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#GOVCOM: It's a Vibe
For the people who live and breathe GovCon, #GovCom: It’s a Vibe brings you the conversations shaping the future of government contracting.
Hosted by Alexa Tsui, this podcast explores the real challenges, opportunities, and trends impacting the federal marketplace—from business growth and leadership to technology, innovation, and industry transformation.
Each episode features candid conversations with government and industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers who share their experiences, lessons learned, and perspectives on navigating the evolving GovCon landscape.
Whether you’re building a company, leading a team, supporting missions, or simply passionate about the industry, #GovCom: It’s a Vibe delivers the insights, connections, and conversations that keep the GovCon community moving forward.
Visit govforum.io to explore more shows from the FORUM Media Network and upcoming webinars featuring today's leading voices in GovCon, government, technology, and business leadership.
#GOVCOM: It's a Vibe
Breaking Barriers - Leidos: Women Leaders Reshaping GovTech
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From launching billion-dollar pipelines to shaping federal digital modernization strategies, four powerhouse women from Leidos—Heather Carr, Caroline Thomas, Arfa Syed, and Christy Holley—join us to share their journeys, hard-won lessons, and bold perspectives on modern leadership in GovCon.
With decades of combined experience across civilian, defense, and global sectors, these women are at the forefront of driving transformation within federal IT. Together, they unpack what it means to grow accounts, build trust, break barriers—and what it really means to lead with both strategy and heart in today’s federal landscape.
Meet the Guests:
• Heather Carr – Civilian IT Growth & Strategy Lead at Leidos, with 20+ years of experience shaping strategic technology solutions across federal agencies.
• Caroline Thomas – Account Manager for USDA, Commerce, and the Department of Labor, with a track record of cultivating high-impact partnerships and accelerating federal growth.
• Arfa Syed – BD & Strategy Manager, spearheading digital modernization and cybersecurity innovation in the public sector, with a deep background in tech and thought leadership.
• Christy Holley – Senior Director and Account Manager for the Department of State, bringing over 30 years of GovCon experience across global initiatives, strategic growth, and mind-body leadership.
What You’ll Hear:
• The defining moments that shaped their leadership styles
• Real-world strategies for expanding federal accounts and scaling impact
• How they build trust and authentic relationships across industry and government
• Their honest takes on mentorship, community, and supporting other women in GovCon
• Balancing mission-driven work with life, wellness, and service
• Advice for the next generation of leaders—and what they wish they’d known sooner
Whether you're in BD, tech, or a leadership role, this episode is packed with clarity, candor, and wisdom from women redefining what it means to lead in federal contracting.
Tune in to hear what leadership sounds like when it’s bold, collaborative, and purpose-driven.
Connect with FORUM
🌐 Website: https://www.govforum.io
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/govforum
Connect with the Host
🎙️ Alexa Tsui: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexatsui
Interested in more conversations on government contracting, federal technology, leadership, growth strategy, and the future of GovCom? Follow #GOVCOM: It's a Vibe for new episodes featuring the leaders shaping the federal marketplace.
