The Military Money Manual Podcast
The Military Money Manual Podcast focuses on helping US military members achieve financial independence. Hosts Spencer Reese and Jamie, both Air Force officers, share real-world strategies for investing, saving, paying off debt, and maximizing military benefits. Topics include TSP investments, military credit card perks, deployment finances, and early retirement (FIRE). The podcast is aimed at active duty, Guard, Reserve, and military spouses.
Episodes
Military Spouses and Money: Spousal IRAs, Paying Yourself First, and Building Wealth with Taryn From The Points of it All #250
Spencer sits down with Taryn from The Points of It All (formerly The Military Travelers) for a no-excuses talk on military spouses and money. If you've ever said "it's his money" or "I'm just the dependent," this one is for you. They cover why every spouse needs their own retirement account, the simple "pay yourself first" system that quietly made them net-worth millionaires in their 30s, and the
Build a Business in the Military and Know When to STOP Saving for FIRE with Justin Peters #249
Everyone tells you to save more, but when should you save less? Spencer talks with Justin Peters, host of the FI Minded podcast, about the heretical side of personal finance: dialing back your savings rate once you've won the game, and enjoying the money you worked for. They also dig into building a business while serving, from landing your first client to pricing, pivoting, and staying human in t
Military Money Mentor Session: Inside a One-on-One Financial Coaching Call #248
A rare look inside a paid one-on-one money coaching session. Spencer talks with "Camden" (not his real name), a 22-year-old Naval Academy midshipman who's already worth $82K before commissioning. They cover the Career Starter loan arbitrage, an aggressive credit card strategy, and the math to hit millionaire status by 35, plus a reminder to enjoy your 20s along the way. Book your own session: mili
Fighter Pilot to Instagram Money Influencer: Retire a Military Millionaire with Shawn Walsh #247
He accidentally went viral with 10 million views for a story about a missile falling off his jet — but Sean Walsh's real mission is teaching service members how to build wealth. A retired F-16 pilot and squadron commander turned author of Millionaire in the Military, Sean joins Spencer to bust the myth that you can't get rich while serving. Drawing on fighter-pilot mission planning ("target backwa
How Wounded Warrior Project Helps Vets and Why It Now Serves Active Duty #246
Everyone's seen the ads, but what does Wounded Warrior Project actually do? Spencer opens with a confession — he didn't really know either — and gets a candid, myth-busting tour from Julie, who leads WWP's Financial Readiness program and is an active-duty Navy spouse herself. The big news: WWP has expanded beyond the traditionally "wounded, ill, and injured" to serve all post-9/11 service members,
Run 700 Miles Across North Carolina: Veteran's Fight for Purpose, Fitness & Community #245
Jonathan is about to run 700 miles across North Carolina in 17 days — roughly 40 miles a day, fueled by maple syrup swigs and pickle juice shots. But this conversation goes far deeper than the miles. He opens up about failing out of college, enlisting as an 18X hoping for Special Forces, losing a soldier to suicide, and the dark post-service spiral that ended with a scooter crash and an ultimatum
Military TSP Explained (2026 Update): Everything You Need to Know #244
One decision in your first year of service can make you a military millionaire and most people never make it. In this long-awaited 2026 refresh of their most popular episode ever, Spencer and co-host Jamie break down the Thrift Savings Plan from the ground up: what it is, how the 5% match really works, Roth vs. traditional, the combat zone triple tax benefit, and exactly how much to contribute to
Make Bank on PCS: Circuitous Travel, Credit Card Rewards & OCONUS Money with Jared Mataitusi #243
Most people dread PCS season for how much it drains the bank account — Jared Matatuisi flips it into a $7,500 payday. Back on the show, the host of the Military Miler podcast breaks down the exact moves he used moving his family from Italy to Japan: circuitous travel memos, leave in conjunction with official travel, stacking credit card credits, and pocketing thousands in COLA and utilities along
From 1958 Commissary Coupons to AI Military Tools: The Family Magazine Story with Joe Mugnai #242
