EPISODES
Survivor Benefits & Smart Retirement Planning for Federal Employees
In episode 154 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val takes a deep dive into a recent conversation he had with a federal employee pertaining to Survivor-Benefit options for federal employees, a crucial but often misunderstood part of retirement planning. Join Val as he...
Part-Time Government Employment
Ever wonder how part-time federal work affects your retirement? In episode 153 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val breaks down some of the most misunderstood aspects of part-time service under FERS — including how the Proration Factor impacts your pension, how your...
Your Retirement Reviews
In episode 152 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val is breaking down everything federal employees need to know to retire with confidence and peace of mind. Whether you’re just a few months from your retirement date or planning years ahead, this discussion is packed...
Concerns and Misinformation – Retirement and TSP
In episode 151 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val tackles the growing concerns and widespread misinformation surrounding federal retirement and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Whether you're nearing retirement or just getting started in your federal career, it's...
Retirement Reality Check: Misinformation, Roth Conversions, and Your Questions Answered
In episode 150 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val is cutting through the noise and getting real about retirement planning for federal employees. There's a lot of information out there—but not all of it is accurate. We're tackling common myths and misinformation that...
Federal Benefits Spotlight: Understanding Disability Insurance
In episode 149 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val takes a deep dive into one of the most critical yet often misunderstood aspects of federal employment — Disability Insurance. Whether you're just starting your federal career or nearing retirement, understanding how...
Take your Retirement for a Test Drive
In episode 147 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val walks you through the key factors to consider 10 years, 5 years, and 2 years out from retirement as a federal employee. Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure your financial future as a federal employee....
Federal Employees – More of your Questions Answered!
In this essential episode for federal employees, Val dives deep into the biggest retirement planning mistakes and questions he gets asked frequently. sees time From misunderstood TSP strategies to healthcare confusion, this episode is packed with actionable advice to...
The Option of Retiring Abroad
Planning for a retirement outside the United States? In episode 145 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val discusses the pros and cons of retiring abroad, and the specific countries that could be beneficial and fit into your plans in retirement! Don’t miss this episode...
Securing Your Future: Guaranteed Lifetime Income for Federal Employees
Retirement shouldn't be a question mark - it should be a plan. In episode 144 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val explains a recent situation he came across in helping a federal employee and goes on to explain how federal employees can create guaranteed lifetime...
Updated Retirement Process for Federal Employees
In episode 143, Val breaks down the key points of the updated retirement process for Federal Employees, including the OPM/Online retirement application process and various FEGLI options available during this process. Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure...
TSP Inheritance vs. Inherited IRA Rules for Non-Spouse Beneficiaries
In episode 142, Val dives deep into the complexities of inheriting retirement accounts, specifically comparing the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and Inherited IRAs when the beneficiary is not a spouse. If you've recently inherited a retirement account—or you're planning...
VERA Unpacked: The Pros and Cons for Federal Employees
In episode 141 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val dives into the Voluntary Early Retirement Authority—better known as VERA—and what it means for federal employees weighing their retirement options. You could be a seasoned civil servant considering early retirement or...
Assisting in your Service Separation
On episode 140 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val dives into one of the most critical transitions in a federal employee's career: service separation. Whether you're retiring, transferring, or stepping away from federal service altogether, the process can be complex —...
Top 10 Mistakes Made by Federal Employees
On episode 139 Val explains the top 10 mistakes made by Federal Employees when planning for retirement. Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure your financial future as a federal employee. Make sure to subscribe to The Federal Retirement Show for more...
Frequently Asked Questions for Federal Employees
On episode 138 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val answers sought out questions asked frequently by federal employees including, submitting early retirement paperwork, buying back military time after 12 years, FEGLI Option B alternatives, and a lump sum option for...
Retirement Tax Planning for Federal Employees
On episode 137 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val takes a deeper look into the world of retirement tax planning—because keeping more of your money matters just as much as saving it. He discussed what will be taxed and whether your FERS contributions, TSP Roth, and...
Another Budget Legislation Update
In episode 136 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val explains the newest budge legislation update affecting the retirement of federal employees. Val discusses the intricate details within the new legislation, eliminated provisions, and the next steps you should take to...
Social Security & the FERS Supplement: What Federal Employees Need to Know
In episode 135 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val breaks down two essential pillars of retirement income for federal employees: Social Security and the FERS Supplement. Regardless of your situation - mid-career or approaching retirement - understanding how these...
Appealing Medicare Part B Premiums
Are you a federal employee or retiree enrolled in FEHB and shocked by your Medicare Part B premium? You’re not alone—and you might be paying more than you should. In this episode, Val breaks down the key factors that determine your Medicare Part B premiums, including...
Answering Recent Listener Questions
Turning 65? Nearing retirement? This episode breaks down some of the most common—and confusing—questions federal employees and retirees face as they approach this milestone. In episode 133 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val covers - Age-Based Reductions to Social...
Income Streams Every Federal Employee Should Know
In episode 132 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val explores supplemental income options like that can help bridge the gap between what you have and what you need. Most importantly, he answers a critical question: Why do so many people fail to secure the retirement...
Breaking Down Budget Battles: What Federal Employees Need to Know
In episode 131 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val goes into the latest budget legislation proposals that could significantly impact federal employees and retirees. From raising FERS contributions and eliminating the FERS supplement, to shifting to a “High-5” pension...
Discontinued Service Time – What Every Federal Employee Should Know
In episode 130 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val dives into a topic that often flies under the radar but can have a major impact on your federal retirement: Discontinued Service Time. Whether you're a seasoned federal worker or just starting your career in...
Thrift Savings Plan: Why Volatility Isn’t Your Friend in Retirement
In episode 129 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val explores the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and explains why market volatility is a risky game for retirees. While TSP is a powerful retirement tool for federal employees and members of the military, not all investment...
Death While Actively Employed
Val dives into an often overlooked but important topic: the impact of death while actively employed as a federal worker. Val explains what happens to the benefits, salary, and retirement plans of a federal employee after their passing and discusses the policies and...
Separating from Service — An Outstanding TSP Loan
Val dives into a crucial topic for federal employees — what happens to your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) loan when you separate from service? Whether you're retiring, resigning, or transitioning to a new job, dealing with an outstanding TSP loan is an important step in...



























