Shows
The Military Money Manual PodcastMini-Retirements and Sabbaticals for Military Veterans or Retirees with Justin Peters #189 Are Mini Retirements, Optionality, and Passionate 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...
2025-08-1852 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary 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 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...
2025-08-1113 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastCredit Cards for Military Q&A | Military Credit Card Waivers and 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: 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 Ment...
2025-08-0420 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastGut 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 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...
2025-07-2818 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastWhy 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 Retirement is More Than Just Money or a Pension Understanding the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Insight...
2025-07-2129 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastDual 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 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 simpl...
2025-07-141h 02The Military Money Manual PodcastTarget Military Discount | 10% off for 4th of July and Veterans Day #182Bonus 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...
2025-07-0107 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast$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 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, wi...
2025-06-3056 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastWhy 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 practical advice every veteran—and their family—needs to hear. 🎯 Episode Highlights 1. The Hidden Costs of “I’m Good” How military culture conditions veterans to downplay symptoms T...
2025-06-2348 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastBeyond 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. Sahil Bloom’s book introduces the concept that true wealth comes in five forms: time, social, mental, physical, and financial wealth. Jamie a...
2025-06-1655 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast529 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 plans work (after-tax contributions, tax-free growth, and penalty-free withdrawals on qualified education expenses) and highlight recent changes that expand their flexibility beyond just college tuition. The conversation unfolds as Spencer raises his skeptical questions, while Ja...
2025-06-0941 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast7 Levels of Wealth for Military Families | Everyone Starts Somewhere #176Are 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 wealth, viewed through a unique military money lens. The levels aren't tied to rank or experience; a junior service member could be ahead of a senior one. Ev...
2025-05-2635 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastIs Military Retirement Worth It? | Valuing Military Retirement w/ The Enlisted Money Guy, Brandon Lovingier #174The 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 Instagram Brandon's blog post- Is Doing 20 Years in the Military Worth it? past episodes w/ Brandon include: ep 96- Enlisted Money Basics ep 128- Continuation Pay ep 143- DCFSA Brandon Lovingier, ChFC®, MQFP®, joined th...
2025-05-1234 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMoney for Military Couples | Money for Couples, Military Edition #173Most 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 money, understand where they're coming from, and their money scripts Your priorities will be different; find a way to get...
2025-05-0550 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastToo Much Cash? How Much Cash a Military Family Must Have with Erik Baskin #172Holding 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, episode 129, and episode 168. Erik Baskin on LinkedIn The Veteran Finance podcast with Erik Baskin For a limited time, Spencer is...
2025-04-2823 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastLump Sum Vs Dollar Cost Averaging #171Which 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 to win. Just keep investing! Links from today's episode: Vanguard white paper on lump sum vs. DCA Military Money Manual blog post on this topic How to Time the Market World's Worst Market Timer (o...
2025-04-2114 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastPractice over Perfection - Shifting Your Money Mindset to Reduce Frustration & Improve Communication #170Better every day. That's the goal. Not perfection. What skill have you ever learned that you were perfect at right from the start? Then why are you so hard on yourself when your financial journey isn't perfectly smooth and easy? Each positive decision you make, each money conversation you have with your spouse is like a good set at the gym. Not every rep is perfect, so you keep working on it. This week, we're talking mindset shifts to help you think of one way you can PRACTICE this week with: Spending intentionally Communication...
2025-04-1422 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMoney for Military Women, How Gender Roles Affect Your Finances, VA Loan House Hacking, & Off-Duty Employment with Lanae Lang of @Lanaeslife1 #169"Reading changed my life!" Today's key topics include: VA House Hacking as a young officer, military influencer and off duty employment in the Air Force, personal finance for military women, and self improvement for new officers and cadets. As a young officer, Lanae is debt free except her mortgage, owns a home using her VA loan, has a very high savings rate, and helps spread awareness about how women can improve their knowledge and personal finance situation. Links: Lanae's Instagram @lanaeslife1 Spencer's article about the VA Loan Our VA loan podcast episode...
2025-04-0744 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastInternational Stock Investment for Military Families with Erik Baskin, CFP #16830%-40% international funds in your portfolio!? What is home-country bias and why you may want exposure to markets other than just the US stock market. Links: https://www.baskinfp.com/ Military Tax Experts Alliance Vanguard article on international investments "U.S. stocks are unlikely to repeat their past outperformance over the coming decade" - Vanguard Spencer's personal assett allocation 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! Chec...
2025-03-3125 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary Entrepreneurship, Guard Benefits, Contributing $70k into TSP while Deployed with Ryan Guina from The Military Wallet #167Entreprenuership, Guard benefits, TSP while deployed, and more! Topics from today: Starting TheMilitaryWallet.com Joining the Guard after 8 years Why he joined the Guard VA disability Guard pay, healthcare, and retirement differences Transition Assistance Medical Program (TAMP) TSP contributions in a combat zone Annual additons limit Ryan's personal considerations for whether to continue serving past 20 years Ryan Guina is The Military Wallet's founder. He is a writer, small business owner, and entrepreneur. He served over six years on active duty in the USAF and is a current member of the Tennessee Air National Guard.
2025-03-2442 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast"It Feels Like I'd Be Stealing From My Kids" | Jamie's GI Bill Discussion & Financial Therapy with Daniel Kopp #165As an optimzer, Jamie was concerned about how to perfect his family's GI Bill strategy. In the middle of a discussion (after we wrapped up last week's podcast recording with Daniel), we hit record for this non-standard format. As Jamie allows himself to be vulnerable and curious about the words he used, Daniel is able to help him work through some anxiety and negative feelings. You'll also hear some tactical advice for using and sharing the GI Bill. Links we mentioned: Financial Therapy certificate Daniel and Spencer both earned through Kansas State Wise Stewardship F...
