Podcast appearances and mentions of mike causey

Welcome to a reflective episode of Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files, where we delve into the personal experiences that shape our understanding of travel risk management. In this episode, Mike Causey shares a poignant story that unfolded during his time living in China—a moment that made him acutely aware of how life can change in the blink of an eye. Mike recounts a cycling incident during his daily commute to work. A simple act—a car door opening unexpectedly in front of him—turned into a life-altering event. The absence of a helmet, a common practice in China, magnified the impact of the incident. Our host, Bex Deadman, reflects on the cultural nuances embedded in Mike's experience. Bex explores the influence of cultural norms on behavior, noting how the commonality of not wearing helmets in China contributed to Mike's choice. This cultural piece becomes a crucial aspect of understanding and managing travel risks, emphasising the importance of adapting practices to local customs. The episode delves into the broader theme of life's unpredictability. Bex reflects on the sudden speed at which circumstances can change, even in the seemingly mundane aspects of daily life like a routine commute. This serves as a poignant reminder that travel risk management is not solely about the extraordinary events but also the everyday moments that can have lasting consequences.   Join us for another episode of Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files, where each tale is a lesson, and every journey is a risk worth exploring.    If you wish to share your own travel story anonymously,  please contact Bex at bex@8phaseconsulting.com.   8Phase Consulting - https://8phaseconsulting.com/ Bex Deadman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/ Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/ Assent Risk Management - www.assentriskmanagement.co.uk

This show aired on Thursday, June 13th, 2024 on 107.9 and 980 The WAAV in Wilmington, NC. Guests include Vance Ginn, Donna King, and Mike Causey. Economic Update, Insurance Fraud, and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another gripping episode of Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files, in this poignant episode, we delve into a remarkable story of compassion and resilience as Mike Causey recounts the actions of his company on the fateful day of the London tube bombings on 7th July 2005. Mike vividly describes how, in the face of chaos and uncertainty, his company immediately shifted their focus to the safety and well-being of their staff. Dropping everything else, the company's priority became identifying the whereabouts of their employees and ensuring they were safe. It's a testament to the human element in travel risk management—recognising that people's safety should always take precedence. Our host, Bex Deadman, reflects on the profound impact of such events on individuals and organisations. She emphasises the importance of treating travel risk management as people risk management, stressing the necessity of robust communication channels and the imperative to know the whereabouts of employees during crises. As Bex explores the aftermath of this tragic event, she sheds light on the lasting impact it can have on individuals and how a company's response can shape not only the immediate outcome but also leave a lasting imprint on the employees involved. Mike Causey's experience serves as a powerful example of how a company's commitment to its people during times of crisis can resonate throughout an individual's entire career. Join us for another episode of Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files, where each tale is a lesson, and every journey is a risk worth exploring.    If you wish to share your own travel story anonymously,  please contact Bex at bex@8phaseconsulting.com.   8Phase Consulting - https://8phaseconsulting.com/ Bex Deadman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/ Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/ Assent Risk Management - www.assentriskmanagement.co.uk

Welcome to another gripping episode of Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files, where we unravel the intense narratives of business travel, delving into the heart of risk management.  In this episode, we step into the shoes of Mike Causey, whose business trip to Jakarta takes an unimaginable turn as he finds himself mere feet away from a suicide bomber detonating in a hotel. Join host, Bex Deadman, as she navigates through Mike's harrowing experience and reflects on the crucial lessons it imparts. Bex sheds light on the importance of scenario-based training, emphasising how organisations cannot afford to rely solely on the assumption that their staff will train themselves for such critical situations. As Mike grapples with the aftermath of the traumatic event, Bex explores the complex emotions of survivor's guilt, offering a compassionate perspective on the mental and emotional toll that such incidents can take on individuals. Bex underscores the necessity for organisations to provide robust support systems for employees who have faced such traumatic events. Join us for another episode of Talk'n TRM: The Traveller Files, where each tale is a lesson, and every journey is a risk worth exploring.  If you wish to share your own travel story anonymously,  please contact Bex at bex@8phaseconsulting.com. 8Phase Consulting - https://8phaseconsulting.com/ Bex Deadman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419/ Clemark Studios - https://www.clemarkgroup.com/studio/ Assent Risk Management - www.assentriskmanagement.co.uk

Prepare to be captivated as we scrutinize the high-stakes skirmish for NC's Insurance Commissioner position, where the Republican primary is setting the stage for a transformative battle. We've got the scoop on three distinct contenders: the reform-minded Andrew Marcus, public service veteran C. Robert Brawley, and the incumbent aiming for continuity, Mike Causey. Uncover the intricacies of their platforms, from Marcus' taxpayer championing and anti-fraud strategies to Brawley's consumer protection ethos and Causey's efficiency improvements.By the end of our episode, you'll be well-equipped with a nuanced understanding of the candidates who are vying to oversee the state's insurance policies. Whether it's Marcus' pledge to combat external influences, Brawley's strategic focus on safer infrastructures, or Causey's battle against rate hikes, these narratives are essential for informed voting. Join us as we unravel the layers of policy, personality, and politics that will shape the future of insurance in North Carolina.NC Deep Dive's Voters' Guide for the 2024 Primary ElectionBallotpediaWRAL's Voters' GuideRaleigh News & Observer Voters' GuideINDY Week's Candidate QuestionnaireCampaign Finance Reports for All Candidate CommitteesVoter Information --Register to Vote --Voter Info (Designated Polling Places, Sample Ballots, Registration Status, Voting Jurisdiction, Verify Address and Party Affiliation) --Election Information --Election Day Voting FAQs--Absentee by Mail FAQs Closest Early Voting Locations February 15th-March 2ndW.E. Hunt Recreation Center in Holly SpringsHilltop Needmore Town Park & Preserve2024 Primary Election Early Voting Bus Route Guide ELECTION DAY Tuesday, March 5th from 6:30 AM to 7:30 PMSupport the showAs always, if you are interested in being on or sponsoring the podcast or if you have any particular issues, thoughts, or questions you'd like explored on the podcast, please email NCDeepDive@gmail.com. Your contributions would be greatly appreciated.Now, let's dive in!

