We know 2025 has been a challenging year for the federal community. Between RIFs, hiring freezes, and uncertainty across agencies, many of you have faced hard choices and heavy burdens, often while continuing to serve others with grace and professionalism. We see you. We appreciate you. And we want you to know that we’re here for you: this year and always.
At Serving Those Who Serve, our work is built around one simple truth: our mission exists because of you- the career civil servants, the federal retirees, and the families who keep this country running behind the scenes every single day. As an organization, what we’re most thankful for this Thanksgiving is you. Your service, your resilience, and your trust in us to walk beside you on your financial journey.
In that spirit of gratitude, we asked our team to reflect on what they’re most thankful for this holiday season, both personally and professionally. Here’s what they shared.
Maura “Marty” Olson“For me, Thanksgiving is that one special day when our family – Dan’s, mine, and our late brothers’ – all get together at Dan and Mary’s home to welcome the holidays. It’s a noisy and joyous celebration, greeting those we haven’t seen for a year and welcoming new members. Tradition!”
Dan Sipe, ChFEBC℠“I’m thankful to have two great families. My bio family is pretty healthy and gets along well, and my work family is amazing and makes me feel younger every day I am with them.”
Katelyn Murray, CFP®, ChFEBC℠, FBS®, CFT-1™“This holiday season, I’m especially thankful for the opportunity to serve the federal community – a group that truly needs and deserves support right now. It’s been a tough year for many, with RIFs and downsizing initiatives impacting countless lives and futures. Being able to help Feds navigate these unexpected challenges and feel more confident about their financial path means the world to me. I’m grateful to do work that makes a difference when it matters most.”
Gentry Payan“This holiday season, I’m especially grateful for our home! It’s where we get to host the people we love, share great meals, and create memories together. Nothing makes me happier than knowing it’s a space where others feel welcome to come as they are, and stay as long as they like!”
“I’m grateful for all the near-impossible twists and turns that have led us to where we are: meeting my wife, Misoo, dropping out of music school, somehow finding out I was good at selling life insurance, learning LEAP, meeting Dan, developing a referral system, GIVE, committing to STWS, finding Ed Zurndorfer, Dan insisting on content marketing, going remote, going ensemble.”
Maria Tromp“I’m truly grateful to be part of this amazing team. From the moment I joined, I knew it was the right step in my career. I’ve had the privilege of working with incredible teammates who inspire and motivate me to grow while collaborating to deliver exceptional service to our clients. I’m also thankful for the experiences from my previous roles, which have shaped me both professionally and personally, allowing me to show up stronger for my clients, my teammates, my family, and myself.”
Bobby Roach“I am thankful for meeting this extraordinary team and for having the opportunity to contribute to our collective success and the successes of our clients. This company’s culture of service and quality of care are unlike any others I’ve experienced in my career.”
Kent Showler“I am grateful for a team I trust, hands down. That’s everything.”
As we gather around our tables with family, friends, and (hopefully) no shortage of tasty treats, we’re reminded of how fortunate we are to do what we do: serve the civil servants who serve our country. We’re grateful for your trust, for one another, and for the chance to make a meaningful impact every day.
From our family to yours, we wish you a warm, peaceful, and happy Thanksgiving!
**Written by Katelyn Murray, CFP®, ChFEBC®, FBS®, CFT-1™, ECA. The information has been obtained from sources considered reliable but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of Katelyn Murray and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy suggested. Every investor’s situation is unique and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon before making any investment or financial decision. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. While we are familiar with the tax provisions of the issues presented herein, as Financial Advisors of RJFS, we are not qualified to render advice on tax or legal matters. You should discuss tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. **
The FedLife Podcast is your in-depth, biweekly deep dive into the world of federal benefits and retirement planning. Hosted by federal benefits expert Ed Zurndorfer and Dan Sipe of Serving Those Who Serve, each 30-minute episode unpacks the complexities of FERS and CSRS retirement, FEHB and Medicare, survivor benefits, tax planning, and more. Designed for federal employees and retirees who want more than just the basics, FedLife goes beyond the headlines to explore the rules, nuances, and strategies that can make a meaningful difference in your retirement. Remember: it’s your Fed life, make it a great one.
The Fed15 Podcast is your weekly 15(ish)-minute briefing on federal benefits and financial planning, built specifically for federal employees and retirees. Hosted by Dan Sipe and Katelyn Murray of Serving Those Who Serve, each episode delivers clear, actionable guidance on topics like FERS and CSRS retirement, TSP strategies, FEHB, survivor benefits, tax planning, and more! Whether you’re five years from retirement or already there, The Fed15 helps you cut through the noise, avoid costly mistakes, and make confident decisions about your federal benefits.
