In this episode of The Quality Hub: Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis welcomes back Suzanne Strausser, VP of Consulting and Development at Core Business Solutions, to explore the benefits of outsourcing QMS administration. Together, they break down what it means to outsource your Quality Management System administration, and why more small and mid-sized businesses are choosing this path. Suzanne shares how outsourcing saves time and money, ensures continuous compliance, and gives companies access to seasoned ISO professionals without the cost of a full-time quality manager. They discuss how Core’s experts handle everything from document control to internal audits, keeping systems audit-ready and efficient, while still letting organizations maintain full control. With insights on scalability, improved compliance, and peace of mind, this episode highlights how outsourcing can transform QMS management from a burden into a business advantage.   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 info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In part two of The Quality Hub: Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis continues his conversation with Rick Krick, Director of Security Solutions at Core Business Solutions, to explore what the CMMC becoming law truly means in practice. Rick explains how contractors can still compete if they're not yet fully certified, what “conditional certification” allows, and the critical flow-down responsibility that requires every subcontractor in the defense supply chain to meet compliance standards. The discussion covers the biggest readiness gaps across the DIB (Defense Industrial Base), how small businesses can gain a competitive edge by acting now, and why documentation, monitoring, and continuous compliance are vital for long-term success. With real-world examples of costly noncompliance and practical advice on narrowing scope, maintaining SPRS scores, this episode is an essential guide for any company preparing for the future of cybersecurity and defense contracting.   Helpful Resources: What is CMMC?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/nist-cmmc-3 CMMC Webinars: https://www.thecoresolution.com/cybersecurity-webinars The Core Vault Solution: https://www.thecoresolution.com/core-vault Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources

In this episode of The Quality Hub: Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis sits down with Rick Krick, Director of Security Solutions at Core Business Solutions, to discuss a monumental update — CMMC is now law. As of November 10, 2025, the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) becomes legally enforceable under the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), transforming compliance from a policy into a contractual requirement for all Department of Defense contractors. Rick breaks down what this means for organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to major defense contractors, explaining the three CMMC levels, phased rollout timeline, and common misconceptions about compliance. Together, they explore the real-world implications for defense suppliers, the importance of early preparation, and how companies can protect sensitive information while staying contract-ready in this new cybersecurity landscape.   Helpful Resources: What is CMMC?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/nist-cmmc-3 CMMC Webinars: https://www.thecoresolution.com/cybersecurity-webinars The Core Vault Solution: https://www.thecoresolution.com/core-vault Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources  

In this episode of The Quality Hub, host Xavier Francis is joined by Suzanne Strausser, VP of Consulting and Development at Core Business Solutions, to bust some of the biggest myths about ISO certification. Together, they tackle misconceptions like “ISO is only for big companies,” “it’s just paperwork,” or “certification is permanent,” and reveal how ISO standards are actually scalable, practical, and designed to drive continuous improvement for businesses of any size or industry. From affordability and agility for small businesses to empowering innovation and building customer trust, this episode shows why ISO certification is not a burden but a powerful tool for growth and long-term success.   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 info@thecoresolution.com 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, host Xavier Francis sits down with consultant Norman Verbeck to explore how organizations can effectively maintain their ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS). They discuss the importance of leadership commitment, embedding ISO practices into daily operations, and simplifying processes to encourage company-wide ownership of quality. Norman shares insights on document control, tracking key performance indicators, leveraging customer feedback, and ensuring management reviews remain meaningful and actionable. The conversation also covers training strategies, the value of internal audits, and how to use findings as opportunities for improvement rather than compliance hurdles. Packed with practical advice, this episode highlights how making ISO standards part of everyday business culture drives continuous improvement and long-term success.   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 info@thecoresolution.com 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 Core Business Solutions consultant Norm Verbeck to explore the most common pitfalls organizations face in maintaining ISO 9001 certification. From overlooked clauses to the importance of leadership engagement, employee involvement, and effective documentation, Norm highlights both the sustaining and sabotaging factors that can make or break a quality management system. Together, they discuss how to combat ISO fatigue, integrate QMS practices into daily operations, and keep enthusiasm alive, all while avoiding the trap of treating ISO as a mere box-checking exercise.   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 info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

On this episode of The Quality Hub, host Xavier Francis chats with Stuart Kelly and Kevin Franklin from LRQA about one of the biggest shifts in ISO standards we’ve seen in nearly a decade. With the 2026 update to ISO 14001 on the horizon, they dive into what’s changing, why it matters, and how businesses can get ahead of the curve. From climate change and sustainability to new tech, regulations, and consumer expectations, this conversation unpacks how ISO standards are no longer just about passing audits—they’re about building resilience, protecting your brand, and staying competitive in the world. If you want to understand how these changes could impact your organization and why now is the time to prepare, you won’t want to miss this discussion.   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 info@thecoresolution.com 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, host Xavier Francis is joined by Scott Dawson, President of Core Business Solutions, and Danny Norman, Advanced Manufacturing Consultant with Tennessee MEP, to explore whether AI in manufacturing is a real opportunity or just hype. Together, they dive into how manufacturers can begin experimenting with AI—particularly large language models. The conversation highlights three major areas where AI can make an impact: driving growth through product development, improving efficiency by customizing existing tools, and enhancing workforce training. They also emphasize the importance of starting small, focusing on data security, and leveraging national Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs) for guidance and pilot projects. This episode offers manufacturers a clear roadmap to responsibly explore AI while avoiding costly missteps.   Helpful Resources: More About ISO 42001: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-42001-certification Why ISO 42001 Certification Matters: https://www.thecoresolution.com/why-grammarlys-iso-42001-certification-matters 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 info@thecoresolution.com 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 continues the conversation with Brian Reich, Director of Technology, and Anne Siebert, Product Manager at Core Business Solutions, diving deeper into practical ways to protect digital security through passwords, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and password managers. They discuss the pitfalls of relying solely on passwords, how MFA options like authenticator apps and biometrics provide stronger protection, Anne highlights the benefits of password managers for securely storing credentials and simplifying daily logins. The team also shares updates on Core’s new security policies. Wrapping up, they emphasize that while security may feel inconvenient, adopting these best practices is essential in today’s evolving digital landscape.   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 info@thecoresolution.com 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 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 info@thecoresolution.com 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 info@thecoresolution.com 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 info@thecoresolution.com 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: jutta.bangs@tennessee.edu Website: wwwhttps://apex.tennessee.edu/ Kevin Cooper: Email: cis@tennessee.edu 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 info@thecoresolution.com 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 : swilliams@tsbdc.org  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 info@thecoresolution.com 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: mlejeune@rsmfederal.com 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 info@thecoresolution.com 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 : doug@navigantventures.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 info@thecoresolution.com 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: shanks@nwirc.org 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 info@thecoresolution.com 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 : salexander@boostllc.net, 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 info@thecoresolution.com 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: staci.miller@mail.wvu.edu 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 info@thecoresolution.com 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 John Mattox, Partner at Schoonover and Moriarty, to unpack the evolving landscape of federal contracting for small businesses. They explore the impact of executive orders, contract cancellations, and the FAR rewrite on contractors, while offering strategic guidance on navigating disruptions. From understanding stop work orders to leveraging the SBA’s Mentor-Protégé Program and proactively participating in rulemaking, the conversation equips business leaders with legal insights and tactical tools to stay competitive and resilient in a rapidly changing environment.   Helpful Resources: Contact John:  Call 913-354-2630 or email jmattox@schoonoverlawfirm.comLaw firm: schoonoverlawfirm.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 info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting