Advertise on podcast: Your Retirement in Focus

Join us for a special year-end episode of the Teachers Retirement System (TRS) podcast as we reflect on 2025 and look ahead to 2026. In this conversation, outgoing Executive Director Dr. L. C. (Buster) Evans and incoming Executive Director Dr. Jason L. Branch share insights on: Key legislative and economic developments impacting TRSHow the system performed amid market ups and downsThe importance of teacher recruitment and retention for our pension plan TRS's commitment to charitable contributions and member resourcesLeadership transition: what it means for our members and the future of TRS Hear firsthand from both leaders about their vision, accomplishments, and what members can expect in the coming year. Whether you’re an active member, retiree, or future educator, this episode offers valuable perspective on the strength and stability of your retirement system. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 02:51 – New Legislative Changes that Impact the System 05:35 – TRS’s FY 2025 Market Performance 09:08 – The Importance of Teacher Recruitment & Retention 11:46 – TRS Staff: Charitable Contributions & Internal Initiatives 18:02 – Leadership Transition: What It Means for Members & the System 28:52 – Dr. L. C. (Buster) Evans: Legacy, Leadership, & Passing the Torch 40:43 – Dr. Jason L. Branch: Vision, Core Principles, & Looking Ahead 47:03 – What Members Can Expect in 2026 48:27 – Dr. L. C. (Buster) Evans’s Farewell to TRS 51:38 – Outro Are you about to retire? If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online and register for a session today! Are you new to TRS or in the middle of your career? Be sure to designate your beneficiaries as soon as possible in your TRS online account. We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Dr. Jason L. Branch, Executive Director of TRSGA and Dr. L. C. (Buster) Evans, Retired Executive Director of TRSGA For more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trsgeorgia/ #RetirementPlanning #PensionPodcasts #Retirement This podcast is for information purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or tax advice. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and may not reflect the views of the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia.

In this special episode, we sit down with Chris Hill, former host and executive producer of Motley Fool Money and one of the most recognized voices in investing. Over his 25-year career at The Motley Fool, Chris co-created five shows about money and investing, hosted more than 3,500 episodes, and interviewed some of the biggest names in business and finance—including Malcolm Gladwell, Michael Lewis, Dan Pink, Becky Quick, and Mark Cuban. Chris is also the narrator of Morgan Housel’s international bestseller The Psychology of Money and its New York Times best-selling follow-up Same As Ever. His audiobook narration of The Psychology of Money reached #1 on Audible’s Nonfiction bestseller list in 2023. Join us as Chris shares insights from decades of experience, his approach to simplifying investing for beginners, and his thoughts on building financial confidence for retirement. Whether you’re just starting your investment journey or preparing for life after work, this episode delivers practical wisdom and inspiration. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 03:03 – Chris Hill’s Journey to The Motley Fool 08:07 – Money Unplugged Podcast: The Mission, Memorable Moments, & Core Audience 18:04 – Simplifying Investing: Chris Hill’s Approach 20:56 – Investing Recommendations for TRS Members 26:04 – Most Common Investing Mistakes Influenced by Fear 28:27 – Chris Hill’s ETF Choices: Buy, Add To, & Hold Forever 31:56 – Making Investment Decisions: The “Circle of Competence” 35:18 – Chris Hill’s Three Stock Choices: Buy Now & Hold Forever 40:19 – Why Consumers Should Read Morgan Housel’s “The Art of Spending Money” 44:45 – Finding the Balance: Being Financially Prudent vs. Splurging 51:11 – Last Words & Finding Money Unplugged 53:57 – Outro Are you about to retire? If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online and register for a session today! Are you new to TRS or in the middle of your career? Be sure to designate your beneficiaries as soon as possible in your TRS online account. We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Chris Hill, Host of Money Unplugged, Former Host & Executive Producer of Motley Fool Podcast For more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trsgeorgia/ #RetirementPlanning #PensionPodcasts #Retirement This podcast is for information purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or tax advice. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and may not reflect the views of the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia.