That magazine you grab on your way into the commissary? It's been there for nearly 70 years — and there's a four-generation family story behind it. In this episode, Spencer sits down with Joe Mugnai, whose grandfather launched Family Magazine in 1958 to help military families stretch every dollar. Today it distributes 400,000 copies a month across commissaries worldwide. But Joe isn't just carryin
The Perfect Portfolio Doesn't Exist: 10 Reasonable Asset Allocations for US Military Investors #241
There is no perfect portfolio. A Bogleheads study looking back over 20 years found no diversified portfolio beat a similarly risky one by more than 1–2% per year — and that edge usually gets eaten up by advisory fees, behavioral errors, and poor tax management anyway. Stop optimizing. Spencer Reese walks through 10 reasonable asset allocations for military service members, from the simplest set-an
5 Most Asked TSP Questions: Roth vs. Traditional, L Funds, & What to Do After You Separate #240
Spencer Reese tackles the five most common Thrift Savings Plan questions he receives from listeners via email, Instagram, and the podcast inbox. He covers the Roth vs. Traditional decision for service members, how to think about TSP fund selection within your overall asset allocation, why the TSP's tax advantages make it a standout account for military members, what happens if your contributions e
Military Mega Backdoor Roth: Invest $87,000 Into Roth (IRA + TSP) in 1 Deployment #239
One deployment. $87,000 into Roth accounts. Never taxed going in, never taxed coming out — and if you're 25, that grows to roughly $1.5 million by 60 without a dollar of federal income tax. In this solo episode, Spencer Reese breaks down the military mega backdoor Roth: the combat-zone strategy that lets you blow past the normal TSP limit using tax-exempt CZTE pay and the Roth in-plan conversions
Military Credit Cards in 2026: How to Get Premium Cards With No Annual Fees #238
It might be the greatest military discount in history — and most service members are leaving it on the table. In this solo episode, Spencer breaks down how active duty members, Guard and Reserve on 30+ day orders, and military spouses can carry the best premium credit cards on the market and pay $0 in annual fees, thanks to two federal laws. He covers exactly how it works, the optimal order to op
"What If You Had to Start Over?" Brand New Military Officer and Enlisted Advice #237
If Spencer commissioned today, at 22 years old with everything he learned from 12 years on active duty, what would he actually do with his money? A listener on Instagram asked exactly that, and this episode is the answer: a 13-point playbook for brand new officers and enlisted servicemembers, from your first bank account to the books that will shape your investing philosophy. Plus why "borrow the
Stop Overpaying for Flights: How to Get Refunds & Upgrades After You Book | with Sam Hollander of Autopilot #236
The person next to you probably paid less for their seat than you did — and you'll never know it. Spencer talks with Sam Hollander, founder of Autopilot (withautopilot.com), about the overlooked art of saving money after you've already booked. Since U.S. airlines killed change fees, you can claw back cash every time your fare drops and snag last-minute premium-cabin upgrades for a fraction of the
How to Use Your VA Disability, GI Bill & Healthcare Benefits While Living Overseas | Conversation with Fiscal Foxhole #235
Advertiser Disclosure: This video may contain links through which we are compensated when you click on or are approved for offers. The information in this video was not provided by any of the companies mentioned, and has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. All opinions, analyses, and recommendations are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card
How to Travel for Free (Without Going Into Debt) | Fiscal Clinician #234
Spencer Reese has earned over $100,000 in travel rewards — booked a $27,000 first-class flight to Tokyo, a $1,700/night Ritz Carlton bungalow, and flew his parents to Italy in business class — all for nearly nothing. In this crossover episode with The Fiscal Clinician, Spencer breaks down how credit card points actually work, what the industry doesn't want you to know, and the financial foundatio
Deployment Money & Survival Guide for Military Spouses | Wives of the Armed Forces #233
