In this episode of the Govcon Giants podcast, I sit down with John Cook, the CEO of Strategic Growth Advisors (SGA), a consulting firm specializing in providing business development support to small businesses in the government contracting space. With years of experience in this field, John is a treasure trove of knowledge and insights for small business owners aiming to thrive in the competitive world of government contracting. John delves into proactive strategies and joint venture mastery, emphasizing the importance of preparation in securing lucrative sole source opportunities and leveraging tribal partnerships for success. He also sheds light on the game-changing role of data-driven decision-making in modern business. Throughout the episode, John shares invaluable tips and step-by-step guidance, distilling his extensive experience into five critical lessons for small businesses looking to make their mark in government contracting. These lessons include the significance of preparation, the importance of cultivating relationships, the need for clear communication, the willingness to walk away from unfavorable deals, and the wisdom of engaging experts when necessary. Listeners can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies of government contracting, with actionable advice that can help supercharge their growth. So, if you're a small business owner looking to succeed in government contracting, this episode is a must-listen. Let’s welcome our next giant, John Cook.