Your Retirement in Focus

Hosted by Teachers Retirement System of Georgia

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Jun 2026

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The Teachers Retirement System of Georgia is committed to provide our members with valuable information about their retirement benefits. We will focus on educating and engaging our members through their retirement journey. Available on most platforms including iHeartRadio and Castbox! We want to hear from our listeners, please contact us at podcast@trsga.com.

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June 3, 202630 min

Lock it Down: Protect Your TRS Benefit in a Digital World Feat. Tom McMurry, TRS Chief Information Officer

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 informationWhat MFA is and how to use a password managerWhy credit freezes and account alerts are critical for fraud preventionHow to recognize AI scams and deepfakesJoin 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Tom McMurry, TRS Chief Information OfficerFor 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.

February 27, 202640 min

Winning in Wealth: Yes, Teachers Do Become Millionaires Feat. Dr. Steve Frandsen (Archived Version)

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 Benefit2. Make the Profession Pay You3. Tell Your Money What to Do4. Put Your Money to Work5. Expanding Your OptionsTimestamps:00:00 – Intro02:57 – Dr. Steve Frandsen's Journey from Educator to Author04:07 – The Inspiration Behind “Millionaire & Me”05:03 – Challenging Systemic Messages: Teachers & Wealth08:16 – “Five Levers” for Teachers to Build Wealth14:46 – Uncovering “Hidden Financial Potential” in School Districts23:33 – Common Misconceptions: Pursuing Wealth While in Education 27:03 – Working After Retirement & How It Fits into Wealth Building29:27 – How Finances Affects Your Effectiveness as an Educator 31:40 – Common Financial Mistakes Teachers Make33:43 – Dr. Steve Frandsen's Financial Journey &Strategies37:36 – Last Words & Challenge to Educators39:15 – OutroIf 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Dr. Steve Frandsen, “The Millionaire & Me” AuthorFor 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.

December 23, 202552 min

TRS 2025 Year in Review: Leadership, Performance, and What’s Ahead feat. Dr. Jason L. Branch & Dr. L. C. (Buster) Evans (Archived Version)

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 TRSHear 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 – Intro02:51 – New Legislative Changes that Impact the System05:35 – TRS’s FY 2025 Market Performance09:08 – The Importance of Teacher Recruitment & Retention11:46 – TRS Staff: Charitable Contributions & Internal Initiatives18:02 – Leadership Transition: What It Means for Members & the System28:52 – Dr. L. C. (Buster) Evans: Legacy, Leadership, & Passing the Torch 40:43 – Dr. Jason L. Branch: Vision, Core Principles, & Looking Ahead47:03 – What Members Can Expect in 202648:27 – Dr. L. C. (Buster) Evans’s Farewell to TRS51:38 – OutroAre 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Dr. Jason L. Branch, Executive Director of TRSGA and Dr. L. C. (Buster) Evans, Retired Executive Director of TRSGAFor more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/trsgeorgia/#RetirementPlanning #PensionPodcasts #RetirementThis 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.

November 26, 202555 min

Investing Made Simple: A Conversation with Chris Hill of Money Unplugged & Creator of Motley Fool Podcast (Archived Version)

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 – Intro03:03 – Chris Hill’s Journey to The Motley Fool08:07 – Money Unplugged Podcast: The Mission, Memorable Moments, & Core Audience18:04 – Simplifying Investing: Chris Hill’s Approach20:56 – Investing Recommendations for TRS Members26:04 – Most Common Investing Mistakes Influenced by Fear28:27 – Chris Hill’s ETF Choices: Buy, Add To, & Hold Forever31:56 – Making Investment Decisions: The “Circle of Competence”35:18 – Chris Hill’s Three Stock Choices: Buy Now & Hold Forever40:19 – Why Consumers Should Read Morgan Housel’s “The Art of Spending Money” 44:45 – Finding the Balance: Being Financially Prudent vs. Splurging51:11 – Last Words & Finding Money Unplugged53:57 – OutroAre 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Chris Hill, Host of Money Unplugged, Former Host & Executive Producer of Motley Fool PodcastFor more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/trsgeorgia/#RetirementPlanning #PensionPodcasts #RetirementThis 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.

September 26, 202529 min

Live Your Best Life in Retirement Feat. Rick Gunn (Archived Version)

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 actTimestamps:00:00 – Intro02:46 – Rick Gunn’s Role as CFO for Forsyth County Schools04:18 – The Role of CFO: How It Helped Plan for Retirement05:23 – Advice for Active Members: “Squirreling Away” & Sacrifices07:27 – When Do You Know It’s Time to Retire?08:31 – Career Decisions: The Light at the End of the Tunnel09:49 – Founding Rose Creek Guitars: The Inspiration & Challenges15:01 – Key Lessons About Entrepreneurship20:33 – Advice for Embracing New Beginnings22:23 – 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 Advice28:00 – OutroAre 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Rick Gunn, TRS Retiree and Owner of Rose Creek GuitarsFor more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgiaInstagram: #RetirementPlanning #PensionPodcasts #RetirementThis 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.

