# 226. Fed to Founder: Legal Must-Knows Before You Launch

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/fedupward-podcast-tips-for-federal-government-employees-624290/226-fed-to-founder-legal-must-knows-before-you-launch
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/fedupward-podcast-tips-for-federal-government-employees-624290/226-fed-to-founder-legal-must-knows-before-you-launch.md
Podcast: [FedUpward Podcast - Tips for Federal Government Employees](https://stenobird.com/podcast/fedupward-podcast-tips-for-federal-government-employees-624290)
Published: 2026-03-02T18:45:00+00:00
Episode link: https://fedupward.libsyn.com/226-fed-to-founder-legal-must-knows-before-you-launch
Audio file: https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/fedupward/Rebecca_Geller_Mixdown_1_1.mp3?dest-id=1392413
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/fedupward-podcast-tips-for-federal-government-employees-624290/episodes/226-fed-to-founder-legal-must-knows-before-you-launch
Duration seconds: 1346

## Resource

Thinking about starting a business after federal service ... or maybe while you're still a fed? In this episode of FedUpward, Love sits down with Rebecca Geller, founder of The Geller Law Group, to talk through the legal realities federal employees need to understand before launching a consulting firm or small business. They cover: Why forming an LLC matters (and why not to sign contracts as an individual) County and local business license requirements in the DMV Trademark mistakes that can lead to lawsuits Federal ethics considerations if you're still employed Why contracts are non-negotiable (even with friends) Privacy concerns when using your home address Succession planning and operating agreements Whether you're considering a pivot or were pushed into one, this episode offers practical, protective guidance to help you launch smart. Connect with Rebecca at: thegellerlawgroup.com Connect with Love: Coaching: https://www.fedupwardcoaching.com/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/love-rutledge Facebook: facebook.com/fedupward The FedUpward Podcast gives federal employees and friends of feds strategies and tips for navigating everyday problems. This is a place for federal employees to network, share ideas and get better. Don't get fed up. Get FedUpward!

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## Transcript

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