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The FAR and Beyond

by The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School · English · News

Hosted and produced by the Contract & Fiscal Law Department at The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School (TJAGLCS). This podcast will take you on an illuminating journey through the intricate world of federal acquisition and procurement laws that fuel the Department of Defense and the Ame

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 11 min
Latest: 14 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

14 Oct 2026 · 10 minNew

The FAR and Beyond | Episode 57: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 17: Overhauling Special Contract Methods

In this episode, we analyze the overhaul of FAR Part 17, highlighting key additions such as the explicit codification of reverse auctions and the removal of the default five-year ceiling on option periods. We also discuss structural streamlining across the subparts, the relocation of procedural best practices to the non-regulatory FAR Companion, and the broader policy shift toward judgment-based procurement practices. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

7 Oct 2026 · 14 min
The FAR and Beyond | Episode 56: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 16: The New Contract Types
In this episode, we explore the major shift in FAR Part 16 from a restrictive to a permissive regulatory philosophy, as well as the new agency justification requirements for non-fixed-price contracts introduced under Executive Order. We also break down key structural reorganizations across the subparts and highlight new acquisition flexibilities, including establishing BPAs under IDIQ contracts and the formal codification of vendor on-ramps and off-ramps. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill…
30 Sep 2026 · 14 min
The FAR and Beyond | Episode 55: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 13: The New Non-Commercial Simplified Acquisition Rules
In this episode, we unpack the massive revamp of FAR Part 13, which completely strips out commercial clutter to focus strictly on simplified procedures for non-commercial acquisitions. We discuss operational updates for contracting officers, including the migration of payment clauses to Part 32, the transition to a dynamic online list of inapplicable laws, and the strict new legal distinction between canceling an unaccepted purchase order versus terminating an accepted one. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at…
23 Sep 2026 · 8 min
The FAR and Beyond | Episode 54: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 9: Streamlining Contractor Qualifications
In this episode, we examine FAR Part 9, explaining how major sections—including pre-award surveys and contractor team arrangements—have been removed from codified regulation and relocated to the non-regulatory FAR Companion Guide. We also detail core retained statutory standards updated for plain language, along with critical new administrative rules that make non-compliance a direct trigger for suspension or debarment proceedings. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes…
9 Sep 2026 · 9 min
The FAR and Beyond | Episode 53: FAR Part 8 Deep Dive: Mastering the Mandatory Source Ladder and GSAM Procedures
In this episode, we break down the mandatory priority ladder for federal procurement, guiding contracting professionals through the essential "rules of the road" for sourcing supplies and services. They also highlight crucial updates on using the Spend Under Management tiers, the relocation of Federal Supply Schedule procedures to the GSAM, and the streamlined three-day explanation process for unsuccessful quoters. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes…
2 Sep 2026 · 18 min
The FAR and Beyond | Episode 52: Redefining "Small": Unpacking the SBA's Proposed Size Standards Overhaul
In this episode, we unpack two proposed rules from the Small Business Administration (SBA) that could qualify companies with up to half a billion dollars in annual revenue as small businesses. The hosting team breaks down the five major proposed shifts—including massive NAICS code consolidation, a preference for headcount-based standards, and the "hold harmless" policy—detailing exactly how these changes will reshape the "rule of two" and the competitive landscape for federal contractors. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at…
26 Aug 2026 · 9 min
The FAR and Beyond | Episode 51: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 8: Mandatory Sources & New GSAM Rules
In this episode, we dive into the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) to explain how FAR Part 8 has been completely restructured, consolidating three FAR parts into one and moving Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) ordering procedures out of the FAR and into the GSAM. We detail essential shifts for acquisition professionals, including the new required-use contract hierarchy, defense-specific deviations, and the strict three-day timeline for providing brief explanations to unsuccessful quoters. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at…
19 Aug 2026 · 9 min
The FAR and Beyond | Episode 50: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 7: Planning for Agility
