The Military Money Manual Podcast

Spencer Reese, founder of the Military Money Manual, joins Jesse Kramer to discuss the unique financial landscape of military service and the critical transition to post-service life. Spencer separated from the US Air Force in 2022 after 12 years as a pilot and now helps military families reach financial independence through his book, podcast, course, and website. Host: Jesse Kramer - Financial adviser and host of "Personal Finance for Long-Term Investors" Guest: Spencer Reese - Former Air Force pilot (12 years active duty), founder of Military Money Manual, author, podcaster Key Topics Covered Military-Specific Financial Challenges: Lower enlisted income but essential expenses covered (housing, food, healthcare) The "lieutenant mobile" trap - buying too much car relative to rank/income Transparent pay structure creates unique comparison pressures Status games vs. wealth building: Why the cheapest car often belongs to the colonel Split around captain rank - some choose optimization, others choose lifestyle inflation Creating Financial Systems: Spencer's personal story: Living paycheck to paycheck early in marriage with $20 every two weeks for discretionary spending How his wife forced financial discipline and communication The 30-day test: Could your finances run on autopilot for a month? Critical for deployments when internet access may be limited Automate everything: bills, investments, transfers Deployment as Financial Opportunity: Tax-free pay in combat zones Zero housing/food expenses while deployed Spouse can potentially reduce expenses (move home, downsize) Real example: Service member paid off all auto and student loans in 3 months of deployment Life-changing potential of a single 9-12 month deployment if leveraged strategically Common Behavioral Traps: Most military families are "avoiders" - have the will but lack the skills Money wasn't discussed at home growing up, never learned the basics Two avoiders marry each other and perpetuate the cycle The mistake: Thinking low income is the problem when it's actually overspending on cars Free Military Resources Available: Military OneSource - Free financial counseling specific to your situation Airman and Family Readiness Center (each branch has equivalent) Face-to-face budget help and financial planning on every base No excuse not to use these resources Success stories: Enlisted millionaires before 20 years, airmen with $100K after 4-year enlistment Military vs. Civilian Pay Reality: Officers hit six figures around captain rank Buying too much car is easily a 5-6 figure mistake over time When you're making five figures, you can't afford five-figure mistakes One good decision (avoiding expensive car) creates massive wealth-building opportunity The Post-Service Transition Crisis: Spencer's story: Left active duty before 20-year retirement, thought side business would be enough Financially prepared (large nest egg, near financial independence) Completely unprepared for loss of purpose and meaning Got depressed for months after separation Taking airline job helped initially, but quit after 6 months - still wasn't fulfilling The money isn't the hard part - finding purpose is Purpose and Meaning in Retirement: Pre-retirees rank finances as top priority 2-10 years into retirement, lifestyle issues become the top concern The workplace provided: paycheck (replaceable), purpose (harder to replace), socialization (often overlooked) "What's your job when every dollar has a job?" Reference to "The Second Mountain" by David Brooks - four callings: vocation, religion/philosophy, community, marriage Practical Transition Advice: TAP (Transition Assistance Program) - Available starting one year before separation Spencer's mistake: Only went once, should have gone twice (at one year out AND closer to separation) Too much information to absorb in one session Free LinkedIn Premium for a year (included) Go early to start the mental transition process Guard/Reserve option as a "slow transition" - maintain community while easing into civilian life The "Not Work" Trap: Like high school freshman saying "I'll just do not school this summer" Many retirees approach retirement as "I'll just do not work" Leads to undefined path and potential struggle Better to ease into it with preparation and exploration beforehand Parallel to being 17-18 and figuring out life path - retirement is another major transition Key Mindset Shifts: The optimizer who runs 10,000 Monte Carlo simulations will be financially fine "As long as the US and capitalism exist, you'll be fine" Now what? That's the harder question It might take 2-3 years to figure out, and that's okay Some retirees find they're busier than ever (Mr. Money Mustache model) Others stare at the ceiling at 3 AM wondering what they're doing Both are normal - give yourself grace and time Recommended Resources Books Mentioned: "The Five Types of Wealth" by Sahil Bloom - Framework beyond just financial net worth "The Second Mountain" by David Brooks - Four callings: vocation, religion, community, marriage Programs & Resources: Military OneSource - militaryonesource.com TAP (Transition Assistance Program) - Start attending one year before separation Airman and Family Readiness Center (or branch equivalent) Guard/Reserve transition option Spencer's Work: Website: MilitaryMoneyManual.com (hub for all content) Podcast: Military Money Manual (Spotify, Apple Podcasts - nearly 200 episodes) Book: "The Military Money Manual" (Amazon and shop.militarymoneymanual.com) Co-hosted with Jamie (still active duty officer) Jesse's Work: Blog: BestInterest.blog (hub, weekly newsletter signup) Podcast: Personal Finance for Long-Term Investors Episode 106: "Retirees, Mistakes, and Wakeup Calls: Expectations vs Reality" Shout out to Fritz Gilbert of The Retirement Manifesto Key Quotes "Just wait till next paycheck." - Spencer's mantra when living paycheck to paycheck early in marriage "Every dollar has a job, but what's your job?" - Jesse on finding purpose beyond financial optimization "The numbers are going to work. You've run 10,000 Monte Carlo simulations. You're going to be fine. Now what are you going to do?" "I don't have time to work. My life is so full." - Common sentiment from successful retirees/FIRE achievers "You're going to be fine, but it's going to take some time. And that's okay." Who This Episode Is For Military service members at any stage (especially those 5-10 years from separation/retirement) Veterans who've already transitioned (validation that post-service struggles are normal) Civilians planning traditional retirement (lessons apply universally) Financial optimizers who need reminder that life is more than spreadsheets Anyone supporting military family members People struggling with purpose and meaning in life transitions This episode provides a rare honest look at the emotional and psychological challenges of leaving military service, even when financially prepared. While focused on military transitions, the lessons about purpose, meaning, and life beyond work apply to anyone facing retirement or major life changes. Originally aired as Episode 117 of Personal Finance for Long-Term Investors. Listen to the full episode on Jesse's podcast feed. Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor Over 20,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, including waived annual fees, on elite cards like the American Express Platinum Card® and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card. https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/ https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/ Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

