Best Usajobs Podcasts (2026)

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221. FEVS Is Paused — Your Voice Doesn't Have to Be: The New 2025 Federal Workforce Survey 8:25

Play Pause

17d ago8:25

8:25

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 em…

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220. Final Days of Open Season: How Premiums, Shutdowns & RIFs Affect You 12:30

21d ago12:30

12:30

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 …

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219. Navigating 2026 Open Season: Health Plan Changes Every Fed Should Know 14:36

2M ago14:36

14:36

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 de…

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218. Pivoting Parents: How a former Federal Contractor's Layoff led to Purpose 9:33

2M ago9:33

9:33

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 r…

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217. Micro Grants and More - Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund 7:00

2M ago7:00

7:00

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…

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216. Transitioning Feds -- Build Your Next Chapter with Former Gov 17:52

3M ago17:52

17:52

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 …

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215. POPVOX Foundation's Departure Dialogues Give Former Feds a Voice 9:10

3M ago9:10

9:10

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 congress…

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214. Building the Future Workforce: Skills-Based Hiring and GovHR Innovations 13:47

5M ago13:47

13:47

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 Septembe…

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213. Are You Missing Out on Better Federal Benefits? Advice from Tammy Flanagan 16:14

5M ago16:14

16:14

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 00:4…

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212. Reinventing Life After Federal Service: Dr. Nola Haynes on Owning the Pivot 17:05

5M ago17:05

17:05

"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…

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211. David Spirk on Scaling What Works and Cutting What Doesn't 12:57

6M ago12:57

12:57

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…

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210. Inside the EEOC: What Federal Employees Should Know 26:28

6M ago26:28

26:28

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 retu…

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209. Same Mission, Different Paths: How Appointees and Career Feds Can Work Together 11:34

7M ago11:34

11:34

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 foster…

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208. The Power of Community for Mission-Driven Leaders in Government and Beyond 16:07

7M ago16:07

16:07

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 Marc…

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207. UMGC Career Expo for Feds 9:05

8M ago9:05

9:05

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:…

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206. Questions Every Fed Should be Asking Right Now 7:44

8M ago7:44

7:44

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 …

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205. Northeastern University Open House for Feds April 2nd 2025 14:14

9M ago14:14

14:14

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 indus…

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204. Mental Health Break for Feds 11:01

10M ago11:01

11:01

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-…

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202. How American University Supports Federal Employees 14:35

10M ago14:35

14:35

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 eliminati…

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203. NobleReach - Yes, There's Still Great Talent Interested in Government Work 22:13

11M ago22:13

22:13

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 innovativ…

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201. Creating Organic Federal Employee Networks with Iron Butterfly Media 16:16

12M ago16:16

16:16

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…

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200. New Year Fed Finance Chat -- TSP Limits; Social Security Fairness Act Passes (CSRS employees/retirees) 13:35

12M ago13:35

13:35

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…

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199. Federal Employee Rights, Schedule F and DOGE - An Attorney's Perspective 26:58

1y ago26:58

26:58

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. …

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198. WAEPA - Insurance AND FREE Financial Planning Support 15:36

1y ago15:36

15:36

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.…

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197. Vet S.O.S. - Support for Military Members Transitioning to Civilian Federal Service 13:58

1y ago13:58

13:58

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 vetera…

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196. What is NARFE? 17:45

1y ago17:45

17:45

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_camp…

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195. Open Season Help is Here - Use this Calculator 29:34

1y ago29:34

29:34

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 discoun…

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194. Performance Management Doesn't Have to Be Horrible - A Convo with Virginia Blaser 15:03

1y ago15:03

15:03

Virginia Blaser, former senior Department of State official, walks feds through her tips for managing the performance appraisal cycle. She literally wrote the book on questions to ask employees throughout the year to help them develop and achieve their goals. You can find it here. Watch the video of our conversation here.…

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193. Different Generations In the Federal Workforce 30:38

1y ago30:38

30:38

Working with folks 20 years older, 20 years younger and all ages in between? Dr. Russell Robinson of American University's Key Executive Leadership Program and Amplified Research talks about working with SO MANY different generations of folks. Listen to Russ' wisdom and how you can learn more at Key.…

