FedUpward Podcast - Tips for Federal Government Employees

What does it actually take to remove a federal employee for serious performance or conduct issues—and can the process be improved without sacrificing due process? We welcome Maureen Klovers of We the Doers back to the FedUpward Podcast to discuss the organization's new report, "Fast but Fair Federal Firing," which examines the experiences of federal managers who have navigated the removal process firsthand. Their research found that removing an employee took an average of 21 months in the cases studied, consuming hundreds of hours of supervisors' time before accounting for the work of HR, legal teams, unions, and others. Love and Maureen discuss why those delays matter for high-performing employees, team morale, and agency missions; the inconsistencies between agencies; and why lasting civil service reform may ultimately need to come from Congress rather than executive action. They also explore We the Doers' recommendations for creating a clearer, more consistent system that preserves employee due process while giving managers better tools to address genuine performance and conduct problems—and what the organization plans to tackle next. Learn more about We the Doers and read the report here: 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!

Federal service builds a unique set of skills—but figuring out how those skills translate to your next opportunity isn't always easy. Karen Lee, founder of FedsForward, joins the podcast to discuss how federal employees can navigate career transitions without leaving their public service identity behind. Karen shares how FedsForward is helping current and former federal employees better understand their value, identify career pathways across government, industry, nonprofits, academia, and beyond, and connect their experience to real opportunities. She also gives listeners a preview of the next generation of the organization's free career technology platform, coming in fall 2026, which will offer improved career insights, job matching, and tailored application support. Plus, Karen discusses Career Forward, Feds Forward's seven-week cohort-based career program designed for professionals who are actively job searching, exploring what comes next, or struggling to turn their experience into a focused career strategy. Whether you're preparing to leave federal service, considering a move to another sector, or simply wondering what your experience could qualify you to do next, this conversation offers a reminder that your federal career isn't just where you've been—it's an asset you can carry forward. Learn more about FedsForward here: https://www.fedsforward.com/ 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 workforce has changed dramatically over the past two years—but what do those changes mean for the people behind the mission? In this special episode, I join WUSA9's Larry Miller to discuss the human side of today's federal workforce. From navigating career disruptions and identity shifts to finding new purpose after public service, we discuss what I've learned through six years of interviewing federal employees and the organizations supporting them. We also explore the need for civil service modernization, the challenges facing recruitment, and why community matters now more than ever. Whether you're a current federal employee, recently transitioned out of government, or simply interested in the future of public service, this conversation offers thoughtful perspective, practical resources, and a reminder that no one has to navigate these changes alone. Subscribe to Larry Miller's YouTube channel: youtube.com/@larrymillerd/videos Federal Fallout reporting on WUSA9: wusa9.com/federal-fallout 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!

A proposed rule from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) could significantly reshape how federal agencies handle employee performance, discipline, and removals. But what do these changes actually mean for federal employees and supervisors? You need to know so you can comment officially via the Federal Register by August 3, 2026. Former MSPB executive Raymond Limon joins the FedUpward podcast to break down the proposed rule and explain why it has sparked concern across the federal workforce. They discuss the potential elimination of the long-standing Douglas Factors, the legal framework that has guided disciplinary decisions for more than four decades, and what their removal could mean for consistency, due process, and agency accountability. The conversation also explores the proposal's requirement for 30-day Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs), annual supervisory training, and the broader implications of OPM and MSPB issuing joint regulations. Ray explains how these changes could affect managers, employees, and the future independence of the MSPB, especially in light of recent Supreme Court decisions. So listen for some much needed context to understand one of the most consequential federal workforce proposals in years—and why participating in the public comment process matters. Read the Douglas Factors: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/employee-relations/reference-materials/douglas-factors/ The proposed rule: https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2026-13445.pdf Check out Ray's website: https://www.meritserviceadvocates.com/ 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!

