FedSmart

FedSmart
  • 4.9 (8)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Helping equip federal employees with the knowledge they need to prepare to retire.

  1. Top Retirement Questions Answered

    4D AGO

    Top Retirement Questions Answered

    Federal employees are asking smart questions about retirement, and in this Q&A edition of the FedSmart Podcast, Jesse Black and Steven Puckett tackle the ones showing up the most right now. From whether AI can really be trusted for retirement planning, to updated earnings limits for those receiving the FERS supplement or Social Security, to common confusion around Roth conversions and RMDs, this episode breaks it all down clearly and practically. If you are approaching retirement or already there, this conversation helps clarify what matters and where to be careful.

    14 min
  2. Federal Retirement Timelines

    JAN 29

    Federal Retirement Timelines

    Wondering how long federal retirement processes actuallytake? In this episode of the Fed Smart Podcast, Jesse Black and Steven Puckett break down the most common federal retirement timelines, from when to submit your paperwork to when you might see your leave payout, interim pension payments, and full retirement finalization. They also cover key timing tips for accessing your TSP, Social Security, and Medicare so you can plan with realistic expectations and fewer surprises.

    25 min
  3. Fedsmart Team Retirement Briefing (recorded October 2025)

    JAN 14

    Fedsmart Team Retirement Briefing (recorded October 2025)

    In this episode of the FedSmart Podcast, Jesse Blackand Steven Puckett sit down with Nick Black to share the latest updates every federal employee should know heading into 2026. They cover real-time insights on OPM processing times, retirement paperwork, and an important new change coming to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) that federal employees have been waiting for. You’ll also hear practical advice about transitioning intoretirement, what to expect with VSIP and annual leave payouts, and key considerations for Roth conversions. Whether you’re nearing retirement or already enjoying it, this episode will help you stay informed, prepared, andconfident in your next steps.

    14 min
  4. Big TSP Changes Coming 2026!

    12/12/2025

    Big TSP Changes Coming 2026!

    Jesse Black and Steven Puckett break down the good, the badand the "maybes" of the brand new TSP changes happening starting January 2026! Everyone with a TSP will want to watch this, whether working or retired!

    23 min
  5. Understanding FEGLI

    10/13/2025

    Understanding FEGLI

    Most federal employees don’t realize their life insurance costs can skyrocket as they age. In this episode, Jesse Black and Steven Puckett sit down with Brandon Johnson, the Federal Life Insurance Guru,” to break down the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) program. They explain what parts of FEGLI go up in cost, what stays flat, and how to identify when you might be overpaying or underinsured. Whether you’re in your 30s or approaching retirement, this conversation can help you better understand your benefits, avoid costly surprises, and make informed decisions about your coverage.

    21 min
  6. Federal Retirement Q&A Part 1

    10/10/2025

    Federal Retirement Q&A Part 1

    In this episode of the FedSmart Podcast, Jesse Black and Steven Puckett tackle the most common retirement questions federal employees ask. From knowing when you’re truly ready to retire, to what counts toward the Social Security earnings limit, to deciding when to take your benefits, this episode helps you think clearly about your timing, income, and long-term plan. Whether you’re planning ahead or preparing to retire soon, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to take your next steps wisely.

    25 min
  7. How To Get Educated About The Federal Retirement System

    09/04/2025

    How To Get Educated About The Federal Retirement System

    Is FederalRetirementCourse.com the ultimate no costresource to get you prepared for your specific retirement? Jesse Black and Steven Puckett discuss what parts of your Federal Retirement system you need to pay attention to the most and what resources might be best to prepare you forretirement. Are webinars and seminars dead? Or are they just the old way of doing things? Join FedSmart as they discuss the best ways they've seen federal employees learn and set themselves up for retirement. This episode could beeverything you need to prepare! #FedSmart, #FederalRetirement, #JesseBlack, #StevenPuckett#FederalRetirementCourse #FederalRetirementPlanning #FERSBenefits

    23 min
  8. Understanding Survivor Benefits: What Every Fed Needs to Know

    07/19/2025

    Understanding Survivor Benefits: What Every Fed Needs to Know

    Jesse Black and Steven Puckett break down one of the mostimportant — and misunderstood — elements of your federal retirement plan: survivor benefits. Whether you're years away from retirement, about to retire, or already collecting your FERS pension, this episode will help you better understand what happens to your benefits after you’re gone, what decisions you need to make now, and how these choices impact your spouse or estate. Clear, candid, and packed with helpful context — it’s an essential listen for everyfederal employee. #FedSmart #FederalRetirement #JesseBlack #StevenPuckett #FERS #OPM #SurvivorBenefits #RetirementPlanning

    23 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.9
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Helping equip federal employees with the knowledge they need to prepare to retire.

Information

  • Creator
    FedSmart
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    36
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © FedSmart
  • Show Website
    FedSmart

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