The JR & Ali Show
The JR & Ali Show
Podcast Description
JR Glass and Ali Steer break down the CMS forecast each month, providing insight and commentary on the data released.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast explores themes related to federal procurement, CMS operations, and industry strategies. Episodes delve into topics like the implications of workforce reductions in agencies, shifts in CMS forecasts, and adapting to changes in procurement guidelines, with specific examples including discussions on layoffs, sole-source awards, and how businesses can navigate current challenges.
JR Glass and Ali Steer break down the CMS forecast each month, providing insight and commentary on the data released.
The September CMS forecast is here, and as the federal fiscal year races toward the finish line, there’s plenty for industry to unpack.
In this episode, JR and Ali are joined by former CMS contracting official Brian Hebbel to break down the latest forecast movement, active procurements, and some significant changes in how CMS is buying. With opportunities dropping off the forecast and moving into solicitation, new opportunities appearing, and CMS pushing toward the end of FY26, the team looks at what contractors should be watching right now.
Brian also digs into one of the biggest impacts of the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul for CMS contractors: changes to GSA Schedule procedures that mean contracting officers may no longer have to provide an RFQ to a contractor simply because they ask for it. That makes responding to early market research—and getting positioned before a solicitation drops—potentially more important than ever.
The conversation goes deeper into the numbers, revealing fewer CMS and HHS contract actions, larger and more consolidated awards, increased use of logical follow-ons, and dramatic declines in 8(a) awards government-wide. With September underway, the message for CMS contractors is clear: pay attention, position early, and buckle up for the fiscal year-end sprint.
To connect with Brian, follow him on LinkedIn 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.
Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
For a complete disclaimer, please see our Full Disclaimer on the archive page. The Podcast Collaborative bears no responsibility for the podcast’s themes, language, or overall content. Listener discretion is advised. Read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy for more details.