Workin' it Out Podcast

Part 3: Survivor’s Remorse – Federal Employee Speaks Out on Guilt, Stress, and Staying Afloat

Vanessa J. Weaver, PhD Season 3 Episode 3

In the final part of our Survivor’s Remorse series, The Daily Drum dives deep into the emotional weight federal workers carry as layoffs roll through government agencies. Our guest, "Dr. C," a current federal employee, shares her real-time experience navigating shrinking teams, budget cuts, and rising job pressure—all while managing guilt and anxiety for still being employed. 

Host Molette Green is joined once again by Dr. Vanessa Weaver, an organizational psychologist with decades of experience helping employees and leadership manage emotional fallout during workplace transitions. 

What We Cover: 

  • Survivor’s remorse: What it is and how to spot it 
  • How job cuts affect workload, morale, and mental health 
  • What conversations sound like after a Reduction in Force 
  • Quiet quitting, guilt, and how to protect your peace 
  • The role of leadership and HR during crises

People on this episode