Money Matters with Mike

A million dollars might sound like the goal… but in retirement, it's not about the number—it’s about the income. On this episode of Money Matters with Mike, host Mike Zaino and co-host Matt McClure dive into why an income strategy matters more than a big pile of cash, and how you can create guaranteed lifetime income that lasts as long as you do. Learn about: notpersonal pension Whether you’re just entering retirement or already there, Mike shares practical strategies to help you avoid common mistakes and build a rock-solid retirement income plan. ️ Schedule your free consultation today at MoneyMattersWithMike.com Or call Mike directly at (704) 560-1573 -- Ready to test the strength of your plan? Schedule a FREE consultation with Mike Zaino today: MoneyMattersWithMike.com Call or text: (704) 560-1573 Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

Retirement isn’t just about stopping work—it’s about starting life on your terms. But without the right plan, retirement can become a different kind of stress. In this episode of Money Matters with Mike, host Mike Zaino and producer Matt McClure walk you through a step-by-step summer checklist to upgrade your retirement plan. Whether you’re five years from retirement or already enjoying your golden years, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you optimize, protect, and enjoy your retirement savings. What You’ll Learn: Mike also shares how a free, no-obligation consultation could be the key to turning your nest egg into a confident, sustainable future. You deserve a retirement that feels like freedom—not fear. Schedule your consultation: Visit MoneyMattersWithMike.com Or call 704-560-1573 -- Ready to test the strength of your plan? Schedule a FREE consultation with Mike Zaino today: MoneyMattersWithMike.com Call or text: (704) 560-1573 Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

On this week’s episode of Money Matters with Mike, Mike Zaino and co-host Matt McClure go back to basics and unpack the essential strategies to help you retire confidently—no matter how much you’ve saved so far. Learn how to: ✅ Maximize your Social Security benefits ✅ Eliminate your mortgage and boost monthly cash flow ✅ Build a personal pension for lifetime income ✅ Make smart, tax-efficient investment decisions ✅ Avoid emotional investing mistakes ✅ Use Roth conversions for long-term tax savings ✅ Create a spending plan that works ✅ Adopt the financial habits of the wealthy Whether you're nearing retirement or already there, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you live a comfortable and stress-free retirement. Ready for a personalized plan? Schedule your free consultation now: MoneyMattersWithMike.com Call Mike directly at: 704-560-1573 -- Ready to test the strength of your plan? Schedule a FREE consultation with Mike Zaino today: MoneyMattersWithMike.com Call or text: (704) 560-1573 Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

This week on Money Matters with Mike, we’re unpacking the truth about annuities — and why they’ve stood the test of time from Jane Austen to Julius Caesar to today’s retirees. Mike Zaino and co-host Matt McClure dive into how annuities work, what makes a good one (and a bad one), and why guaranteed income is so vital in retirement. Plus, we tackle the hidden fees lurking in many portfolios and how to protect your nest egg from market volatility. -- Ready to test the strength of your plan? Schedule a FREE consultation with Mike Zaino today: MoneyMattersWithMike.com Call or text: (704) 560-1573 Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

Your investment strategy should match your age — and your goals. In this episode, Mike and Matt talk about how to transition from saving to spending in retirement, why decumulation is often misunderstood, and how to catch up even if you started late. Plus: the age-appropriate guide to investing in your 40s, 50s, and 60s. Whether you're nearing retirement or already living it, this episode delivers practical insights to help you retire with confidence — and with a strategy built for your unique goals. Ready to test the strength of your plan? Schedule a FREE consultation with Mike Zaino today: MoneyMattersWithMike.com Call or text: (704) 560-1573 -- Whether you’re five years from retirement or already living it, this episode gives you practical, real-world advice to protect your nest egg and retire with confidence. Tap play now and start taking control of your financial future. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

