Your Retirement in Focus

Could a single weak password put your TRS benefit and other accounts at risk? Bad actors and cybercriminals target individuals every day.

In this episode of Your Retirement in Focus, host Everett Crockett speaks with Tom McMurry, TRS Chief Information Officer, to break down the real-world risks of scams and how they can impact your identity, credit, and your Teachers Retirement System benefit. Learn about the Zero Trust model and what you can do to protect your money. From creating strong, unique passwords to enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) and using password managers, this episode delivers the steps to enhance your digital safety.

Tom will discuss:

• Data breaches and the increasing threat of online scams
• How fraudsters use texts, emails, and spoofed calls to steal information
• What MFA is and how to use a password manager
• Why credit freezes and account alerts are critical for fraud prevention
• How to recognize AI scams and deepfakes

Join the conversation to protect your TRS benefit, avoid scams, and strengthen your financial digital security.

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: Tom McMurry, TRS Chief Information Officer

For more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia ⁠⁠⁠⁠

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia

Instagram: www.instagram.com/trsgeorgia

#YourRetirementInFocus #FraudProtection #RetirementPodcast

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.

From one educator to another, you’ll hear how the education system can maximize your compensation and make it work for you. Dr. Steve Frandsen, author of “The Millionaire & Me: A Teacher’s Guide to Becoming a Millionaire,” current educator and principal, discusses the secrets of wealth and the teaching profession. He’ll explore the positive aspects of this career path and how to take advantage of the unique possibilities that exist within it. This isn’t just another finance expert talking about money — it’s someone who truly understands the day-to-day realities of educators and has discovered practical ways to build real wealth while living that life.

You work hard. Your money should be working hard for you.

Dr. Frandsen discusses 5 levers:

1. Maximizing Your Retirement Benefit

2. Make the Profession Pay You

3. Tell Your Money What to Do

4. Put Your Money to Work

5. Expanding Your Options

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro

02:57 – Dr. Steve Frandsen's Journey from Educator to Author

04:07 – The Inspiration Behind “Millionaire & Me”

05:03 – Challenging Systemic Messages: Teachers & Wealth

08:16 – “Five Levers” for Teachers to Build Wealth

14:46 – Uncovering “Hidden Financial Potential” in School Districts

23:33 – Common Misconceptions: Pursuing Wealth While in Education

27:03 – Working After Retirement & How It Fits into Wealth Building

29:27 – How Finances Affects Your Effectiveness as an Educator

31:40 – Common Financial Mistakes Teachers Make

33:43 – Dr. Steve Frandsen's Financial Journey &Strategies

37:36 – Last Words & Challenge to Educators

39:15 – Outro

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. Steve Frandsen, “The Millionaire & Me” Author

For more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia ⁠⁠⁠⁠

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia

Instagram: www.instagram.com/trsgeorgia

#YourRetirementInFocus #WealthPodcast #Retirement

This podcast is for information purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, 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.

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 TRS
• How the system performed amid market ups and downs
• The importance of teacher recruitment and retention for our pension plan
• TRS's commitment to charitable contributions and member resources
• Leadership 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 retirement
• Savings plans such as a 457 or 403(b) plan, good debt and bad debt, and the benefits of saving early
• Entrepreneurship 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 application
• the benefit of unused sick leave & other sick leave topics
• information on purchasing service - including Air Time
• how to get a benefit estimate
• where and how to apply for retirement

Carlos provides insights on:

• common issues that can delay the process
• why changes in retirement calculations occur
• when you can expect your first check
• how sick leave & beneficiaries impact your retirement benefit
• other practical tips to getting your application submitted correctly

Additional topics include:

• healthcare subsidies & where to find more info
• a 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