Travel Planning with Points & Miles Join Spencer Reese and Jamie as they dive deep into the tactical strategies for planning and booking travel using credit card points and miles. This comprehensive guide walks through the entire process from initial flight searches to hotel bookings, with a focus on maximizing value while avoiding common pitfalls. Topics Covered Flight Booking Strategies: How to prioritize travel goals (destination, dates, airline, class of service) Finding direct flight routes and connections Searching for award availability across multiple loyalty programs Setting up price and availability alerts The importance of booking directly with airlines Avoiding third-party booking sites and potential complications Understanding partner airlines and fifth freedom routes Hotel Booking: Searching for hotel availability with points Using free night certificates effectively Maximizing Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts (FHR) benefits Fifth night free promotions When to choose hotels vs. short-term rentals Advanced Tips: Transfer partner bonuses and timing Combining points between household members Seat selection strategies for different aircraft types Using expert booking services (when they're worth it) Setting realistic expectations for award availability Resources & Links Mentioned Free Flight Search Tools: Google Flights Flight Connections - Route mapping Points Path (Chrome extension) - Points comparison on Google Flights Points Search Platforms: PointsYeah.com - Search 22+ loyalty programs (paid version recommended) Point.me / Amex.Point.me - Transfer partner search Seats.aero - Award availability search (paid) ExpertFlyer.com - Seat maps and availability (paid) Hotel Tools: MaxFHR.com - Fine Hotels & Resorts property search HigherAspire.com - Hilton Aspire credit usage Booking.com - General hotel search Hilton.com, Marriott.com, Hyatt.com - Direct hotel searches Other Resources: SeatGuru - Aircraft seat maps and reviews Airbnb & VRBO - Alternative accommodations Credit Cards Discussed: Chase Sapphire Reserve American Express Platinum Card Delta SkyMiles Reserve (Amex) Bilt Credit Card Hilton Honors Aspire (Amex) Key Takeaways Don't let points optimization ruin the vacation - Balance maximizing value with maintaining trip enjoyment and minimizing planning stress Book directly when possible - Avoid third-party sites to ensure better customer service and easier modifications Be flexible - More flexibility with dates, airports, and airlines leads to better redemptions Start searching 6-9 months out - Award availability is typically best well in advance Check for transfer bonuses - Can increase point value by 20-30% or more Set up alerts - For both cash prices and award availability to catch deals Budget for tools if needed - Some paid subscriptions may be worth it for major trips Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor Over 20,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, including waived annual fees, on elite cards like the American Express Platinum Card® and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card. https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/ https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/ Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