This show aired on Friday, October 6th, 2023 on 107.9 and 980 The WAAV in Wilmington, NC. Guests include Mike Causey and Rod Bell. Disingenuous Local Media, State Fire Marshal information, and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Commissioner of the North Carolina Department of Insurance Mike Causey explains auto insurance rate increases, important coverage not included in most homeowner policies, and his role as fire marshal.

Commissioner of the North Carolina Department of Insurance Mike Causey explains auto insurance rate increases, important coverage not included in most homeowner policies, and his role as fire marshal.

Should the law impact healthcare?Healthcare professional and lawyer, Chris Deacon, is known for her work as a public sector leader who oversaw the New Jersey State Health Plan. In this position, Deacon created positive change for the state of New Jersey and saved 2 billion dollars for the plan's members. North Carolina Commissioner of Insurance Mike Causey a politician that has served in his position since 2017. His goal is to fight for more competition in the healthcare industry and combat insurance fraud. He proudly serves the people of North Carolina.Healthcare professional and host, Cristy Gupton, interviews Chris Deacon and Mike Causey on the upcoming North Carolina bill, H346. They discuss the shady happenings behind the bill and their fears of how the bill will harm the people of North Carolina should it be passed.Learn more about the healthcare industry by following the Healthcare Solutions Podcast. Need healthcare consultation, retirement strategizing, wellness consultation, or benefits enrollment? Custom Benefits Solutions has your back.

In this episode, Bex talks with Mike Causey, who has 25 years+ of international business, risk safety and security, and small town life.   He is passionate about equipping leaders to look after their people wherever they may be. Travelled and lived around the world, yet always finding his home with his wife and 4 children, and in the mountains of the UK.   During their discussion, Mike shares shocking stories of his first-hand experience of the 'worst-case scenario' happening during a business trip, exemplifying how everything can change in a moment.   Contact Bex: bex.deadman@assent1.co.uk linkedin.com/in/bex-deadman-aka-travel-risk-bex-70b92419   Contact Mike: mike.causey@me.com linkedin.com/in/mikecausey/     www.assent1.com    

In this episode, we'll talk with Mark Andes, a founding member of Spirit, Jo Jo Gunne and Firefall, and a ten-year member of Heart. He's played on five platinum and two gold albums and was front row for rock's most notable lawsuit involving Led Zeppelin. Rodney Justo is a co-founder and the lead singer for the Atlanta Rhythm Section and updates us on what's going on with that legendary band. Mike Causey from Stillwater joins us with some favorite rock memories and guitar heroes.Intro courtesy of Diane Williamson, the worldwide voice of OnStar and Intercontinental Hotels.Our producer/editor is Jane Jones.

North Carolina Commissioner of Insurance Mike Causey joins us to discuss the latest on insurance rates, what you need to know about scams, and tips for your policies.

North Carolina Commissioner of Insurance Mike Causey joins us to discuss the latest on insurance rates, what you need to know about scams, and tips for your policies.

Federal employees have family and professional lives. They also have financial lives. Today we're inaugurating a monthly talk with a man who has long experience in federal financial management and investment strategies. He was a regular on our Federal News Network show, "Your Turn," hosted by the late Mike Causey. Now he'll be a monthly guest here on the Federal Drive. For his inaugural interview in this space, Federal Drive host Tom Temin talks with financial planner Arthur Stein.

Listen to the final Your Turn with Mike Causey show. It's a special tribute to Mike, who passed away in late September 2022, hosted by Federal Drive anchor Tom Temin and executive editor Jason Miller. Current and former Federal News Network colleagues and long-time guests of Your Turn will join this hour-long, commercial-free discussion about Mike's impact on the federal community, share stories and memories of a man who impacted all of us with his wit, his knowledge and his desire to share and explain the intricacies of the federal world. Guests include: FNN General Manager Joel Oxley WTOP Program Director and former FNN Web Operations director Julia Ziegler FNN reporter Jory Heckman Tammy Flanagan Jessica Klement Art Stein Abraham Grungold Former FNN Editor-in-Chief Lisa Wolfe Former In-Depth anchor Francis Rose Former Federal Drive co-host Jane Norris Former Your Turn producer Lauren Larson

As Duncan & Larry were recording this podcast, the House was poised to pass a Continuing Resolution funding the government for another 10 weeks. They also talked about a number of other issues, and ended the podcast with a tribute to journalist Mike Causey.

