Financial Survival Network

In this episode, Kerry Lutz sits down with retirement expert Joe Schmitz, who introduces his niche client segment he calls the "2% Club", and reveals the hidden rules his top clients follow — retirees who have both a pension and $1 million or more in savings. The name reflects the intersection of fewer than 20% of retirees holding pensions and fewer than 10% reaching millionaire status. Typical members include retired military, federal and state employees, police officers, and firefighters. Schmitz explores the unique planning challenges this cohort faces, from pressures on public pension systems due to increased life expectancy to concerns about pension solvency. He highlights practical strategies such as electing lump-sum pension payouts when available and tax-aware planning. He also provides insights into the mindset of his clients, describing them as diligent, frugal savers often hesitant to increase spending, and points listeners to additional resources including PeakRetirementPlanning.com, his book Midw