2025-03-1023 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast5 Money Questions to Future Focus Your Spending #163Making your money more focused on your future expenses, goals, and desires. We were inspired by the updates to the YNAB method to share these powerful questions and help your family become more intentional and proactive. Main themes from today's episode: Use these 5 questions to give every dollar a job for what matters to you What to do when you feel like everyone is coming for your hard-earned dollars Building a system so you can thrive Choosing whether to spend a hard-earned dollar now or put it to work with a productive asset 5 questions to...
2025-02-2436 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast"Will the Stock Market Crash in 2025?" Plus Military Transition, Backdoor Roth IRAs with Brian "ALF" O'Neill, Winged Wealth #162 "What's the mission for this money?" "Wealth is what you DON'T see." "Go find something you're really excited about." "Contributions, Conversion, Characterization." "It's OK to follow your curiosity!" This episode is full of gems of wisdom from ALF. Some major questions include: Do political changes adjust my investing strategy? How do I fight against the pull to get a car that's more expensive? What's a backdoor Roth IRA? Who needs to do it? Is there an income limit for Roth TSP contributions? Do I need to make quarterly estimated tax payments? Any advice for career changes after the m...
2025-02-1753 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary Credit Card Update 2025 | Military Annual-fee Waived Credit Cards Explained #161Military servicemembers and their spouse can get annual fees waived on personal cards from top banks such as American Express and Chase! Today's episode covers: What's the big deal about these cards? Why are they good? How does this waiver thing work? What order should I open my cards in? How far can I take this? Is it going to be complicated? How can I learn more about credit card strategies? Remember, NO credit cards if you're already in credit card debt, living paycheck-to-paycheck, or struggling to make ends meet. This is a more advanced...
2025-02-1031 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastAir Force Pilot Bonus 2025 Update | Up to $600,000 Bonus #160The 2025 Air Force pilot bonus is out! This episode is specifically for USAF pilots (or anyone else oddly interested in the numbers). There are also bonuses for CSOs/Navs, RPA pilots, and ABMs, although we focus specifically on the pilot bonus. There are a few types of bonus money available this year for those who UPT ADSC expires in FY25, FY26, or FY27. You can get a preferential assignment, a financial bonus, or both! We'll discuss the legacy bonus (ADSC expiringing in FY25), the demo program bonus (ADSC expiring in FY26 or FY27), and the c...
2025-02-0324 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMoney Can be Simple | How to Reduce Stress with your Finances #159Money doesn't have to cause stress. It doesn't have to be complex. It doesn't have to require a lot of time to build wealth. Learn how to simply your: Budget Bills Investment Tracking Links: Money for Couples podcast w/ Ramit Sethi LADS Philosophy, episode #158 Money Scripts episode #82 w/ Daniel Kopp YNAB app Monarch money 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 mi...
2025-01-2718 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastCybersecurity 101: Credit Freezes, 2FA, & Tips for Military Families #157Protect your credit, protect your identity, and keep your money safe online. You can easily freeze your credit with each of the 3 credit bureaus to ensure no one can open accounts in your name. You don't need to pay for credit monitoring service in most cases or pay to know your credit score. It's very simple and easy to quickly unfreeze your credit before applying for a new credit card or mortgage. Also use unique passwords, stored securely and two-factor authentication (preferably on an Authenticator app over receiving a text code) for all your accounts.
2025-01-1318 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastAlways Do Roth | Roth vs Traditional for Military Families #156Roth is the way to go for almost all military families. Because of the unusually low taxable income military families have (since allowances like BAH and BAS aren't taxable income), we're going to take a hard stance on this one and show the benefits for Roth: You can always access your Roth contributions tax free and penalty free (can help with gap fund, emergencies, first house purchase, etc) All of the money you'll have in your Roth IRA or Roth TSP will be non-taxed upon withdrawal at retirement age (no big tax bombs or complicated strategies required) No t...
2025-01-0629 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast"Why?" | A Powerful Question You Can Ask Yourself to Get to the Heart #155Dissect your money stories, the traditions you've adapted from culture and your family of orgin to understand WHY you make the money decisions you make each month? What are money stories you tell yourself? Money is _____. Why do you value what you value? Why do I think ____ about money Does this belief still serve me? Links: Our podcast episode on Rewriting your Money Scripts with Daniel Kopp (Ep 82) Brad Klontz's Money Script Test Useful Not True book by Derek Sivers For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Mentor sessions! Get your personal mi...
2024-12-3032 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast2025 Max Out Your TSP & Earn Full 5% BRS Match #154Spencer and Jamie explain how to maximize TSP contributions under the Blended Retirement System (BRS), including calculating monthly contribution percentages and avoiding common mistakes that could result in missing matching funds. They break down the 2025 contribution limits and discuss strategies for both BRS and legacy retirement system participants. Here's the TSP BRS maximizing chart. Questions discussed: What are the TSP contribution limits for 2025? How do Roth TSP and Roth IRA limits differ? How should you calculate monthly TSP contributions under BRS? What happens if you front-load TSP contributions under BRS? How do you handle...
2024-12-1619 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastFinancial Wisdom from the Almanack of Naval Ravikant #153Biggest financial lessons from The Alamanc of Naval Ravikant 3 biggest decisions: where you live, who you’re with, and what you do Does money make you happy? How to get rich Outsourcing 3 way to retire Cultivating wisdom Things money can't buy Links: The Almanack of Naval Ravikant on Amazon Don't buy a house on active duty (episode #134) Money mindset podcast episode #148 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! Chec...
2024-12-0939 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast"Where Do I Invest Cash?" Holding a PCS House Down Payment #151Spencer and Jamie address a listener question about where to save money for a house down payment, which leads to a broader discussion about short-term savings strategies based on different time horizons. Main Topics & Questions Covered: Where to save money for a house down payment How to handle proceeds from a home sale while waiting to buy another property When to keep money in cash vs. when to invest it Different savings vehicle options for different time horizons Key Points Discussed: Short-term savings (0-3 months): Keep in checking account Use for immediate...