Updates available on militarymoneymanual.com/shutdown Air Force Aid Society – Falcon Loans up to $1,500 and Standard Assistance, up to 24 months of repayment. Space Force also eligible. Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society – Quick Assist Loan and Financial Assistance available Army Emergency Relief – Normally assistance available same day but no later than 48 hours. AER will provide rapid, zero-interest loans to help cover financial needs until normal operations and back pay resume. Assistance is available up to the amount of one net paycheck (maximum $6,000), with repayment beginning once pay is restored. If you or someone you know may be affected, please share this information. More information here. Coast Guard Mutual Assistance – Quick Loan program up to $1,000, Shutdown Loan up to 1 month's BAH per month USAA Government Shutdown Program 0% loan, credit check required, up to $6,000 Navy Federal Government Shutdown Assistance, Paycheck Assistance Program 0%, no credit check required, up to $6,000 PenFed Service Credit Union Spencer Reese delivers a timely solo episode addressing the 2025 federal government shutdown and its impact on military families. Recorded on October 8th, just days into the shutdown, this episode provides practical, actionable guidance on navigating the financial challenges of missed paychecks, accessing zero-interest loans from military-friendly banks, and protecting yourself from shutdown-related scams. While the Military Money Manual typically focuses on evergreen content, this episode addresses an urgent situation affecting active duty service members, federal employees, and military contractors. Topics Covered Government Shutdown Basics: Active duty military deemed mission essential, must continue reporting to work October 1st paycheck protected (work performed in September) October 15th paycheck at risk Historical precedent: 2018-2019 Coast Guard missed paychecks for 35 days Backpay is guaranteed by law once shutdown ends Veterans, retirees, VA disability, and Social Security payments protected (separate funding sources) USAA Government Shutdown Assistance Program: https://www.usaa.com/support/government-shutdown-program/ Zero-interest loan: $500-$6,000 based on last direct deposit amount Requirements: Direct deposit established before shutdown, at least one qualifying deposit in 30 days prior, US/military address (APO/FPO/DPO), credit approval required Repayment: 3 months, two equal installments (first payment ~60 days, second ~90 days) Additional relief: Auto/property insurance payment relief Credit cards: 3-month payment extension Consumer loans: 2-month extension with no interest Overdraft fees waived Home equity lines: 3-month payment extension Navy Federal Paycheck Assistance Program: https://www.navyfederal.org/about/government-shutdown.html Zero-interest loan: $250-$6,000 based on last direct deposit Major advantages: No credit check, not reported to credit bureaus Eligibility: Federal employees, active duty service members, federal contractors paid directly by government (broader than USAA) Registration deadline: Day before scheduled payday for funds on normal pay date (can register up to 3 days after, but won't receive funds immediately) Automatic repayment: Once direct deposit resumes, Navy Federal automatically deducts loan amount Backup repayment: If shutdown continues, repayment occurs 6 days after loan receipt Service Credit Union Options: 0% APR for up to 4 months No payments for up to 90 days Up to $5,000 for qualifying members Standard underwriting criteria applies (may require credit check) Military Aid Societies (All Interest-Free): Air Force Aid Society – Falcon Loans up to $1,500 and Standard Assistance, up to 24 months of repayment. Space Force also eligible. Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society – Quick Assist Loan and Financial Assistance available Army Emergency Relief – Normally assistance available same day but no later than 48 hours. AER will provide rapid, zero-interest loans to help cover financial needs until normal operations and back pay resume. Assistance is available up to the amount of one net paycheck (maximum $6,000), with repayment beginning once pay is restored. If you or someone you know may be affected, please share this information. More information here. Coast Guard Mutual Assistance – Quick Loan program up to $1,000, Shutdown Loan up to 1 month's BAH per month Historical Context: 2011: Near shutdown (averted) 2013: 16-day shutdown 2018: 3-day shutdown 2018-2019: 35-day shutdown (Coast Guard NOT paid) Bipartisan political theater regardless of which party controls Congress Military pay typically protected by last-minute "Pay Our Troops Act" Immediate Action Steps Reduce non-essential expenses - No big purchases or travel bookings Contact lenders - Request payment deferrals on mortgage, car, rent, student loans, credit cards Apply for 0% loans - Through USAA, Navy Federal, or Service Credit Union if needed Reach out to aid societies - Before considering any payday loans, auto title loans, or carrying credit card debt Watch for scams - Only use verified websites (USAA.com, NavyFederal.org), hang up and call back on suspicious calls Long-Term Action Steps Build an emergency fund - Minimum $1,000, ideally $10,000+ Switch to military-friendly bank - If current bank doesn't offer shutdown assistance Break paycheck-to-paycheck cycle - If missing one paycheck derails your finances, you have a financial emergency Turn off the news - Constant updates increase anxiety without adding value Focus on what you can control - Maintain internal locus of control Critical Security Warnings Scam Prevention: Only access programs through official websites: USAA.com and NavyFederal.org DO NOT use payday lenders or auto title loan companies DO NOT go through intermediaries If you receive a phone call claiming to be from Navy Federal or USAA, hang up and call back using verified number from app or official website Verify all communications independently Key Takeaways Don't panic - This has happened before and will likely happen again You will be backpaid - Military pay typically protected; backpay is guaranteed by law Assistance is available - Multiple 0% loan options and interest-free aid society loans Use this as motivation - Build financial resilience and emergency funds Emergency funds are essential - Perfect example of why military members need cash reserves Related Episodes Episode 95: Previous government shutdown episode (check for still-relevant information) Resources & Links Military-Friendly Banks: USAA.com - Government shutdown assistance NavyFederal.org - Paycheck assistance program Service Credit Union - Shutdown loan program Military Aid Societies (Interest-Free Loans): Air Force Aid Society - Covers Air Force and Space Force Navy Marine Corps Relief Society - Quick assist loans Army Emergency Relief - Same-day to 48-hour assistance Coast Guard Mutual Assistance - Quick loan program Apply for Assistance: Register with Navy Federal by day before payday for funds on schedule USAA requires credit approval (new requirement) Aid societies offer interest-free alternatives to commercial loans Who This Episode Is For Active duty military facing potential missed paychecks Federal employees impacted by shutdown Federal contractors paid directly by government Military spouses managing finances during shutdown Anyone needing immediate financial assistance during government disruptions Contact Information Host: Spencer Reese Connect: Website: MilitaryMoneyManual.com Instagram: @MilitaryMoneyManual Share this episode with others in your unit or squadron so they know the steps to take during a government shutdown. Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor Over 20,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, including waived annual fees, on elite cards like the American Express Platinum Card® and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card. https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/ https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/ Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

Spencer Reese and Jamie deliver a no-nonsense, tough-love episode for military families struggling with paycheck-to-paycheck living. This episode cuts through excuses and provides three immediate, actionable steps to regain control of your finances and stop the financial bleeding. If you're stressed about money, fighting with your spouse about finances, or feeling overwhelmed and behind—this episode is your emergency action procedure. Topics Covered Three Immediate Actions: Delete Social Media Apps - Remove the influence of billions of advertising dollars designed to manipulate your spending decisions Create Intentional Inconvenience - Delete delivery apps (DoorDash, Uber Eats), switch to debit cards or cash, freeze credit cards, eliminate "buy now, pay later" options Cancel All Subscriptions - Cut Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, Spotify, and every other recurring charge until you're financially stable Key Financial Concepts: Emergency action procedures for financial crises The power of adding friction to spending habits - will power vs. won't power Why making life temporarily uncomfortable leads to long-term wealth Technology spending (why kids don't need $1,600 iPhones) The importance of game selection in personal finance Emergency funds turning emergencies into inconveniences Net worth tracking as a behavioral tool The Wealth Ladder Framework (Nick Maggiulli): Level 1: Less than $10,000 net worth - Focus on avoiding financial traps Level 2: $10,000-$100,000 - Avoid buying houses you can't afford, keep working hard, invest in TSP and Roth IRA Level 3: $100,000-$1 million - Where compound growth accelerates Level 4: $1 million-$10 million - Achievable for military families over a career Levels 5-6: $10 million+ - Beyond most military aspirations Common Military Family Mistakes: Spending more on housing than BAH covers Buying houses with 0% down and getting stuck Purchasing vehicles beyond their means Lifestyle inflation and comparison spending Technology overspending on devices and subscriptions Long-term vs Short-term Strategy: Short-term (Emergency Mode): Cut expenses, save the difference, get out of debt Long-term (Wealth Building): Increase income, spend on what matters, maintain healthy savings rate Books & Resources Mentioned Books: The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter - On the benefits of doing hard things The Opt-Out Family - On intentional family living Taking Your Family Back - Family relationship guidance The Anxious Generation - On technology's impact on children Dave Ramsey's principles (referenced) Tools & Resources: Libby app - Free audiobooks and ebooks MWR library system - Free military library access Net worth tracking tools Cash envelope system for budgeting Military OneSource - Free financial counseling Base financial counseling services Concepts Referenced: Nick Maggiulli Wealth Ladder framework Dave Ramsey's "pay yourself first" principle Emergency fund philosophy The 12-step program approach to financial recovery Key Quotes "Life begins just outside your comfort zone." "You have to be careful about game selection because you can win at the wrong game." "If you're the problem, you're also the solution." "As you build wealth, you stop having emergencies." "Your overspending isn't hurting me. It's not hurting Jamie. It's only hurting you and your loved ones." "You don't need to wait for financial independence to start living like you're financially independent." Practical Examples Shared Spencer's story: Freezing credit card in ice as a young lieutenant Jamie's debit card sleeve with debt payoff reminders The $1,000 emergency oil pan repair that didn't derail finances Military families spending $3,000 on housing with $2,000 BAH Hawaii homeowner unable to sell due to rising HOA fees 2022 home purchase with 0% down, now unable to sell Peloton subscription cancellation saving $132 over 3 months First graders with iPhones creating peer pressure Target Audience This episode is specifically for: Military families living paycheck to paycheck Service members stressed about money Couples fighting about finances Anyone in credit card debt or feeling financially overwhelmed Military spouses managing finances during deployments Young service members (E1-E5, O1-O3) establishing financial foundations Anyone ready to make radical changes to their financial situation Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor Over 20,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, including waived annual fees, on elite cards like the American Express Platinum Card® and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card. https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/ https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/ Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

Think military divorce means automatically splitting everythign 50/50 and going to court? Wrong on both counts! Certified Divorce Financial Anaylst David Smith reveals what most military families get wrong and what it costs them! In today's episode, we'll discuss the complex financial and logistical aspects of military divorce, covering everything from pension division to healthcare benefits, tax implications, and emotional support strategies. Key Topics Jurisdiction & Legal Considerations Multiple state options for filing (voting state, property ownership state, driver's license state, tax filing state) Importance of consulting with an attorney early to determine proper jurisdiction Each state has different rules, formulas, and processes JAG office can provide consultation but cannot represent service members in divorce proceedings Types of Divorce Processes Four main options: DIY without professionals, mediation, collaborative divorce, litigation Court is NOT the only option Out-of-court processes (mediation, collaborative) are often more cost-effective, private, and less stressful Consulting attorneys vs. representing attorneys - different roles and costs Military Pension Division Division is not the only option - can use offsetting with other assets Must determine what portion is "marital" vs. "separate" property Not all pension components are divisible (e.g., VA disability) Requires a Military Retirement Pay Division Order through DFAS Differences between active duty, reservist, and guard member pensions Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) Critical considerations: Only ONE SBP beneficiary can be named Previous spouses from earlier marriages may already occupy the "SBP chair" Premium costs must be negotiated Former spouse can be SBP beneficiary even without receiving pension payments Time-sensitive: Required forms must be submitted within specific timeframe or rights are lost Cannot be automatically transferred - requires proper paperwork TRICARE Benefits Courts CANNOT order TRICARE coverage - falls under federal rules Key rules: 20-20-20 (full benefits for life), 20-20-15 (transitional benefits) Based on: length of marriage, service member's creditable years, overlap period COBRA-like option available if don't meet other rules GI Bill Transfer Must be transferred WHILE married - cannot go to former spouse after divorce Service member can rescind the transfer Can be transferred to children as alternative Settlement agreement language is critical to protect this benefit Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Multiple TSPs possible (civilian federal employee spouse, reservist who went active duty) Pre-tax and Roth portions have different tax consequences Must account for outstanding loans Requires Retirement Benefits Court Order (different from pension division order) Not always split - can use offset method with other assets Other Unique Military Assets to Consider Military leave - has monetary value on LES Credit card points and miles - can be worth $30,000-$40,000 USAA Subscriber Savings Account Pets - especially valuable show animals Life insurance policies Tax Implications Filing status changes Tax bracket shifts Capital gains considerations when dividing assets Pre-tax accounts (traditional IRA, 401k) vs. post-tax accounts have different real values Child tax credits and claiming dependents Early withdrawal penalties Marital vs. Separate Property Separate property: assets brought into marriage, inheritances, gifts (if kept separate and not commingled) Marital property: everything accumulated during marriage Characterization process is essential before division discussions Financial Mistakes to Avoid Making verbal agreements before completing full financial inventory Not understanding tax consequences of asset division Overlooking hidden assets (leave balance, points/miles, etc.) Rushing decisions - most divorce decisions have no do-overs Not considering pre-tax vs. post-tax asset values Misclassifying assets as marital or separate Practical First Steps Learn about all four divorce process options If abuse is present, seek legal counsel immediately Open credit card and bank account in your own name Create timeline of important dates and duty stations Gather supporting documents (tax returns, bank statements) in cloud storage Document account numbers, login credentials, passwords Consider consulting with CDFA before hiring representing attorney Supporting Someone Through Divorce Listen deeply and empathetically Avoid projecting your own divorce experience onto theirs Don't rush them into decisions Offer practical help (childcare, meals, house cleaning) Point them to resources (counselors, family services, professionals) Give them breathing room Key Takeaways Divorce in the military involves unique complexities beyond civilian divorces Court is not the only option - consider mediation or collaborative processes Complete financial inventory BEFORE making division decisions Everything accumulated during marriage is generally marital property Professional guidance (CDFA, attorney consultation) is an investment, not just a cost Most divorce decisions are final with no do-overs - take time to understand options Resources & Links David's website: sandoakdivorcesolutions.com Free 30-minute phone consultations available David's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/davidsmithcdfa/ Find a CDFA through Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts: institutedfa.com Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor Over 20,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card. https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/ https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/ Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