The federal community lost a peerless reporter and friend this week. Longtime Federal News Network columnist Mike Causey died on Monday at 82. Before joining the Federal News Network team in the early 2000s, Mike wrote his daily Federal Diary column in The Washington Post for 40 years. Since joining our newsroom in the early 2000s, Causey wrote and went on the air about matters crucial to federal employees, including salary and benefits issues, investing, health care and retirement planning.

North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey lists important items that you should make sure are included in your policies.

North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey lists important items that you should make sure are included in your policies.

In many ways, the way you handle your final affairs will determine how your family and friends remember you. So it's important to get it right. Years ago, my uncle died and left his large, 700-plus acre farm (for comparison, New York's Central Park is about 840 acres) to his daughter. Not his wife. On purpose. Or so he thought! He knew exactly what he was doing! That is, he thought he knew what he was doing. But instead of making a postmortem point, he messed up. Big time. It was not his first will. Nor (maybe) his last. That's because he wrote wills all the time. Sometimes to punish some individual or group. And that may have made him feel good, or at least satisfied. But in the end it created a mess. Why? Because the only will that counts is the last one you wrote (or that your family finds) that was done properly. The notarized copy his wife found became the official one. It cut her out of the farm. Or so he thought. What apparently happened is that my uncle, acting as his own attorney-estate planner, managed to leave the farm (as in land, creek, trees, etc.) to his daughter but somehow all the property on the farm — several houses, some barns and other buildings — went to his wife. Cut to the chase. Bottom line is the will that took effect was the only one (or most recent one) found. It left his daughter the land and his wife the buildings on that land. Probably not what he had planned! After a bitter period of time his daughter bought the property on her land even though she was in debt for years paying for it. His wife got something. But nobody, including my uncle (who was a great guy), got what was intended. Lesson (if there is one): be careful who does your will. And your estate plan. And your trust. Do you know what you need? What's best for your family? One of the first things to consider is do you have an estate? Many, if not most, career feds and retirees do. Worth more than they think. So what do you do? We tapped Washington attorney Tom O'Rourke for some estate planning help. He's a former IRS lawyer who specialized in taxes and estates in private practice. He's going to be the guest on today's Your Turn radio show.

In many ways, the way you handle your final affairs will determine how your family and friends remember you. So it's important to get it right. Years ago, my uncle died and left his large, 700-plus acre farm (for comparison, New York's Central Park is about 840 acres) to his daughter. Not his wife. On purpose. Or so he thought! He knew exactly what he was doing! That is, he thought he knew what he was doing. But instead of making a postmortem point, he messed up. Big time. It was not his first will. Nor (maybe) his last. That's because he wrote wills all the time. Sometimes to punish some individual or group. And that may have made him feel good, or at least satisfied. But in the end it created a mess. Why? Because the only will that counts is the last one you wrote (or that your family finds) that was done properly. The notarized copy his wife found became the official one. It cut her out of the farm. Or so he thought. What apparently happened is that my uncle, acting as his own attorney-estate planner, managed to leave the farm (as in land, creek, trees, etc.) to his daughter but somehow all the property on the farm — several houses, some barns and other buildings — went to his wife. Cut to the chase. Bottom line is the will that took effect was the only one (or most recent one) found. It left his daughter the land and his wife the buildings on that land. Probably not what he had planned! After a bitter period of time his daughter bought the property on her land even though she was in debt for years paying for it. His wife got something. But nobody, including my uncle (who was a great guy), got what was intended. Lesson (if there is one): be careful who does your will. And your estate plan. And your trust. Do you know what you need? What's best for your family? One of the first things to consider is do you have an estate? Many, if not most, career feds and retirees do. Worth more than they think. So what do you do? We tapped Washington attorney Tom O'Rourke for some estate planning help. He's a former IRS lawyer who specialized in taxes and estates in private practice. He's going to be the guest on today's Your Turn radio show.

Many people consider Michelangelo's statue of David to be the most perfect sculpture ever. It was done in the early 1500s and stands 10 feet tall. Pretty impressive. Yet a friend of mine, Bill B, claims that his brother in-law, who has seen it in the flesh, thinks the masterpiece is overrated. After studying it for a few minutes, he concluded that virtually anybody could have done it. “All you have to do,” brother-in-law-said, “is get a really good piece of marble, then chip away all the pieces that don't look like David.” Of course he's right. Up to a point! But he's leaving out some important details. The sort that face federal, postal and military personnel deciding how — and how much — to invest in their Thrift Savings Plan accounts. For some, TSP (with its generous government match) will provide one-third to as much half the money they have to spend in retirement. Regardless of the percentage, it's a lot. So how do you become a TSP millionaire? We asked D.C.-area financial planner Arthur Stein if there is a magic formula. Several of his clients are TSP millionaires. The recent stock market nosedive reduced that number. And it has many investors rethinking their situation. Which is the subject of today's Your Turn radio show with Art Stein.

(8/9/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The economy batters another group: former TSP millionaires. The Marine Mammal Commission has its ethics called into question. And GAO is concerned the Navy is trying to impede Congressional oversight.