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192. Supporting Feds in Need in North Carolina - Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund 12:26

1y ago12:26

12:26

Robyn Kehoe, executive director for the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund joined me on the podcast to discuss how FEEA supports federal employees in need of disaster relief assistance. FEEA provides small grants to feds who need immediate cash infusions to get shelter, beds, clthing, etc. Get more dteails about applying and donating he…

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191. Hatch Act + GovExec's Sean Michael Newhouse 6:46

1+ y ago6:46

6:46

Meet Sean Michael Newhouse. He's a reporter for GovExec and put out videos recently about the Hatch Act that are far more entertaining than our normal annual training. You can catch that content here. In this episode, he explains the basics of the Hatch Act and what it's like working for GovExec. Learn more about his GovExec work at this link. And …

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190. Workplace Promise Institute - Whistleblowers United 11:21

1+ y ago11:21

11:21

On September 11, 2024, Jackie Garrick and team will host the Workplace Promise Instittute. Jackie founded Whistleblowers of America, nonprofit organization assisting whistleblowers who have suffered retaliation after having identified harm to individuals or the public. Her experience as a federal employee led her to create a network of support for …

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189. Data Driven Talent Management with Kris Saling 13:14

1+ y ago13:14

13:14

Meet Kris Saling. a leader in the Army's recruiting command and analytics guru. She joined me on the podcast to talk about her new book, Data-Driven Talent Management and federal agencies and deparmtents can leverage better tools and processes to improve employee experience. She combines HR and data savvy to yield results. Get the book at this link…

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188. Black Professionals in international Affairs - Professional Organization Spotlight 10:11

1+ y ago10:11

10:11

https://iabpia.org I love connecting listeners with professional organizations literally made for them! Enter Black Professionals in International Affairs! President Alexandria Maloney discusses membership, upcoming events, mission and how you can get involved in this episode. BPIA upcoming events: https://iabpia.org/events Alexandria Maloney's sit…

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187. Pregnant Workers Fairness Act - What you Need To Know 13:42

1+ y ago13:42

13:42

https://www.eeoc.gov/wysk/what-you-should-know-about-pregnant-workers-fairness-act Have you heard about the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act? Congress passed it in 2023, but the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission just published a final regulation in June of this year. Deborah Hopkins, attorney and president of the Federal Employment Law Training …

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186. What is the Merit Systems Protection Board? 24:54

1+ y ago24:54

24:54

Raymond Limon, vice chair of the Merit Systems Protection Board (MPSB) joined me on the show to discuss what the MPSB is, what it does and why it matters. If you havent' taken training on this recently, tune in for a refresher. He also surprised me by administering the oath of office as a way to celebrate my new federal job! https://www.mspb.gov/ I…

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185. ClearanceJobs - Connect 2024 Conference Oct 3 16:36

1+ y ago16:36

16:36

Lindy Kyzer of Clearance Jobs joined me on the podcast to talk about the current state of the job market for clearance holders and what CJ has to offer. Join us at the Clearance Jobs Connect 2024 event on October 3rd. Listen for details and click below to register now! https://about.clearancejobs.com/employers/events/clearancejobs-connect-2024 Govv…

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184. What I learned from my successful SES application 12:47

1+ y ago12:47

12:47

Longtime listeners probably remember episode 131 - https://www.fedupwardcoaching.com/podcast/episode/3675202c/131-what-i-learned-from-my-failed-ses-application Well, I kept at it and got through the SES process successfully! In this episode I walk through the lessons I learned and things that surprised me about the process this time. For the basics…

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183. FedFam brings you savings on hotel stays 8:17

1+ y ago8:17

8:17

Jason Coleman of FedFam joined me on the show to talk about discounts FedFam negotiated just for you! FedRooms is shutting down and FedFam is stepping in. Learn more about the first great rates here: https://www.fedfam.org/landing-pageBy FedUpward LLC

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182. Federal Executive Institute Alumni Association's Federal Executive Forum 9:15

