FedUpward Podcast - Tips for Federal Government Employees

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

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

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

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

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