In this episode, we examine the transition from prescriptive checklists to a dynamic acquisition planning process that moves procedural "how-tos" into the non-regulatory FAR Companion Guide. The discussion highlights the unification of consolidation and bundling into a single framework, alongside new transparency requirements designed to protect small business incumbents. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from…
12 Aug 2026 · 8 min
The FAR and Beyond | Episode 49: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 14: The Evolution of Sealed Bidding
In this episode, we explore the historical roots of sealed bidding and its modern transformation under the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), which reorganizes FAR Part 14 into a more accessible, lifecycle-based structure,. The discussion highlights the transition of non-regulatory best practices to the new FAR Companion, the removal of outdated procedures like facsimile bids, and the consolidation of two-step sealed bidding to create a leaner, more organized rulebook. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at…
5 Aug 2026 · 10 min
The FAR and Beyond | Episode 48: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 19: Small Business, Streamlined
In this episode, we explore the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) of Part 19, which reorganizes small business regulations into acquisition life cycle stages while moving non-regulatory best practices to the FAR Companion. The discussion highlights critical updates for practitioners, such as the mandatory Rule of Two at the master contract level and a new, efficient process for automatically releasing requirements from the 8(a) program. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show…
29 Jul 2026 · 40 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 47: The Foundation of Advice: Mastering Contract Research in an Evolving Landscape
In this episode, we discuss navigating the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) using updated tools on acquisition.gov, including practitioner albums for change summaries and the new FAR Companion. The panel outlines how to locate agency-specific supplements like the AFARS and DFARS, while providing strategies for researching primary sources such as National Defense Authorization Acts (NDAAs) and GAO case law. Finally, the episode introduces the newly renamed Acquisition Attorney’s Deskbook and explores the evolving role of closed and open AI tools in conducting streamlined legal analysis.…
22 Jul 2026 · 11 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 46: Small Business, Big Impact: Navigating the SBA’s History and Federal Contracting
In this episode, we explores the 75-year history of the Small Business Administration, tracing its origins from World War II defense advocacy to its modern role in managing government-wide contracting goals. The discussion also covers essential topics for practitioners, including the "Rule of Two," recent legal shifts in the 8(a) program, and upcoming acquisition reforms in the FY26 NDAA. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus…
15 Jul 2026 · 15 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 45: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 12: Simplifying Simplified Acquisitions
In this episode, we analyze the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul FAR Part 12, which streamlines commercial acquisitions by reorganizing the part into lifecycle-based subparts and cutting approximately 30% of associated provisions and clauses. The discussion explores key updates such as the inclusion of construction as a commercial service, a new emphasis on mandatory priority sources, and the shift from a rigid "late is late" rule to a "good business judgment" standard for late offers. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at…
15 Jul 2026 · 8 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 44: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 10 & 11: Research and Planning
In this episode, we examine how the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) replaces rigid market research checklists with professional judgment and modular acquisition strategies designed to reduce risk. The discussion highlights the shift toward outcome-based contracting and new DFARS requirements for documenting research efforts, such as analyzing capabilities and determining if tiered evaluations are appropriate. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from…
1 Jul 2026 · 7 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 43: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: DFARS 227: Intellectual Property in the DoW
In this episode, we analyze the comprehensive restructuring of DFARS Part 227, which organizes intellectual property into commercial and non-commercial "hemispheres" and introduces a new unified "super clause" for technical data and software. The episode also highlights critical substantive updates, including the extension of the validation timeline to six years and a new strategic emphasis on resolving validity questions prior to award. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show…
24 Jun 2026 · 16 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 42: Warfighting Acquisition Strategy: The Rise of the Portfolio Acquisition Executives