Dont' fall for these traps! This "convenient" payment option could be sabotaging your financial future and even your security clearance! Military financial expert Lacey Langford returns to sound the alarm on what she calls "the new payday loan," Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services. With over $170 billion in BNPL transactions this year and 91.5 million Americans using these services, this seemingly innocent payment option is creating a financial minefield for military families. Main Topics Covered: What Buy Now, Pay Later really is The psychology behind BNPL - how it removes the "pain" of spending and makes overspending dangerously easy Hidden dangers for military families: Multiple small debts that are impossible to track Late fees and additional charges that can turn a $5 purchase into a $35 expense Potential impact on security clearances as reporting to credit bureaus increases Marriage and relationship stress from hidden debt The trap of "death by a thousand cuts" - why small payments add up to big problems How BNPL differs from traditional credit - and why it's actually worse in many ways Recovery strategies for those already caught in the BNPL web Why layaway was better - and how its disappearance pushed consumers toward dangerous alternatives Resources & Links: Lacey Langford's website: Milmo.co Podcast: The Milmo Show (available on Apple, Spotify, and all podcast platforms) Conference: MilMoneyCon: milmoneycon.com UPDATE! Dates are announced now! May 6-8, 2026 in Savannah, GA Social Media: @Milmo (all platforms) or @MilMoneyCon Military financial counseling: Available free through base aid societies and Military OneSource If you're already using BNPL services, don't panic - but do take action. This episode provides a clear roadmap for getting back on track before small conveniences become big problems. Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor Over 20,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card. https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/ https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/ Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

New benefits are available immediately as of 9/18/25!! Learn how to apply for the  The Platinum Card® from American Express: https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/ Learn more about American Express military annual fee waivers: https://militarymoneymanual.com/american-express-military/ Learn how to maximize your military credit card benefits in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course: https://militarymoneymanual.com/umc3/ Episode Description Hosts Spencer Reese and Jamie discuss the major refresh of the American Express Platinum card, including a significant annual fee increase to $895 that military service members and spouses don't have to pay thanks to the Military Lending Act (MLA). They break down the extensive new benefits and explain how to maximize value from this popular military credit card. Topics Covered: New Benefits & Credits (2025 Refresh) (AVAILABLE NOW!!!!) $600 Fine Hotels & Resorts credit ($300 semi-annually) $400 Resy restaurant credit ($100 quarterly) $300 Lululemon credit ($75 quarterly) $300 Digital Entertainment credit ($25 monthly) $200 Oura Ring credit (annual) $120 Uber One membership credit (annual) Leading Hotels of the World (LHW) Sterling Status Existing Benefits $200 Uber Cash ($15/month, $35 in December) $209 Clear Plus credit $200 airline fee credit $155 Walmart Plus credit $100 Saks credit ($50 semi-annually) $300 Equinox credit 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels Hilton Gold and Marriott Gold status Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit Military Lending Act (MLA) Coverage Automatic fee waiver for active duty service members Coverage for military spouses Guard/Reserve on 30+ day orders eligible How to check MLA database before applying: https://militarymoneymanual.com/mla-database/  Welcome Bonus & Value 175,000 Membership Rewards points after $8,000 spend in 6 months Cash value: $1,750-$1,925 Travel partner transfer potential: $3,500+ 25%+ effective cash back rate Resources & Links Mentioned: Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course: militarymoneymanual.com/UMC3 (100% free, 5-day email course) Fine Hotels & Resorts Search: maxfhr.com Points Valuation: points.yeah (travel redemption research) MLA Database: Google "Military Lending Act database" to verify coverage American Express Website: americanexpress.com (for enrollment in benefits) Resy App: Restaurant reservations that trigger the quarterly credit Key Takeaways: Total annual benefits exceed $2,500 in cash value Multiple Amex Platinum cards multiply benefits (spouse can get their own) Must enroll in many benefits through Amex app/website Check quarterly vs. semi-annual vs. annual benefit periods Verify MLA database status BEFORE applying Consider pairing with Chase Sapphire Reserve for maximum value Important Reminders: Only for those who pay off credit cards monthly (no debt) $8,000 minimum spend may be challenging for junior enlisted Benefits require enrollment - don't assume automatic activation Military spouses must be properly listed in DEERS Some benefits (Uber Cash) only work in the U.S. About the Hosts: Spencer - Creator of MilitaryMoneyManual.com and the Ultimate Military Credit Cards course Jamie - Co-host and military finance expert Contact & Social: Website: MilitaryMoneyManual.com Instagram: @militarymoneymanual For questions: Send DM on Instagram Episode Notes: Recording discusses the 2025 refresh of the American Express Platinum card. The hosts emphasize this is only for service members who can responsibly manage credit cards and pay balances in full monthly. They recommend both the Amex Platinum and Chase Sapphire Reserve as the two essential cards for military families who qualify for MLA fee waivers. For detailed analysis and current offers, visit MilitaryMoneyManual.com or search "Amex Platinum Military" for Spencer's comprehensive guides. Military Money Mentor Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor Over 20,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card. https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/ https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/ Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

"Rising tides lift all ships!" MilMoneyCon 2026 dates just released! May 26-28, 2026 in Savannah, GA. See https://milmoneycon.com/register/ The military finance community doesn't have to operate in silos. Through strategic networking and mentorship, veterans and military spouses can accelerate their finance careers while building a supportive ecosystem that lifts everyone up. In this episode, we sit down with Lacey Langford, founder of MilMoneyCon and host of The Milmo Show, to explore how she transformed her frustration with career-building challenges into the premier conference for military financial professionals. Key Topics Covered: Military Background and Career Transition The mentorship gap that veterans face when entering civilian finance careers Why starting from "ground zero" shouldn't be necessary for experienced service members Why She Created MilMoneyCon Identifying duplication of efforts in the military finance space Connecting innovators who didn't know about each other's work Bridging the gap between DOD resources and community awareness Learning curve of event planning without prior experience Target Audience and Conference Value Active duty members considering finance careers post-service Military spouses entering the financial field Seasoned professionals seeking networking and growth opportunities Supporting businesses and organizations serving the military community Entrepreneurship Tips for Military Families PCS-proof career strategies and remote work opportunities Portable skills Leveraging unique military spouse skill sets for online services The reality check: every business owner is in sales and marketing Common Entrepreneurial Pitfalls Underestimating the sales and marketing requirements Creating products without validating market demand Failing to identify what sets you apart from competitors Not understanding the value proposition clearly Resources and Links: MilMoneyCon: milmoneycon.com Lacey's Website: milmo.co The Milmo Show Podcast: Available on all podcast platforms or milmo.co/podcast/ Kate Horrell's Book: KateHorrell.com/books MilMoneyCon: @milmoneycon Lacey's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laceylangford The Milmo Show: @itsmilmo    Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor Over 20,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card. https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/ https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/ Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