Spencer sits down with Jen from Wives of the Armed Forces to talk about the real side of deployment no one prepares you for: how to build your support system, spend money without guilt, avoid resentment, and actually come out the other side stronger as a couple and a family. Topics Covered The Two Deployment Mindsets — Grind mode vs. survival mode, and how to figure out which one fits your seaso
PCS Season Payoff: How Military Families Turn Moving Expenses Into Free Vacations #232
20,000 Dollars, 4 Cards, 400,000 Points. Spencer Reese of the Military Money Manual podcast sits down with Taryn from The Military Travelers to break down how military families can turn PCS moving expenses into free travel — without spending a single extra dollar. From sign-up bonuses to Hyatt Globalist status, this episode is packed with practical strategies for the upcoming PCS season. Topics
Coast Guard Academy Graduation Talk: Money Playbook for New Military Officers #231
Most new officers will blow their first paycheck on too much car, too much apartment, or too much wedding. Don't be most officers. This episode is your 60-minute shortcut to building wealth, freedom, and financial confidence from the moment you commission. Host Joe Brown of Always Ready Financial Planning sits down with Spencer Reese (Military Money Manual) and Rob Shaye (Institute for Leadership
Travel for Free with Jason Steele #230
Jason Steele hasn't paid for a flight or hotel in 20 years — and he has a family of five. In this episode, the credit card expert, Card Con founder, and author of Travel for Free breaks down exactly how military service members can build a sustainable points and miles strategy, avoid the money traps that sink young service members, and why the best card s help you travel for free. Spencer Reese
Rob Moore on Roth IRA Conversion Ladders to Fund Early Retirement #229
What if you could retire from the military at 50, bridge a decade of income, and pay less in taxes than you ever expected? It sounds too good to be true — but it's written right into the tax code. Spencer and Rob walk through exactly how a Roth conversion ladder works, who it's built for, and whether a simple brokerage account might actually beat it. Spencer Reese interviews Rob Moore, Army vete
Save Aggressively, Retire Optionally | 5 Minute Military Money 10/10 #228
Episode 10: Save for Rapid Financial Independence — (10-part series finale) Jamie and Spencer close out their beginner-friendly 10-step series with the final move: saving aggressively to fast-track financial independence (FI). Topics Covered Quick recap of all 10 steps in the series (from getting the 5% Roth TSP match → building a life you want → saving enough to rapidly achieve FI) What fina
Build the Life You Want, Then Save for It. 5 Minute Military Money 9/10 #227
Step 9 in our 10-part series: build the life you want and save for it. Spencer and Jamie step away from the spreadsheet to remind listeners that financial independence is a means to an end — not the end itself. Topics covered: Why high savers can lose sight of why they're saving and fall into a "scarcity mindset" The danger of grinding toward a 20-year retirement without enjoying the journey alo
Max Out Your Roth TSP | 5 Minute Military Money 8/10 #226
Step 8 in our 10-part series: max out your Roth TSP. Spencer and Jamie explain the triple tax benefit military members get by combining low-taxed allowances with Roth contributions, and why maxing the TSP is a stretch goal — not a year-one expectation. Topics covered: The 2025 Roth TSP contribution limit is $23,500 (Spencer's projection for 2026: ~$24,500) Why BRS participants need to spread c
Open Your Roth IRA, Invest in a Total Stock Market Index Fund | 5 Minute Military Money 7/10 #225
Step 7 in our 10-part series: open a Roth IRA at Vanguard, Fidelity, or Schwab and max out your contribution into a total stock market index fund. Spencer and Jamie break down why the LADS method (Low-cost, Automated, Diversified, Simple) beats stock picking and why Roth almost always wins for military pay. Topics covered: Why to open a Roth IRA at one of the big three: Vanguard, Fidelity, or
Build Your Emergency Fund | 5 Minute Military Money 6/10 #224
Step 6 in our 10-part series: grow your emergency fund to cover three months of expenses. Spencer and Jamie explain why your "SWAN number" (Sleep Well At Night) matters more than the math, why you should default to your partner's comfort level, and why this money is insurance — not an investment. Topics covered: Why three months of expenses is a solid starting point for most military families T
Pay Off High-Interest Rate Debt | 5 Minute Military Money 5/10 #223