2024-11-2527 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast2025 TSP & IRA Contribution Limits: $23,500 & $7,000 #1502025 contribution limits are out! In this episode, Spencer and Jamie discuss the newly announced IRS contribution limits for retirement accounts in 2025. They break down the changes for 401(k), TSP, and IRA accounts, explaining the limits for both standard and catch-up contributions, while also highlighting an important opportunity for military families with non-working spouses. What are the new 2025 contribution limits for 401(k) and TSP accounts? Increased by $500 to $23,500 for those under 50 What are the 2025 IRA contribution limits? Remains at $7,000 for traditional and Roth IRAs (under 50) Can non-working spouses contribute to an IRA? Yes, if married filing jointly C...
2024-11-1805 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastBlended Retirement System | BRS Pension, Matching Contributions, Continuation Pay #149Do you still get a pension under the BRS? YES! We can't believe this myth and misinformation is still spreading around the military. Spencer and Jamie break down the three components of the military's Blended Retirement System (BRS) and address common misconceptions. They explain how the pension calculation works, discuss TSP matching benefits, and detail continuation pay options across different services. The hosts emphasize that servicemembers still receive a pension under BRS and highlight both the advantages and potential pitfalls of the system. Questions discussed: How is the pension calculated under BRS? What are...
2024-11-1123 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast"I Only Want 1 Credit Card!" Best Military Credit Card Strategies for 1, 3, or 5+ Cards #147This may surprise you! Want to experience an easier and simplified strategy for military credit cards? That's fine! We'd ask "why" you don't want more, but in today's episode we share which cards we'd recommend for listeners who reach out wanting smaller numbers. Links: Ultimate Military Credit Cards course (free) Chase Sapphire Reserve (CSR) Amex Gold Card Amex Platinum Amex Hilton Aspire Amex Platinum for Charles Schwab Chase Ink Business cards Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Amex FINRED's benefits page (official of Financial Readiness) For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Mo...
2024-10-2830 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastHCFSA for Military | Health Care Flexible Spending Account Worth It for Military Families? #146A new benefit for military families! How good is it? In fall of 2024, SecDef announced a new Healthcare Flexible Spending Account (HCFSA) for military families. In March 2025, you'll be able to sign up for it for the first time. It may give you a minor tax savings but also may complicate your situation a little. We break down the details of this pre-tax benefit, explaining how it works, who's eligible, and whether it's worth signing up for. Main topics and questions covered: What is the new Healthcare Flexible Spending Account (HCFSA)? Who...
2024-10-2113 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastRequired Minimum Distributions (RMD) | Roth vs Traditional | How RMDs Affect Military Finances, Inherited IRAs #145Did you know Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) will be a factor in your future that you may not be tracking? If you have any traditional TSP or IRA money, you'll be required to take a portion of that money starting at 73 (as of 2024, scheduled to go up to 75), and that distribution will be taxable income. This can affect how to withdraw from accounts in retirement and how you decide to contribute to your accounts now. RMDs are also required for your beneficiaries on traditional IRAs you pass on (taxable income for them). While RMDs are r...
2024-10-1425 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastGap Funds for FIRE | How to Save for Early Retirement in Taxable Accounts for Military #144How do you finance the life between possible early retirment and 59.5 years old when you can access you retirement accounts? A gap fund is one common approach. Today we discuss: What is a gap fund? Is it necessary? Where does it fall in priority order when saving for early retirement? How do you invest a gap fund? For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching 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 T...
2024-10-0730 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastAmex Pop-Up Jail, TSP Contributions, Combining Accounts, Low Fee Investments: Reader Question & Answers #142In this mailbag episode, Spencer and Jamie answer various listener questions about investing, credit cards, and military-specific financial topics. They provide insights on compound growth, TSP options, Roth vs. Traditional accounts, credit card strategies, and investment return estimates. Questions discussed: - Is there a benefit to combining multiple investment accounts? - Should I move out of TSP for lower fee investments? - How do I choose investments for a spouse's 401(k)? - Is contributing 6% to TSP good for an E4? - Are there ways around Amex family restrictions for credit card bonuses? - Are traditional reservists eligible...
2024-09-2358 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastAir Force Pilot: Buying Multiple Homes on Active Duty, Building Wealth, Teaching Financial Habits to Your Troops with Garrison #141$85,000 in debt and a brand new truck to a wealthy and generous life?! In this episode, Air Force officer Garrison shares his financial journey from $85,000 in debt to working towards financial independence. He discusses following Dave Ramsey's Baby Steps, buying a home in the military, running a crash pad rental business, and helping his Airmen with financial education. Spencer and Jamie explore Garrison's experiences with budgeting, investing, and balancing financial goals with personal passions like Disney vacations. Topics: Opting into the Blended Retirement System (BRS)? How did Garrison start his financial journey as a...
2024-09-1637 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary Financial Readiness Study | Tom McLean & Jodi Vickery from Armed Forces Bank #140The May 2024 Military Family Financial Readiness study from Armed Forces Bank highlighted unique financial challenges military families faces due to the nature of their service. Today, Spencer and Jamie are joined by Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery, hosts of the Militarily Speaking podcast, join us to discuss the financial challenges military families face, identifying good banking product, avoiding predatory "advisors," and common sources of financial information for our military families. Spoiler alert- the findings aren't really positive. We have so much work to do to continue securing the financial readiness of our troops! Links mentioned...
