The drive for economy and efficiency in government operations never ceases, especially when operational budgets don't grow like entitlements or grants budgets. So its up to leadership to foster a culture of ever-better productivity. Most don't to such a great job. Says who? Federal Drive Host Tom Temin's guest Bob Tobias, a long-time federal leadership professor, coach, and general smart guy.
It's hard to believe that Richard Nixon left office nearly 50 years ago. Some seasoned observers well remember that that image of a waving Nixon boarding the helicopter, after resigning from office. Now the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum in Yorba Linda, California, has a new director. Federal Drive Host Tom Temin spoke with Tamara Martin.
Shutdown countdown on your mind? Tired of congressional vilification? You might be thinking of how great a private sector job would be. Think twice. Many civilian public servants and military people do have great post-government careers. But the private sector offers no guarantees either, and a government or military career may not necessarily have prepared you for work outside of government.
As autumn brings renewed thoughts of financial plans, Open Season for the federal health benefits plans is approaching.
September is suicide prevention month, with lots of prevention information coming out of places like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. A year in, the federally-backed 988 suicide prevention line has received millions of calls. But now we take a moment to celebrate how service dogs can help with the persistent problem of veteran suicide. For details, Federal Drive Host Tom Temin talked with Cole Lyle, the Executive Director of the Veterans Advocate group called, "Mission Role Call."
In today's Federal Newscast: OMB Director Shalanda Young warns that a continuing resolution could discontinue hiring. CQ Brown gets the green light to replace Mark Milley. And the GSA IG says the water in some federal buildings could give you Legionnaires’ disease.
In today's Federal Newscast: Two congressmen are raising concerns about child care for essential workers during a government shutdown. D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton has introduced a bill to keep the D.C. court system open during a government shutdown. And a conference committee prepares to hammer out differences over the annual defense authorization bill.
The CARES Act, enacted during the pandemic, let the government reimburse contractors for employees on paid leave: Those who could not access federal work sites or work remotely. One company took the money, then later faced a demand from the Navy for a $4 million reimbursement. It gets ugly. For more, Federal Drive Host Tom Temin spoke with Haynes Boone partner Zach Prince.