Is the wrong strategy for your GI Bill costing you over $100,000?! Today's guest is Kate Horrell, author of the new book "College Finances for Military Families," reveals why the "fair share" approach to education benefits might be the most expensive mistake military families make, GI Bill basics, and all the things to know about college for your military kids. Key Topics: GI Bill Transfer Strategy Why transferring your GI Bill at exactly 6 years of service is important The one-time 4-year service obligation that trips up many service members How to add dependents and redistribute benefits after initial transfer Documentation tips to protect your family's benefits Beyond Equal Distribution Real case study: How strategic planning saved one family $110,000 Why thinking "flexibly" about family resources beats rigid equal splits When to give one child the entire GI Bill and another child all the 529 funds 529 Plans and Military Families State residency confusion solved for military families Qualified expenses include K-12 private school, technology, and more How grandparents can contribute while maximizing tax advantages Why "it's too late to start" thinking costs families money Yellow Ribbon Program Essentials The motorcycle and sidecar analogy that clarifies everything (Yellow Ribbon always goes along with the GI Bill- can't be separate) How "full Yellow Ribbon" schools eliminate out-of-pocket tuition costs Maximizing Benefits for Veterans Why veterans aren't optimizing their benefits like military families do Strategic timing for undergraduate vs. graduate school usage Location arbitrage opportunities with Military Housing Allowance Links mentioned today: Kate's website: katehorrell.com Kate's book: "College Finances for Military Families" (available on https://www.katehorrell.com/books/ or Amazon) Kate's amazing resources include:  Military Family Confidently Prepared Life Binder katehorrell.com/confidently-prepared-life-binder/ Military Separation Checklist katehorrell.com/military-separation-checklist/ Military Retirement Checklist katehorrell.com/military-retirement-checklist/ Kate's LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/katehorrell Kate's Facebook facebook.com/KateHorrellFinanceExpert/ Kate's Instagram: instagram.com/realkatehorrell/ Kate's coaching services and free consultations at katehorrell.com/work-with-kate/ Bottom Line: Stop thinking about education benefits as individual entitlements and start thinking about them as family resources to be strategically deployed. The difference could save your family tens of thousands of dollars.   Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor Over 20,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card. https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/ https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/ Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

Think your military career ends with active duty? Think again. Sam Lewis reveals how Guard and Reserve service can unlock financial freedom, career flexibility, and long-term stability...without sacrificing family life or future goals Guest: Sam Lewis, CFP®, ChFC®, MQFP Founder of SJL Financial | Delaware Air National Guard | Member of Military Financial Advisors Association Key Topics Covered: Transitioning from active duty to Guard/Reserve service Flexibility in career paths, retraining, and deployment options AGR (Active Guard Reserve) positions and lifestyle benefits Retirement points system and pension planning VA disability eligibility and pay coordination Healthcare options: TRICARE Reserve Select vs. civilian plans GI Bill usage, transfer strategies, and state-level tuition assistance Dual-income household stability and homeownership advantages Civilian employer benefits during military service (e.g., double-dipping, 401k match) State-level Guard benefits: education, emergency relief, childcare subsidies Managing TSP and 401k contributions across military and civilian careers Importance of understanding retention vs. accession standards for reentry Strategic use of military leave and maximizing compensation Resources Mentioned: Sam Lewis’s website: https://wecanplanforthat.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samlewisfinancial Military Financial Advisors Association (MFAA): https://militaryfinancialadvisors.org Friendly Forces employer benefits directory: https://friendlyforces.org Childcare Aware through NACRA: https://www.childcareaware.org Remember: Your military career doesn’t have to end (or begin) with active duty. Guard and Reserve service offers flexibility, financial stability, and continued access to valuable benefits, often with fewer disruptions to family life and career goals.   Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor Over 19,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card. https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/ https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/ Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

How much life insurance do military servicemembers need? What about military spouses? Is SGLI enough? In this episode, Spencer Reese and Jamie sit down with Jerry Quinn, a 40-year Army veteran and executive at Armed Forces Mutual (formerly AAFMAA - American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association), to discuss everything military families need to know about life insurance. Topics Covered: SGLI (Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance) Understanding the $500,000 term policy for service members Spouse coverage rider ($100,000) Coverage for Guard and Reserve members What happens to SGLI after military separation Life Insurance Planning Strategies The DIME-L method for calculating coverage needs: Debt Income replacement Mortgage Education Legacy "10x income" rule of thumb Stacking multiple insurance policies for comprehensive coverage Term vs. whole life insurance considerations Armed Forces Mutual Services No war clause or aviation clause coverage Survivor Assistance Services (SAS) program Death claim processing (often under 30 days) Special 501(c)(23) nonprofit status Transition Planning When to apply for life insurance before leaving military service Health considerations and timing Converting from SGLI to civilian coverage Resources Mentioned: Armed Forces Mutual Website: AAFMAA.com Military Survivor Planning Checklist (available with free subscription) Life Insurance Calculators (on AAFMAA website) Career Accession Program (CAP) Loan: $5,000 at 2.5% fixed rate for 60 months Additional Resources: Daniel Kopp, CFP: Wise Stewardship Financial Planning Specialist in military widow/widower financial planning Military to Financial Planner Podcast Military Aid Societies: Army Emergency Relief Society Air Force Aid Society Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Coast Guard Mutual Assistance Key Takeaways: SGLI is an excellent deal at ~$30/month for $500,000 coverage Many military families need supplemental life insurance beyond SGLI Apply for additional coverage 6-12 months before military separation Update beneficiary designations regularly Armed Forces Mutual provides specialized support for Gold Star families About the Guest: Jerry Quinn served 40 years in the U.S. Army (7 years active duty, 33 years National Guard), retiring as a Field Artillery Officer in June 2025. He now serves as an executive at Armed Forces Mutual, a 146-year-old organization exclusively serving military and veteran families with specialized life insurance products and survivor assistance services. Contact Information: Armed Forces Mutual Website: AAFMAA.com Social Media: LinkedIn, Instagram (@armedforcesmutual) Subscribe for free resources and calculators Hosts: Spencer Jamie For those needing immediate assistance with military survivor benefits and life insurance claims, Armed Forces Mutual's Survivor Assistance Services team provides comprehensive support including VA claims coordination, DFAS benefit reconciliation, and burial assistance guidance. Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor Over 19,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card. https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/ https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/ Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.  

