Kathy Cuevas didn't set out to be a teacher. And she definitely didn't set out to retire as a millionaire. But after 20 years in the classroom, including 13 teaching personal finance at a school where 90% of students received free lunch, that's exactly what she did. Kathy shares the story of how she got there, mistakes, setbacks, and all.

Kathy's approach to both teaching and money was shaped by living it herself. She brought her own financial stumbles (a divorce, a market crash, nearly losing her home) straight into her lessons. As she puts it, "no one should care more about your money than you."

That philosophy drove her to keep learning, start investing in rental properties, maximize her 403(b) catch-up contributions, and eventually use Roth conversions to set herself up for a tax-efficient retirement.

Her advice for teachers who feel behind? Don't wait. "Start early. Even if it's $10, get in the habit."

This conversation is packed with practical takeaways and wisdom.

See the full transcript and listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join Us LIVE This Week with Kit Kauffman, NGPF Board Member and Adviser

A former attorney with a unique professional journey from corporate law to financial education advocacy, Kit will share insights on what motivates his passion for working with the NGPF Team on Mission2030 and why this is one of the top issues of concern to him in retirement.

Register now to hear the conversation with Kit tonight (March 5) at 4pm PT/7pm ET.