When the money doesn’t stretch far enough, veterans and military families often find themselves in survival mode. In this episode of the Think Like A Saver podcast, hosts Amy Miller and Krystel Spell sit down with Valerie Richards, Education Manager at the Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education (AFCPE) and Coast Guard spouse, to talk about navigating these tough seasons.
Together, they explore:
- What “survival spending” really looks like for military families.
 
- How to prioritize essentials when there’s not enough for everything.
 
- Small, doable steps that create breathing room and hope.
 
- Managing the stress and emotional toll of financial strain.
 
Whether you’re in survival mode now, or want to be better prepared for the future, this episode is full of practical advice, encouragement, and resources designed to help you take your next step with confidence.