August 14, 202526 min

You Don't Need More Money! - "The Talk" Feat. Dale Alexander - Part 2 (Archived Version)

“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 – Intro02:00 – What Being RICH Truly Means04:57 – The Key to Financial Problems: Is It More Money?08:13 – Pick a Hard: Being Broke or Financially Successful09:55 – The Reality Behind Financial Influencers on Social Media12:02 – Things We Surprisingly Don’t Know About Money16:04 – The Million Dollar Wagon: How TRSGA Members Become Millionaires21:21 – Dale’s Last Words of Wisdom & Contact Info24:01 – OutroAre 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Dale Alexander, Author of "The Talk About Money" + Motivational SpeakerConnect with us on social:https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia/https://twitter.com/TRSGeorgiahttps://www.instagram.com/trsgeorgia/https://www.linkedin.com/company/state-of-georgia-teachers-retirement-system-of-georgiahttps://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.

June 30, 202532 min

You Don't Need More Money! - "The Talk" Feat. Dale Alexander - Part 1 (Archived Version)

“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! Timestamps00:00 – Intro02:39 – The WHY Behind the Book: “The Talk (About Money)”06:46 – Why Parents Don’t Talk about Money07:52 – The 70% Rule: “Make 70% your 100%.”10:35 – How to Get Money Right16:14 – It’s Never Too Late: How to Get to 70% Now19:25 – Investing: Shifting Your Approach24:27 – Fighting the Urge to Overspend26:45 – The True Impact of Giving31:23 – OutroAre 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. 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/TRSGeorgiahttps://www.instagram.com/trsgeorgia/https://www.linkedin.com/company/state-of-georgia-teachers-retirement-system-of-georgiahttps://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.

March 17, 202538 min

TRS Talks: February 2025 Update on the Social Security Fairness Act and More! (Archived Version)

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 DirectorGuest: Cindy Lundquist, Social Security ExpertTRS 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

March 7, 202518 min

I'm Ready to Retire! Now What? Your Guide to the Retirement Application Process (Archived Version)

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 correctlyAdditional topics include:healthcare subsidies & where to find more infoa review of important things to considerTimestamps 00:00 - Intro01:07 – When to apply for retirement?01:55 – Sick leave minimum amount02:18 – Accruing sick leave with more than one employer02:46 – Sick leave awarded higher than the maximum monthly allowance03:49 – Withdrawn sick leave04:18 – Purchasing service toward retirement05:30 – Airtime service06:32 – Benefit estimates to calculate pension amount07:25 – How do I apply for retirement07:55 – Help with retirement application08:21 – Documents to send with retirement application08:57 – Delayed retirement benefits09:39 – Salary changes prior to retirement10:37 – Factors that can affect retirement benefit calculations11:46 – When is the first check processed?12:19 – Sick leave adjustments after retirement date12:59 – Beneficiary effect on monthly benefit13:53 – Avoiding early retirement reductions14:30 – Advice for employers sending member info to TRS15:16 – SHBP healthcare subsidy16:20 – Ensuring a timely processing of your applicationAre 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Monica Castine, TRS Counseling Team LeadCarlos Marshall, TRS New Retirement Operations ManagerFor more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia ⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia #retirementplanning #pensionpodcasts #retirement

December 11, 202446 min

Why TRSGA is the Best Pension Plan: A Year-End Recap of 2024 feat. Dr. L.C. "Buster" Evans, Ed.D. (Archived Version)

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.Timestamps00:00 – Intro01:36 – Legislative Impacts on the System03:40 – TRS Challenges, Trends, & Triumphs07:52 – Technology & Security Enhancements10:48 – TRS’ Stellar FY 2024 Market Performance 13:08 – Adapting to Change: New, Current, and Retired Educators22:42 – TRS Accessibility: On-Demand Content & Macon Office26:23 – Member Retirement Trends27:50 – Retiree Resources31:08 – The Importance of TRS Beneficiary Designations32:20 – Employer Shout-Out: Renee Lipp, Harris County Schools34:29 – TRS Staff: Development, Initiatives, & Giving40:58 – Priorities for the Year Ahead (2025)43:02 – Words of Wisdom and Gratitude from Dr. L.C. (Buster) Evans 44:50 – OutroAre 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 ⁠⁠⁠podcast@trsga.com⁠⁠⁠. Host: Everett Crockett Guest: Dr. L.C. (Buster) Evans, Ed.D, TRS Executive DirectorFor more information visit: ⁠⁠⁠www.trsga.com⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trsgeorgia⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@trsgeorgia #pensions #retirees #educators #teachers #pensionpodcasts