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!
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A podcast for federal employees who are FedUp with non compliance and an unjust system, and who are FedUp with being constantly mistreated, misinformed, and or misrepresented. Hosted by a retired federal employee himself, who has been through it all, and who has helped many federal employees across this country, this podcast will talk about a wide range of common issues all federal employees continually face, in addition to giving federal employees a platform for their voices to be heard, an ...
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On my Podcast I tell you about games and anything that I would like to talk about or anything I've been asked too talk about until I'm fed up with talking about it
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219. Navigating 2026 Open Season: Health Plan Changes Every Fed Should Know
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14:36Love 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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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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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
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17:52If 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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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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Episode 47: Spotlighted Provider — Millennium Rehabilitation: Trusted Care for Federal Employees
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59:36Today’s episode spotlights Alex Sherman of Millennium Rehabilitation Physical Therapy, a trusted provider serving federal employees in the Bronx, NY, and surrounding areas. Millennium sets itself apart with its multilingual support and cultural and religious awareness, ensuring every patient is treated with dignity and respect. They also provide im…
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Episode 46: Shapiro Federal: The Legal Powerhouse in the FedUp Network of Resources
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2:37:52Today, I sit down with Geoffrey and Zachary Shapiro from Shapiro Federal, a fourth-generation, family run law firm that has been standing with and fighting for injured federal employees since 1933. With over 90 years of experience, and more than 17,500 cases nationwide, Shapiro Federal is now the official legal resource within the FedUp Network of …
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Episode 45: Corruption in Dubuque — The Story They Tried to Bury
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5:17:42In this episode, retired city letter carrier Tina Schmerbach shares her four-year battle through corruption, cover-ups, harassment, and betrayal inside the USPS and NALC. From local branch failures to national leadership neglect, from Postal Inspectors ignoring threats, to law enforcement, a district attorney, and politicians looking the other way,…
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214. Building the Future Workforce: Skills-Based Hiring and GovHR Innovations
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13:47Building 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
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16:14Federal 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
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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
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12:57David 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
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26:28Inside 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
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11:34Former 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
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16:07Globally'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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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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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
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14:14Northeastern 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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Episode 44: Interview with Corey Walton & James Henry; Groundbreaking Announcement That Will Shake the NALC
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1:05:33Attention All NALC Members & City Letter Carriers: In this episode of FedUp, we’re joined by James Henry and Corey Walton, two CLC candidates in the upcoming 2026 NALC election. This short but powerful conversation delivers a game-changing moment as James Henry makes a groundbreaking announcement—heard here first—that is sure to send shockwaves thr…
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Episode 43: Interview with NALC Branch 132 President & CLC Resident National Officer Candidate, Kimetra Simpson - Lewis
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2:08:26Today, we sit down with Kimetra Simpson-Lewis, a powerhouse in the labor movement and a relentless advocate for letter carriers. As President of Dallas Lone Star NALC Local Branch 132, Kim has spent three decades fighting for workers' rights, ensuring fair treatment, safe conditions, and a strong union that truly represents its members. From her ea…
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204. Mental Health Break for Feds
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11:01How 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
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14:35We 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
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22:13Despite 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
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16:16Cadie 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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Episode 42: Interview with Letter Carrier Advocate & NALC Director of City Delivery Candidate, Corey Walton
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4:20:26Attention All NALC Members & USPS City Letter Carriers: Today’s guest is Corey Walton, a 32-year letter carrier, host of the acclaimed From A to Arbitration Podcast, and a relentless advocate for the members of the NALC (National Association of Letter Carriers). Corey has spent decades standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the rank and file, fighting …
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200. New Year Fed Finance Chat -- TSP Limits; Social Security Fairness Act Passes (CSRS employees/retirees)
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13:35Certified 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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Episode 41: Interview with Brooklyn - Staten Island NALC Merged Branch 41 President, and NALC National Trustee Candidate, John Cruz
