FedUpward Podcast - Tips for Federal Government Employees

Love Rutledge
FedUpward Podcast - Tips for Federal Government Employees

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!

  1. 5D AGO

    Inside the EEOC: What Federal Employees Should Know

    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

    26 min

  2. JUN 13

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

    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 fostering public-private understanding, Harris shares clear-eyed advice for federal employees, aspiring leaders, and those curious about working at the highest levels of national security. 00:49 – Meet Milancy Harris: From intel analyst to senior DoD leader 01:31 – What’s broken? Bureaucracy and the roadblocks to good ideas 03:05 – Developing employees: Peer mentoring, training, and listening 05:00 – Podcasts and cross-agency training as growth tools 07:31 – Political appointees vs. career feds: Misconceptions & mindset 09:31 – The best leadership advice? Start with the human touch Don’t miss this one if you're looking to grow your career in public service—or lead with more heart, strategy, and purpose. Helpful Resources: Follow Milancy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milancy-harris/  www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward

    12 min

  3. JUN 9

    The Power of Community for Mission-Driven Leaders in Government and Beyond

    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

    16 min

  4. MAY 20

    UMGC Career Expo for Feds

    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: 100% online degree and certificate programs Up to 25% tuition discounts for federal employees and their families Flexible learning options designed for working adults PLUS: A Free Career Expo on June 16 UMGC is hosting a hiring event on Monday, June 16, from 11 AM-2 PM at College Park Marriott (3501 University Blvd E, Adelphi, MD 20783). Register and upload your resume here: https://umgccareerexpo.vfairs.com/  Whether you’re facing a reduction in force or just ready for what’s next, you don’t have to do it alone. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with someone in the federal community who could benefit from this conversation.  00:49 – Welcome Back, Justin Hasty of UMGC 01:23 – Why UMGC Works for Federal Employees 03:19 – In-Demand Degree & Certificate Programs 04:37 – Tuition Discounts for Feds & Families 05:08 – Career Expo Details (June 16) Helpful Resources: https://umgccareerexpo.vfairs.com/  https://www.umgc.edu/  www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge

    9 min

  5. MAY 11

    Questions Every Fed Should be Asking Right Now

    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

    8 min

  6. MAR 31

    Northeastern University Open House for Feds April 2nd 2025

    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 industry, from Capitol Hill to the DoD. The national security insider has brought her expertise to grow the workforce’s next generation. Jamie shares how her team is preparing today’s federal employees, military-connected individuals, and contractors for tomorrow’s tech-driven challenges through upskilling, reskilling, and policy-smart programs in cybersecurity, AI, data, and more. 00:00 Intro 02:00 From Capitol Hill and the Department of Defense to Academia: Jamie Jones Miller’s Story 04:39 Upskilling & Reskilling at Northeastern University Arlington 06:29 Customized Offerings to Meet the Current Federal Workforce Challenges 08:17 Jamie’s Experience Upskilling (and Why You Should To) 10:25 Upcoming Events and Offerings for the Federal Workforce To browse programs and offerings at Northeastern University Arlington, click here: https://arlington.northeastern.edu/ Federal, Military, and Veteran Benefits: https://arlington.northeastern.edu/academic-programs/scholarships/ 🗓️ Upcoming Federal + Military Open Houses: 📍April 2, 4:30–7:00 PM 🔗 Register: https://connect.northeastern.edu/portal/military_open_house?linkId=100000347700091 Helpful Resources: https://arlington.northeastern.edu/ www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge

    14 min

  7. MAR 9

    Mental Health Break for Feds

    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-wide mindfulness community he co-created.  00:00 Intro 01:22 Origins of Mindful FED 03:22 Sign up by emailing subscribe@mindfulfed.com 04:22 Alex Snider’s Recent Psychology Today Article 05:45 Coping with Constant Change 07:45 Power of Positivity If you’re a federal employee, join MindfulFED by emailing subscribe@mindfulfed.com for their weekly newsletter and meditation session. To learn more about Alex and read his publications, visit the links below. Join Alex and other feds on March 12th in person for mindful support. Register at this link: Helpful Resources: slowmindfulness.com Human Bureaucracy | Alex Snider | Substack Human Bureaucracy | Psychology Today www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Instagram: Love (@fedupwardpodcast)  Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward

    11 min

  8. FEB 26

    How American University Supports Federal Employees

    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 eliminating the Federal Executive Institute, many federal employees are wondering what’s next for their leadership development. Dr. Malone discusses how Key Executive Programs is stepping up to provide resources, coaching, and a supportive network to help feds navigate this transition.  If you’re looking for guidance, this episode is for you. Register for the Executive Leadership Conference on March 12, celebrating 50 years of leadership education  -- https://www.american.edu/spa/key/key-conference.cfm   Helpful Resources: www.fedupwardcoaching.com  Key Executive Leadership Programs at American University: https://www.american.edu/spa/key/  Leading with Love and Laughter - Patrick Malone and Zina Sutch https://sutchmalone.com/books/leading-with-love-and-laughter/  Connect with Love: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Instagram: Love (@fedupwardpodcast)  Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward

    15 min
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4.9
out of 5
29 Ratings

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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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