In this episode, discuss the Department of War's transition from traditional, siloed acquisition systems to an agile, portfolio-centric model designed to keep pace with modern warfare. They explore the groundbreaking role of the Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) established in the FY26 NDAA, which integrates requirements, budgeting, and execution into a single node to provide the speed and flexibility needed on the battlefield. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes…
17 Jun 2026 · 12 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 41: FY2026 NDAA Rundown
In this episode, we dissect the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, focusing on how the Speed and Forge Acts are driving a massive legislative pivot toward streamlined defense acquisition reform. We explore critical updates including the new statutory definition of "best value," significant threshold increases for mandatory cost data and Cost Accounting Standards, and the strategic push to eliminate supply chain reliance on covered nations. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The…
10 Jun 2026 · 7 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 40: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 33: Protests
In this episode, we analyze the chronological restructuring of FAR Part 33 and the new addition of a "designated purpose" for the bid protest system intended to deter improper filings. We dive into substantive updates to agency-level protests, including the mandatory disclosure of redacted Source Selection Decision documents (SSDD) to protesters and the streamlined approval levels for overrides of regulatory stays. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes…
3 Jun 2026 · 11 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 39: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 15: Negotiations, not Discussions
In this episode, we explore the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) of FAR Part 15, highlighting the transition from traditional discussions to a more robust negotiation framework. We break down innovative evaluation methods like Highest Technically Rated with a Fair and Reasonable Price and phased acquisitions. Additionally, the discussion covers the expanded role of clarifications, the simplified definition of deficiencies, and the increased discretion granted to contracting officers when identifying the offers best suited for the competitive range. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series…
27 May 2026 · 9 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 38: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 49: Terminations
In this episode, we discuss the streamlining of FAR Part 49 under the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), which reduced the administrative "fluff" while keeping all existing legal termination clauses intact. Additionally, we analyze the substantive updates to FAR Part 12 concerning terminations for cause. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal…
20 May 2026 · 22 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 37: The Limits of Authority: Unpacking the 40-Year Saga of Pratt & Whitney
In this episode, we sit down with Mr. Adam Caudle and Miss Dana Chase to dissect the 39-year litigation in Secretary of Defense v. Pratt & Whitney. We analyze the Federal Circuit's 2025 decision, which reaffirmed that a contracting officer’s authority is not unlimited and that agreements violating mandatory FAR provisions are considered illegal and unenforceable. The discussion highlights the critical takeaway that while the revolutionary FAR overhaul encourages broader professional judgment, practitioners must still remain within the four corners of the FAR to ensure their agreements remain…
13 May 2026 · 8 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 36: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 5: Tables over Text
In this episode, we discuss the streamlining of FAR Part 5 under the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), which reorganizes the section into a chronological life cycle approach consisting of three main phases: pre-solicitation, solicitation, and award. We explore major updates including the retirement of the term "synopsis" in favor of "notice," the implementation of four user-friendly tables to clarify posting timeframes, and deleting outdated subparts. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill &…
6 May 2026 · 29 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 35: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: Great Discretion, Great Documentation: Navigating the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (Phase 2)
In this episode, Mr. Adam Caudle from Army OGC joins us to discuss the transition into Phase 2 of the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), emphasizing the new chronological restructuring of the FAR into solicitation, evaluation, award, and post-award phases. We analyze major shifts in FAR Part 15 and 19, such as the replacement of communications with discretionary clarifications and the end of the "once an 8(a), always an 8(a)" rule. We also highlight the significant threshold increases for certified cost and pricing data and cost accounting standards (CAS), and the broader discretion given to…
29 Apr 2026 · 12 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 34: Revolutionary FAR Overhaul: FAR Parts 1-4, Mission First Philosophy
