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Benefit Connection

Welcome to the PSRS/PEERS Member Education Podcast! Tune in to stay informed about your retirement system, gain valuable insights, and hear from experts on how to make the most of your benefits. Join us for engaging discussions and essential updates designed with your needs in mind.

Benefit Connection podcast cover image - "Your Annual Member Statement"

Episode #6 Understanding Your Member Statement

Published on: October 22, 2025
run-time: 23:56

Have you ever really looked at your annual Member Statement? It’s more than just numbers. It’s your personal snapshot of retirement progress. From salary and service to projected retirement benefits and survivor protection, we’ll walk you through what to look for and why it matters. Whether you’re new to PSRS/PEERS or nearing retirement, this episode is for you.

Episode #5 - Understanding the Benefit Formula and It’s Components

Published on: October 08, 2025
run-time: 14:21

Ever wonder how your PSRS/PEERS retirement benefit is calculated? It all comes down to a simple formula, but each part plays a big role in shaping your future income. In this episode, host Susan Boessen is joined by Member Educators Cami Case, Kate Eickhoff, and Tom Schultz to break down the three key components of the benefit formula: the benefit factor, final average salary, and years of service.

Whether you're early in your career or nearing retirement, understanding the benefit formula can help you make informed decisions and plan with confidence.

Episode #4 - Service Purchases (part 2)

Published on: September 24, 2025
run-time: 25:13

In this episode, Susan and her guest go into detail explaining the most commonly utilized service purchases such as social security-covered employment, employment at non-PSRS-covered schools, and more.

Episode #3 - Service Purchases (part 1)

Published on: September 10, 2025
run-time: 14:14

In this episode, we’re diving into the process of applying for a service purchase with PSRS/PEERS. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of purchasing service, you’re not alone—but PSRS/PEERS is here to simplify it. Listen along as Susan and Kris walk step-by-step through information on purchasing service. 

Benefit Connection Season 1, Episode 2 video poster image

Episode #2 - School Chatter - Unlocking Answers

Published on: August 27, 2025
run-time: 23:22

In this episode, Susan Boessen welcomes PSRS/PEERS Member Education Supervisor Amanda Wooten to the podcast and they discuss some of the most commonly asked questions we hear from our members.

Benefit Connection Season 1, episode 1 video poster image

Episode #1 - State of the Systems

Published on: August 19, 2025
run-time: 18:43

In our inaugural episode, host Susan Boessen sits down with PSRS/PEERS Executive Director Dearld Snider to discuss the state of the systems.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Public School and Education Employee Retirement Systems of Missouri. Any examples used are for demonstrative purposes and are not designed to be member specific. This podcast is intended to serve as a resource and is not a substitute for the law. If differences are stated between this podcast and the law, the law must prevail.

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