Dedication, Reinvention, and Serendipity! TRS retiree and owner of Rose Creek Guitars, Rick Gunn, discusses setting yourself up for success before and embracing new beginnings in retirement. How did the former CFO of Forsyth County School District end up designing and building custom guitars? Find out in this episode! We'll also discuss: Rick Gunn’s career journey and retirementSavings plans such as a 457 or 403(b) plan, good debt and bad debt, and the benefits of saving earlyEntrepreneurship and how to create your own second act Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 02:46 – Rick Gunn’s Role as CFO for Forsyth County Schools 04:18 – The Role of CFO: How It Helped Plan for Retirement 05:23 – Advice for Active Members: “Squirreling Away” & Sacrifices 07:27 – When Do You Know It’s Time to Retire? 08:31 – Career Decisions: The Light at the End of the Tunnel 09:49 – Founding Rose Creek Guitars: The Inspiration & Challenges 15:01 – Key Lessons About Entrepreneurship 20:33 – Advice for Embracing New Beginnings 22:23 – Looking Forward: What’s Next for Rick Gunn? 23:56 – A Closer Look at a Custom Rose Creek Guitar (#50) 26:52 – Last Words of Advice 28:00 – Outro Are you about to retire? If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online and register for a session today! Are you new to TRS or in the middle of your career? Be sure to designate your beneficiaries as soon as possible in your TRS online account. We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Rick Gunn, TRS Retiree and Owner of Rose Creek Guitars For more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia Instagram: #RetirementPlanning #PensionPodcasts #Retirement This podcast is for information purposes only and should not be considered legal or tax advice. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and may not reflect the views of the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia.

“Most money problems are not problems about money.” In part 2 of this dynamic episode, Dale Alexander, CFP, discusses how being rich isn’t about how much money you have. For a deeper understanding of wealth, Dale provides gems of insight on finding joy in your life, investing, the influence of social media, and the benefit of compound interest. He also shares how TRS members can become millionaires. Move toward a richer life. This episode may redefine your perspective on finances and happiness. Dale discusses: • Different views of being rich. • Being aware of your financial margins and the decisions you make. • Is the stock market risky? • How to retire wealthy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 02:00 – What Being RICH Truly Means 04:57 – The Key to Financial Problems: Is It More Money? 08:13 – Pick a Hard: Being Broke or Financially Successful 09:55 – The Reality Behind Financial Influencers on Social Media 12:02 – Things We Surprisingly Don’t Know About Money 16:04 – The Million Dollar Wagon: How TRSGA Members Become Millionaires 21:21 – Dale’s Last Words of Wisdom & Contact Info 24:01 – Outro Are you about to retire? If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online and register for a session today! Are you new to TRS or in the middle of your career? Be sure to designate your beneficiaries as soon as possible in your TRS online account. We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Dale Alexander, Author of "The Talk About Money" + Motivational Speaker Connect with us on social: https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia/ https://twitter.com/TRSGeorgia https://www.instagram.com/trsgeorgia/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/state-of-georgia-teachers-retirement-system-of-georgia https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/trs-ga (Listen to the TRS podcast - Your Retirement in Focus) This podcast is for information purposes only and should not be considered legal or tax advice. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and may not reflect the views of the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia. Don’t miss part 1 of this episode. You can find it on the TRS podcast page or search for “Your Retirement In Focus” on your podcast platform of choice.