For decades, Bob Tobias has helped shape the federal workforce—from fighting landmark legal battles on behalf of federal employees to founding the renowned Key Executive Leadership Program at American University. In this episode of FedUpward, Bob reflects on his remarkable career, the leadership principles that continue to influence thousands of federal managers, and why trust, vulnerability, and relationships are the foundation of effective leadership. Bob also shares the deeply personal story behind his transition to writing poetry after retirement, discussing how childhood experiences, leadership, and self-reflection inspired his new collection, "What Lives in Me." Whether you're an aspiring supervisor, an experienced executive, or simply interested in personal growth, this conversation offers timeless lessons about leadership, resilience, and leaving a meaningful legacy. Ger your copy of "What Lives in Me" - https://finishinglinepress.com/product/what-lives-in-me-by-robert-m-tobias Key Executive Leadership Program at American University - https://www.american.edu/spa/key/mpagpt.com 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 does it take to reach the Senior Executive Service (SES) in today's federal workforce? In this episode of the FedUpward Podcast, I sit down with Kelly Foster, Director of Mentoring for the National Association of Future Federal Executives (NAFFE), to discuss the resources, mentorship, and leadership development opportunities available to aspiring federal executives. Kelly shares her remarkable journey from starting as a GS-1 student employee to serving nearly 39 years in federal government before transitioning into entrepreneurship and executive mentoring. The conversation explores how NAFFE helps federal employees prepare for SES careers through mentoring, ECQ mastery training, resume development, and structured interview preparation. Kelly also explains the evolving SES application process, the role of the Qualifications Review Board (QRB), and practical advice for federal professionals looking to advance into executive leadership positions. Whether you're a GS-11 planning your next promotion or a GS-15 considering the SES, this episode offers valuable insights into navigating the path to executive leadership. Learn more about the National Association of Future Federal Executives at https://naffee.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.

What happens when one of the government's leading experts on federal employment law and human capital management steps away from public service—and into advocacy? Raymond Limon returns to the FedUpward podcast for a timely conversation about the challenges facing today's federal workforce. After more than 30 years in federal service—including leadership roles at OPM, the State Department, the Department of the Interior, and the MSPB—Limon discusses why he launched Merit Service Advocates and what federal employees need to know as workplace policies continue to evolve. The discussion explores the purpose of the merit-based civil service system, the impact of workforce restructuring efforts, concerns surrounding federal hiring and workforce protections, and the resources employees can use to stay informed. Limon also offers practical advice for federal employees navigating uncertainty, discusses potential reforms to federal hiring and appeals processes, and explains why resilience, professional development, and public service remain as important as ever. Whether you're a current federal employee, retiree, supervisor, or simply interested in the future of the federal workforce, this episode provides valuable context from someone who has spent decades shaping and defending the systems that support public service. Find out more about his work here. 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!

We welcome back John Hatton with the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE) to unpack the biggest issues impacting federal employees and retirees right now. From concerns over OPM's request for sensitive health claims data to ongoing frustrations with retirement processing delays, the conversation dives into the policies, headlines, and workforce changes creating uncertainty across government. The episode also explores the rollout of digital retirement modernization efforts, reduction-in-force impacts, proposed changes to appeals rights, and what federal employees should know about the administration's evolving workforce policies. Plus, the discussion highlights why staying informed has never been more important as agencies navigate staffing reductions, modernization challenges, and shifting federal employment rules. Join NARFE: https://www.narfe.org/ Attend FedCon26 in Indianapolis Aug. 23-25: https://fedcon.narfe.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!

Public Service Recognition Week is here—and it's a moment to reflect on the impact of federal service. I share resources, events (there's one tomorrow!), and practical ways to engage: Partnership for Public Service (PSRW resources): https://ourpublicservice.org FormerGov (career support & events): https://formergov.com Whether you're currently serving or exploring your next chapter, this episode is a reminder of the mission behind the work—and why it still matters. 🎧 Listen now and take a moment to reconnect with your "why."

