resources to help small manufacturers navigate supply chain risks and strengthen operations for long-term success   Helpful Resources: Jutta Bangs: 865-483-0623 Email: [email protected] Website: wwwhttps://apex.tennessee.edu/ Kevin Cooper: Email: [email protected] Website: https://tmep.cis.tennessee.edu/ How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at [email protected] A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting .

In this episode of the Survive and Thrive series on the Quality Hub podcast, host Xavier Francis is joined by Scott Dawson, President of Core Business Solutions, and Stephen Williams, Business Advisor at the Tennessee Small Business Development Center. Together, they explore how small businesses can navigate disruption and uncertainty by building resilient relationships and tapping into available resources. From real-world turnaround stories involving supply shortages and economic downturns to practical insights on advisory networks and strategic vendor partnerships, Stephen shares the value of open communication, systems checks, and community collaboration. Tune in for expert advice on leveraging free support systems like SBDCs, Chambers of Commerce, and Apex Accelerators—and learn why, in business, you’re never truly alone.   Helpful Resources: Stephen Williams: 865-483-2668:  Email : [email protected]  Website: www.tsbdc.org  How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at [email protected] A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of the Survive & Thrive series on the Quality Hub podcast, host Xavier Francis is joined by Scott Dawson, President of Core Business Solutions, and Michael LeJeune, host of the Game Changers for Government Contractors podcast, to explore how small businesses can navigate the evolving landscape of government contracting during times of crisis. The conversation covers market volatility, the importance of diversification, rising use of GSA schedules, and the implications of CMMC compliance. Michael shares actionable strategies for businesses in distress, outlines three contractor mindsets, and underscores the critical role of relationships and proactive pipeline development in weathering market shifts. With a blend of humor, optimism, and seasoned advice, this episode equips listeners with the clarity and tools needed to survive now—and win later.   Helpful Resources: Michael LeJeune: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeljlejeune/  Email: [email protected] Website: www.rsmfederal.com How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at [email protected] A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of The Quality Hub: Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis welcomes Scott Dawson, President of Core Business Solutions, and Doug Petillo, Managing Partner at Navigant Ventures, for a compelling discussion on how small businesses can become the supplier of choice in today’s disrupted economy. As part of the Survive and Thrive series, the conversation explores the importance of building trust through consistent delivery, avoiding overpromising, managing operational risk, and leveraging certifications like ISO to signal reliability. Doug shares real-world insights on playing both offense and defense in times of uncertainty—highlighting tactics such as strengthening existing customer relationships and securing referrals to open new doors. Whether navigating economic turbulence or seeking sustainable growth, this episode delivers practical strategies for small business leaders to stay resilient and competitive.   Helpful Resources: Stephanie Alexander: 610-613-1854 Email : [email protected]  How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at [email protected] A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of the Survive and Thrive series on the Quality Hub podcast, host Xavier Francis sits down with Scott Dawson, President of Core Business Solutions, and Sara Hanks, Executive Director of NWIRC, to explore how small businesses can make smart, data-driven decisions in the face of uncertainty. Together, they unpack the dangers of emotion-led choices, the importance of data quality, and practical ways to leverage sales and operational metrics for strategic planning. From aligning teams around transparent decision-making to managing supply chain disruptions and cost volatility, this episode offers actionable insights for business leaders striving to stay resilient, agile, and effective—no matter what challenges arise.   Helpful Resources: Sara Hanks: 814-490-4816 Email: [email protected] Website: www.nwirc.org How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at [email protected] A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of the Quality Hub podcast, Xavier Francis hosts a discussion with Scott Dawson, and Drew Markley from Core Business Solutions and Stephanie Alexander CEO of BOOST, on the turbulent landscape of government contracting in 2025. Key issues include stalled contract awards, reduced government staffing, and heightened competition, leading many small businesses to freeze operations out of uncertainty. Stephanie urges businesses to take action, streamline operations, reassess budgets, and invest in critical certifications like CMMC. Subcontracting and strategic partnerships are emphasized over priming, with networking and careful partner selection being crucial. With limited cash flow, many are turning to fractional support for compliance needs. The overarching message: don’t wait—act decisively to adapt and thrive.     Helpful Resources: Stephanie Alexander: 703-598-4595 Email : [email protected], Website: www.BOOSTLLC.net Blog: https://boostllc.net/are-we-back/ How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at [email protected] A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of the Survive and Thrive series on the Quality Hub podcast, host Xavier Francis is joined by Scott Dawson, President of Core Business Solutions, and Staci Miller, Director of Operations at WVU Industrial Extension, to explore how leaders can foster resilience during uncertain times. The conversation centers on practical strategies for navigating organizational risk, including the use of the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize tasks and maintain focus, the importance of transparent communication, and leading with vulnerability and authenticity. Staci shares insights on staying grounded, supporting teams through emotional challenges, and empowering informal leaders to strengthen organizational stability, offering a thoughtful roadmap for small business leaders facing turbulent change.   Helpful Resources: Staci Miller: 724-610-3845 Email: [email protected] Website:www.wvmep.com How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at [email protected] A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting