33. Serving Those Who Served: The Psychology of Financial Planning for Military Clients with Daniel Kopp, CFP®

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Military families represent one of the most unique and underserved populations in financial planning, bringing layers of psychological complexity that most advisors have never encountered. In this episode, Daniel Kopp, CFP® and military veteran, reveals why serving those who served requires a completely different approach to client relationships and financial planning conversations.

Daniel shares the hidden psychological dynamics that shape how service members and veterans approach money, from the rugged self-reliance that can make them resistant to advice, to the identity loss that occurs during military-to-civilian transitions. You'll discover why traditional financial planning approaches often miss the mark with military clients and learn specific communication strategies that build trust with this population.

We dive deep into the unique financial stressors military families face - from frequent relocations and deployment separations to the complex web of military benefits and pay structures. Daniel explains how trauma, whether from combat or challenging family backgrounds, shows up in financial decision-making and what advisors need to know to navigate these sensitive conversations effectively.

Perhaps most importantly, you'll learn to recognize and address the common assumption pitfalls that can derail relationships with military couples, particularly around financial roles and decision-making dynamics that are often reversed from civilian norms.

Resources and Guest Information:

• Military to Financial Planner Podcast - hosted by Daniel Kopp
• Military Financial Advisors Association (MFAA) - collaborative community for advisors serving military families
• Military Qualified Financial Planner (MQFP) designation - learn more at mqfp.org
• Connect with Daniel Kopp on LinkedIn

Connect with Host Ashley Quamme:

• Podcast Website: Planning & Beyond
• LinkedIn: Ashley Quamme - Licensed Therapist & Financial Behavior Specialist
• Beyond the Plan®: Financial psychology integration for advisory practices