Today, Wade sits down with returning guest and former military member Kent Kraiter to discuss the realities of retirement planning for those who serve. Drawing from his own military career and master's research on retirement strategies in the U.S., Kent shares insights on how service members can better prepare for their financial future—long before retirement hits. Together, they unpack the complexities of military and federal benefits, survivor plans, and how to take control through education and alternative strategies like properly structured whole life insurance. Whether you're two years or ten years away from retirement, this episode will help you think differently about how to protect your family, maximize your benefits, and take ownership of your financial future.

Episode Highlights

00:54 - Military retirement strategies: Serving those who serve.

02:00 - Common misconceptions about retirement planning.

03:03 - Transition assistance programs in the military.

05:00 - Key factors in military retirement decisions.

06:50 - Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) overview and cost.

09:50 - Survivor Benefit Plan: Impact on surviving spouse.

11:30 - Comparing SBP with private insurance options.

14:30 - Importance of planning and control over benefits.

15:59 - Break-even point for whole life policy vs. SBP.

Episode Resources:

• sagewealthstrategy.com

• https://www.sagewealthstrategy.com/planning-beyond-retirement-with-kent-kraiter/

• Connect with Kent Kraiter

• [email protected]