Are Mini Retirements, Optionality, and Side Hustles Possible in the Military? From seven-month sabbaticals to turning a hobby into a thriving side business, Justin Peters from the FI Minded Podcast shares how dialing back work can supercharge your career, creativity, and financial freedom. Key Points & Topics Part-time work and mini sabbaticals Recognizing burnout and funding a seven-month break Differentiating sabbatical versus mini retirement Logistics: nest egg size, remote options, healthcare planning Optionality and financial independence mindset Dual-track strategy: accumulate wealth and improve life in tandem CoastFi and SlowFi as flavors of the 25x rule Pulling back on work without derailing long-term goals Turning a podcast hobby into a side hustle Initial struggles with audio editing and finding a partner Leveraging serendipity, referrals, and niche communities Advising small business owners: start with five imperfect episodes Intentional time off Avoiding passive downtime—set routines for hobby and health First two-week recovery period, then structured creative blocks Sharing your plan: scripts for family and friends Networking and community building FinCon conference connections Toastmasters for public-speaking confidence and lasting bonds Online FI communities and Facebook groups for accountability Military-friendly breaks Career Intermission Program: up to 36 months and healthcare continuity depending on your branch of service Guard and Reserve options to maintain benefits and part-time earnings Links Mentioned Justin's FI Minded podcast (search on any podcast player) Episode 171: gifting and donations with Spencer Reese Episode 170: living a FI life without a FI bank account Episode 142: Jillian Johnsrud on mini retirements Toastmasters International: https://www.toastmasters.org Spencer and Jamie offer one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions. Get your personal military money and personal finance questions answered in a confidential coaching call. militarymoneymanual.com/mentor Over 19,000 military servicemembers and military spouses have graduated from the 100% free course available at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 In the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course, you can learn how to apply for the most premium credit cards and get special military protections, such as waived annual fees, on elite cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card. https://militarymoneymanual.com/amex-platinum-military/ https://militarymoneymanual.com/chase-sapphire-reserve-military/ Learn how active duty military, military spouses, and Guard and Reserves on 30+ day active orders can get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3 If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. Want to be confident with your TSP investing? Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual.

Financial Coaching & Money Mentor Opportunities Feeling confident in your research but stalled when it comes to taking action on your military family's financial plan? From TSP questions to credit card strategies, this episode explains how an hour with a dedicated coach can transform hesitation into clear, personalized next steps. Key Points & Topics Defining financial coaching vs. advisory services No sales pitches, no commissions, no product upsells Confidential, unbiased guidance tailored to your goals Who benefits most Active duty, Guard, Reserve, military spouses, cadets, midshipmen Dual-military couples, high-net-worth families, soon-to-commission officers Typical coaching session structure Pre-call questionnaire to customize the conversation One-hour call via Google Meet  Post-call recap email with transcript and bullet-pointed action steps Sample coaching topics TSP vs. traditional/Roth IRA decisions Career starter loan considerations Financial therapy: uncovering money scripts and spending habits Helping improve communication with your spouse around money Credit card strategies, MLA/SCRA protections, maximizing points redemptions State tax benefits and Military Spouse Residency Relief Act Booking details and logistics Schedule via Calendly at militarymoneymanual.com/mentor One-time fee ($150 currently as of time of recording), no recurring charges, Full refund if not valuable Option to be referred to military-friendly CFP network if needed such as Military Financial Advisors Association (MFAA) or Military Tax Experts Alliance Links Mentioned https://militarymoneymanual.com/mentor https://hellonectarine.com/r/military https://militaryfinancialadvisors.org https://militarymoneymanual.com/UMC3 Stop second-guessing and start implementing your financial plan today. Book your one-hour military money mentor session today and walk away with a clear roadmap to your goals. Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email podcast@militarymoneymanual.com. If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Wondering how to unlock premium travel perks and avoid annual fees while serving on Active Duty, the Guard, Reserves? Or maybe you’re a military spouse and curious if you qualify for the same protections and waivers? This episode dives deep into the ins and outs of MLA and SCRA protections, credit card strategies, and maximizing those free hotel nights and points. Links & Resources Mentioned: Spencer's article explaining MLA Database MLA Database Lookup SCRA Request Page – Amex Mentorship with Spencer & Jamie For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call. Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email podcast@militarymoneymanual.com. If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Remember when you were spooked by April’s market dip? Spencer and Jamie unpack how to discuss your feelings of panic this past April, stay calm, stick to your investing philosophy, and make smart moves post-crisis. Key Takeaways: The S&P 500 dropped 19%, sparking fear, but headlines thrive on panic. Debriefing your emotional response helps clarify your strategy. Automate contributions to reduce emotional decision-making. Now’s the time to create or revise your personal investing philosophy and asset allocation. You don't actually "lose" money unless you sell your shares when they're down. Long-term success comes from consistency, not reaction. Action Steps: Reflect: How did you feel during the downturn? Write down your investing philosophy. Automate TSP/Roth IRA contributions and delete trading apps. For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call. Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email podcast@militarymoneymanual.com. If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

