Decoding NIST 800-171: Your Plain English Path To CMMC Level 2 Compliance CMMC Compliance Guide podcast

17:30

Submit any questions you would like answered on the podcast! Are you trying to navigate CMMC and NIST 800-171 with a small team and limited resources? You're not alone. In this episode of the CMMC Compliance Guide , we’re breaking down six of the most common and confusing questions small DoD contractors ask—and giving you clear, practical answers you can act on immediately. Join Brooke & Stacey from Justice IT Consulting as they unpack risks of misinterpreting controls, mobile device scope, admin account misuse, CUI data flow diagrams, remote access, and more. Whether you’re prepping for a CMMC Level 2 assessment or just trying to stay ahead, this episode is packed with actionable advice.…

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CMMC on the Shop Floor: A No-BS Guide for CNC & Aerospace Machine Shops 26:51

21 days ago26:51

26:51

Submit any questions you would like answered on the podcast! Happy 4th of July from the team at CMMC Compliance Guide Podcast ! While you're celebrating freedom, hot dogs, and fireworks — don’t forget about safeguarding the data that defends that freedom. 🛡️ In this special edition , we're tackling what really works for CMMC compliance on the shop floor. From coolant-soaked travelers to ancient XP machines, this is your no-nonsense guide to staying compliant in real-world CNC and aerospace manufacturing environments. Skip the theory. Get the real-world playbook. Because you can't afford to shut down production just to pass an audit. 📞 Need help with CMMC or NIST 800-171? We fast-track defense manufacturers to compliance — or give you the tools to do it yourself. 👉 Visit https://www.cmmccomplianceguide.com to download free resources or schedule a discovery call.…

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Ceasefire’s Here, But Your Shop’s Still a Target: What the DoD CIO Just Told Defense Contractors 23:44

28 days ago23:44

23:44

Submit any questions you would like answered on the podcast! 🆓 Need help getting your SPRS score to 110? Schedule your free SPRS Roadmap Session and get a step-by-step plan to close gaps and stay defensible: 👉 https://cmmccomplianceguide.com/free-sprs-roadmap The Department of Defense just issued a critical cybersecurity memo—and it's not just for the Lockheeds and Raytheons. In this episode, we break down what small and mid-sized DoD contractors must do now to respond to rising cyber threats—even amid headlines of ceasefire. From multi-factor authentication and patching systems to cloud security guidance and SPRS score readiness, we walk you through the exact steps your organization needs to take. Resources Mentioned: Memo: https://media.licdn.com/dms/document/media/v2/D561FAQFbAPookqu2zw/feedshare-document-pdf-analyzed/B56ZefAj13HoAY-/0/1750719415748?e=1751500800&v=beta&t=O6aY3UDi5ijLTGOa6RP4xAWABMPZh-ZKRkXRikiCywg https://www.cisa.gov/known-exploited-vulnerabilities-catalog https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/directives/bod-25-01-implementing-secure-practices-cloud-services https://www.cisa.gov/cyber-hygiene-services https://www.nsa.gov/About/Cybersecurity-Collaboration-Center/DIB-Cybersecurity-Services/ https://www.dc3.mil/Missions/DIB-Cybersecurity/DCISE-Resources/ #CMMC #DODCompliance #CyberSecurity #SPRS #DefenseContractor #CyberThreats #NIST800171 #CMMCComplianceGuide…

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Breaking Down the Real Cost of CMMC Compliance for Small Businesses 31:44

5 weeks ago31:44

31:44

Submit any questions you would like answered on the podcast! Why is CMMC compliance so expensive—especially for small businesses? In this episode of the CMMC Compliance Guide Podcast , Austin and Brooke from Justice IT Consulting break down what really drives up the cost of CMMC and NIST 800-171 compliance, and more importantly—how you can cut costs without cutting corners . We cover: The four stages of compliance cost: paperwork, project work, ongoing maintenance, and assessments What assessors can and can’t help with Enclave strategies that can save you thousands Why smaller companies feel a heavier burden—and how to manage it Smart scoping, VDI, and how not to overspend on your CMMC journey If you’re trying to balance compliance with a tight budget, this episode is a must-listen. 👉 Need help or have questions? Contact us for free advice at CMMCComplianceGuide.com . 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!…

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How to Scope CMMC Correctly: Avoid Audit Failures, Over-Scoping, and Cloud Risks 12:17

6 weeks ago12:17

12:17

Submit any questions you would like answered on the podcast! Is your CMMC scope setting you up for success—or failure? In this episode of the CMMC Compliance Guide , Brooke and Stacey from Justice IT Consulting break down one of the most misunderstood (and expensive) parts of your compliance journey: scoping . Learn how to define your CUI boundary the right way, avoid common over-scoping mistakes, and streamline your assessment with clear documentation strategies. Whether you're prepping for a formal CMMC assessment or self-assessing for NIST 800-171, this episode gives you real-world insights that can save you time, money, and frustration. 🔍 We cover: What really defines your CMMC scope (it's more than just your server) The hidden risks of over-scoping and cloud blind spots Third-party service provider mistakes that can blow your scope Must-have documentation: data flow diagrams, network diagrams, and asset inventories A practical checklist to get your scope right before the audit 🛠 Need a faster path to compliance without cutting corners? Visit www.CMMCComplianceGuide.com for free resources, expert help, or to book a discovery call.…