Guest: Dr. Chantal Cousineau-Krieger, Ophthalmologist, National Eye Institute ️ May is Healthy Vision Month, and Matt McClure sits down with Dr. Chantal Cousineau-Krieger, an ophthalmologist with the National Eye Institute, to explore how your eye health connects to your overall wellness—especially as you age. We discuss: How conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure impact your vision The 20-20-20 rule to reduce screen strain What foods support healthy eyes The surprising connection between exercise and eye health When and how often you should get a complete eye exam Why early detection is critical—even if you feel fine What those of us over 40 () need to keep in mind after LASIK or other vision corrections Whether you’ve been putting off that eye exam or are looking for ways to maintain clear vision into retirement, this episode is a must-listen. Learn more: https://nei.nih.gov -- Whether you’re five years from retirement or already living it, this episode gives you practical, real-world advice to protect your nest egg and retire with confidence. Tap play now and start taking control of your financial...

In this episode of Money Matters with Mike, host Mike Zaino and co-host Matt McClure dive into why retirement isn’t about hitting a magic number — it’s about reliable income. Learn how to transform your portfolio into a personal pension, how to align your investments with your goals, and how to reduce risk as retirement approaches. Plus: ✅ The #1 mistake retirees make with their savings ✅ The truth about pensions (and how to build your own) ✅ Passive income strategies that work ✅ Why working with a licensed financial pro matters Visit MoneyMattersWithMike.com or call 704-560-1573 for your free consultation. -- Whether you’re five years from retirement or already living it, this episode gives you practical, real-world advice to protect your nest egg and retire with confidence. Tap play now and start taking control of your financial future. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

On this episode of Money Matters with Mike, host Mike Zaino and co-host Matt McClure reveal the truth about retirement—it’s not about your age, it’s about your income. Learn how to assess your financial landscape, prevent the dreaded “retirement tax bomb,” and build a sustainable income plan that replaces your paycheck for life. From Social Security strategies and life insurance solutions to spending plans that actually work, this is the retirement reality check you need. Get peace of mind for your future at MoneyMattersWithMike.com -- Whether you’re five years from retirement or already living it, this episode gives you practical, real-world advice to protect your nest egg and retire with confidence. Tap play now and start taking control of your financial future. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

In this bonus episode, we dive into the importance of tackling credit card debt before it spirals out of control. You'll hear insights from Robin Growley of Bank of America, who shares practical tips and a message of hope for anyone feeling overwhelmed by debt. Whether you're just starting to manage your finances or already feeling buried, this interview reminds us it’s never too late to take control -- Whether you’re five years from retirement or already living it, this episode gives you practical, real-world advice to protect your nest egg and retire with confidence. Tap play now and start taking control of your financial future. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

Concerned about market volatility and your retirement future? In this episode of Money Matters with Mike, financial pro Mike Zaino and co-host Matt McClure explore how to protect your retirement savings while still enjoying potential growth. Discover how to take control of your 401(k), make smart portfolio adjustments, and avoid devastating mistakes in the retirement red zone. Plus, what you need to know about the "Lost Decade" and how to prevent history from repeating itself. No matter your current financial situation, you’ll learn how to take actionable steps today that your future self will thank you for. Get peace of mind for your future at MoneyMattersWithMike.com -- Whether you’re five years from retirement or already living it, this episode gives you practical, real-world advice to protect your nest egg and retire with confidence. Tap play now and start taking control of your financial future. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

On this episode of Money Matters with Mike, host Mike Zaino and co-host Matt McClure reveal a step-by-step checklist for a secure retirement. From income planning and Social Security strategies to healthcare coverage and tax-saving tips, they cover everything you need to know to retire with confidence — even during chaotic times. Get peace of mind for your future at MoneyMattersWithMike.com -- Whether you’re five years from retirement or already living it, this episode gives you practical, real-world advice to protect your nest egg and retire with confidence. Tap play now and start taking control of your financial future. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

