Retire Today by Jeremy Keil

March 05, 2025 How to Teach Your Grandchildren About Money with Jamie Bosse

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

22 min

February 26, 2025 How Middle-Income Retirees Are Winning at Retirement with Jean Chatzky

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.

29 min

February 19, 2025 Retirement Planning for Police and Fire with Kimberly Stratman

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 begin much earlier in a first responder's career. "Why live a certain way and accumulate all this damage… and then say, oh, wait a minute, you're going to retire in a couple of years? Let's fix it all?" She advocates for building a good life now that will naturally flow into a fulfilling retirement.

Flexibility is also key. "You've got to be flexible and you really need to know who you are. So when opportunities present themselves, you can take them. So don't be rigid." This is especially important for first responders, who are often trained to be highly structured and rule-oriented.

Key Steps for a Successful First Responder Retirement

Kimberly offered some invaluable advice for those planning their retirement:

Financial Planning: Work with a financial advisor to ensure you're prepared for the financial realities of retirement.

Health Assessment: Be honest about your health and address any issues proactively.

Relationship Building: Nurture your relationships with your spouse and children.

These three areas form the foundation for a fulfilling retirement. As Kimberly eloquently stated, "You triage the situation, triage yourself about your money, your health and your relationships and start working on it."

After a career of service and intense devotion to the community, retirement should be a celebration of a job well done. Don’t resign yourself to a retirement that lacks the motivation or purpose you felt during your career–embrace this new chapter and learn to bring meaning into your retirement.

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Additional Links:

Contact Kimberly

https://www.hopeplacetx.com/kimberly-stratman

To The Point Coaching for First Responder Retirement: https://tothepointcoach.org/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-stratman-9326a9242/

Email: [email protected]

Connect With Jeremy Keil:

Keil Financial Partners

LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil

Facebook: Jeremy Keil

LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners

YouTube: Retirement Revealed

Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team

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Disclosures

Videos/Podcasts/Blogs (media) published prior to June 30, 2025, were recorded and approved while the advisor was affiliated with Thrivent Advisor Network. These media reflect the advisor’s views and interpretations at that time. The information and disclosures contained in those media were believed to be accurate and complete as of the date of recording, but may not reflect current market conditions or Alongside, LLC, policies.

All content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute personalized investment advice. Read below for current disclosures and potential conflicts of interest.

This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past Performance is no guarantee of future results.

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Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations.

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Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC.

Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A.

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31 min

February 12, 2025 The Wisdom of Regret with Lori Emerick

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

32 min

February 05, 2025 Retirement Life After Public Service – Dream or Nightmare!?! With Susan Hawk Schneider

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.

30 min

January 29, 2025 The Hidden Risks and Rewards of Retirement with Karen Carr

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

25 min

January 22, 2025 Investing in 2025: Sensible Market Strategies with Joseph Hogue

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

31 min

January 15, 2025 Curing Retirement Loneliness: How to Stay Connected and Thrive

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

36 min

January 08, 2025 Finding Freedom: A Childfree Approach to Wealth and Retirement with Dr. Jay Zigmont

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