2024-09-0933 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastEnlisted Success Story! $500,000+ Invested by Age 31 | Financial Independence by 38 | Darren Thedieck #139Enlisted Airmen with half a million dollars invested?! Meet Darren Thedieck, US Air Force E-7 who was recently featured by CNBC. and Stripes. We talk very practical tips with Darren about how he learned to save, where he saves, speicific ETFs we like, and handling his family's journey from debt to financial independence. How to handle debt Where to park my savings? How much am I actually paid? (Be sure to review your annual Personal Statement of Military Compensation) Handling financial conversations with a spouse Is 100% stocks ok? Retirement accounts vs taxable brokerage accounts Balancing saving goals vs...
2024-09-0248 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastHealth is Wealth | Physical Wellness and the Connection to Financial Wellness | Increasing your Healthspan and Enjoying your Wealth #138What's the point of building wealth if you're not healthy enough to enjoy it? Today, Spencer and Jamie explore the connection between physical health and financial health. Although this is a slight diversion from our money-focused podcast, we want to encourage you to keep both portions of wellness in balance as you grow towards a wealthy life that you can enjoy. Links mentioned in today's show: The Peter Attia Drive podcast Casper mattresses Vuori shorts Key takeaways: You have to be intentional about maintaining your health- it doesn't happen without intentional planning (just like...
2024-08-2625 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastVanguard Founder Jack Bogle: 10 Step Wealth Building Bogleheads Investing Philosophy for the Military #137Does a simple Bogleheads style of investing work for military families? YES! The Bogleheads are followers of the philosophy of Vanguard founder John C. "Jack" Bogle. Live below your means Develop a workable plan Never bear too much or too little risk Invest early and often Diversify Invest with simplicity Use index funds when possible Keep Costs Low Minimize taxes Stay the course By the way, you can also recreate a bogleheads' style portfolio in your TSP! We talk about it in the Confident TSP Investing course. Lifecycle funds basically build a simple, 3-fund portofilio for you. Ch...
2024-08-1928 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastNew TSP Fund: L2070 Lifecycle | What are Lifecycle Funds? Are Lifecycle Funds a Good Option? #136The L2070 lifecycle fund is available now in your TSP as of July 2024. If you were born after 2005, this will be your default fund you'll be automatically enrolled to contribute to. This is for those of you who'll reach retirement age around the year 2070 (2068-2072 ish). We discuss what lifecycle funds are, what mix of C/S/I/F/G funds is in the L2070 fund, what actions are required from you to maximize your retirement savings, and how to avoid high-fee investments. Main take-aways from this great episode: No action is required for the average...
2024-08-1219 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastDave Ramsey 7 Baby Steps - Do They Work for Military Families? | How to Get Out of Debt, Build Wealth, Give Generously #135Dave Ramsey's 7 baby steps have helped millions of families. Do they work for military families? Today, we discuss each of the 7 baby steps and how they can work for military families. Both Spencer and Jamie started on the Dave Ramsey plan. We highly recommend the Total Money Makeoever book (check your base library- many have it for free), Financial Peace University, and the Ramsey podcast or YouTube. Military families can get 50% off FPU too! If you need help, for a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal mi...
2024-08-0529 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastDon't Buy a House on Active Duty | Reduce Stress, Hassle, and Build Liquid Wealth While Renting #134It's okay to rent on active duty! You don't need to buy a house to build wealth. You can safely ignore the push from VA loan sellers, real estate agents, and mortgage brokers. In this episode of the MMM podcast, Spencer and Jamie challenge the common belief that buying a house is essential for building wealth, especially for active duty military personnel. We explore why renting might be a smarter financial decision for those who move frequently, and debunk popular myths about homeownership. We discuss the hidden costs and risks of real estate investment, including...
2024-07-2938 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastListener Success Story! Travel Hacking Military Honeymoon to Tahiti | Free Flights and Hotels for Military with Brian #133Listener Brian joins us today to share how he used annual-fee waived credit cards to save about $6,000 on his honeymoon by saving big on his flights and hotel. Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course for FREE at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3. Big take-aways: If you're expecting a big expense, open a new credit card like we recommend to easily meet your minimum spend requirements for your welcome offer The perfect military travel hacking redemption can be hard to do...
2024-07-0846 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary Officer's Guide to Money | Building Wealth for Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine, Space Force, Coast Guard, NOAA, USPHS Officers #132New officer's guide to personal finance! In this episode, Spencer and Jamie share all the financial advice they'd share with a new officer in their unit. You CAN become rich on active duty as a military officer! If you're an enlisted servicemember, go check out episode #131 covering all the personal finance advice for an enlisted member. Topics include: Career starter loans Tracking your expenses Balancing enjoying your new life with keeping expenses down Buy a car (use the lemon lot to look for a ~$10,000 used car) Focus on easy plans to focus on learning...
2024-07-0152 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastEnlisted Military's Guide to Money | Advice for New Military Members, Boot Camp & First Paycheck #131New enlisted servicemember's guide to personal finance! In this episode, Spencer and Jamie share all the financial advice they'd share with a new enlisted troop in their unit. It is possible to accumulate and save while on active duty as an enlisted service member! If you're an officer, go check out episode #132 covering all the personal finance advice for a new officer! Topics include: Money mindset Banking Tracking spending Debit vs Credit Emergency Fund Keeping up with the Joneses Prioritizing what matters to you Temporary sacrifices bring long-term gain Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Roth...
2024-07-0150 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary Taxes, State Tax Laws & Spouse Side Hustles | Military Spouse Residency Relief Act | Military Tax Experts Alliance w/ Paul Allen #130Taxes can be complicated. Military families have a number of unique concerns when thinking about their taxes- which state(s) to file in, how to withhold taxes, how a gig economy or side hustle affects the plan, how to handle rental property, etc. Today's main points include: Common tax problems for military families Important tax implications for families with a rental property or side hustle Warning signs when looking at financial advisors Filing in multiple states Filing wholly on your own or wholly through a CPA are not your only options For a limited time...