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What You Missed at CEIC West 2025: CMMC Culture, AI Labeling, and Subcontractor Risks 51:51

8 weeks ago51:51

51:51

Submit any questions you would like answered on the podcast! Missed CEIC West 2025 in Las Vegas? We’ve got your insider recap. In this episode of the CMMC Compliance Guide , Austin and Brooke break down the most critical insights defense contractors need to know—from Katie Arrington’s keynote to real-world flowdown risks, mock assessment walkthroughs, and what AI means for your CUI documentation. If you’re a small or mid-sized DoD contractor trying to stay compliant with CMMC, NIST 800-171, and DFARS, this episode gives you the takeaways that actually matter. 📞 Have questions? Text, call, or email us. We’ll answer them for free on the podcast. 🔗 Visit www.cmmccomplianceguide.com for free resources…

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How to Identify and Fix Your NIST 800-171 Weak Spots 36:38

9 weeks ago36:38

36:38

Submit any questions you would like answered on the podcast! Are you sure you're NIST 800-171 compliant? In this episode of the CMMC Compliance Guide Podcast , Austin and Brooke break down the most overlooked NIST 800-171 requirements that continue to trip up DoD contractors—and what you can do today to avoid those costly mistakes. From data flow diagrams to documentation pitfalls, supply chain risks, and misunderstood MFA and logging requirements, this episode is packed with practical insights and actionable takeaways. If you’re pursuing CMMC Level 2 or just trying to boost your SPRS score , this is a must-listen. 💡 You’ll Learn: Why poor scoping is the #1 mistake in compliance How to map your CUI data flow across systems and subcontractors What assessors really expect from your MFA, logging, and risk assessment controls Why your documentation strategy can make or break your assessment What it takes to maintain compliance after you’re “done” How to use the NIST 800-171A Assessment Guide to conduct a real gap analysis The truth about ongoing compliance vs. one-time audits GRC tools, POAMs, and how to build your project roadmap This episode is your self-assessment gut check. Whether you're just starting or already deep into your compliance journey, don’t miss these expert tips. 🔗 For free resources, visit: https://cmmccomplianceguide.com 📅 Meet us at DibCon , June 3–5, in Oklahoma City!…

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CMMC Day 2025 Recap: Key Takeaways, Real-World Mistakes & What SMBs Must Fix Now 56:52

10 weeks ago56:52

56:52

Submit any questions you would like answered on the podcast! Get the latest insider takeaways from CMMC Day 2025 straight from Washington D.C. In this episode of the CMMC Compliance Guide Podcast , Brooke and Austin break down the most critical updates small and midsized businesses (SMBs) in the defense supply chain need to know now. We cover: ✅ Why CMMC is NOT going away (despite what skeptics think) ✅ Critical mistakes businesses still make with SSPs, scoping, and access control ✅ Real-world assessment horror stories you need to avoid ✅ Why subcontractors can't hide in the supply chain anymore ✅ Tools, technology, and zero trust lessons from the show floor Whether you're a manufacturer, IT lead, or compliance manager, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you stay off the DoD's naughty list and win more contracts in 2025. 🎯 Need help? Get your free SPRS Score Roadmap → https://cmmccomplianceguide.com/free-sprs-roadmap…

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Decoding NIST 800-171: Your Plain English Path to CMMC Level 2 Compliance 59:20

12 weeks ago59:20

59:20

Submit any questions you would like answered on the podcast! Feeling overwhelmed by CMMC compliance and NIST 800-171’s 110 controls? You’re not alone — but you don’t have to be stuck. In this episode of the CMMC Compliance Guide Podcast , Brooke and Austin break down NIST 800-171 Revision 2 in plain English — no government-speak, no tech jargon — so you can finally understand what each control family means for your business. You'll learn: What NIST 800-171 really requires (and why it matters for your SPRS score) How to tackle key control families like Access Control, Awareness & Training, and Audit & Accountability The critical mistakes contractors make (and how to avoid them) Why documentation is the #1 secret weapon for CMMC success Real-world tips for manufacturing, machine shop, and aerospace contractors navigating CMMC Level 2 🔥 Don’t wait until an assessor says “No Soup for You” — build a compliance system that actually protects your business and wins contracts. 👉 Need help fast-tracking your compliance journey? Visit https://cmmccomplianceguide.com to download free resources or schedule a discovery call.…

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How to Improve Your SPRS Score Before It Costs You Contracts 9:12

15 weeks ago9:12

9:12

Submit any questions you would like answered on the podcast! Is your SPRS score putting your DoD contracts at risk? In this episode of the CMMC Compliance Guide, we break down exactly what the SPRS score is, why it matters, and how to improve it fast—before you lose out on federal work. Whether you're stuck at -72 or hovering at 80, we’ll walk you through how to get to 110 with practical, plain-English guidance. From gap analysis to POA&Ms, system security plans, encryption, MFA, and the best GRC tools—we’re covering it all. 👉 Schedule your FREE SPRS Roadmap Session (Limited Time): www.cmmccomplianceguide.com/free-sprs-roadmap ✅ $1,500 Value — No pitch, no pressure. Just expert help. 🎯 What You'll Learn: ✅What an SPRS score is and why it matters ✅How to assess your current score (and why most are wrong) ✅What documentation and tech controls you must have ✅How to get to 110 — even if you’re starting from a negative score…