Have you got what it takes to make the final cut, and maybe become a contestant on the popular TV show Jeopardy? Maybe become a millionaire? Interested? Take this test. If you dare… What weighs 990 million pounds, is worth $743 billion and has 6.6 million units found in every country of the world, every U.S. state, as well as Greenland and Antarctica. Oh, also in outer space. Correct answer: What is the federal Thrift Savings Plan, Uncle Sam's in-house 401k for active and retired civil servants and government officials, and members of the military? The TSPs' governing body, the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, met yesterday for its monthly meeting. Federal News Network's Drew Friedman covered it. She'll be my guest today on Your Turn.

After one of the best, longest bull market runs in history, the continuing downhill trajectory of the stock market has lots of investors wondering what — if anything — they could and should be doing. At a time of an evolving pandemic, an expanding European war and major climate concerns, at first glance the answer is: probably not much! For many investors, the Thrift Savings Plan will provide anywhere from one-third to half their income in retirement. Assuming, of course, there is income! So what should you do, or not do? We'll find out today on our Your Turn show with guest host Arthur Stein. He's a Washington-area financial planner whose clients include many active and retired feds, including several self-made TSP millionaires.

ZIFL – Volume 26, Number 14 THE COURTS ARE BACK CONVICTING FRAUD PERPETRATORS WITH VIGOR – READ ABOUT THE CONVICTIONS IN THIS ISSUE OF ZIFL! The July 15, 2022 issue contains articles available FREE at Subscribe to e-mail Version of ZIFL, it's Free! Greg Lindberg Gets a New Trial Jury Instruction Misled Jury by stating that an “Official Act” Existed as a Matter of Law Greg E. Lindberg and John D. Gray were convicted of honest services fraud and federal funds bribery in connection with a series of payments and offers of payment, in the form of campaign contributions, made to Mike Causey, the elected Insurance Commissioner for North Carolina. The jury found that these payments were made in exchange for Causey assigning a different Deputy Commissioner to oversee the affairs of Lindberg's insurance companies. In United States Of America v. Greg E. Lindberg, Nos. 20-4470, 20-4473, United States Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit (June 29, 2022) the Fourth Circuit granted a new trial. Criminal Lawyers Should be Disbarred Lawyer Convicted of Insurance Fraud Only Suspended for Two Years Insurance fraud is considered, universally, as a crime of moral turpitude. Regardless, the New York State Bar was only asked to join with the New Jersey State Bar who suspended a lawyer, after he was convicted for insurance fraud and other wrongful conduct, for two years rather than being disbarred. In the Matter of Neal Meredith Pomper, an attorney and counselor-at-law. (Attorney Registration No. 1726363); 2022 NY Slip Op 04173; No. 2021-02031; Supreme Court of New York, Second Department (June 29, 2022) Chutzpah: Admit Fraud & Claims Fraud Exclusion is Ambiguous --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/barry-zalma/support

ZIFL – Volume 26, Number 14 THE COURTS ARE BACK CONVICTING FRAUD PERPETRATORS WITH VIGOR – READ ABOUT THE CONVICTIONS IN THIS ISSUE OF ZIFL! The July 15, 2022 issue contains articles available FREE at Subscribe to e-mail Version of ZIFL, it's Free! and Read last two issues of ZIFL here. Greg Lindberg Gets a New Trial Jury Instruction Misled Jury by stating that an “Official Act” Existed as a Matter of Law Greg E. Lindberg and John D. Gray were convicted of honest services fraud and federal funds bribery in connection with a series of payments and offers of payment, in the form of campaign contributions, made to Mike Causey, the elected Insurance Commissioner for North Carolina. The jury found that these payments were made in exchange for Causey assigning a different Deputy Commissioner to oversee the affairs of Lindberg's insurance companies. In United States Of America v. Greg E. Lindberg, Nos. 20-4470, 20-4473, United States Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit (June 29, 2022) the Fourth Circuit granted a new trial. Criminal Lawyers Should be Disbarred Lawyer Convicted of Insurance Fraud Only Suspended for Two Years Insurance fraud is considered, universally, as a crime of moral turpitude. Regardless, the New York State Bar was only asked to join with the New Jersey State Bar who suspended a lawyer, after he was convicted for insurance fraud and other wrongful conduct, for two years rather than being disbarred. In the Matter of Neal Meredith Pomper, an attorney and counselor-at-law. (Attorney Registration No. 1726363); 2022 NY Slip Op 04173; No. 2021-02031; Supreme Court of New York, Second Department (June 29, 2022) Chutzpah: Admit Fraud & Claims Fraud Exclusion is Ambiguous Insured Convicted of Fraud But Still Sought UIM Benefits “Chutzpah” is a Yiddish term meaning “unmitigated gall” where, for example, a defendant convicted of murdering his parents asks for clemency because he is an orphan. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/barry-zalma/support

If an IRS agent calls you at home or office and asks you to send him or her a gift card, don't do it! Even if you owe money, that is not the correct (or legal) way to get back in Uncle Sam's good graces! By the same token if someone from a nature fund or a save-the-kittens group asks for a donation, check them out BEFORE you send a check. When a company advertises it can reduce your tax bill by tens of thousands of dollars put a cold cloth on your head and lie down until the urge to respond is gone. All of the above, plus some things you wouldn't dream up, are part of the IRS's Dirty Dozen list. It's part of the agency's effort to protect taxpayers, tax preparers and corporations from scams ranging from the incredibly stupid to brilliant. All designed to take you for all they can get. Even if it's all you got! And if you think some of the long-distance scams you see on the Dr. Phil show: She (or he) wires money to soulmate they've never met so they can pay kidnapper's ransom, get their mother a new body part, or repay a small debt to free millions of dollars from frozen account. The fact is it happens every day. Sometimes to otherwise savvy people. Like you, maybe? So what are the scams and schemes on the Dirty Dozen list? Could you spot them? Or have you ever been had? To talk about the ploys used to trick people we'll be talking to tax attorney Tom O'Rourke. He's a former IRS attorney, and he's my guest today on our Your Turn radio show.

