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.
Episode 33 - Big TSP Changes Coming in 2026!
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 Jeff Brown and 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.
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.
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.
Is FederalRetirementCourse.com the ultimate no cost resource 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 for retirement. 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 be everything you need to prepare!
Jesse Black and Steven Puckett break down one of the most important — 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 every federal employee.
In this episode of the FedSmart Podcast, Jesse Black and Steven Puckett break down the critical milestone ages that shape a federal employee’s retirement journey. From TSP access at 55 to Medicare enrollment at 65, and RMDs at 73, they walk through what to consider at each phase. Whether you’re early in your career or closing in on retirement, this episode helps you better understand how to prepare for each transition point—without hype or pressure.
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