“Play now and pay later OR pay now and play later.” From your first paycheck to your most recent one, Dale Alexander shares wisdom on focusing in on your financial dreams, having “The Talk (About Money)" with your family, and how to treat new money as it enters your life. As an author and motivational speaker, Dale discusses finances through a practical, philosophical, and philanthropic lens. Dale shares: • Why money is difficult to talk about • The benefit of treating 70% of your paycheck as 100% • How to supercharge the other 30% of your paycheck • The true impact of giving Uplifting and enlightening, this episode is meant to supercharge your approach to your finances! Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 02:39 – The WHY Behind the Book: “The Talk (About Money)” 06:46 – Why Parents Don’t Talk about Money 07:52 – The 70% Rule: “Make 70% your 100%.” 10:35 – How to Get Money Right 16:14 – It’s Never Too Late: How to Get to 70% Now 19:25 – Investing: Shifting Your Approach 24:27 – Fighting the Urge to Overspend 26:45 – The True Impact of Giving 31:23 – Outro Are you about to retire? If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online and register for a session today! Are you new to TRS or in the middle of your career? Be sure to designate your beneficiaries as soon as possible in your TRS online account. We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Dale Alexander, Author of "The Talk About Money" Connect with us on social: https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia/ https://twitter.com/TRSGeorgia https://www.instagram.com/trsgeorgia/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/state-of-georgia-teachers-retirement-system-of-georgia https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/trs-ga (Listen to the TRS podcast - Your Retirement in Focus) This podcast is for information purposes only and should not be considered legal or tax advice. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and may not reflect the views of the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia.

Recorded on February 24th, 2025, join us for this Social Security Update. What is the Social Security Fairness Act? How does it impact individuals filing for or currently receiving Social Security benefits? Catch this TRS Talks segment as Cindy Lundquist, Social Security expert, answers these questions and provides a Social Security Fairness Act update, discusses other Social Security topics, and more. The Social Security Fairness Act was signed into law on January 5, 2025 and details are still being revealed by the Social Security Administration. Please visit the Social Security Administration website at www.ssa.gov or contact your local Social Security office for additional information. Host: Winston Buckley, TRS Communications Director Guest: Cindy Lundquist, Social Security Expert TRS Talks is the health and wealth series of Your Retirement in Focus. It includes conversations with experts and community leaders covering healthcare, investing, and social security. You may view additional videos on our YouTube channel: ⁠www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia

Timing is everything, especially when it comes to your retirement! TRS Counseling Team Lead, Monica Castine and TRS New Retirement Operations Manager, Carlos Marshall, will help you understand the process in two time periods: BEFORE and AFTER your retirement application has been submitted. Monica will prepare you with: when to turn in your applicationthe benefit of unused sick leave & other sick leave topics information on purchasing service - including Air Timehow to get a benefit estimatewhere and how to apply for retirement Carlos provides insights on: common issues that can delay the processwhy changes in retirement calculations occur when you can expect your first checkhow sick leave & beneficiaries impact your retirement benefitother practical tips to getting your application submitted correctly Additional topics include: healthcare subsidies & where to find more infoa review of important things to consider Timestamps 00:00 - Intro 01:07 – When to apply for retirement? 01:55 – Sick leave minimum amount 02:18 – Accruing sick leave with more than one employer 02:46 – Sick leave awarded higher than the maximum monthly allowance 03:49 – Withdrawn sick leave 04:18 – Purchasing service toward retirement 05:30 – Airtime service 06:32 – Benefit estimates to calculate pension amount 07:25 – How do I apply for retirement 07:55 – Help with retirement application 08:21 – Documents to send with retirement application 08:57 – Delayed retirement benefits 09:39 – Salary changes prior to retirement 10:37 – Factors that can affect retirement benefit calculations 11:46 – When is the first check processed? 12:19 – Sick leave adjustments after retirement date 12:59 – Beneficiary effect on monthly benefit 13:53 – Avoiding early retirement reductions 14:30 – Advice for employers sending member info to TRS 15:16 – SHBP healthcare subsidy 16:20 – Ensuring a timely processing of your application Are you about to retire? If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online and register for a session today! Are you new to TRS or in the middle of your career? Be sure to designate your beneficiaries as soon as possible in your TRS online account. We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Monica Castine, TRS Counseling Team Lead Carlos Marshall, TRS New Retirement Operations Manager For more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia ⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia #retirementplanning #pensionpodcasts #retirement