Jury Instruction Misled Jury by stating that an "Official Act" Existed as a Matter of Law https://zalma.com/blog Greg E. Lindberg and John D. Gray were convicted of honest services fraud and federal funds bribery in connection with a series of payments and offers of payment, in the form of campaign contributions, made to Mike Causey, the elected Insurance Commissioner for North Carolina. The jury found that these payments were made in exchange for Causey assigning a different Deputy Commissioner to oversee the affairs of Lindberg's insurance companies. In United States Of America v. Greg E. Lindberg, Nos. 20-4470, 20-4473, United States Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit (June 29, 2022) the Fourth Circuit granted a new trial FACTS Greg E. Lindberg served as chairman of Eli Global LLC, an investment company, and as owner of Global Bankers Insurance Group, an insurance management company, during the relevant period from April 2017 to August 2018. Lindberg owns several insurance businesses subject to regulation in North Carolina. John D. Gray worked as a consultant for Lindberg during the relevant period. Lindberg and Gray ("defendants") were convicted of conspiring to commit honest services wire fraud and federal funds bribery for offering millions of dollars in campaign contributions to Mike Causey, the Commissioner of the North Carolina Department of Insurance, in exchange for the reassignment of a Senior Deputy Commissioner assigned to review Lindberg's insurance companies. In November 2016, Mike Causey was elected as North Carolina's Commissioner of Insurance. Several weeks after he was elected, Causey was scheduled to meet with Lindberg and other members of Eli Global's leadership. Prior to the meeting, he received a phone call from his campaign treasurer notifying him that he had received a $10,000 donation from Lindberg. Causey testified that he thought the contribution was "unusual" both because of the size and the timing, and he decided to return the donation. At the meeting, Gray explained that Eli Global was in the process of purchasing another insurance company based in Michigan and asked Causey to call his counterpart in Michigan "to put in a positive word." Causey agreed and made the phone call. Causey testified at trial that Gray then called him to state that OFLindberg had donated $500,000 to the North Carolina Republican Party ("NCGOP") with $110,000 to be sent to Causey's campaign and that Gray and Lindberg wanted to host a fundraiser for Causey in December. Causey later reached out to the Federal Bureau of Investigation ("FBI") to express concerns about these offers of donations and agreed to cooperate with an FBI investigation into Lindberg and his associates. Over the course of several meetings, they discussed Lindberg creating an independent expenditure committee and donating substantial amounts, between $500,000 and $2,000,000 to Causey's reelection campaign. The day after the meeting, Causey's campaign received $230,000 from the NCGOP. In total, Causey received $250,000 in donations funneled through the party. (c) 2022 Barry Zalma & ClaimSchool, Inc. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/barry-zalma/support

If you are working, retired, building a nest egg or living off one, these are tough emotional times. If you want good news, you've learned to avoid the financial news or stock market reports. Also national news, international news and, if you are a baseball fan in certain cities like Washington, D.C., you avoid the sporting news, too. Hopefully you have a good cable package and a personality that lets you sort and live with the good news vs. the not-so-good-news. Which is the purpose of today's Your Turn radio show: It's a double-header on the good, the bad and the ugly. We are going to try to cover the waterfront. First up, financial advisor Arthur Stein will talk about the future course of your TSP account, and the pros and cons of investing heavily in the never-has-a-bad-day G fund. Many consider it the “safest” investment. But that begs the question: How do you define “safe” when building a retirement nest egg? Federal News Network reporter Drew Friedman will talk about the very latest on the federal pay raise. Then we'll get into the prospects for a large retiree COLA. Last, but definitely not least, the issues TSP investors are having with the new system.

When is the last time you and your significant other took a romantic weekend to rekindle the fire? And spent most of the time, at the beach or in the mountains, talking about the pros and cons of an irrevocable trust? Wild guess: How about … never? Although vitally important in some cases, irrevocable trusts are sort of like heel spurs or picking kitchen paint colors as a topic of extended conversation. And yet … There may come a time in your family's life when having the should-I-have-a-trust conversation is critical. Whether you did it, or especially if you didn't do it but should have! All this is a sneaky way to lead into today's Your Turn radio show. And while the subject doesn't automatically draw your attention, in many cases it should. What such a trust is, and whether it is vital or useless for you and yours is something you have to deal with while you are still around. It won't wait until after you've gone and mourning — maybe fighting — loved ones are dealing with your estate which, by the way, even the most modest feds have. Today we'll be talking with Tom O'Rourke, a Washington area tax and estate attorney.