2024-06-2443 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastContinuation Pay Calculation & Timing With BRS & TSP With Brandon Lovingier, the Enlisted Money Guy #128For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call. Confused about continuation pay? Join the club. Unfortunately, too many servicemembers and their leaders are confused about the continuation pay benefit in the BRS. In today's episode with Brandon Lovingier, ChFC®, MQFP® aka The Enlisted Money Guy™, we share all you need to know to understand the benefit. For active duty, it's currently: 2.5 times your monthly base pay in either a lump sum or up to 4 equal, annual paymen...
2024-06-1027 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastUpgrading Flights on Military TDY / TAD with Points and Miles #126For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call. You can easily explore flight upgrades on your TDY travel flights. It's 100% legitimate and in line with government regulations and JTR. After using government contract flights and booking on your GTC in DTS, you can check your upgrade options. On this flight, Jamie was able to see United upgrades on an 8-hour flight for only 20,000 United miles or ~$1300 each way. He was able to transfer credit card points instantly to his United acc...
2024-05-2712 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastEarn 1 Million Credit Card Points without Annual Fees | Secret 25% Cash Back Cards | Using Rewards to Max Out Your Roth IRA #123For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call. Military families can earn 1 million points without annual fees?! You're not going to earn a lot of points from spending. You need to focus on earning welcome bonuses. We'll teach out how in the free Ultimate Military Credit Cards course. Main points today: How to earn 1,000,000 credit card points without annual fees 1. Greatest bang for your buck comes from welcome bonuses 2. Referral bonuses 3. Spending category maximazation Value of 1 million points: $10,000 minimum, $11,000 cashout value, or $20...
2024-05-0634 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast"E-4s Don't Make Enough to Save" | Myths & Mindsets Keeping Enlisted Troops from Saving Money | TSP Fund Confusion & Other Financial Lessons from a Young Marine, Devin Daniels @Knuckledraggerz | #122An E-4 with over $50,000 in savings in one tour?! Devin is an E-4 in the USMC who shares tips about military life, budgeting, and saving money on social media. He's done a superb job of transparently showing how a young, enlisted servicemember can cut costs and save for their future. He also challenges the mindset that you don't make enough to save anything and shares how he combats peer pressure and how his sidehustle income provided extra savings opportunities. Plus, as a bonus, Devin allowed us to deep-dive into a discussion of why he chose the TSP lifecycle fund he is...
2024-04-2943 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastThe Financial Value of a Military Spouse | Military Spouse Roth IRAs | Financial Goals and Insurance Needs for Stay-at-Home Spouse | Colleen Salchow #121For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call. Highlights of this episode include: How to ensure spouse feels like they're contributing financially, even as a stay-at-home spouse Setting goals as a spouse Does a stay-at-home spouse need life insurance coverage? Both spouses can contribute to their Roth IRA (if married filing jointly) How are you treating yourself financially? How to resolve differences in financial goals and communicate better as a couple How to move on from financial mistakes How...
2024-04-2233 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastAmex Family Language Rules | Updated Restrictions for Military Credit Cards | Revised Credit Card Strategy for Military #120Want help refining your strategy for military credit cards? For a limited time, Spencer is offering one-on-one Military Money Coaching sessions! Get your personal military money and investing questions answered in a confidential coaching call. American Express recently updated the requirements for earning a welcome bonus by adding family language restrictions to their cards. Learn all about what a "family" is and how to adjust your strategy for annual-fee waived cards for military servicemembers and their spouse! Our new TSP course is live! Check out the Confident TSP Investing course at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp to...
2024-04-1516 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary Tax & Spouses: "Which State Do I File Taxes In?" Military Spouse Residency Relief Act (MSRRA) with Kate Horrell # 119 Spouse residency rules can sometimes feel very confusing. But today, Kate Horrell helps understand the rules and requirements regarding which state servicemembers and their spouses can use for tax filing purposes. We cover things like: What is the SCRA? What is the Military Spouse Residency Relief Act? What have the recent laws changed regarding military taxes? How does my home of record impact my state taxes? How do spouses actually have more protection in this area that the servicemember does? How does a servicemember's non-military pay get taxed? The Military Spouse Residency Relief Act (MSRRA) is not...
2024-04-0823 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastTSP I Fund Change 2024 | New Index Will Increase Exposure to Emerging Markets | TSP for Military #117New (and positive) I Fund changes coming to your TSP in 2024! The I Fund update during 2024 will include more emerging markets, increasing and diversifying your international exposure. This is a positive change. In this episode we explain the benefits of the change, what it means for you, and what action is required on your part to take advantage of it. It now represents 90% of non-US market cap now. Best way to take advantage of this? Automatic contributions to your TSP each month! When you start in the TSP, you're automatically enrolled in the latest life cycle fund (currently L2065) which inclu...
2024-03-2522 min
The Military Money Manual PodcastCredit Card Tracking App Travel Freely with Founder Zac Hood: Grateful Travel + Secret Cash Back Cards #112 Today, Spencer talks with Zac Hood, founder of TravelFreely.com and CashFreely.net and their amazing apps that are free! We personally use these apps to find the best offers on cash-back credit cards and travel cards. Zach's apps even monitor your Chase 5/24 status, recommend which card to get next and when, and track your annual fees (while accounting for the Military Lending Act waivers on credit card annual fees for military servicemembers and their spouses). The apps are secure with no bank information or login info exchanged. On today's episode, we discuss:
2024-02-1935 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast3 Things Great Marriages Do with Money | Research-Backed Principles to Help Military Couples Build Wealth #107Managing day to day finances, having little to no debt, and controlling spending are three of the top ways for couples to build wealth together. Today Spencer and Jamie are talking about a paper entitled "Financial Management Practices of Couples with Great Marriages" published in the Journal of Family and Economic Issues. Our NEW course is out! Confident TSP Investor course is on sale now. For every course purchased, we'll donate one to an E-4 and below! If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach...
2023-12-1820 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastConfident TSP Investing Course: How to Invest in Your TSPOur new course is out! The Confident TSP Investing Course is on SALE now at militarymoneymanual.com/tsp. Listen to the episode for special promo code for $50 off through the end of 2023! Plus for every course sold, we'll donate one to an E-4 and below. We created this course to consolidate all the information we've put out there over the years and to give you confidence in your investing decisions. The TSP is one of greatest wealth-building tools for military families. We remember being new and overwhelmed with all the options and decisions. So we created this...
2023-11-2716 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastTSP for Beginners: Navigating Your First 2 Years #100Episode 100! Big thank you to all of the listeners and supporters of the podcast! In this episode, Spencer and Jamie go on a journey through the first two years with a Thrift Savings Plan or TSP. If you are new to the military or know anyone new to the military, this one is for you! Show notes can be found at militarymoneymanual.com/ep100 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...
2023-10-3038 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastDelta SkyMiles Amex Cards | Airline Credit Cards 1/4 #99Will airline credit cards give you the best benefits and point value? In this episode, Spencer and Jamie begin their Airline Credit Card Series with a review of the Delta SkyMiles American Express Card. Show notes can be found at militarymoneymanual.com/ep99 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...
2023-10-2315 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastTSP Loan to Pay Off Credit Card Debt | Good Idea? #98In this episode, Spencer and Jamie answer a listener question about taking out a TSP (Thrift Savings Plan) loan to pay of debt. Show notes can be found at militarymoneymanual.com/ep98 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 at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. I al...
2023-10-1622 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastWhy the Amex Gold Card is One of My Most Used Cards - Welcome Offers, Earning Categories, Benefits, and How to Get This Card Free #97In this episode, Jamie discusses why the Amex Gold card is one of his most used cards. Find out about the current welcome offer, earning categories, other benefits, and how you can get this card for free! Note: As of October 7, 2023 Amex changed the terms on the Gold Card. You won’t be eligible for a welcome bonus offer on the Gold Card if you have already received a welcome bonus offer on the Platinum card. We now recommend you open the Gold card first THEN the Platinum based on this recent change. Shownotes can be...
2023-10-0908 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastThe Enlisted Money Guy, Brandon Lovingier - Money Mistakes, Combatting Overspending, What Officers Should Know About Enlisted Money #96In this episode, Jamie is joined by The Enlisted Money Guy, Brandon Lovingier from EnlistedMoney.com to discuss the financial differences between enlisted service members and officers, combatting the desire to spend, and what resources are available to enlisted servicemembers. The Enlisted Money Guy on instagram: @enlistedmoneyguy Shownotes can be found at militarymoneymanual.com/ep96 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 S...
2023-10-0233 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastGovernment Shutdown Military Pay: 3 Things to Do Now #95Spencer Reese from militarymoneymanual.com and Jamie talk about the potential federal government shutdown in 2023 and what military servicemembers and families can do to protect their paychecks. Don't panic You will be back paid and may be paid anyways. Focus on what you can control 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...
2023-09-2916 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMy Review of the Mandatory Financial Literacy Training for Military Members #94In this episode, Jamie goes solo to give his review of the latest mandatory financial literacy course he received through the Air Force. Shownotes can be found at militarymoneymanual.com/ep94 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 at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. I also...
2023-09-2512 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastInvest Re-enlistment Bonus in TSP + Does BRS Have a Military Pension? #93Spencer from militarymoneymanual.com tackles two questions from an active duty Army E-6: Is it a good idea to invest $18,000 of my $50,000 reenlistment bonus into the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)? If I'm in the Blended Retirement System (BRS), will I receive a military pension if I serve 20 years? Show notes can be found at militarymoneymanual.com/ep93 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...
2023-09-1812 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastDreams, Goal Setting, Moving the Finish Line, & Leaving the Military #92Spencer from militarymoneymanual.com and Jamie discuss defining/re-defining the "finish line", the benefits of dreaming about what you want your future to look like after reaching Financial Independence and retirement, and setting short and long term goals to get you to that dream life. 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 o...
2023-09-1140 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastKate Horrell on Military Checklists for Retirement, Separation, & Life #91Your Military Family’s Confidently Prepared™ Life Binder: https://www.katehorrell.com/confidently-prepared-life-binder/ Retirement checklist: https://www.katehorrell.com/military-retirement-checklist/ Separation checklist: https://www.katehorrell.com/military-separation-checklist/ If you want to reach out to Jamie or Spencer for a military financial question, DM 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 at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. Spencer also offers a 100% free course on military...
2023-09-0447 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastCalculate Your Net Worth in the Military #90 Starting your journey to Financial Independence might seem daunting at first, but calculating your net worth is a necessary first step. Spencer and Jamie discuss what exactly net worth means, how to calculate it, and how to identify debts and assets. 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 Gu...
2023-08-2823 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastBrian "ALF" O'Neill, Fighter Pilot & CFP® on Survivor Benefit Program SBP #89Spencer Reese from MilitaryMoneyManual.com and Jamie from the Military Money Manual Podcast sit down with Brian O'Neill from Winged Wealth Management and Financial Planning. Brian is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, fiduciary, and fee only financial planner focusing on the military community and especially pilots. He runs the private Facebook group, Fighter Pilot Finance to help military pilots gain air superiority over their financial life. If you want to reach out to Jamie or Spencer for a military financial question, DM instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email podcast@militarymoneymanual.com. If you want to max...
2023-08-2142 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary Retirement Overseas with Stephanie from Poppin' Smoke #88Stephanie Montague joins Spencer Reese and Jamie on the podcast to talk about retiring overseas on a military pension. We talk TriCare, Space-A travel, visas, accidental financial independence, sabbaticals, geoarbitrage, banking overseas, and much more. Stephanie runs Poppinsmoke.com and a US military veterans overseas retiree Facebook group. In 2015 her husband retired from the Army, she quit her corporate job, and they set off for a one-year adventure to break from their routine and explore the world on their own terms. Since then, she's circled the globe and spent 2.5 years living in Japan. Now she...
2023-08-1442 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast8 Tips For a New Credit Card #87Jamie and Spencer Reese from militarymoneymanual.com share their top 8 tips for when they get a new credit card in the mail. Find the transcript of this episode at militarymoneymanual.com/ep87 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 at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. I also offer a 100...
2023-08-0713 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMid-Year Military Money Check In #86Jamie and Spencer Reese from militarymoneymanual.com discuss evaluting how your financial goals are going for the year. 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 at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit cards, like T...
2023-07-3113 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary Spouse Jobs & 8 Million TikTok Views: Miranda Head from LinkedIn #84Miranda Head, Corporate Engagement Lead at LinkedIn and @CookingWithMiranda on TikTok, joins Spencer and Jamie to talk about military spouse jobs, using LinkedIn to find your next job, and overcoming the aniexity of meeting new friends with each PCS. How Miranda found remote jobs while moving every few years in the military Secretarial housing allowance waiver - for short term PCS, you can leave your family in place and collect the higher BAH of the two locations. Should you hide your military spouse status from potential employers? Negotiating maternity leave at a new job Military spouses are eligible...
2023-06-2645 min
The Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary Spouse Benefits After Servicemember Death in the Line of Duty with Daniel Kopp #83https://military.wisestewardshipfp.com/militarymoneymanual - Free resources for Gold Star Spouses and Families Daniel Kopp CFP, joins Spencer Reese and Jamie to explain survivor benefits for Gold Star Spouses and Families. Programs and resources for active duty military widows include: Survivor Benefit Program (SBP) Tax exempt VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) rates for the surviving spouses and dependent children of Veterans 12 months of BAH or on base housing $500,000 of SGLI plus $100,000 death gratuity, both of which can be deposited directly into a Roth IRA thanks to the HEART Act Fry Scholarship, which...
2023-06-1940 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary Travel Hacking Lightning Round #81Spencer and Jamie tackle reader questions in a lightning round format in this episode. Questions include: If you can only recommend one card, would you choose The Platinum Card from American Express or Chase Sapphire Reserve? Why am I not getting SCRA benefits? Roth TSP or Roth IRA? I'm active duty. Do I need to be an authorized user on my civilian wife's account? How do you cash out Amex points? Do USPHS Commission Officers get MLA or SCRA benefits? How can I get a free copy of the Military Money Manual sent to a deployed location? Gap...
2023-06-0519 min
The Military Money Manual PodcastMeet Hosts Spencer & Jamie: 2 Year Podcast Anniversary #77Spencer Reese from militarymoneymanual.com and Jamie introduce themselves to the listeners of the Military Money Manual Podcast. Your hosts talk about how they are investing for financial independence, their backgrounds, families, and their military careers. They also discuss what's changed in their lives over the last 2 years while hosting the podcast. Finally, they discuss the present state and future of the podcast. Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase in the Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course at militarymoneymanual.com/umc3.
2023-05-0859 min
The Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary Kids: AAFES $20 for A Grade Students #76Jamie and Spencer discuss a $20 AAFES gift card available for students of military parents with A level grades. Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase 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 military spouses and active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex and Chase cards are waived for military spouse dependents of ac...
2023-05-0111 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastIRS Tax Refund Military: What To Do Next Year & Now #74Jamie and Spencer Reese from militarymoneymanual.com discuss what to do if you received a tax refund from the IRS this year. Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase 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 military spouses and active duty military servicemembers, including Guard and Reserve on active orders over 30 days. The annual fees on all personal Amex and Chase cards are waived for mi...
2023-04-1732 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastErik Baskin - BLUF Finance, Side Hustles on Active Duty, & Military Separation #72Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase 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. In this episode, Jamie and Spencer Reese chat with Erik Baskin on life insurance, when it's appropriate to hire a...
2023-03-131h 09The Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary PCS Tips: How to Prepare and Maximize Your DITY, DLA, TLA, TLE, & More #71Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase 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. In this episode, Jamie and Spencer Reese discuss how to prepare for your next PCS. If you hav...
2023-02-201h 02The Military Money Manual PodcastPrioritize Credit Card Spending Categories or Welcome Bonuses? #70Learn how to get your annual fees waived on premium credit cards from American Express and Chase 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. In this episode, Jamie and Spencer Reese discuss how much welcome bonuses are worth, how to maximize spending catego...
2023-02-0622 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastAmex Purchase Protection, Return Protection, & Extended Warranty - $1000 Back in 6 Months #67Learn 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. In this episode, Jamie and Spencer discuss how American Express cards offer many benefits including: purchase protection of up to...
2023-01-1618 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary Spouse Licensure Reimbursement | $1000 for Military Spouses #66Spencer Reese and Jamie explain how to get up to $1,000 reimbursed for military spouses expenses incurred by PCS through Military Spouse Licensure Reimbursement. Learn more on Military One Source 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 at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. I also offer a 100% free cou...
2023-01-0921 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastBen Miller (ChroniFI) | Stoicism, Time is Money, Risk, & Imposter Syndrome #65Ben Miller from ChroniFI joins Spencer Reese and Jamie to talk about Stoic philosophy, learning humility on Wall Street, imposter syndrome, and how everything is risk. Learn more about ChroniFI at chronifi.com/ and Ben Miller's writing at chronifi.com/blog 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 at or a...
2023-01-0258 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastEnd of Year Review 2022 #64Spencer Reese and Jamie talk about their investment performance, budgets, changes in lifestyle, and what they're looking forward to in 2023. 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 at or at shop.militarymoneymanual.com. I also offer a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting annual fee waived credit c...