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The E.A.S.Y Framework That Makes CMMC Actually Doable 13:15

16 weeks ago13:15

13:15

Submit any questions you would like answered on the podcast! If someone tells you CMMC compliance can't be easy… they’re not necessarily wrong — but they’re also missing the point. In this episode of the CMMC Compliance Guide Podcast, Austin and Brooke from Justice IT Consulting break down one of the biggest myths in the compliance space: that achieving CMMC compliance has to be overwhelming, time-consuming, and painfully complex. Using our E.A.S.Y. framework, we’re showing you how strategic companies are simplifying their compliance efforts and turning cybersecurity into a competitive edge: ✅ E – Expert Guided: Why going it alone can cost you more in time and money. ✅ A – Aligned to Requirements: How to avoid the tech-first trap and focus on business process. ✅ S – Streamlined Approach: Proven tools, trusted frameworks, and no need to reinvent the wheel. ✅ Y – Your Competitive Advantage: Compliance isn’t just a checkbox — it’s a business differentiator. Whether you're a defense contractor starting your compliance journey or trying to stay ahead of evolving requirements, this episode gives you the mindset and framework to make CMMC easier — not effortless, but easier. 📞 Need help fast-tracking your compliance? Reach out at: cmmccomplianceguide.com/podcast — we’ll answer your questions for free right here on the show.…

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CMMC Compliance Consulting vs. DIY Compliance: Which Is the Smarter, More Cost-Effective Choice? 33:17

17 weeks ago33:17

33:17

Submit any questions you would like answered on the podcast! In this episode of The CMMC Compliance Guide Podcast, Brooke and Austin dive into a key question many DoD contractors face: Should you handle CMMC compliance yourself or hire a consultant? We break down the risks, costs, and benefits to help you make the best decision for your business. Discover the 6 major risks of DIY compliance, including: 1️⃣ Losing DoD contracts due to non-compliance 2️⃣ Keeping up with ever-changing CMMC requirements 3️⃣ Hidden costs that make DIY compliance more expensive 4️⃣ The gap in IT teams’ compliance expertise 5️⃣ Security risks that linger even after passing an assessment 6️⃣ How CMMC assessors prioritize well-prepared organizations 🎯 Whether you’re starting your compliance journey or stuck midway, this episode offers actionable advice to help you stay compliant and secure. 🔗 For expert guidance and resources, visit https://cmmccomplianceguide.com/ 👍 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more tips on achieving CMMC compliance with confidence.…

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Your IT Provider: The Keystone to Passing CMMC – or the Hidden Risk That Could Cost You Everything 8:34

18 weeks ago8:34

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Submit any questions you would like answered on the podcast! In this episode of The CMMC Compliance Guide Podcast, Brooke and Stacey reveal a critical factor that could make or break your compliance journey: your IT provider. ✅ Discover why your IT provider plays a crucial role in your CMMC assessment. ✅ Learn the risks of working with an unqualified IT provider — and how they could cost you contracts. ✅ Find out what a qualified IT provider should bring to the table to simplify your compliance process. ✅ Get actionable tips on how to vet an IT provider to ensure they’re an asset — not a liability. 🎯 Don’t leave your compliance journey to chance. Tune in to learn how to make your IT provider your strongest ally. 🔗 For more resources, visit https://cmmccomplianceguide.com/ ❗Get past all the CMMC jargon by downloading our CMMC Glossary: https://cmmccomplianceguide.com/glossary…

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How the DoD’s Cybersecurity Crackdown Could Impact Your Aerospace Contracts 50:17

20 weeks ago50:17

50:17

Submit any questions you would like answered on the podcast! The DoD is tightening its cybersecurity regulations, and your aerospace contracts could be on the line. In this episode of The CMMC Compliance Guide Podcast, we break down the latest changes to CMMC, DFARS, and FAR that could directly impact your business. Join Austin and Brooke from Justice IT Consulting as they explain: ✅ The upcoming CMMC, DFARS, and FAR rule changes & deadlines ✅ Why self-reported compliance is no longer enough ✅ How SPRS scores and third-party assessments will determine contract eligibility ✅ The legal risks of non-compliance, including False Claims Act violations ✅ Steps you must take right now to stay ahead of the cybersecurity crackdown Don’t wait until it’s too late! Compliance deadlines are fast approaching, and failing to prepare could mean losing out on DoD contracts. Stay informed, stay compliant, and protect your business. 📌 Download your free guide here: https://cmmccomplianceguide.com/ultimate-aerospace-contractor-guide 📌 Need help with compliance? Contact us at https://cmmccomplianceguide.com…

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CyberAB January Town Hall Updates: Key CMMC & FAR CUI Rule Insights for DoD Contractors 15:19

21 weeks ago15:19