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What can actually protect your federal job beyond the law (Podcast Episode 2)

Jul 03, 2026
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Hey Feds,

Your probationary year is generally the year the law gives you the least protection — and after the last 18 months, plenty of people who've been in their jobs for years feel like they're living something like it all over again.

Maybe your rights have changed, maybe not. But beyond the law, is there something you can do?

We're excited to announce this is the topic of our second podcast episode. 

This episode is about surviving in the federal workplace using communication tools — not with panic, with a plan. Whether you are in your probationary period or another phase. 

Every Fed who's in their probationary period, and every Fed who wants communication tools to protect themselves should watch this episode. 

In this episode:

  • Why "quiet competence" isn't protection — and the brag file that is
  • How to turn a vague "you're not a good fit" into a written record that works for you, not against you
  • The one reframe communication coach Ken Canion uses to get a difficult boss to put their expectations in writing

Get actual tips from attorneys who help defend federal employees and advise them in difficult work situations. 

We also break down the two major Supreme Court decisions from this week impacting the federal service, and answer three real questions from feds.

â–¶ Listen now:

Apple Podcasts: Civil Rights for Civil Servants

Spotify: Civil Rights for Civil Servants

Amazon Music: Civil Rights for Civil Servants

Finally, know someone in their first year, or a coworker who just got that vague "we have some concerns" talk? Send this to them and help get this information out.

Thank you, everybody, for your support, and hope you have a great holiday weekend.

With gratitude,

Shaun

 

Shaun Southworth, Founding Partner, Southworth PC

 

P.S. — If someone forwarded you this, you can get our free Federal Employee Briefing — three stories that matter to your job, in plain English, every weekday — at fedlegalhelp.com/newsletter. It's the fastest way to stay ahead of what's happening to the federal workforce.

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Southworth PC | Federal Employee Briefing — Thursday, 07/02/2026
Attorneys for Federal Employees — Nationwide Nearly 200,000 federal workers and supporters follow our updates across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Each briefing gives you the three stories that actually matter to your job, plain‑English legal guidance, and one short practice to protect your peace of mind. If it helps you, forward it to a colleague—new readers can subscrib...
Southworth PC | Federal Employee Briefing — Wednesday, 07/01/2026
Attorneys for Federal Employees — Nationwide Nearly 200,000 federal workers and supporters follow our updates across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Each briefing gives you the three stories that actually matter to your job, plain‑English legal guidance, and one short practice to protect your peace of mind. If it helps you, forward it to a colleague—new readers can subscrib...
Southworth PC | Federal Employee Briefing — Tuesday, 06/30/2026
Attorneys for Federal Employees — Nationwide Nearly 200,000 federal workers and supporters follow our updates across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Each briefing gives you the three stories that actually matter to your job, plain‑English legal guidance, and one short practice to protect your peace of mind. If it helps you, forward it to a colleague—new readers can subscrib...

The Federal Employee Briefing: Your Trusted Guide in Uncertain Times

Stay informed, stay prepared. The Federal Employee Briefing delivers the latest on workforce policies, legal battles, RTO mandates, and union updates—helping federal employees navigate rapid changes. With job security, telework, and agency shifts in flux, we provide clear, concise insights so you can protect your career and rights. Get expert analysis on what’s happening, why it matters, and what you can do next—delivered straight to your inbox.
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