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1:34:04Today, we’re joined by John Cruz, the powerhouse President of the Brooklyn-Staten Island NALC Merged Branch 41. Known for his unwavering advocacy for City Letter Carriers, John’s dedication sends shockwaves through management and commands respect across the NALC. Listen to us as we dive deep into his journey as a relentless champion for his members…
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199. Federal Employee Rights, Schedule F and DOGE - An Attorney's Perspective
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26:58FEDERAL 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
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15:36Tony 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
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13:58Join 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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Episode 40: Interview with NALC Branch 254 President & NALC Region 12 NBA Candidate, William Kriebel
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3:01:18In this episode, we sit down with Bill Kriebel, a dedicated candidate for NALC Region 12 National Business Agent (NBA). Through his background as a Marine Corps veteran, a working branch president, and a steadfast advocate for letter carriers, Bill brings a unique blend of experience and passion to his campaign. Join us as Bill shares his seven key…
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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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Episode 39: Interview with NALC Activist & City Letter Carrier, Ernest Gonzales
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3:26:33In this episode, Ernest Gonzales, a passionate advocate, Chief Shop Steward, and BFN Coordinating Committee member from San Antonio, TX, joins us to discuss his work with the Build a Fighting NALC (BFN) Movement. We explore the struggles of toxic work environments, BFN’s agenda and key points (including an in-depth discussion about if USPS workers …
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195. Open Season Help is Here - Use this Calculator
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29:34Kevin 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
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15:03Virginia 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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Episode 38: Interview with NALC Branch 3 President & NALC National Trustee Candidate, David Grosskopf Jr
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3:26:54This episode features an in-depth conversation with David Grosskopf Jr., who shares his journey through the USPS and the NALC, his unwavering dedication to union activism, and the many battles fought for the rights of his members. From stopping check-washing schemes and stopping the closure of a mail processing facility to strengthening branch fina…
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193. Different Generations In the Federal Workforce
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30:38Working 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
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12:26Robyn 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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Episode 37: Interview with James Henry, NALC Vice President
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3:04:50In this episode, we sit down with James Henry, the National Vice President of the NALC, to discuss his incredible life journey of service and leadership, from his early days in Compton, CA, to his 26-year-career with the Marine Corps, and his 36 years as a union advocate. We also dive into his campaign for NALC President, where he outlines plans fo…
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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
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11:21On 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
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13:14Meet 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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Episode 36: Interview with Rural Carrier & NRLCA Vice Presidential Candidate, Kristin Wakeman
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2:14:48In this episode, we sit down with Kristin Wakeman, a dedicated advocate and candidate for Vice President of the NRLCA to discuss her campaign and plans for a more transparent and effective union. From updating the NRLCA Magazine to improving training for RCAs, Kristin is dedicated to ensuring that every member is equipped for success. Listen in to …
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Episode 35: Interview with Rural Carrier & NRLCA Presidential Candidate, Bill Mea
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2:30:45In today's episode, we sit down with Bill Mea, a dedicated 26-year Rural Carrier with the USPS and a longstanding NRLCA union dues-paying member, who is now running for the position of President of the NRLCA. With over two decades as a local officer, Bill has dedicated his career to advocating for union members. In this candid campaign conversation…
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188. Black Professionals in international Affairs - Professional Organization Spotlight
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10:11https://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
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13:42https://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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Episode 34: Another Update with NALC Activist & City Letter Carrier, Tyler Vasseur
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1:56:51In today's episode, hear Tyler give us an update on his “Build a Fighting NALC” movement, including how many branches and state associations have passed open bargaining resolutions. In addition, Tyler and I talk about the lack of leadership and representation within the NALC, his mission statement, the interim coordinating committee that is being f…
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Episode 33: Interview with Rich Ray, Local Branch Vice President from Brooklyn, NY
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2:26:33In today's episode, we welcome Rich Ray to the show as we delve into a wide range of topics crucial to every city letter carrier. From the Concerned Letter Carriers and Build a Fighting NALC movements, to unity, division, and the passion and anger driving change, we cover it all. We discuss critical issues such as heat and safety, the value of empl…
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186. What is the Merit Systems Protection Board?
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24:54Raymond 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
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16:36Lindy 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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