Step 5 in our 10-part series: pay down your high interest rate debt. Spencer and Jamie share how they each paid off six figures of debt on military pay, why debt robs your future self of choices, and where to find free help if you're overwhelmed. Topics covered: Why non-asset-backed debt (credit cards, auto loans, student loans) is working against you The 5-6% interest rate threshold for "high
Budget for the "Four Walls" | Food, Utilities, Shelter, Transportation: 5 Minute Military Money 4/10 #222
Step 4 of the 10-part military finance essentials series. Spencer and Jamie explain how to create a realistic budget focusing on "the four walls": food, utilities, shelter, and transportation. Learn which budgeting tools work best, why tracking spending matters, and how to avoid the biggest financial trap in the military—buying too much car. Create a Realistic Budget Focus on the Four
Save Your $1,000 Emergency Fund: 5 Minute Military Money 3/10 #221
Step 3 of the 10-part military finance essentials series. Spencer and Jamie explain why every service member needs a $1,000 emergency fund. This starter fund stops you from living paycheck to paycheck, prevents debt accumulation, and turns emergencies into inconveniences. What to Do Save $1,000 Emergency Fund Timeline: $100/week = 10 weeks $250/month = 4 months Where to keep it: High yield
Create Your TSP Account & Choose the Right L Fund: 5 Minute Military Money 2/10 #220
Step 2 of the 10-part series on military finance essentials. After setting up your 5% Roth TSP contribution in Step 1, now you need to create your TSP account online and make sure your money is invested in the right fund. Spencer and Jamie explain how to set up your account at tsp.gov, enable two-factor authentication, and allocate contributions to the appropriate L (lifecycle) fund based on your
Set Up Your 5% Roth TSP: 5 Minute Military Money 1/10 #219
Military Money Manual may receive compensation from JPMC. Opinions expressed here are author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain. What if you could set yourself up for financial success in the military with just ONE action that takes 5 minutes? Spencer and Jamie kick off their 10-part "If You Don't Have Time for Anything Else" series with the absolute fir
Active Duty Credit Card Playbook | Itinerary Boss x Military Money Manual #218
30+ premium credit cards—including the Amex Platinum and Chase Sapphire Reserve—without paying a single dollar in annual fees? Spencer Reese breaks down exactly how active duty service members, Guard/Reserve on orders, and military spouses can access over $10,000 in annual fee waivers through the Military Lending Act (MLA) and SCRA. Recorded on Veterans Day, this episode is packed with tactical s
Flying Mom to the Colosseum, OCONUS Credit Cards Strategy, and the Second Mountain with Jared Mataitusi #217
What if you could have SIX Chase Sapphire Reserve cards—each with zero annual fees—while maxing your TSP and living an incredible life of travel? Air Force Captain Jared Mataitusi reveals exactly how he and his wife stack premium credit cards, earn elite status, fly family to Europe for free, and still save aggressively toward financial independence. This is the ultimate military financial strateg
Military Retirement Planning 2-3 Years Out with Omen Quelvog #216
Did you know your military pension is worth over $1 million? Most service members approaching retirement don't realize they're already work optional - and that changes everything about the decisions you should be making right now. In this episode, retired Marine and CFP Omen Quelvog reveals why the highest-paid contractor job might be the worst choice for your future, how to discover what you're
Military Spouse Credit Cards: 4 Myths Debunked with The Military Travelers #215
Spencer Reese welcomes Amy and Taryn, two of the three military spouses behind the booming Military Travelers Facebook Group, 25,000 members strong! Together, they debunk four major myths about military credit cards and share how military families can unlock thousands of dollars in travel perks—without falling into debt. Whether you're brand new to award travel or a seasoned cardholder looking to
Military Medical Retirement: VA Disability, IDES, PEBLO, PEB, MEB, + More #214
In this episode, Spencer Reese is joined by Paul, a recently medically retired National Guard officer, and Joel Petit, a military disability retirement attorney, to break down the medical retirement process, VA disability ratings, and how IDES really works. What We Cover Medical retirement vs. standard 20-year longevity retirement When medical retirement can make sense financially How the ID
