Retirement Revealed

Learn how to build a retirement marked by intentional effort instead of fear with author Zac Larson.

Exploring the 4 major factors that need to be considered when deciding whether to buy your vacation home in retirement or continue renting.

How you can avoid the 3 biggest retirement mistakes and set yourself up for a secure and meaningful retirement.

Author Benjamin Brandt explains how retirement planning starts with the practice during your working years in order to prepare for a successful retirement

Insurance expert Mike Smith breaks down how long-term care health insurance options have evolved in 2025 to provide a wider variety of coverage choices in retirement.

Author Derrick Kinney explains how to escape a middle class mindset and become a millionaire.

Author and stand-up comedian Paul Ollinger shares how seeking a reasonably happy retirement makes for a greater sense of satisfaction.

Children’s book author and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Jamie Bosse explains how to teach your grandchildren about money.

Jean Chatzky explores how retirement trends indicate that the middle class is winning at retirement and shares practical tips to prepare for retirement in 2025.

Exploring the unique challenges and needs of first responders in retirement with retirement coach and former police lieutenant Kimberly Stratman. When we need them most, first responders rise to answer the call. But what is waiting for them on the other side of the finish line once their career is over? It's a unique challenge, and one that deserves special attention. I recently had the privilege of speaking with Kimberly Stratman, a retired police lieutenant with over 30 years of experience, about her insights into this crucial transition. Kimberly's perspective, as a former officer, and the daughter, sister, mother, and wife of police officers, is truly invaluable. The Realities of First Responder Life (and How it Impacts Retirement) Kimberly's career with the Dallas Police Department, culminating in 20 years as a lieutenant, gave her a front-row seat to the realities of first responder life. She described the double-edged sword of promotion, how it distanced her from the street patrol work she loved, while simultaneously opening doors to teaching and sharing her knowledge. But beyond the daily grind, Kimberly shed light on the less glamorous aspects of the profession – the paperwork, the emotional toll, and the impact on personal lives. As she aptly put it, "Everything that makes us good to write about and makes for good viewing destroys marriages and careers." The constant stress, lack of sleep, rotating schedules, and exposure to trauma take a heavy toll, often leading to physical and mental health challenges. And, as Kimberly pointed out, "Up until just recently, we were supposed to handle all of that privately. We weren't even allowed to acknowledge that we were having any problems, or they would take your badge from you." The Unique Challenges of First Responder Retirement While anyone can struggle with retirement, first responders face a unique set of challenges. They often retire younger, leaving them with potentially decades of life to navigate. They carry the weight of their experiences, both emotionally and physically. And, as Kimberly emphasized, "First responders tend to drop dead a couple of years after retirement." This stark reality underscores the importance of proactive planning and self-care. The loss of identity is another significant hurdle. Kimberly shared her own experience of turning in her uniform, a surprisingly emotional moment that symbolized the end of an era. "When I turned my uniform in, it took me three times to… get it all together… And then when I took the last stuff in, I actually cried when I was driving away. It was very hard." This powerful anecdote highlights the deep connection between identity and career for first responders. Planning for a Successful Transition: More Than Just Finances Kimberly stressed that while financial planning is essential, it's just one piece of the puzzle. "Our time and our health, I would have to say, is even more important than the money." She emphasized the need for intentionality, both in career and retirement planning. "If you're very intentional about it, if you have a plan for it… it's just like everybody's worried about the money and that's important… But our time and our health… is even more important." She also highlighted the importance of addressing health issues proactively. "Know your numbers, be brutally honest with yourself… if you can't go out and do normal stuff… start addressing that." And, perhaps most importantly, she emphasized the crucial role of relationships. "You have to know if your marriage is strong… Work with your relationship with your children… The first responder hasn't been at any of the events… and so the retiree thinks, when I retire, I'm going to spend all this time with my kids. Well, the kids have moved on." The Importance of Early Planning and Flexibility Kimberly's perspective on retirement planning has evolved over time. She now believes that conversations about retirement should...

Learn how to turn regrets into motivation to build a better retirement with guest Lori Emerick of Aspen Group Consulting.

Learn how to find meaning and purpose in retirement after a life in public service with retired librarian and current retirement coach Susan Hawk Schneider.

Discover the power of viewing retirement as a rebirth instead of an ending with retirement coach Karen Carr.

Unlocking the power of relationships to enrich your retirement and reap the health & wealth benefits of social fitness with Susan Hogan.

Unlocking the power of relationships to enrich your retirement and reap the health & wealth benefits of social fitness with Susan Hogan.

Author and CEO of Childfree Wealth® Dr. Jay Zigmont explains the unique financial planning needs and strategies used in childfree wealth management.

Author and podcaster Dr. Jordan Grumet explores how to create your purpose instead of waiting for it to find you.

Author and estate planning expert Mark Shiller shares how to leave wealth to your kids and prepare them for success

Author and executor advisor David Edey shares how to prepare your estate and your executor to leave a legacy behind instead of a mess.

Learn how to build a fulfilling retirement by utilizing a growth mindset - with Wendy Leggett