FedUpward Podcast - Tips for Federal Government Employees

Congressional funding negotiations are anything but straightforward—and the stakes for federal employees couldn't be higher. We welcome John Hatton of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE) back to the podcast to break down where federal appropriations stand. We unpack continuing resolutions, stalled funding bills, Homeland Security complications, and the real possibility of another government shutdown—plus how unexpected factors like weather and congressional scheduling can further delay decisions. This conversation is very much "as of today," (which was a few days ago) offering federal employees context, clarity, and insight into what these funding battles could mean for agencies, pay, benefits, and workforce stability. John also shares how NARFE supports federal employees through advocacy, education, and resources during uncertain times. Listen now! Connect with Love: Coaching: https://www.fedupwardcoaching.com/  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward The FedUpward Podcast gives federal employees and friends of feds strategies and tips for navigating everyday problems. This is a place for federal employees to network, share ideas and get better. Don't get fed up. Get FedUpward!  

What happens when federal leaders stop waiting for permission to fix what's broken? On this episode of the FedUpward podcast, host Love Rutledge is joined by Maureen Klovers and April Mohr Harding, co-founders of We the Doers, a new movement created by current and former federal executives determined to reform government where policy meets reality. Drawing on decades of experience across agencies like Treasury, USDA, IRS, and the intelligence community, Maureen and April break down the real barriers to effective government—from broken budget cycles and outdated performance metrics to procurement, IT, and cultural constraints that make reform harder than it needs to be. They also discuss their newly released report, built in weeks (not years), and why the voices of "doers" are missing from most reform conversations. Listeners will learn: Why efficiency reforms often fail without operational input The four foundational barriers holding government back How federal employees can help shape better outcomes for the public Where to read the report and get involved Read the report and learn more at https://wethedoers.org Connect with Love: Coaching: https://www.fedupwardcoaching.com/  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward The FedUpward Podcast gives federal employees and friends of feds strategies and tips for navigating everyday problems. This is a place for federal employees to network, share ideas and get better. Don't get fed up. Get FedUpward!  

The Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey (FEVS) isn't happening in 2025 — but the need to hear from federal workers has never been greater.  Michelle Amante, Senior Vice President for Government Programs at the Partnership for Public Service, returns to the podcast to unpack the OPM pause on FEVS this year and how the Partnership is ensuring federal employees still have a voice. Michelle explains the newly launched Public Service Viewpoint Survey, why employee feedback is mission-critical in a transitional year, and how the Partnership designed a shorter, 23-question survey that mirrors core FEVS methodology while addressing new realities like AI, resources, and shifting leadership. Listeners will hear: Why FEVS was paused for 2025 What's included in the Partnership's alternative survey How confidentiality is protected How to participate before December 19 New resources the Partnership is offering, including Fed Support webinars and the "Government for a New Era" initiative The survey closes December 19. Make your voice heard, take the survey here: https://ourpublicservice.org/public-service-viewpoint-survey/  Visit their website: https://ourpublicservice.org/read-watch-listen/  Connect with Love: Coaching: https://www.fedupwardcoaching.com/  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward The FedUpward Podcast gives federal employees and friends of feds strategies and tips for navigating everyday problems. This is a place for federal employees to network, share ideas and get better. Don't get fed up. Get FedUpward!  

John Hatton, Vice President of Policy and Programs at the National Association of Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE), returns to the podcast. John breaks down what federal employees need to know during Open Season—from steep premium increases to how to confidently evaluate changing plans without feeling overwhelmed. He dives into NARFE's member resources, including webinars and expert guidance that help employees and retirees make informed decisions that could save thousands annually. John also unpacks the latest developments from Capitol Hill: back pay assurances, the temporary halt on RIFs, appropriations updates, and what federal workers should expect as another budget deadline approaches. If you want clarity on your benefits and what's ahead for the federal workforce, this episode is a must-listen. Join NARFE: https://members.narfe.org/  Connect with Love: Coaching: https://www.fedupwardcoaching.com/  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward    