Business Credit Cards, Points, & Miles with Ross Alcorn, Itinerary Boss #213
Spencer Reese welcomes Ross Alcorn from Itinerary Boss https://itineraryboss.com/ to discuss credit card points and miles strategies, with special focus on small business owners. Ross shares how he saved $19,000 on his honeymoon, reveals tactical business spending strategies, and explains how military service members can leverage TDY travel and small business expenses to fund dream vacations. Gues
10 Step Investing Plan for Military Officers & Enlisted | Bogleheads for Military #212
Spencer and Jamie break down the 10 core principles of Bogleheads investing and show how military service members can apply this simple, low-cost approach to build wealth through the TSP and other accounts. If you're overwhelmed by investing advice or tempted by day trading and crypto, this episode cuts through the noise with a proven strategy that's worked for decades. Hosts: Spencer Reese (for
Roth In-Plan Conversions TSP with Brain "ALF" O'Neill #211
Starting January 28, 2026, military members can finally convert their traditional TSP to Roth while still serving...and if you're deployed to a combat zone, you could convert tens of thousands at near-zero tax rates. Brian "ALF" O'Neill from Wingman Wealth breaks down the game-changing TSP in-plan conversion feature and reveals why this could be a 6- or 7-figure lifetime tax savings for service me
CardPointers App | Track & Max Your Military Credit Card Benefits, Credits, and Offers #210
Leaving thousands of dollars in credit card offers on the table because you forgot to activate them? Brooke Merkle from CardPointers reveals how the Chrome extension and app automatically track 40+ credit cards, find the best card for every purchase, and helped one user rack up $40,000 in statement credits, all without spreadsheets or mental math. CardPointers is a tool that automatically adds cre
Build Wealth in the Military (2026 Update): TSP Limits, Pay Raises, & Avoid Military Money Mistakes #209
Is 2026 the year you finally take control of your military finances? With a 3.8% pay raise, new TSP contribution limits of $24,500, and proven strategies that helped one E-7 reach $600,000 in net worth by year 14, Spencer and Jamie break down exactly how to build wealth while serving, even if you're starting from scratch or recovering from financial setbacks. In this episode, we provide a comprehe
After 200 Episodes, We Changed Our Minds On These Things #208
What have learned as we've recorded over 200 episodes now? What have we changed our minds about? We reflect back on our years of podcasting, recording over 200 episodes with hundreds of positive reviews, hundreds of thousands of downloads, and hopefully countless military families helped. In this milestone 200th episode, Spencer and Jamie sit down in person to reflect on four years of the Military
Roth IRA for Military 2026 | IRA Update for Military Families #207
$7,500 is the new maximum amount you can contribute for your IRA in 2027. We recommend generally that you and your spouse (if applicable) both do Roth IRAs, after 5% to the the TSP for the match. 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/mento
Military Travel Perks with Chelsey from Camouflage Perks #206
What if you could fly your family to Europe in first class, stay at luxury resorts for $400 a week, and spend less on vacation than you do at home? Chelsey from Camouflage Perks shares how military families are using fee-waived credit cards and exclusive military discounts to travel the world. Today's guest is Chelsey from Camouflage Perks - Military spouse and travel expert with 45,000+ Instagram
5 Ways to Prepare for Christmas Spending Now | Holiday Season Budgeting for Military Families #205
Don't want to feel stressed about money this holiday season? Here are 5 ways to prepare your family's mindset and spending for the season of giving! 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 militar
Military Credit Cards with Carissa Rawson | Air Force Veteran Reveals How to Get 20+ Premium Cards with $0 Annual Fees #204
Join Spencer Reese and Carissa Rawson, Director of Travel and Marketing at Rove and Air Force veteran, for an in-depth discussion about maximizing credit card rewards and travel benefits as a military service member. Carissa shares her journey from enlisted Arabic translator to becoming a leading voice in military credit card content, having written for The Points Guy, NerdWallet, USA Today, and