When Social Security was launched in 1935, the average life expectancy for men was 59.9 years and 63.9 for women. Full benefits started at 65, so do the math! It sounded almost like a safe, government-guaranteed Ponzi Scheme, minus the scheme part. But times have changed. The bad news, from an actuarial basis, is that we are living longer. A lot longer. A growing number of people are and will spend more time in retirement, getting Social Security, than they did working and paying into it. Again, do the math! Optimists predict Congress will fix it. Maybe make millionaires pay Social Security taxes on all of their income. Maybe raise them for everybody. Others, including many young people, say it's too late, or soon will be. That there won't be anything for them 99 years after the program began. For an update on the fate of your Social Security, we invited Tammy Flanagan to be on today's Your Turn radio show.

Retirement benefits for career feds and military personnel will be based on their length of service and salary. Unlike the vast majority of private pension plans, the federal-military programs are protected from inflation. Benefits will come from three sources: The federal/military annuity or retired pay, Social Security and the TSP. Which makes it so important to everybody. The TSP could supply one-third or more of the spending money retirees will have. So far, so good! But every top has a bottom, right? Arthur Stein, a D.C.-area financial planner, has been tracking the TSP for clients for decades. And several of his clients are self-made TSP millionaires. He urges people to invest for the long haul. And avoid what he believes is risky behavior: when clients have too much of their retirement nest egg in the G fund. Which is what we'll talk about today when he's my guest on Your Turn.

It's hard to think about next summer's vacation at the beach in February when there is a blizzard outside and your roof is groaning under the weight of all that ice and snow. There are times when it is important to live in the moment and focus on how to minimize your losses. But that is not always the best plan for ordinary people who are investing for a retirement that could last 10, 20 or 30-plus years. Like now! So what if this period, right now, turns out to be the good old days?! What if things get much worse before they get a little better? So who did we call for advice? How about Arthur Stein, a well-known Washington-area financial planner. Most of his clients are active or retired feds. Several are TSP millionaires, in some cases because-not-in-spite-of the Great Recession. He'll be my guest today on our Your Turn radio show.

For many career feds and postal workers the best date to retire is simple! You haul assets ASAP. You leave a soon as you are eligible to receive an immediate annuity. Period. Maybe you hate your job. Or your colleagues. Or the boss. Or all of them. Maybe you are ill. Or want to travel. Or not have to fight rush hour traffic anymore. Simple, right? Well, not necessarily. Retiring as soon as you can may seem like a good idea now. But what about then, which always follows now? How will it impact you financially 10, 20 or 30 years into retirement when inflation has nibbled away at (or gobbled up) your FERS annuity? When your TSP balance shrinks either due to inflation or to a recession? That might not be the right way to approach it. In fact, benefits expert Tammy Flanagan says there are two other factors: The future forecast: How you can (and should) set and control the actual NET value (after taxes and deductions) of your annuity. And mandatory or voluntary TSP withdrawals. Also, the impact of retiring early, or waiting several years on both your FERS annuity and, just as important, your Social Security benefit.The difference between taking Social Security as soon as you can (age 62?) and waiting until age 70 is huge. Check out what that delayed financial gratification would be for you. So how do you figure your retirement trifecta? Easy, listen to our Your Turn radio show today at 10 a.m. Benefits and retirement expert Tammy Flanagan will be my guest. She'll talk about how you can figure your best retirement date, and why those factors can add tens of thousands of dollars, both in FERS benefit and Social Security, to your lifetime retirement nest egg.

If you can afford to leave your spouse, kids or significant others a very large pile of money to spend when you are no longer around, you might want to skip the expense and inconvenience of making a will or setting up a trust. But that's probably not your best move. Certainly as far as your beneficiaries are concerned. But if you leave them with a substantial cash stash to spend after your demise they may get by fine, while the courts decide what's what and who's who in your financial life. If you leave enough, they will probably get by until the courts take over and handle the matter. In six months if you are lucky. Maybe a year if your affairs are complicated, which most are. If you have a house, car(s), debts and credit cards some would say you have an estate. Although some find it a grim subject, most of the people we leave behind will know what you wanted. A will and an estate plan can reduce or mitigate hard feelings among survivors. Maybe prevent decades-long feuds among children, siblings or spouses over what you wanted. To the question “should you have a will and an estate plan,” the answer, especially if you work or retired from the federal government, is usually yes! Which is why our Your Turn guest today is Tom O'Rourke. He's a former IRS attorney who now specializes in tax and estate law.

Many investors know the conventional thing to do when times are good. But when things go south, which they do regularly, the fight-or-flight instinct kicks in. Times like now. So we ask D.C. area financial planner Arthur Stein what he's telling active and retired clients these days.

What if the menu at your favorite/only eating place jumped, from 15 items to more than 5,000 new choices? Could you handle it? Would you welcome the option, or find it confusing? Maybe choke on your choices? Prepare to find out... Today's Your Turn radio show's guest is Kim Weaver. She's executive director of external affairs for the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, which runs the TSP. She'll explain how the new investment options will work, what they'll cost and how you can take advantage of them.