Love welcomes back Kevin Moss, Senior Editor of Consumers' Checkbook, to the podcast to break down what's new for this year's Open Season. From premium increases and IVF coverage expansion to flexible spending accounts and hidden health plan perks, Kevin shares essential insights every federal employee needs to make smart, cost-saving healthcare decisions. Learn why average premiums are rising 12.3% in 2026, how GLP-1 medications and healthcare utilization are impacting costs, and what benefit adjustments could affect out-of-pocket spending. Kevin also explains how to use Consumers' Checkbook Health Plan Comparison Tool—available to many agencies and individual users—to find the best value for your health coverage. Plus, he offers practical tips for saving money through FSAs, supplemental benefits, and wellness incentives—because while the numbers may not be cheerful, informed choices can make a big difference. Use promo code FEDUPWARD at guidetohealthplans.org for 20% off access to Consumers' Checkbook Health Plan Comparison Tool, and tune in to stay ahead of Open Season changes that could impact your wallet and wellbeing. https://www.checkbook.org/  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward The FedUpward Podcast gives federal employees and friends of feds strategies and tips for navigating everyday problems. This is a place for federal employees to network, share ideas and get better. Don't get fed up. Get FedUpward!  

Layoff Led to Purpose: How Kathleen Borgueta Built a Lifeline for Working Parents When federal contractor Kathleen Borgueta received her termination letter just 11 weeks postpartum, she could have let it break her. Instead, she built Pivoting Parents—a growing community helping caregivers navigate job transitions, childcare challenges, and career reinvention. In this episode of The Fed Upward Podcast, Kathleen talks about the power of community, the realities of caregiving while job-hunting, and why federal parents need holistic support now more than ever. 👉 Visit pivotingparents.com 👉 Connect with Kathleen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleenborgueta/ #FedUpward #FederalEmployees #WorkingParents #CareerTransitions #PivotingParents  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward The FedUpward Podcast gives federal employees and friends of feds strategies and tips for navigating everyday problems. This is a place for federal employees to network, share ideas and get better. Don't get fed up. Get FedUpward!  

When a government shutdown hits, it's not just politics—it's people. Robyn Kehoe with the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund (FEEA) joins FedUpward to talk about the emergency microgrants, loans, and resources available to help federal employees and their families weather financial hardship. FEEA, a nonprofit that has supported feds for nearly 40 years, is stepping up once again to provide direct relief during the shutdown—alongside scholarships, emergency loans, and year-round programs that serve the federal workforce. In this episode, you'll learn: How to apply for shutdown microgrants before funds run out What to know about emergency loans and scholarship opportunities Where to find state-specific unemployment resources How to donate or support FEEA's mission to help fellow feds Why FEEA's work continues long after the shutdown ends Learn more or apply for assistance: https://feea.org Donate to support federal employees in need: https://feea.org/donate #FedUpward #FEEA #FederalEmployees #GovernmentShutdown #PublicService Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Instagram: Love (@fedupwardpodcast)  Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward The FedUpward Podcast gives federal employees and friends of feds strategies and tips for navigating everyday problems. This is a place for federal employees to network, share ideas and get better. Don't get fed up. Get FedUpward!  

If you've recently left government—or are thinking about it—this one's for you. Brian Levine, former DOJ cybercrime prosecutor and founder of Former Gov, joins FedUpward to share how his growing community is helping former public servants rebuild their networks, discover new opportunities, and step confidently into their next chapter. Brian shares his story of walking away from a high-paying consulting job to build something meaningful—a platform designed by and for people who've served. From free memberships and networking events to practical career resources, he's creating a lifeline for those navigating uncertainty. In this episode, you'll learn: Why losing your federal job doesn't mean losing your purpose How to join Former Gov and get a free year of membership Where to find networking, board, and consulting opportunities The power of in-person community—like Former Gov's weekly coworking Tuesdays in D.C. Tips for translating your public sector experience into private sector success Whether you're freshly out, furloughed, or simply ready for a change, this episode reminds you: you're not done serving—you're just getting started. Learn more or claim your free membership at FormerGov.com. Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward The FedUpward Podcast gives federal employees and friends of feds strategies and tips for navigating everyday problems. This is a place for federal employees to network, share ideas and get better. Don't get fed up. Get FedUpward!  

POPVOX Foundation's Departure Dialogues Give Former Feds a Voice Anne Meeker from the POPVOX Foundation joins the FedUpward Podcast to talk about the Departure Dialogues Project—a unique initiative empowering former federal employees to share candid feedback that can help shape better laws and policies. The POPVOX Foundation, led by former congressional staffers, focuses on strengthening the policymaking "feedback loop" between Congress, the executive branch, and constituents. With Departure Dialogues, they're creating a safe and constructive platform where departing feds can highlight inefficiencies, roadblocks, and opportunities for improvement in government operations. Learn how you can participate, what themes are already emerging (like the Paperwork Reduction Act and budgeting process), and why your voice matters more than ever. If you're a current or former fed, this is your chance to help strengthen government effectiveness and efficiency—using your experience to drive positive change. Resources: PopVox Departure Dialogues: https://popvox.org/departure FedUpward Coaching: https://fedupwardcoaching.com/podcast #FedUpward #FederalEmployees #GovernmentCareers #Policy #PublicService Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge

Building the Future Workforce: Skills-Based Hiring and GovHR Innovations Michelle Amante, Senior Vice President of Government Programs at Partnership for Public Service returns to the FedUpward podcast, joined by Blair Corcoran de Castillo from Opportunity@Work.  We dive into what's ahead for the second annual GovHR Conference, taking place September 16–18 both in Washington, D.C. and virtually. Learn how government agencies are embracing skills-based hiring, supporting non-traditional talent pipelines like STARs (Skilled Through Alternative Routes), and leveraging AI and data tools to meet modern workforce needs.  Discover what's happening in states like Maryland and cities like Philadelphia—and how these examples can transform federal, state, and local HR practices. Register for the GovHR Conference: https://events.ourpublicservice.org/2025-govhr Explore the Federal Support Hub and free resources: https://ourpublicservice.org Learn more about Opportunity@Work and the STARs initiative: https://opportunityatwork.org Helpful Resources: Work with Love: www.fedupwardcoaching.com  State of Maryland resources: https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press/pages/governor-moore-launches-resource-website-for-maryland-workers-impacted-by-recent-federal-actions.aspx Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge

Federal benefits expert Tammy Flanagan is here to share essential tips for making smarter insurance choices, navigating open season, and preparing for retirement. Learn how to avoid common mistakes, understand Medicare decisions, and use tools like the Checkbook Guide and OPM plan comparison to save money and boost your coverage. 00:00 – Intro 00:49 – Tammy Flanagan on Planning for Open Season Early 03:32 – Tools to Compare and Choose the Right Federal Health Plan 05:55 – Common Mistakes Feds Make with Insurance and Medicare 09:15 – What to Know About Health Coverage in Early Retirement 12:01 – Why NARFE Advocacy Matters and How to Get Involved Regardless of if you're early in your career or planning retirement, this episode will help you get the most from your federal benefits. Helpful Resources: Learn more about NARFE: https://www.narfe.org  Visit OPM's plan comparison tool: https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/healthcare/plan-information  Meet with Tammy: https://plan-your-federal-retirement.com/talking-with-tammy/  Work with Love: www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward

"Do that thing you've always wanted to do."  In this inspiring episode of the Fed Upward Podcast, host Love Rutledge sits down with returning guest Dr. Nola Haynes—a longtime federal employee, academic, and media voice—to discuss how federal employees can navigate uncertain times, build a personal brand, and thrive in a post-DEI backlash environment. Whether you're stepping out of public service, considering your next pivot, or just curious how to carry your mission into a new space, Dr. Haynes offers candid advice and deep wisdom—along with a reminder to always show up fabulous. ✨ Dr. Haynes joined the FedUpward Podcast during the annual conference hosted by Globally, a nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating communities of emerging leaders who are committed to addressing the most pressing global challenges of our time. 00:00 – Intro 00:50 – Dr. Nola Haynes on career pivots and the anti-DEI backlash 02:54 – Advice for Feds considering what's next: "Take a breath, then take the leap" 04:57 – Bridging the gap between academia and federal service 08:17 – Developing a personal brand: femininity as power, not a liability 11:17 – Why showing up authentically leaves a lasting impression 13:21 – Where to follow Dr. Haynes and her new projects 15:56 – Final thoughts: This moment of chaos is your moment of opportunity Helpful Resources: Connect with Dr. Nola Haynes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-nola-haynes-50050158/  IG: @nolahaynes  Substack: https://nolahaynes1.substack.com/  Globally:  https://globally.org/ Work with Love: www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward  

David Spirk on Scaling What Works and Cutting What Doesn't David Spirk, a Marine Corps veteran and Senior Counselor at Palantir, joins FedUpward to talk about driving real transformation in government. He discusses how to operationalize data, the trap of failing programs, and what efficiency should actually mean in federal service. David joined the FedUpward Podcast during the annual conference hosted by Globally, a nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating communities of emerging leaders who are committed to addressing the most pressing global challenges of our time. 00:00 – Meet David Spirk 01:20 – How federal workers can build technical and data literacy 03:10 – Operationalizing AI: Why transformation starts at the workflow level 04:55 – Why failing programs keep getting funded 07:46 – Rethinking efficiency: Better, faster, cheaper (with meaning) Spirk doesn't mince words. He calls out the persistent funding of underperforming programs and urges federal leaders to stop rewarding PowerPoint progress over real-world impact. He also shares why mindset—especially around acquisition and budgeting—is often the biggest barrier to innovation. Connect with the Globally community here. Book Recommendation: Freedom's Forge: https://www.amazon.com/Freedoms-Forge-American-Business-Produced/dp/0812982045 Helpful Resources: Follow David Spirk on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-spirk-a21a37126/  Work with Love: www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward

Inside the EEOC: What Federal Employees Should Know What actually happens when a federal employee files an EEOC complaint? In this episode, I sit down with Courtney Mickman, a former EEOC Administrative Judge who's seen it all—from inside the agency to now representing employees in private practice. We cover the basics of the EEOC process, why return-to-office mandates are triggering a surge in accommodation issues, and how long federal EEO cases really take. Hear important distinctions between DEI policy and what's actually enforceable under federal law. 00:00 – Intro: Meet Courtney Mickman 01:22 – Courtney's Role at EEOC and Federal Background 03:48 – What Is an EEOC Administrative Judge? 05:01 – Discrimination Types EEOC Covers 07:23 – Current Trends: Return-to-Office and Disability Accommodations 10:22 – The Burden of the Accommodation Process 12:31 – Interim Accommodations and Systemic Delays 14:11 – Advice for Employees Seeking Accommodation 16:42 – How Long Do EEO Cases Take? 20:55 – DEI vs. EEOC Law: What's the Difference? 22:42 – Resources for Federal Employees and Managers 25:08 – Final Thoughts + Resource Roundup ⚠️ Reminder: This is an informational discussion and not legal advice. If you're facing an EEO issue, always consult an attorney. Helpful Resources: EEOC Resources: https://www.eeoc.gov  Alan Lescht & Associates Blog: https://www.dcemploymentattorney.com/resources/blog/  Follow Courtney Mickman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-mickman-36145633a/  Work with Love: www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge  

Former Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence & Security Milancy Harris joins FedUpward at Globally's Shaping America's Next 25 Summit to talk candidly about her career across intelligence, counterterrorism, and policy roles—and what it really takes to lead in government today. From navigating bureaucracy to developing talent and fostering public-private understanding, Harris shares clear-eyed advice for federal employees, aspiring leaders, and those curious about working at the highest levels of national security. 00:49 – Meet Milancy Harris: From intel analyst to senior DoD leader 01:31 – What's broken? Bureaucracy and the roadblocks to good ideas 03:05 – Developing employees: Peer mentoring, training, and listening 05:00 – Podcasts and cross-agency training as growth tools 07:31 – Political appointees vs. career feds: Misconceptions & mindset 09:31 – The best leadership advice? Start with the human touch Don't miss this one if you're looking to grow your career in public service—or lead with more heart, strategy, and purpose. Helpful Resources: Follow Milancy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milancy-harris/  www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward  

Globally's Vision for the Next Generation of Leaders with Josh Marcuse Live from the Shaping America's Next 25 Summit, Love Rutledge sits down with Josh Marcuse, co-founder of Globally, to discuss the power of mission-aligned careers, tri-sector leadership, and how to scale authentic communities of impact. 00:49 – Meet Globally co-founder Josh Marcuse: From DoD to Google  03:03 – Why Globally was founded + the power of community 05:44 – Four themes shaping the future 10:40 – How to get involved with Globally and its networks 12:19 – A call to future founders: Build your own mission-driven community Globally is a nonprofit committed to building communities of emerging leaders united by a shared mission: tackling the world's toughest challenges. The Shaping America's Next 25 Summit brought together more than 150 leaders and partners to collaborate on securing the future, strengthening public service, and preparing the next generation with the tools, insights, and networks needed to lead for the next 25 years. The FedUpward Podcast is proud to partner with Globally. Whether you're a federal employee or a future founder, this conversation is packed with inspiration and insight. And stay tuned for more conversations from the summit!  Helpful Resources: https://globally.org/  www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward ----- The FedUpward Podcast gives federal employees and friends of feds strategies and tips for navigating everyday problems. This is a place for federal employees to network, share ideas and get better. Don't get fed up. Get FedUpward! #FederalEmployees #FederalGovernment #FedWorkforce #Federal #FedUpward    