Join us for a year-end recap with our Executive Director, Dr. L.C. "Buster" Evans, Ed.D., for an insightful conversation as we delve into the highlights and challenges of 2024. Topics discussed include: How TRS achieved the highest return of all state pension systems in the US. Legislative impacts on the system, including proposed and passed bills. Addressing teacher shortages in Georgia . The number of members who retired this year. Retirees over the age of 100. The importance of keeping beneficiary information up to date. The state charitable contribution campaign. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into the state of Georgia's teacher retirement system and its commitment to securing the future of educators. Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 01:36 – Legislative Impacts on the System 03:40 – TRS Challenges, Trends, & Triumphs 07:52 – Technology & Security Enhancements 10:48 – TRS’ Stellar FY 2024 Market Performance 13:08 – Adapting to Change: New, Current, and Retired Educators 22:42 – TRS Accessibility: On-Demand Content & Macon Office 26:23 – Member Retirement Trends 27:50 – Retiree Resources 31:08 – The Importance of TRS Beneficiary Designations 32:20 – Employer Shout-Out: Renee Lipp, Harris County Schools 34:29 – TRS Staff: Development, Initiatives, & Giving 40:58 – Priorities for the Year Ahead (2025) 43:02 – Words of Wisdom and Gratitude from Dr. L.C. (Buster) Evans 44:50 – Outro Are you about to retire? If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online and register for a session today! Are you new to TRS or in the middle of your career? Be sure to designate your beneficiaries as soon as possible in your TRS online account. We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Dr. L.C. (Buster) Evans, Ed.D, TRS Executive Director For more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia #pensions #retirees #educators #teachers #pensionpodcasts

Estate Plans are not Just for the Rich. Why EVERYONE Needs an Estate Plan feat. Ryan Rasmussen, CFP What does an estate plan include? Why is it important to start planning now? Through real-life narratives, examples, and facts, Ryan Rasmussen, CFP, takes you through what an estate plan is and why EVERYONE needs to have one. We aren’t all guaranteed a tomorrow and taking control of the “What Ifs” in life can help protect your assets and how your family is taken care of during a stressful time. Ryan specializes in retirement and wealth management and serves as the Assistant Director of Gift and Estate Planning for the University of Georgia. This episode covers: Estate planning and legal documents: power of attorney, last will and testament, and other directives Common estate planning mistakes made: not updating your beneficiaries and more Special situations: inheritance, assets left out of wills, dependents with disabilities Protecting yourself from scams Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 01:39 – Ryan Rasmussen’s Journey: Financial & Estate Planning 02:59 – How Financial, Retirement, & Estate Planning Intersect 06:01 – Estate Planning Explained: Who it Benefits & When to Start 11:27 – Unexpected Death in Active Service: 3 Things to Consider 17:02 – Life Events Affecting Wills, Trusts, & Power of Attorneys 22:25 – Solutions for Physical Possessions Not Captured in Wills 26:38 – Steps to Take When Receiving an Inheritance 31:29 – Planning for Dependents with Disabilities 33:32 – Common Mistakes Made in Estate Planning 36:25 – Protection Against Estate Planning Scams 39:26 – Contact Info & Final Thoughts 41:21 – Outro Are you about to retire? If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online and register for a session today! Are you new to TRS or in the middle of your career? Be sure to designate your beneficiaries as soon as possible in your TRS online account. We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Ryan Rasmussen, CFP For more information visit: ⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠⁠ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia #EstatePlanning #Wills #Healthcaredirectives #PowerofAttorney #Moneypodcast

What do marriage, divorce, kids, hobbies, and income streams have in common? They all have an impact on your happiness! Join us as we revisit this insightful episode on retirement with Wes Moss, a seasoned financial professional, best-selling author, broadcaster, and teacher. Highlights include: The top 3 financial habits of the happiest retirees and the research behind it How much money happy retirees have saved for retirement Why Money + Health + Connectedness = A happy lifestyle! Wes Moss, author of What the Happiest Retirees Know: 10 Habits for a Healthy, Secure, and Joyful Life, also has a quiz to see if you are on the path to becoming a happy retiree. You can take the quiz here: https://www.wesmoss.com/teachers-money-happiness-quiz/. 00:00 - Intro 04:09 - Research Method & Findings 08:25 - Top 3 Financial Habits of the Happiest Retirees 11:51 - Importance of Pensioners Investing 13:38 - Multiple Streams of Income 16:19 - Money + Health + Connectedness 20:31 - Impact of Romantic & Family Relationships on Retirees 27:07 - Cultivating Core Pursuits 32:15 - Unexpected Research Findings 34:46 - Contact Info & Key Tips for Teachers 38:14 - Outro Are you about to retire? If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online and register for a session today! Are you new to TRS or in the middle of your career? Be sure to designate your beneficiaries as soon as possible in your TRS online account. We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at [email protected]. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Wes Moss For more information visit: www.trsga.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia #Retirees #Retirement #Happiness #Finances #Moneypodcast