If you don't have a will and an estate plan, probate is an after-you've-gone legal struggle. One which could last months, if not years, in a battle over what you intended your family (or friends) to have: your estate! And while that sounds a bit posh to many, the fact is most of us are worth more dead than alive. And that's especially true of long time federal/postal workers. Most have life insurance, lifetime survivor benefits, maybe a home or other investments, including TSP or other 401(k) accounts. Who gets them and when depends on what you have done, or should do, sooner rather than later. That is, learn what you need to legally protect your family/friends and be sure they get what you want them to get. So today's guest on our Your Turn radio show is attorney Tom O'Rourke. He's a veteran of the IRS and a long-time specialist in taxes and estate planning. Some of his clients are TSP millionaires. Most aren't. But all recognize they needed legal help to insure that their wishes will be fulfilled in a timely fashion when they are no longer calling the shots, dead or alive!

With a hot war in Europe, galloping worldwide inflation and growing shortages on the home front, many investors are looking for the nearly impossible: A ‘safe' place to stash some of their retirement nest egg, with Uncle Sam, at an eye-popping current rate of return of 7.1%. When investors cash in their Treasury I-bonds they pay federal (but no state) taxes on the interest only. Virtually all of the TSP's self-made millionaires got to that exalted level by investing — and holding stock index funds — for the long haul (average 29 years). And they continued to buy shares when the markets were down. But the new world situation has revived and intensified fears of losing money for retirement years. But financial planner Arthur Stein, who has a large number of federal-retiree clients, says there is another option for them — or anyone else — who may want to invest some of their emergency funds or excess cash in a super-safe option. He's my guest today on our Your Turn.

Politicians, lobbyists and special interest groups on Capitol Hill often disguise very important or controversial bills they're pushing by giving them dull or misleading names. Or when a proposal is both complex and potentially explosive they may bill it as a “reform.” Who can oppose reform, right? As with much, if not most, laws and proposals, not many people know much if anything about the contents. The good news, whether you are (or should be) for Postal Reform or against the Windfall and Offset laws, help is coming. My guest today on our Your Turn is John Hatton. He's staff VP for the National Active and Retired Federal Employees.

Given the current world situation, many TSP investors are bound to be having second thoughts. That makes this the perfect time to have financial planner Arthur Stein back on our Your Turn. He's a well-known D.C. area financial planner (and congressional economist). And several of his regular clients are self-made TSP millionaires!

There are lots of ways to become a millionaire. Some of them are even legal. You can invent something, like fire, Scrabble or potatoes, although those have been taken. Or you can write a book, then buy TV airtime, then teach seminars telling other people how they can make a million in the market. If enough people buy it, you will become a millionaire without taking all that time and effort investing. But the keys are long-term investing and doing what the proven winners have already done. Like Abraham Grungold. He's a long-time fed who has found a good financial coach: himself. He's been practicing what he preached to some others. And its worked. He's our guest today on Your Turn. He's going to talk about his “simple” 5-step recipe for becoming a TSP millionaire. This is one you can't afford to miss. Tell a friend.

If you belong to a book club, whether Oprah's or one in the neighborhood, chances are “Bleak House,” by Charles Dickens, will never be on your reading list. Ever. As in never! For one thing, “Bleak House” is really old. Written in the 1850s. For another there is lots of legal stuff. It takes readers through a horrified version of settling an estate through probate. Some experts (people who have actually read Dickens rather than just seen him on PBS) believe it was inspired by a contested will case of that time period. The case, Thellusson v. Woodford, lasted from 1797 to 1859. That's longer than most people lasted in those days. To be fair, most probate actions don't take 50-plus years. But if one is triggered by your death, your family might have to wait six months to two years before your estate is settled. Unless you leave an estate plan which clearly spells out your wishes. It's a grim subject, but one most of us should deal with because the day will come whether you are prepared or not. In addition to settling your estate — and you probably have one — it can reduce the likelihood that disposition of your estate — home, 401k plan, insurance, etc. — won't break up your family. So while probate can be a mystifying and grim subject, it is one you should be up on. Starting right now. Today's guest on your turn is Tom O'Rourke. He's an estate and tax attorney in the DC area. He's also a former IRS attorney and most of his clients are either current, retired or former feds. Some of them are TSP millionaires with estates, based on time and hard work, that are significant. Tom is going to talk about how to avoid probate, or navigate through it if that is the only option. Today's show will be archived on our home page. That way you can listen later, listen again or refer it to a friend or coworker. While it's a grim subject, in many respects learning how to do it correctly can make things so much easier for your loved ones. Meantime, here's a brief (remember this is Charles Dickens) introduction to Probate 101 Tom has prepared to help keep you and yours out of “Bleak House:”

The good news about the federal retirement programs — FERS or CSRS — is that they have many moving parts. The downside is you need to do some homework — preferably starting from day one on the payroll — to get the most out of your service. Both in starting annuity and maximum annuity. Again, not rocket science, but also not a walk in the park. Not something you can delay (if you want to get the most) by waiting until the gang at the office is planning your final work sendoff. So what to do? A good start is right here. We talk with lots of experts (including current and former feds) to find the best deal or deals for you. Like benefits expert Tammy Flanagan. When her husband retired in 2015, they moved to Florida and Tammy started her own consulting business to help active and retired federal employees called Retire Federal. He's a retired LEO (law enforcement officer). She knows the retirement pathway and is a full-time consultant for feds planning to retire. Or those who've pulled the plug but still need help.