1+ y ago9:15

9:15

Dr. Kandis Boyd, Federal Executive Institute Alumni Aassociation (FEIAA) President, joined me on the podcast to disuss their upcoming event. The Federal Executive Forum is open to GS-12s through SESs and you don't have to be a FEIAA alum to attend this hybrid event. Yes, you can participate virtually. Register here. To learn more about FEI's course…

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181. Federal Human Capital Conference April 15-17, 2024 - For Feds Only! 6:51

1+ y ago6:51

6:51

The Partnership for Public Service has an amazing conference planned for federal human resources professionals. Michelle Amante, the VP for Federal Workforce Programs at the Partnership, discusses what this first of its kind conference will deliver and why you should register ASAP. Click the link below for more details: https://ourpublicservice.org…

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180. Change Management in Government 12:53

2y ago12:53

12:53

Meet Brian Wilson, organizational change manager at the Security and Echange Commission. Cool title, right? He walks us through how he approaches change and what you need to know if you're working on a major org change. You can find him on LinkedIn here. Brian mentioned a change management certification in this episode. You can find it here.…

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179. Join Now! Membership for Feds 10:08

2y ago10:08

10:08

I've joined forces with Jason Coleman of the FedFam group to bring you a new resource! We've created FedFam.org, a membership site for federal employees only. We bring tons of standard operating procedures, info and advice and we're adding more every week. In this episode you'll hear from us what you'll get as a member. We're offering this tailored…

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178. Shared Services Leadership Coalition 16:14

2y ago16:14

16:14

Meet Steve Goodrich. He's the author of Transforming Government from Congress to the Cubicle, CEO at The Center for Organizational Excellence, and a board members for the Shared Services Leadership Coalition. In this episode, he describes his book (which you can purchase here) and how you can get involved in the Shared Services Leadership Coalition…

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177. FEHB Open Season - THE TOOL YOU NEED - 20% Off! 24:59

2y ago24:59

24:59

Kevin Moss of Consumer Checkbook is back on the podcast to help you make sense of all the choices available during open season. Use code fedupward and get 20% off the already VERY reasonable priced tool Kevin and team built. https://www.checkbook.org/newhig2/year24/membership/orderonline.cfm?type=online No one knows more about FEHB plans than Kevin…

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176. Humans of Public Service - Nominate a Coworker 7:12

2y ago7:12

7:12

Heard of Humans of New York? Well, Brian Whittaker founded Humans of Public Service. https://humansofpublicservice.org/ You can nominate your coworkers to be featured on the site/LinkedIn/Instagram page. Brian, currently a FDIC employee with tons of experience in federal agencies, founded the site to recognize people like us who often get a bad rap…

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174. Shutdown Resources, News Sources and Discounts 5:08

2+ y ago5:08

5:08

Anxious about the potential government shutdown? This episode outlines resources, news sources and discounts for feds. Here are the links you need to get educated and stay that way. OPM guidance and Agency/Dept Shutdown Plans: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/furlough-guidance/#url=Shutdown-Furlough Washington Posts's Shutdown Gu…

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How to reclaim influence when undermined 21:42

2+ y ago21:42

21:42

Have you ever felt a sinking sensation, an unsettling feeling that despite your sincere efforts, you are always trying to make the world a better place, in some way, with motivation driven by heartfelt purpose – that you are being deliberately undermined at work? If so, you're not alone. In this episode, I'll help you navigate this situation. To li…

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From Hidden Gem to Workplace Star: Making Your Mark in Your Organization 20:24

2+ y ago20:24

20:24

Does the Senior Leadership Know Your Name? Do you know those moments at work when you feel like blending into the wallpaper? You're this hidden gem, but no one has the map to find you. Yeah, I've been there, and trust me, so many of the fantastic people I talk to feel the same way. Whenever someone like you shares their story with me, I always thin…

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173. Shutdown Countdown? 15:20

2+ y ago15:20

15:20

Public administration guru Dr. Don Kettl joined me on the podcast to talk about what feds can expect over the next month - will the gov shut down? Will feds get repaid if it does? Explore these questions and more. Don recently authored a book, one of many he's written about public management and operaitons. You can find it here. Don specializes in …