Emphasizing the financial challenges and opportunities educators face, podcast guest, Yahrasiel Colbert, Ed.S., leverages over 27 years of multidisciplinary expertise to help people build confidence in their financial independence. Yahrasiel is an educator, works as a consultant, and has authored a financial journal. During this episode, she provides resources for creating realistic budgets and achievable financial goals. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Yahrasiel Colbert, Ed.S. Highlights from this episode include: the four biggest financial challenges faced by educators the financial habits of Millennials and Gen Xers strategies for managing debt, such as the snowball and avalanche methods the importance of finding additional income sources highlights from her financial journal Prioritize your financial well-being by joining us for this episode! 00:00 – Intro 03:45 – Foundation of Yahrasiel Colbert’s Financial Journey 06:17 – The Passion Behind the Work: Educating Educators 07:47 – Four Biggest Financial Challenges for Educators 12:21 – The Importance of Financial Literacy 15:17 – Retirement Planning: Starting Early & Overcoming Obstacles 19:40 – Educators’ Concerns about Retiring Comfortably 22:01 – Resources for Budgeting & Setting Financial Goals 23:37 – Financial Planning Habits of Gen Xers vs. Millennials 26:19 – Managing Debt: Snowball & Avalanche Methods 30:35 – Securing Multiple Streams of Income 32:11 – From Red to Black: Weekly Financial Journal 35:42 – Retirement Savings Plans: 403(b)s, IRAs, & Annuities 41:51 – Catch-Up Contributions 43:35 – Key Takeaways & Contact Information We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at [email protected]. For more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia⁠⁠ If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online at TRSGA.com and register for a session today! Don't forget to update your TRS beneficiaries in your online account!

Light the fire, pour the hot cocoa, and grab your headphones! This end-of-year special from the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia dives deep into the triumphs, challenges, and fascinating facts that marked 2023 for TRS. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Dr. L.C. (Buster) Evans, Executive Director of Teachers Retirement System of GA Join us as we: Discuss market performance to member milestones. Get the scoop on HB 385 and how it can benefit you. Practical tips for maximizing your TRS benefit and planning for the future Discover the heart of TRS with a peek into hard work by those who keep the plan running smoothly. Celebrate the spirit of giving and learn how TRS supports Georgia's amazing charities. This is your chance to unwind, gain valuable insights, and get pumped for the year ahead. So, whether you're an active member, a proud retiree, or simply fascinated by the world of education, tune in and get the inside scoop on TRS! So, grab your headphones, hit play, and let's raise a toast to a year well-lived and a bright future ahead! Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 01:35 – Dr. L.C. (Buster) Evans’ 2023 TRS Reflections 05:28 – TRS Market Performance 07:16 – Current Active Member & Retiree Totals 08:42 – Intriguing TRS Stats 11:35 – Working in Retirement & HB385 Benefits 15:34 – Tips for Active Members 17:40 – Pre-Retirement Counseling Session Options 21:54 – TRS Member Retirement Trends 22:41 – The Upcoming Legislative Session & What to Expect 26:42 – The Heart of TRS (Our 7 Operating Divisions) 31:04 – The Spirit of Giving in the TRS organization   32:54 – Parting Words from Dr. L.C. (Buster) Evans 36:35 – Outro We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at [email protected]. For more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia⁠ If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online at TRSGA.com and register for a session today! Don't forget to update your TRS beneficiaries in your online account! #TRS #retirement #education #Georgia #endoftheyear #podcast #givingback #financialplanning

