Financial wellness: A critical—and often overlooked—pillar of overall first responder wellness

This 1-hour session will explore how financial wellness is a critical—and often overlooked—pillar of overall first responder wellness, alongside physical, mental, and family health. Topics include understanding pension distribution options, developing long‑term strategies through deferred compensation, navigating tax considerations in retirement income, identifying and minimizing retirement and estate risks, and aligning legacy and estate planning with what matters most to families. Their practical, educational, and experience‑driven approach is designed to help first responders gain clarity, confidence, and flexibility—so they can focus on serving others while protecting their future and the people they care about most.

Paul and Michael are Thrivent financial professionals with more than 25 years of combined law enforcement experience, giving them a deep, firsthand understanding of the unique pressures, risks, and realities faced by first responders and their families. Having served in law enforcement themselves, they are passionate about educating first responders on retirement readiness, family financial planning, and the value of building a clear financial operations plan that supports long‑term well‑being.