Tariffs. Inflation. Market volatility. Retirees and pre-retirees are feeling the pressure—but there’s a smarter way to respond. On this episode of Money Matters with Mike, host Mike Zaino and co-host Matt McClure break down what’s happening in the markets and how retirees should react. Learn why diversification matters now more than ever, how to shift from accumulation to income, and what strategies can help preserve your savings—even in uncertain times. Get peace of mind for your future at MoneyMattersWithMike.com -- Whether you’re five years from retirement or already living it, this episode gives you practical, real-world advice to protect your nest egg and retire with confidence. Tap play now and start taking control of your financial future. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

Retirement can feel like a minefield—especially when taxes, market swings, and health costs come into play. Mike Zaino shares proactive strategies to help you avoid the four biggest threats to your retirement plan. Topics covered: Get peace of mind for your future at MoneyMattersWithMike.com -- Whether you’re five years from retirement or already living it, this episode gives you practical, real-world advice to protect your nest egg and retire with confidence. Tap play now and start taking control of your financial future. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

Procrastinated on your taxes? You’re not alone—but time’s almost up. Matt McClure shares urgent insights from Jackson Hewitt’s Mark Steber on what you must do before April 15 to avoid major penalties. From filing extensions to natural disaster relief, don’t miss this last-minute tax survival guide. -- Whether you’re five years from retirement or already living it, this episode gives you practical, real-world advice to protect your nest egg and retire with confidence. Tap play now and start taking control of your financial future. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

It’s America Saves Week—a perfect time to recommit to those financial resolutions you made in January. In this special podcast extra, Matt McClure speaks with Robin Growley, Head of Consumer Deposits at Bank of America, about smart, simple ways to build your savings. From automating deposits to using the 50/30/20 rule, learn how to set yourself up for financial success—without feeling overwhelmed. Why saving doesn’t have to be hard The psychology of naming your savings goals How to balance debt repayment with growing your savings Easy tools to help you “set it and forget it” For more tools and tips, visit americasaves.org. -- Whether you’re five years from retirement or already living it, this episode gives you practical, real-world advice to protect your nest egg and retire with confidence. Tap play now and start taking control of your financial future. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

Worried about market crashes, inflation, or running out of money in retirement? You’re not alone—and this episode is packed with the smart strategies you need to take back control. Mike Zaino and co-host Matt McClure break down how to rebuild after a downturn, step by step. You’ll learn: Whether you’re five years from retirement or already living it, this episode gives you practical, real-world advice to protect your nest egg and retire with confidence. Tap play now and start taking control of your financial future. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

Is your financial house in order? In this episode of Money Matters with Mike, host Mike Zaino shares practical steps to get organized, reduce financial stress, and prepare for a more confident retirement. You’ll learn: Start now to create a future you can enjoy—without second-guessing your finances. Learn more or schedule a free consultation at MoneyMattersWithMike.com Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

In this powerful episode of Money Matters with Mike, we tackle a topic that too many families avoid—the money talk. Whether you're planning for retirement, already living it, or supporting aging parents, open and honest financial conversations are key to protecting your future and your dignity. Mike and Matt cover: right Don't wait for a crisis to start the conversation. Tune in and learn how to have the talk that can change everything. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

Is your current home the best fit for your retirement? In this episode of Money Matters with Mike, we explore the pros and cons of downsizing, relocating, or staying put as you age. From emotional ties and social connections to home maintenance costs and financial implications, Mike Zaino helps you weigh your options and make the best decision for your future. Plus, insights on the best retirement-friendly states and the true cost of homeownership in retirement. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.

Retirement isn’t just about saving—it’s about protecting what you’ve built. This episode explores the key risks retirees face, from losing their steady paycheck to hidden investment fees that can quietly drain their accounts. Mike Zaino explains how to build a resilient retirement plan, maximize Social Security, and create income streams that last a lifetime. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/episodes/ Connect with Mike: https://moneymatterswithmike.com/contact/ | (704) 560-1573 Subscribe to our YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyMattersWithMike About the show: On the show, you will learn key strategies to help protect and grow your wealth and provide for lifetime guaranteed income. Mike is committed to helping retirees hold onto more of their hard-earned wealth and is a big advocate of helping his clients reduce the total taxes they’ll be required to pay during their retirement.