All healthcare is not the same. Louis Amis, Executive Director of the State Health Benefit Plan (SHBP) discusses the importance of understanding your health, being realistic about your finances for emergencies, learning about preventative exams, and being aware of common healthcare mistakes so you can make the best decisions! During this episode, he also talks about the SHBP structure, changes to what is being offered, and information specific to active members and retirees. Take an active role in your healthcare and join us for this important podcast discussion. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Louis Amis, Executive Director of the State Health Benefit Plan Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 02:45 – Louis Amis' Road to Executive Director 04:21 – SHBP Structure 05:32 – Three Aspects of Total Wellness 06:51 – Provider Selection Process for the state of Georgia 08:07 – Good Practices for Healthcare Decision Making 11:51 – Common Mistakes made during Open Enrollment 13:18 – Upcoming SHBP Changes (2024 Coverages) 19:08 – Retirees and Medicare Supplements 26:02 – Guidance for Retirees Eligible for Medicare 30:10 – Coverage Info for Out-of-State Retirees 31:04 – Importance of Preventative Measures 32:40 – SHBP Resources 35:42 – Outro We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at [email protected]. For more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online at TRSGA.com and register for a session today! Don't forget to update your TRS beneficiaries in your online account!

Former teacher, author, and returning podcast guest, Danny Kofke, discusses how to take control of your money using simplified and practical tactics. Through his path in teaching, financial education, writing, and TV guest appearances, Danny has learned that you can’t run a marathon in 30 days. It takes consistency and a personalized approach to build your financial margins…and you can do it too! Danny discusses the “messy middle”, habit-forming tactics, taking the bias out of your finances, the importance of vesting at 10 years, the TRS benefit, and supplementing your retirement income to become a wealthy teacher. As Danny says, “If this former school teacher can do it, so can you!” If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online at TRSGA.com and register for a session today! Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 02:03 – Danny Kofke’s Education Experience 03:47 – Benefits of Teaching Special Education 04:58 – Pivoting Career Paths 07:42 – Insights for Active Educators 11:59 – Tools for Budgeting & Saving 12:45 – Staying Focused 16:46 – Financial Advisers vs. Money Coaches 18:18 – Adjusting to Financial Changes 20:17 – Importance of Vesting 22:04 – How the TRS Benefit Helps 25:08 – Contact Info & Words of Encouragement 26:46 – Outro We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at [email protected]. Host: Everett Crockett For more information visit: ⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia

The Georgia Retired Educators Association (GREA) has over 32,000 members and advocates for and amplifies the voice of retired educators in Georgia. Dr. Sloan, GREA Executive Director, and 2022-23 President Dr. Henrietta Gray, discuss what sparks their passion for education, the rewards of being a TRS member (including your pension!), and the benefits of being involved with the GREA (fellowship, community, insurance and travel benefits, special projects, and much more). Tune in to be inspired by Dr. Sloan’s and Dr. Gray’s career journeys, student success stories, and insights on why working in education is worth it. If you haven't had the chance to meet with us one-on-one in a virtual or in-person format, and are within 2 years of retirement eligibility, be sure to log in to your TRS account online and register for a session today! Timestamps 00:00 - Intro 04:48 - Passion for Education 07:08 - Dr. Sloan & Dr. Gray’s Educational Career Journeys 11:03 - Pursuit of Higher Education 13:16 - How Rewarding Teaching Can Be 16:55 - TRS Pension & Benefits 21:17 - GREA Membership & Benefits 25:04 - Dr. Sloan & Dr. Gray’s Involvement 27:36 - Area Director Requirements 30:08 - How to Get Involved 34:11 - GREA Museum 38:10 - Advice for Active Educators  41:18 - GREA Contact Information 42:38 - Outro We want to hear from our members! Please email the show for topic inquiries, questions and comments! Contact us at [email protected]. Host: Everett Crockett For more information visit: ⁠www.trsga.com⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia