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This week, we acknowledge Armed Forces Day and honor our active-duty service members and their families!
While we’re at it, a few updates worth sharing:
I’m changing my book title! 📘
More details soon (just know I’m very excited about it). The hint is in my updated LinkedIn profile headline:
Helping military spouses protect their family’s hard-earned pension by making a confident, informed decision about the Survivor Benefit Plan.
Free War Chest Library, and no opt-in necessary! 📚
Thanks to my husband’s hard work, we offer free guides on our website for the Survivor Benefit Plan decision, Thrift Savings Plan strategy, and retirement income, each with built-in calculators.
Reflecting On Armed Forces Day
Although I’ve been a civilian for many years, it wasn’t until I started podcasting in 2019 that I learned how unique it was to be associated with the less than 1% of Americans who serve.
I once had a friend with no military connection assume that the military was all G.I. Joe, a toxic masculinity kind of institution. And I thought, “Wow, that’s such a different perspective than my actual experience with the community.” I grew up in the military, I got to reconnect with the community through my show, and I serve them through my work today. If only my civilian friend actually knew the amazing individuals who protect us, everyday Americans.
What I appreciate the most is how military life taught me to adapt. Sure, most of the time, it was out of necessity. But as a civilian, it easily translated to changing and choosing because I wanted to. If I already knew how to react to change, why couldn’t I prompt it myself?
My upcoming book speaks to the spirit of voluntary choice. I hope our military spouses will appreciate it when deciding how to protect their hard-earned pension, starting with the Survivor Benefit Plan.
Beyond this choice, however, your next chapter is less about being told where to go. It’s more about: where do you want to go, and how can we help you get there?
Anyway, I digress.
While you’re still actively serving, I sincerely want to wish you a Happy Armed Forces Day. Thank you for your service. 💙
— Jen








