Stay up to date with the latest tips, trends, and advice on federal retirement planning through the FedSmart Podcast. Whether you’re new to the federal workforce or nearing retirement.
Many federal employees spend decades saving and preparing for retirement, only to enter it without a clear plan for how to actually use their money.
In this episode, Jesse Black and Steven Puckett walk through what they are seeing in real conversations with federal employees across the country. From underutilizing retirement savings to withdrawing too much too soon, they discuss how a lack of personalized planning often leads to missed opportunities or unnecessary risk.
This conversation highlights the importance of understanding how your pension, Social Security, and TSP work together, and why general advice is not enough when it comes to retirement decisions.
ut 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.
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.
What does an ideal federal retirement actually look like, and how do today’s decisions shape tomorrow’s outcome?
In this episode, Jesse Black and Steven Puckett explore the key elements that often define a well structured federal retirement. They discuss how FERS employees think about income sources, timing, and long term planning, along with common gaps and overlooked considerations. This conversation is designed to help federal employees better understand the moving pieces that influence their retirement picture and the role preparation plays over time.
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.
Wondering how long federal retirement processes actually take? 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.
Jesse Black and Steven Puckett break down the good, the bad and 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!
In this episode of the FedSmart Podcast, Jesse Black and Steven Puckett sit down with Nick Black to share the latest updates every federal employee should know heading into 2025. 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 into retirement, 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, and confident in your next steps.
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