How does debt impact military families differently—and what unique resources are available to help them achieve financial wellness?

This episode of Long Story Short explores the mission of the USAA Educational Foundation, unpacking the financial challenges and opportunities that service members and their families face.

Mandi Moynihan and Katie Casey Macias, both Certified Financial Planners® and program leaders, share tailored financial education and practical tools designed specifically for the military community.

You’ll get insider perspective on the challenges military families encounter, such as frequent moves, deployment, and complex federal protections.

Discover actionable steps and no-cost resources, including the user-friendly Debt Destroyer program, that empower military households to take control of their finances—without judgment or sales pressure.

Listeners will learn:

• The unique financial pressures faced by military members, including high cost-of-living postings and challenges with spouse employment
• The special laws designed to protect service members from predatory lending and support them through financial difficulties
• How to access the Debt Destroyer program and a wide range of free, self-serve financial education resources from the USAA Educational Foundation

Key moments:

(04:09) Military Financial Challenges Overview

06:16) Debt Challenges for Young Service Members

(11:01) Military-Focused Financial Education Tools

(12:58) Debt Destroyer: Free Debt Elimination Program