Violent threats against public servants aren't isolated incidents anymore—they're escalating nationwide, impacting federal, state, and local officials alike. In this episode of FedUpward. I sit down with Isabella Ulloa, founder of the Public Service Alliance, to unpack what the data is showing—and why it should concern everyone. Drawing on her experience at the Department of Homeland Security, Ulloa explains how threats have surged over the past decade, increasingly targeting not just officials, but their families. The conversation explores the growing gap in protections for public servants and the real-world consequences: burnout, resignations, and a chilling effect on civic participation. Ulloa also introduces the Public Service Alliance's approach to solving the problem—from a first-of-its-kind marketplace offering vetted security and support resources, to advocacy efforts aimed at driving policy change and awareness. A standout initiative, the "security map," uses aggregated data and storytelling to visualize the scale of the issue across all 50 states. This episode is both a wake-up call and a roadmap—highlighting how public servants can better protect themselves, and why addressing this issue is critical to the future of public service itself. Learn more: https://thepublicservicealliance.com/ 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!

In this episode of the FedUpward Podcast, I sit down with Robyn Kehoe from the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund (FEEA) to explore how the Feds in Motion Challenge blends fitness, community, and meaningful support for the federal workforce. The challenge encourages participants to complete 37 miles in 37 days—walking, running, biking, or moving however they choose. But beyond the fitness goal, it serves as FEEA's largest annual fundraiser, helping fuel programs that provide emergency financial assistance, no-interest loans, and scholarships for federal employees and their families. Robyn shares how FEEA has stepped up during times of crisis, including distributing over $1 million in microgrants to furloughed federal workers, and why building community through initiatives like Feds in Motion is more important than ever. Whether you're looking to improve your health, connect with others, or support the federal workforce, this episode highlights how small, everyday actions can create lasting impact. Learn more: https://feea.org/ Join me on the FedUpward Podcast team! Shoot me an email (love@fedupward.com) for our team password to get registered. 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!

Thinking about starting a business after federal service ... or maybe while you're still a fed? In this episode of FedUpward, Love sits down with Rebecca Geller, founder of The Geller Law Group, to talk through the legal realities federal employees need to understand before launching a consulting firm or small business. They cover: Why forming an LLC matters (and why not to sign contracts as an individual) County and local business license requirements in the DMV Trademark mistakes that can lead to lawsuits Federal ethics considerations if you're still employed Why contracts are non-negotiable (even with friends) Privacy concerns when using your home address Succession planning and operating agreements Whether you're considering a pivot or were pushed into one, this episode offers practical, protective guidance to help you launch smart. Connect with Rebecca at: thegellerlawgroup.com 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!

A major shift in federal workforce policy just became final — and its implications reach far beyond HR paperwork. Audrey Roofeh, founder of Integrity Matters, joins FedUpward to unpack the newly finalized Schedule P/C rule from the Office of Personnel Management. The rule creates a new category of federal employees who no longer have traditional civil service tenure protections — expanding the number of "at-will" positions across government. Learn more about the policy here . But the ripple effects don't stop there. Audrey explains how Schedule P/C could dramatically expand who qualifies as a "covered branch official" under the Lobbying Disclosure Act — potentially requiring small businesses, consultants, and government contractors to register as lobbyists simply for communicating with certain federal employees about contracts, grants, permits, or loans. Together, they discuss: How Schedule P/C differs from Schedule F Why civil service protections exist in the first place What it means to lose Merit Systems Protection Board appeal rights How businesses may face new lobbying registration burdens Why this change could create a chilling effect within federal agencies Whether you're a federal employee, government contractor, consultant, or small business owner working with the federal government, this conversation breaks down what's happening — and why it matters now. Learn more about Integrity Matters here: https://integritymatters.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!

Federal service is changing—and for many LGBTQ+ federal employees, the loss of employee resource groups, shifting policies, and declining morale have made community harder to find than ever. Luke Schleusener (he/him), CEO and co-founder of Out in National Security, joins the podcast to discuss how his organization is stepping in to support LGBTQIA+ professionals across the national security and public-sector workforce. The organization is a growing hub for community following the dissolution of federal employee resource groups. Out in National Security offers connection, advocacy, and moments of joy through in-person gatherings, wellness events, and cross-agency networking. The conversation explore how community can counter isolation and fear and what it means to sustain pride in public service during challenging times. Learn more, explore upcoming events, and access the transgender veteran toolkit at outinnationalsecurity.org. Contact: info@outinnationalsecurity.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!

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!