FedUpward Podcast - Tips for Federal Government Employees

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      

We welcome back Dr. Patrick Malone, Director of the Key Executive Leadership Programs at American University. Dr. Malone shares insights on leadership development for federal employees, highlighting Key’s executive programs, coaching resources, and the importance of emotional intelligence in public service. With the recent executive order eliminating the Federal Executive Institute, many federal employees are wondering what’s next for their leadership development. Dr. Malone discusses how Key Executive Programs is stepping up to provide resources, coaching, and a supportive network to help feds navigate this transition.  If you’re looking for guidance, this episode is for you. Register for the Executive Leadership Conference on March 12, celebrating 50 years of leadership education  -- https://www.american.edu/spa/key/key-conference.cfm   Helpful Resources: www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Key Executive Leadership Programs at American University: https://www.american.edu/spa/key/  Leading with Love and Laughter - Patrick Malone and Zina Sutch https://sutchmalone.com/books/leading-with-love-and-laughter/  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Instagram: Love (@fedupwardpodcast)  Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward

Despite hiring freezes across the federal government, there are agencies still looking to fill roles with the next generation of top talent. Love Rutledge sits down with Pat Tamburrino, Jr. to discuss NobleReach, a nonprofit organization helping agencies streamline hiring by connecting them with highly qualified candidates. Learn how this innovative program is making federal service more accessible and efficient. 00:00 - Intro 01:06 - Meet Pat Tamburrino, Jr. & NobleReach 02:58 - Pat’s Career Journey 04:21 - What is NobleReach Scholars? 07:34 - How the Hiring Process Works 08:42 - NobleReach Benefits & Mentorship 10:37 - Success Stories & 2025 Expansion 15:54 - Connecting with NobleReach 17:14 - Mission Still Matters 17:42 - Flexibility of Placements 19:28 - Addressing Talent Gaps NobleReach is redefining how agencies find and onboard mission-driven professionals. Whether you’re a federal hiring manager looking for talent or someone interested in public service, this episode has valuable insights for you. Helpful Resources: www.fedupwardcoaching.com  https://noblereachfoundation.org/  Connect with Pat Tamburrino, Jr.: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pat-tamburrino-jr-26212283/  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Instagram: Love (@fedupwardpodcast)  Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward  

Cadie Hopkins on Amplifying the Stories of Women in the Intel Community Cadie Hopkins, co-founder of Iron Butterfly Media, joins the podcast to discuss their mission to amplify the stories of women in the intelligence community. Cadie shares the journey behind their podcasts, Iron Butterfly and Women in the Arena, as well as an upcoming documentary featuring trailblazing women in public service. Her story reflects a commitment to bring together federal employees to mentor, sponsor and support one another. How could you do the same wherever you work? Tune in to learn about their grassroots efforts, impactful storytelling, and how they’re busting myths about the intelligence community. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about mentorship, community, and the power of authentic voices in public service! For more on Iron Butterfly Media click here: www.ironbutterflymedia.com Helpful Resources: www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Subscribe to Iron Butterfly: www.ironbutterflymedia.com/the-iron-butterfly-podcast Subscribe to The Women in the Arena: www.ironbutterflymedia.com/the-women-in-the-arena  Donate to support the documentary production:  https://donorbox.org/iron-butterfly-foundation-2024-eoy-fundraising-campaign Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Instagram: Love (@fedupwardpodcast)  Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward

Certified financial planner Brian Sigwart joined me on the podcast to discuss the elimination of the windfall provision, whichi limited CSRS employee social security benefits. (If you're a FERS employee, this won't impact you.) He also explains what you should be thinking about as we kick off a new calendar year (update your TSP contributions folks). Catch up contributions for folks of specific ages changed this year. You cna get more details here. A WEP explainer: https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/program-explainers/windfall-elimination-provision.html Biden signed the bill: https://www.psrs-peers.org/About-Us/News/2025/01/06/president-biden-signs-social-security-fairness-act--repeals-wep-and-gpo Brian Sigwart's contact information: Schedule a call with Brian here. Brian Sigwart CFP® , RICP ® CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Professional Financial Services Representative 11350 McCormick Road, Executive Plaza IV, Suite 200       Hunt Valley, MD  21031 T: (410) 937-9098  Calls & Voicemails only T: (410) 429-1031 Text only F: (410) 785-7655 Bsigwart@financialguide.com http://www.caafg.com/

FEDERAL EMPLOYEE RIGHTS: NOW AND LOOKING AHEAD Kevin Shehan, employment law attorney specializing in federal employee rights and issues, joined me on the podcast to discuss the topics in the news (changes from the VA Accountabilty and Whistleblower Portection Act of 2017, Schedule F and DOGE), as well as your currrent rights as a federal employee. Please note: this episode is not an ad, is not legal advice, and is NOT an endorsement of any political ideology or candidate. The goal here is to ensure you get information to be well-informed about your employment rights.  You can find Kevin here.  

Tony Zerante, Chief Strategy Officer at WAEPA (Worldwide Assurance for Employees of Public Agencies), joins Love to discuss the life and disability insurance benefits exclusively offered to current and former Civilian Federal Employees. Hear the updates on their products, giveback program, and the history behind this legacy non-profit organization. To learn more about WAEPA and its partnership with Ernst & Young, visit the links below. WAEPA Main Site https://www.waepa.org/resources/financial-wellness-for-federal-employees/

Join Love on this episode of the FedUpward podcast as she chats with Shawn Welsh, Founder and Co-Host of the VET S.O.S. podcast. A retired Army veteran with over 20 years of intelligence experience, Shawn shares his journey from military service to content creation and the founding of VET S.O.S. Shawn and his team are dedicated to connecting veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses with critical support organizations and resources. With advanced leadership expertise and a passion for helping others, Shawn’s mission is to empower the veteran community and their families. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation! https://vetsospodcast.com/ Shawn's a prolific LinkedIn poster, so follow him there! https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnwelsh00/

John Hatton, Staff Vice President of Policy and Programs at the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE) joined me on the podcast to discuss what NARFE is, does and how it can help you. He also discussed the ups and downs of this year's FEHB open season.   https://www.narfe.org/membership-who-can-join/?utm_source=7M6&utm_campaign=NARFE_GoogleAds_Join_Search_09262023&gad_source=1 

Kevin Moss of Consumers'Checkbook is on the show to talk about the major changes in health insurance options. It's open season, y'all! Even if you love your plan, shop around.  Open Season ends on December 9th.  His organization offers an amazing calculator that can help you make the best choice for your family. Listeners of the podcast get a discount using the code FedUpward to get 20% this already well-priced tool! Find the calculator here.