Free UMGC Career Expo for Feds on June 16 Join me in welcoming back Justin Hasty from the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) to the podcast as he shares how federal employees can take charge of their careers—no matter where they're starting from. Whether you're concerned about job security or simply looking to grow your skill, UMGC offers: 100% online degree and certificate programs Up to 25% tuition discounts for federal employees and their families Flexible learning options designed for working adults PLUS: A Free Career Expo on June 16 UMGC is hosting a hiring event on Monday, June 16, from 11 AM-2 PM at College Park Marriott (3501 University Blvd E, Adelphi, MD 20783). Register and upload your resume here: https://umgccareerexpo.vfairs.com/  Whether you're facing a reduction in force or just ready for what's next, you don't have to do it alone. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share with someone in the federal community who could benefit from this conversation.  00:49 – Welcome Back, Justin Hasty of UMGC 01:23 – Why UMGC Works for Federal Employees 03:19 – In-Demand Degree & Certificate Programs 04:37 – Tuition Discounts for Feds & Families 05:08 – Career Expo Details (June 16) Helpful Resources: https://umgccareerexpo.vfairs.com/  https://www.umgc.edu/  www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge  

Questions Every Fed Should Ask Right Now Hi Friends -  I'm back after a short break to reconnect with all of you during Public Service Recognition Week. This episode is a call for reflection and an invitation to ponder where we are as federal employees right now. With so much change happening across the federal workforce, these are the questions to ponder: Why did you join public service? What's keeping you here? And what do you need to not just survive—but actually thrive? Whether you're navigating burnout, considering your next move, or trying to hold space for others doing the same, I hope this conversation gives you a moment to pause and check in with yourself. Finding community, supporting each other, and focusing on mentoring the next generation of public servants is crcuial—even when things feel heavy. Tune in, take a breath, and remember: you're not in this alone. 00:00 Intro 00:50 Update 1:51 Why Did You Join Public Service? 02:47 Why Are You Still Here? 03:39 What Do You Need to Succeed? 04:34 Who's Your Community? 05:27 What Are You Contributing to the Future? 06:43 Closing Thoughts & Resources Helpful Resources: https://ourpublicservice.org/  https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/788713/who-is-government-by-edited-by-michael-lewis/  www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward

Northeastern University Arlington is Meeting the Moment for the Federal Workforce  This week, we welcome Jamie Jones Miller, Dean and CEO of Northeastern University Arlington, back to the show as the federal workforce faces historic shifts. Before her inaugural role at Northeastern University Arlington, Jamie spent over 20 years in the defense industry, from Capitol Hill to the DoD. The national security insider has brought her expertise to grow the workforce's next generation. Jamie shares how her team is preparing today's federal employees, military-connected individuals, and contractors for tomorrow's tech-driven challenges through upskilling, reskilling, and policy-smart programs in cybersecurity, AI, data, and more. 00:00 Intro 02:00 From Capitol Hill and the Department of Defense to Academia: Jamie Jones Miller's Story 04:39 Upskilling & Reskilling at Northeastern University Arlington 06:29 Customized Offerings to Meet the Current Federal Workforce Challenges 08:17 Jamie's Experience Upskilling (and Why You Should To) 10:25 Upcoming Events and Offerings for the Federal Workforce To browse programs and offerings at Northeastern University Arlington, click here: https://arlington.northeastern.edu/ Federal, Military, and Veteran Benefits: https://arlington.northeastern.edu/academic-programs/scholarships/ 🗓️ Upcoming Federal + Military Open Houses: 📍April 2, 4:30–7:00 PM 🔗 Register: https://connect.northeastern.edu/portal/military_open_house?linkId=100000347700091 Helpful Resources: https://arlington.northeastern.edu/ www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge

How MindfulFED is Creating Connection Amid Changes Change is hard. And right now, the federal workforce is undergoing a major shift. But one government-wide community is offering an anchor in the storm. Longtime federal employee, writer, and meditation facilitator Alex Snider joins the show to share more about MindfulFED, the first-ever government-wide mindfulness community he co-created.  00:00 Intro 01:22 Origins of Mindful FED 03:22 Sign up by emailing subscribe@mindfulfed.com 04:22 Alex Snider's Recent Psychology Today Article 05:45 Coping with Constant Change 07:45 Power of Positivity If you're a federal employee, join MindfulFED by emailing subscribe@mindfulfed.com for their weekly newsletter and meditation session. To learn more about Alex and read his publications, visit the links below. Join Alex and other feds on March 12th in person for mindful support. Register at this link: Helpful Resources: slowmindfulness.com Human Bureaucracy | Alex Snider | Substack Human Bureaucracy | Psychology Today www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Instagram: Love (@fedupwardpodcast)  Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward