FedUpward Podcast - Tips for Federal Government Employees

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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

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!

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!

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

"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

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

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

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