Red, White, and (Probably) a Little Blue: A Special Episode of Agile Unemployment for Federal Employees Facing Layoffs and Cutbacks

Agile Unemployment: Normalizing the Way We Talk About Being Out of Work

🎙️ Red, White, and (Probably) a Little Blue
A Special Episode of Agile Unemployment for Federal Employees Facing Layoffs and Cutbacks
🗓️ Released: July 2, 2025
🎧 Host: Sabina Sulat | Duration: 30 minutes

📌 EPISODE OVERVIEW

This 4th of July week, many federal employees and USAID workers are waking up to something they never imagined: their first official day out of work. After months—sometimes years—of limbo, the stress hasn’t ended. It’s just shifted.

In this special episode of Agile Unemployment, Sabina Sulat offers clear guidance, grounded support, and next-step strategies for those facing layoffs due to federal cutbacks. Because while the flag may fly high this week, it’s okay if your spirit feels a little grounded.

You're not alone—and you’re not powerless.

🧭 What You’ll Learn

⏱️ The Reality Check (2–8 min)
😞 Acknowledging the trauma of public sector job loss
⏳ Understanding that “official” doesn’t mean “over”—just different
🙌 Validating grief while reclaiming personal power

🛠️ The First 5 Things Framework (8–16 min)
🧘‍♀️ Take a breath – Center yourself before reacting
👥 Talk to your support network – You don’t need to go it alone
🏠 Get a lay of the land – Assess immediate needs (medical, housing, finances)
📎 Secure your HR paperwork – SF-50s, separation letters, OPD contact
📝 Apply for unemployment – File immediately; each state handles severance differently

🔍 Remember: File in the state where you physically worked—not where you live. Even with severance, apply now to prevent delays and unlock education & reemployment benefits.

❤️‍🩹 Health Triage (16–20 min)
🏥 Schedule doctor appointments while insurance is active
🧠 Use EAP and mental health resources
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Prioritize care for your family’s health, too

🚫 What NOT to Do (20–23 min)
❌ Don’t panic apply
❌ Don’t isolate or ghost your network
❌ Don’t compare yourself to others—your timeline is yours

🔁 Translating Federal Experience (23–27 min)
📄 Rewrite your resume for private sector roles
🔐 Highlight your transferable skills and security clearances
🌍 Consider contractors, nonprofits, and mission-aligned orgs

🇺🇸 July 4th Reflection (27–29 min)
🔓 Finding personal independence after professional disruption
💡 Reframing unemployment as a launchpad—not a loss

✅ Three Wins This Week (29–30 min)
📁 Create a job-loss documentation folder
📣 Tell 3 trusted people about your situation
🌱 Schedule one activity that grounds you

🧰 Resources Mentioned
🔗 CareerOneStop.org – File for UI by state
🔗 LinkedIn – Build your network and visibility
🧠 EAPs – Emotional and psychological support
📞 OPM/OPD – HR documentation & benefit help
🏢 Federal contractors – Job opportunities
🤝 Professional associations – Grow your connections

📝 Key Takeaways
📍 Unemployment is filed in the state where you worked
📍 Severance may delay payment—but not your eligibility
📍 Medical and mental health needs are urgent—address them now
📍 Your federal skills are valuable—don’t underestimate them
📍 This is trauma—but it can also be a turning point

🎯 Next Steps for You
✅ Complete the First 5 Things Checklist
📬 Set up a dedicated job search email
📆 Create a structured weekly routine
🗂️ Start documenting your career accomplishments
🔗 Reconnect with past colleagues and references

📬 Contact & Community
🌐 Website: https://www.reworkingworks.com/
💼 LinkedIn: Connect Sabina Sulat | LinkedIn
🗓️ Upcoming: Live Community Calls for Federal Job Seekers Thursday, July 17th, 1 PM ET

💬 #AgileUnemployment #FederalLayoffs #CareerTransition #OutOfWorkNotOutOfWorth #JobSearchSupport #RedWhiteAndBlue #ReclaimYourCareer #SabinaSulat #FederalEmployees #UnemploymentSupport #4thofJulyTruth