2022-12-191h 06The Military Money Manual PodcastSplit TSP Contributions Between Roth & Traditional? Is Earning a Military Pension Likely? #63In this episode, Spencer Reese and Jamie answer 2 reader questions: Should you split your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contributions between the Roth TSP and Traditional TSP? Should I focus on contributing to my TSP or should I just rely on my military pension? While government TSP matching must deposit into your Traditional TSP, you can contribute all of your funds to the Roth TSP and you will still get the matching. If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast, please reach out on instagram.com/militarymoneymanual or email podcast@mil...
2022-12-1216 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastAmex Bonvoy Brilliant vs Amex Hilton Aspire - Best Amex Hotel Credit Cards #62The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card and the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card annual fee is waived for military servicemembers and military spouses. In this episode Spencer Reese and Jamie break down the differences between two of the best Amex hotel credit cards available: The Amex Bonvoy Brilliant and the Amex HIlton Honors Aspire Card. 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...
2022-12-0527 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastMy First Nest Egg | Allowance, Chore, and Budget App for Military Kids #59Annie and Nicole from My First Nest Egg join Jamie and Spencer today to talk about how military families can use apps to help teach their kids the core financial concepts of spending less than you earn, compounding interest, and generously sharing your resources with those around you. Learn more at https://www.myfirstnestegg.com/ or in the Apple or Google store on your phone or tablet. Spencer offers a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting military annual fee waived credit cards for active duty, guard, reserve, and military spouses. The Platinum Card® fr...
2022-11-2143 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastJesse Mecham (YNAB) on Target Shooting, Japanese Woodworking, & How to Budget If You Make A Million Dollars Per Year #58Jesse Mecham from the popular budgeting software You Need a Budget YNAB joins Spencer and Jamie today to talk about how pistol marksmanship is like personal finance, how many samauri swords Jesse would buy if he was stationed in Japan, and why you still need a spending plan if you make a $1,000,000 per year. You can sign up for a 34 day risk free trial at militarymoneymanual.com/ynab , no credit card required to sign up. Spencer offers a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting military annual fee waived credit cards for active duty...
2022-11-1458 min
The Military Money Manual PodcastJeremy Schneider, Personal Finance Club | Millionaires Who DON'T Fly First Class, the 90/10 Rule, & Cryptocurrencies #57Jeremy Schneider from Personal Finance Club joins Spencer Reese and Jamie to talk how to money like a millionaire, how to invest in index funds in 2023, and the difference between cheap and frugal. Jeremy helps over 400,000 followers on his Instagram account @personalfinanceclub and his website PersonalFinanceClub.com. He sold his first company for $5 million dollars and retired at the age of 36. Now, he helps people become millionaires through 2 simple rules: spend less than you earn and invest early and often. Until 31 December 2022, you can get $20 off either of Jeremy's courses at https://www.personalfinanceclub.com...
2022-11-071h 07The Military Money Manual PodcastMilitary Crash Pads, Short Term Rentals, & Military Real Estate with Air Force Officer Paul #56Spencer Reese from Military Money Manual and his co-host Jamie chat with their friend Paul, an Air Force officer and real estate investor. Paul has built up a small real estate empire in his 12+ years in the Air Force. He focused on long term rentals when he PCSs and short term rentals near military training bases, also known as military crash pads. Paul shares some of his tactics, techniques, hacks, and tips for succesful real estate investing. If you have a question you would like us to answer on the podcast or just...
2022-10-3147 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast#53 14 Air Force Leaders Talk Money, FI, and What Confuses Them About Military Personal FinanceJamie and Spencer recap Jamie's personal finance discussion with a group of 14 Air Force officers and Government Service civilians. Everyone agreed personal finance needs to be more discussed. Some themes mentioned were budgeting, TSP vs IRA, and investing. Jamie and Spencer point listeners where to find good financial resources for military service members. They explore how financial readiness should be an additional pillar to consider for Comprehensive Airman Fitness, and how financial independence is achievable for all military service members. Lastly, reminding everyone that people are hurting, and they need your support, not...
2022-10-1025 minThe Military Money Manual PodcastAmex Platinum Military Spouse Fee Waiver, Best Credit Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve #50In this episode Jamie and Spencer discuss Military Lending Act (MLA) benefits for military spouses. Military spouses enjoy the exact same benefits active duty military servicemembers do on American Express, Chase, Citi, and US Bank credit cards: the annual fees are waived on all the premium cards. Spencer and Jamie break down the best credit cards for military spouses including: The Platinum Card from American Express Chase Sapphire Reserve Card American Express Gold Card Best Hotel credit cards Best Airline credit cards Spencer offers a 100% free course on military travel hacking and getting...
2022-08-2245 min
The Military Money Manual PodcastSpencer's End of Year ReviewMake sure next year is your most successful year yet with the timeless financial freedom lessons in the Military Money Manual, available now at militarymoneymanual.com/book The end of the calendar year is an excellent time to review your progress, success, and failures over the past year. In this episode Jamie and Spencer dissect Spencer's "State of the Money" address to his wife. We also discuss: What's a "sinking fund" and how to use it to stay ahead of infrequent but predictable expenses How Spencer analyses his income, expenses, investing performance, and How to set financial and n...
2021-11-2241 minThe Military Money Manual Podcast$218,000: How Spencer and Jamie Paid Off 6 Figures of DebtLearn the behaviors and habits of financially independent military troops in my new book the Military Money Manual, available now at militarymoneymanual.com/book/ Paying off debt, especially when it's 5 or 6 figures, can seem insurmountable. A journey of 1000 miles begins with a single step. The same is true for financial independence. The journey to being a millionaire investor starts with paying off your high interest rate loans. In this episode, 2 Air Force officers Spencer and Jamie walk you through the exact strategies and techniques they used to each pay off more than $100,000 of student, credit...
2021-11-0855 min