In this episode, we break down the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), focusing on the new "mission first" philosophy and the streamlining of Parts 1 through 4 to reduce administrative clutter. We examine the reorganization of FAR Part 4 into acquisition life cycle phases and the "security exodus" that moved supply chain risk requirements to the newly created FAR Part 40. We also provide guidance on navigating the latest DFAR class deviations for DFARS parts 201 through 204. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at…
22 Apr 2026 · 24 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 33: Beyond the FAR: Demystifying Other Transaction Authorities: Protests and Risk Management (Part 2)
In this conclusion to our deep dive into Other Transactions (OTs), we sit down with Mr. Adam Caudle and Ms. Kristine Kassekert to debunk the myth that OT awards are immune to protests. We examine the current jurisdictional landscape at the GAO and Court of Federal Claims, highlighting why thorough documentation is essential not just for formal litigation, but also for answering potential inquiries from Congress or senior leadership. We also discuss the "fail fast" mentality and the unique flexibility of OTs, which allow us to manage projects through iterative payment milestones and…
15 Apr 2026 · 37 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 32: Beyond the FAR: Demystifying Other Transaction Authorities (Part 1)
In this first part, we sit down with experts Mr. Adam Caudle and Ms. Kristine Kassekert to discuss the history of Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) and the broad statutory definitions for prototype projects under 10 USC 4022. We explore the "team sport" nature of these agreements, highlighting how the iterative process and the ability for vendors to collaborate can lead to better mission outcomes than traditional FAR-based acquisitions. We also address the common myth that OTs have "no rules," clarifying that while they offer flexibility, practitioners must still navigate legal boundaries…
8 Apr 2026 · 15 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 31: Knowledge vs. Intent: Analyzing Secondary Liability in Cox v. Sony
In this episode we analyze the Supreme Court's ruling in Cox Communications, Inc. v. Sony Music Entertainment, which explores the limits of secondary liability for internet service providers when users engage in copyright infringement. We discuss how the court determined that mere knowledge is insufficient for contributory liability, requiring plaintiffs to instead prove intent through "inducement" or "tailoring" frameworks derived from Sony Corp. of America v. Universal City Studios, Inc. and MGM Studios, Inc. v. Grokster, Ltd. We also highlight that the Digital Millennium Copyright Act…
1 Apr 2026 · 8 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 30: SBA Size Protests and Administrative Failures
In this episode we explore recent developments at the Small Business Administration's Office of Hearings and Appeals regarding size protests and the consequences of administrative breakdowns. We first examine how the Stripes Global Appeal regarding RCG of North Carolina clarifies that licensing disputes are matters of contractor responsibility rather than size issues. Finally, we analyze the Pelican Residences protest, where a nine-month administrative delay and ignored show cause orders forced OHA to declare a contractor ineligible under the ostensible subcontractor rule. Case Citation:…
25 Mar 2026 · 11 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 29: NAICS Challenge: Navigating SBA Jurisdiction and Small Business Standards
In this episode, we explore the critical role of NAICS codes in federal procurement, highlighting why the SBA’s Office of Hearings and Appeals (OHA) is the exclusive venue for these time-sensitive challenges. We break down the "principal purpose" test through a detailed analysis of a successful appeal where a contractor argued that a project's complexity required a much higher size standard than the one initially assigned. Case Citation: Venergy Group LLC, SBA No. NAICS-6377 (2026) Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at…
18 Mar 2026 · 15 min
The FAR and Beyond | Beyond Episode 28: Revolutions FAR Overhaul: FAR Part 6, Competition
In this episode, we break down the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) and its impact on FAR Part 6. We dive deep into the new competition requirements and discuss critical Class Deviations affecting DFARS Part 206. Learn more about The Quill & Sword series of podcasts by visiting our podcast page at https://tjaglcs.army.mil/thequillandsword. The Quill & Sword show includes featured episodes from across the JAGC, plus all episodes from our four separate shows: “Criminal Law Department Presents” (Criminal Law Department), “NSL Unscripted” (National Security Law Department), “The FAR and Beyond”…

About The FAR and Beyond

The FAR and Beyond is a English news podcast from The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School
Language: English
Category: News
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 11 min
Latest episode: 14 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1756919784
Rights: DVIDSHub.net

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