Chase Sapphire Reserve New Benefits Are Live Now! | New CSR Benefits for Military Families #203
Hot new bennies are live on one of our favorite cards, the Chase Sapphire Reserve! EDIT TO ONE MISPEAK IN EPISODE: site to search for Chase Dining benefit locations is https://useyourcredits.com/maps/chase-reserve/ As of 10/26/25, many new benefits are available for you to activate or take advantage of, such as: $300 per year ($150 per semi-annual period) for dining at restaurants in the Sapphire
Citi Strata Elite Card Waived for Military and Military Spouses | Citi MLA 2026 Updates #202
Jamie's no longer a "Citi hater" because Citi just changed the game. The new $595 Citi Strata Elite now has automatic annual fee waivers for military—no complex formulas, no statement balance tricks, no emails required. Plus $500 in easy-to-use annual credits and a 100,000 point welcome offer. Key Benefits Annual Fee Waiver $595 fee automatically waived for MLA covered borrowers Fee charged on f
HSCP vs HPSP + $500k Public Service Loan Forgiveness: Navy Medicine With LCDR Webster Felix #201
Spencer Reese welcomes Lieutenant Commander Webster Felix, a Navy prosthodontist, for an in-depth discussion about maximizing military medicine benefits. Webb's journey from enlisted E6 dental student to O5 prosthodontist showcases the incredible opportunities available in military healthcare. This episode unpacks lesser-known scholarship programs, specialty training funding, loan forgiveness stra
Military to Civilian Transitions with Jesse Cramer, Personal Finance for Long-Term Investors #200
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 ad
Plan Epic Trips on Military Leave: Travel Mission Planning - Hotels, Flights, Rental Cars, Credit Cards, Points, Miles - #199
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
Government Shutdown 2025: 0% Loans from USAA, Navy Federal, Aid Societies | Military Pay, Emergency Funds, What To Do Now #198
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-inter
End Military Money Stress - 3 Tasks to Improve Your Money Relationship #197
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 episo
Military Divorce - What You Need to Know and Do with David Smith #196
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
Buy Now, Pay Later Traps for Military Families with Lacey Langford #195
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
Amex Platinum Military 2025 Update: Annual Fee Benefits, Unlock $3,500+ in Annual Value + New Benefits #194
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 C
Find Your Military Financial Community | MilMoneyCon with Lacey Langford #193
"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 s
College Finances for Military Families | Kate Horrell's New Book #192
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 Strateg
Guard & Reserve: Financial Flexibility and Career Stability with Sam Lewis #191
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:
Military Life Insurance with Jerry Quinn, Armed Forces Mutual (AAFMAA) #190
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 (Service
Mini-Retirements and Sabbaticals for Military Veterans or Retirees with Justin Peters #189
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 bre
Military Money Mentor | Financial Coaching for Military Families with Spencer Reese & Jamie #188
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 se
Credit Cards for Military Q&A | Military Credit Card Strategies #187
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: Sp
Gut Check! Remember How You Felt When the Market Dropped? #186
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
Why Save for Retirement #185
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 Retirem
Dual Military Millionaires: Financial Independence in 4 Years, Navy Lifestyle Tips, and Maintaining Connection as a Couple #184
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 ca
Chase Sapphire Reserve Military Update | $795 Annual Fee Still Waived, New Benefits #183
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)
Target Military Discount | 10% off for 4th of July and Veterans Day #182
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 (ve
$5M by 40: Military Medicine FIRE | Benefits and Pay for Military Doctors with CPT (Dr.) Pritish Sahoo #181
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 n
Why File for VA Disability | "I'm Good" and Other Lies Veterans Tell Themselves with Doug Nordman #180
Did you know even a 0% rating can unlock important benefits for you and your family? Why do so many veterans delay or avoid filing for VA disability compensation? It's not about the money—it's often about identity, pride, and a labyrinth of red tape. Doug Nordman joins Spencer to break the silence and stigma surrounding VA disability claims, while sharing personal stories, tough truths, and pract
Beyond Money Rich: Five Types of Wealth #179
Your net worth isn't the full picture of your wealth. Financial independence is great, but if your health, relationships, and purpose suffer, are you really wealthy? In this episode, Jamie and Spencer break down The Five Types of Wealth by Sahil Bloom and how to create a life that's truly rich—beyond just the numbers in your bank account. Overview: Financial wealth is only one piece of the puzzle
529 Debate - Are 529s Helpful or Too Restrictive? Spencer & Jamie Have Differing Views on College Savings for Military Families#178
Too restrictive or a key part of a military families financial planning? Today's episode is a no-holds-barred discussion about the pros, cons, and real-life strategies behind 529 plans. Episode Summary: In this episode, Spencer and Jamie dive deep into the world of 529 college savings plans—a tax-advantaged tool designed to save for qualified education expenses. They explore the basics of how 529
Triple Tax Benefits of Combat Zone Tax Exclusion CZTE | Invest Tax Free Military Pay #177
Did you know there's a way to get tax-free income, tax-free growth, AND tax-free withdrawals—all legally? If you're in the military, you have access to one of the most powerful wealth-building tools that civilians can only dream of. Combat Zone Tax Exclusion (CZTE) is the golden ticket, and in this episode, we break down exactly how you can leverage it to maximize your savings and accelerate your
7 Levels of Wealth for Military Families | Everyone Starts Somewhere #176
Are you just trying to survive financially? Or are you on your way to building a lasting legacy? Discover the 7 levels of wealth adapted for military life and learn how to move from paycheck-to-paycheck living to financial freedom and abundance! This isn't about rank or time in service – it's about intention and systems. This episode is inspired by Ramit Sethi's video on the seven levels of wealt
PCS like a Pro! Our Top Tips for Military PCS, PPM, and Being Financially Ready #175
Navigating PCS Chaos, Saving Money, and Finding Adventure! PCSing is a constant in military life, often bringing stress, extra costs, and confusion. But it doesn't have to be a nightmare! In this episode, we dive deep into practical tips and strategies to help you survive your next Permanent Change of Station (PCS), save money, and maybe even make it an adventure. We cover everything from getting
Is Military Retirement Worth It? | Valuing Military Retirement w/ The Enlisted Money Guy, Brandon Lovingier #174
The military retirement is one of the best benefits in the world... but is it worth the cost in years of your life? Summary: How is military retirement pay calculated Military retirement can be worth at least $1,500,000! Benefits for military retirees Intangible benefits of military service What veterans miss about the military after retirement Links: Enlisted Money @enlistedmoneyguy on Instagr
Money for Military Couples | Money for Couples, Military Edition #173
Most couples would rather talk about their sex life with a friend than money! What would it look like if we both felt good about money? Today we talk about how to get started with dreaming together and how to discover how to create a shared vision and discussing what kind of money stories do you want to write together as a couple Jamie's 3 main take-aways: You and your spouse have to talk about m
Too Much Cash? How Much Cash a Military Family Must Have with Erik Baskin #172
Holding too much cash can be a drag on your gains. You shouldn't have too much of it sitting in your account without a specific purpose. Today you'll learn answers to questions such as: How much is too much? Where should I keep my cash? What should I do today if I have too much cash? Links from today's episode: Erik Baskin at Baskin FP Past podcast episodes with Erik Baskin include episode 72, e
Lump Sum Vs Dollar Cost Averaging #171
Which is better, lump sum investing or Dollar Cost Averaging? Bottom line, neither is significantly better, although lump sum investing statistically wins slightly. The more important factor in you building wealth is that you invest consistently for the long-term! Missing just the 10 best trading days between 2002-2022 would cut your returns by 50%. Don't play games when you know it's impossible