If you've ever felt torn between soaking up life now and securing your future, you're not alone. In this episode, we explore what it really means to invest in “future you” and how to do it without sacrificing everything you love today. Whether you’re a beginner or behind on savings, the best time to start is today. Key Points The Saver vs. Spender Dynamic Compound Interest Explained Retirement is More Than Just Money or a Pension Understanding the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Insight from the FIRE Movement Saving Gives You Options Reverse Budgeting Strategy Reducing Financial Stress Communication For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call. Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email podcast@militarymoneymanual.com. If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Carol and Ken didn’t just imagine a life beyond the military- they designed one. In just four years, they transformed from brand-new ensigns with zero TSP contributions into self-made millionaires.  In this episode, we'll unpack the financial strategy, discipline, and teamwork that helped them achieve Lean FIRE (financial independence, retire early) before 30—all while navigating dual military careers and deployments. They get real about: Starting from scratch: Misconceptions about TSP, military pay issues, and their humble financial beginnings Mindset over mechanics: Why a simple strategy, applied consistently, beats fancy budgeting tools Sacrifice and simplicity: Living close to base, biking to work, and even having a 60% savings rate Lean FIRE: How they hit $800k in just four years and what came next Building a values-based lifestyle: From toddler chaos to travel goals and making intentional choices Tools & tactics: How they used Excel, anti-budgets, and communication to streamline finances Carol's book: Raising Your Money-Savvy Family for Next Generation Financial Independence co-authored with her dad, Doug Nordman 🔗 Links Mentioned Raising Your Money-Savvy Family for Next Generation Financial Independence by Carol Pittner & Doug Nordman (ask for it at your local library) For a limited time, Spencer and Jamie are offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call. Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email podcast@militarymoneymanual.com. If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

Spencer and Jamie break down all the major updates to the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card and why military families should still consider it their top travel rewards card despite the annual fee increase to $795. What You'll Learn: Military Benefits That Make This Card a No-Brainer: How the Military Lending Act (MLA) waives the $795 annual fee for active duty, Guard, Reserve (on 30+ day orders), and military spouses Why the $300 flexible travel credit alone makes this card worth it How to potentially get multiple Chase Sapphire Reserve cards with fees waived on all of them Major Card Updates: Enhanced earning rates: 4X points on flights and hotels booked directly (up from 3X) New $300 dining credit for Chase Sapphire Reserve exclusive tables Changes to the Chase Travel Portal: goodbye 1.5¢ per point, hello selective 2¢ "Points Boost" New credits: $300 StubHub, $120 DoorDash annual credit, Apple TV+ and Apple Music through 2027 Rule Changes That Open New Opportunities: Relaxed 5/24 rule - you might be eligible even if you've opened 5+ cards in 24 months Modified lifetime bonus restrictions with new application screening Ability to hold both Chase Sapphire Preferred and Reserve simultaneously Essential Military Travel Benefits: Primary rental car insurance (rare among credit cards) No foreign transaction fees for overseas assignments Priority Pass lounge access plus exclusive Chase Sapphire lounges $120 Global Entry credit every 4 years Resources Mentioned: Episode 161: Complete military credit card benefits guide MLA Database: Check eligibility at MilitaryMoneyManual.com Learn how to Apply for Chase Sapphire Reserve: MilitaryMoneyManual.com Credit tracking apps: Max Rewards and Card Pointers Multiple CSR guide: multiple Chase Sapphire Reserves military Whether you're stationed overseas, PCSing frequently, or just want to maximize your travel rewards without paying annual fees, this episode explains why the Chase Sapphire Reserve remains the top recommendation for military families in 2025.

Bonus episode! Target is offering 10% off twice for verified military families! Here's a quick episode were Jamie shares everything you need to know to save big during this limited-time promotion. Whether you're prepping for a move or restocking your household essentials, this discount is an easy win. 🗓️ Promo Details: What: 10% discount at Target—available twice When: June 22 through July 4 (verify in your app—some say July 5) Who: Military members, veterans, and eligible family members Where: Online, in-store, or in-app purchases 📱 How to Get Verified: Create a Target Circle account (free—no credit card required) Go to “My Target” tab → tap settings icon → select Military Verification Upload required documents if needed (e.g., LES, DD-214) Verification may be instant or take up to 24 hours 💡 Tips for Maximizing the Discount: Use it on big-ticket items you need anyway- don't spend extra to save 10% Plan around PCS season and back-to-school shopping Combine with: Target Circle offers Target RedCard (debit card version recommended) 5% discount Price match (except in Alaska & Hawaii) Watch for Veterans Day promos in late October–mid-November 🔗 Mentioned Resources & Links: Target Military Discount Info Target Circle Military Status Verification Portal The Department of Defense or any other DOD Component does not approve, endorse, or authorize this company, its products or services. For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call. Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email podcast@militarymoneymanual.com. If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.

What do you get when you combine a passion for service, a pivot to medicine, and a mastery of money? In this episode, Army doctor Pritish Sahoo breaks down how he leveraged military programs to fund $700K in education—and built a real estate empire along the way. Topics Covered: Pivot from engineering to medicine Navigating the HPSP (Health Professions Scholarship Program) and USUHS paths Real numbers: military pays, stipends, bonuses, and educational benefits available to military doctors Financial edge of military medicine vs. civilian practice Real estate investing as a service member: lessons, wins, and close calls Using the GI Bill and TSP (Thrift Savings Plan) strategically Building a $5M financial independence goal Advice for young officers and enlisted members starting their wealth journey How mentors and books shaped his approach to money and meaning 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: Uniformed Services University (USUHS) HPSP Overview – Military Medicine Scholarships Pritish’s YouTube Channel: Pritish Sahoo Email Pritish: pritishsahoo50 (at) gmail . com For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call. Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to learn all about the Thrift Savings Plan and strategies for growing your wealth while in the military. Use promo code "podcast24" for $50 off. Plus, for every course sold, we'll donate one course to an E-4 or below- for FREE! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email podcast@militarymoneymanual.com. If you want to maximize your military paycheck, check out Spencer's 5 star rated book The Military Money Manual: A Practical Guide to Financial Freedom on Amazon or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the American Express® Gold Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card in my Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card waive the annual fee for active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex cards are also waived for military spouses married to active duty troops.