Today's Your Turn show is about the kind of thing he could be very good at: Taking care of his family. Hopefully it will help you in important ways, like taxes and investments. Subject that are not fun, but are very important when someone else settles your affairs. My guest is Tom O'Rourke. He's a Washington-area tax and estate attorney, and a former IRS lawyer too. Been there, done that! He knows the kind of advice you need and should be getting. Today his topic will be taxes and your TSP.

So today we've got a double-header for you on Your Turn. My lead off guest is financial planner Arthur Stein, who specializes in managing finances of active and retired feds. Today he's going to talk about the pros and cons of playing it “safe” with your TSP and the definition of just what “safe” is. In the second half of the show, I'll do a year-in-review interview with colleague Nicole Ogrysko, our pay and benefits experts, with a surprise twist at the end.

If you work for Uncle Sam there's a 50/50 chance you do. That is, your agency has pre-paid so you can shop from home, office or home/office using the popular Checkbook's Guide to Federal Health Plans. Many people use it to find several best-buys for them. Editor Walton Francis says most people can save lots of money — up to $2000 next year — if they pick the best deal from the dizzying array of health plans available to 4-million-plus federal workers, retired civil servants and their survivors. Many of them have been in the same health plan for decades, And over time, as they get older and more dependent on health care, the plan has simply become too expensive (in premiums) based on what they get in benefits and services. Walt Francis will be my guest today on Your Turn.

Federal workers, retirees and their surviving spouses are fortunate in many ways. They have a large number of health plans to choose from. The government will pay much if not most of the premium. No one can be turned down for any reason. Full coverage continues in retirement, which is not the case in most private plans. While the choice of 20 to nearly 40 health plans and options is bewildering, it is an effort everybody should make. Many federal agencies have made it easier for people to shop at work, on the clock, by subscribing to Checkbook's Guide to Health Plans For Federal Employees. The online guide makes it easy for people to check out plans, benefits, networks, catastrophic coverage and, of course, premiums. The good news, for you and me, is that Walton Francis is my guest today on Your Turn. Remember, the countdown clock is ticking and you've got skin — literally and in money — in this open season. Francis is the long time editor of the Checkbook Guide, which, if your agency hasn't subscribed for you, you can get by clicking here. You can save an additional 20% with the promotion code FEDNEWS.

To reach out to Alex D. Tremble you can contact him below and use #TheATshow. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alextremble/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/alextremble Instagram: https://instagram.com/alexdtremble Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlexDTremble Feds Protection Anthony F. Vergnetti is the President and Founder of Federal Employee Defense Services, Inc. (FEDS), located near Washington, D.C.  Since 2007, FEDS has provided professional liability insurance coverage to the government employee and contractor community.  Prior to founding FEDS, Mr. Vergnetti was a partner in the Washington, D.C. law firm Shaw Bransford Veilleux & Roth P.C. where he specialized in federal personnel and employment law, representing employees in disciplinary action cases, employment discrimination complaints, whistleblower and prohibited personnel practice cases, Inspector General (IG) and Internal Affairs investigations, security clearance issues (including federal contractors), and other employment matters in various forums, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB), the Office of Special Counsel (OSC), Department of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA), as well as the federal district and appellate courts. Mr. Vergnetti has also provided legal representation to small federal agencies on a multitude of personnel law matters. Mr. Vergnetti is a current co-host of FEDtalk, a weekly radio show on Fridays, 11:00 a.m. to 12 noon (Eastern Time), on WTOP's all-federal employee radio station, on line at Federal News Network and  locally in the Washington DC area on 1500AM. On FEDtalk, Mr. Vergnetti presents experts who discuss matters of importance to federal employees and retirees. Mr. Vergnetti also previously frequently appeared on Federal News Network's signature morning drive show—the Federal Drive with Mike Causey. Mr. Vergnetti is the author of the numerous articles and publications such as the 2002 INSPECTOR GENERAL AND OFFICE OF SPECIAL COUNSEL INVESTIGATIONS HANDBOOK (www.federalhandbooks.com) and has presented seminars to government executives and employees on a variety of federal personnel law matters at training programs sponsored by FDR Conferences, Inc. Prior to joining SBVR, Mr. Vergnetti was an attorney with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, Office of Chief Counsel (1997-2001) where he represented the Bureau in personnel matters (disciplinary and other adverse actions), and other employment/labor law matters before the various administrative tribunals (MSPB, EEOC, FLRA) and the Federal district or appellate courts. Mr. Vergnetti also worked as an Appellate Attorney for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (1996) and served as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Hart. T. Mankin, U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (1995). Mr. Vergnetti is also the current Executive Director of the OmniGov Training Institute, which is a non-profit corporation that provides training and guidance for government employees and agencies on a wide variety of human resource and personnel law issues. Mr. Vergnetti is also the President of TMS, a consulting firm specializing in association management for federal employee associations and organizations.  Mr. Vergnetti has B.A degree from Arizona State University (1992) and law degrees from Widener University School of Law (1995) and the Georgetown University Law Center (1999 -- Masters of Law in Labor/Employment Law) Prior to attending undergraduate and law schools, Mr. Vergnetti served on active duty in the United States Air Force (1985-1989). Mr. Vergnetti is a member of the Bar in Maryland and the District of Columbia and holds several surplus lines property and casualty insurance licenses. Brenda Wilson is the Director of Strategy and Business Development of Federal Employee and Contractor Programs at FEDS Protection, the leading provider of federal employee professional liability