Make It Personal Podcast

In this episode of the Make It Personal Podcast, host Mark Zagurski tackles one of the most overlooked yet critical components of financial planning: assumptions. Every solid financial plan relies on a mix of facts, like your age and income, and assumptions, such as how long you’ll live, what inflation will look like, and most importantly, your expected rate of return. But what happens when those assumptions don’t align with reality?

Mark dives into the crucial distinction between average and actual rates of return, showing how misleading averages can distort your financial picture. Using simple, relatable examples, including a breakdown of the S&P 500’s performance over 30 years, Mark explains how sequence of returns and real-world market behavior can significantly impact your savings and retirement outcomes.

Whether you're accumulating wealth or planning retirement withdrawals, understanding the true nature of investment returns is vital. This episode underscores the importance of keeping your plan updated and partnering with a trusted advisor who can adjust your strategy as life and the market evolve.

Key takeaways:

Want to ensure your financial assumptions are on track? Visit www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com to download our free eBook or connect with one of our expert advisors for a no-obligation consultation. Make your financial plan personal, and powerful!

“The average return might sound impressive, but it’s the actual return that tells the real story.” - Mark Zagurski

Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

→ Download The Game of the Decade eBook

→ Download the Seven Principles eBook

→ Instagram

→ Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors

→ Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting

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Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 

This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions.  Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone.   Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.

In this episode of the Make It Personal Podcast, host Mark Zagurski takes a lighthearted but impactful look at a growing financial trap many of us fall into: subscription creep. With humor, a nod to classic Gen X TV, and real-world data, Mark explores how small, recurring charges, whether for streaming services, news sites, or monthly deliveries, quietly drain your wallet over time. According to recent studies, the average American spends over $200 a month on subscriptions, often underestimating by $100 or more.

Mark connects this to the broader theme of personal finance, reminding listeners that financial discipline starts with awareness. He shares simple, actionable strategies for auditing your subscriptions, canceling unused services, and reallocating that money toward your long-term goals. Highlighting insights from Dr. Benjamin Hardy’s Be Your Future Self Now and Atomic Habits by James Clear, Mark emphasizes that small daily decisions, like canceling an unused $10 subscription, can snowball into significant financial gains.

Key takeaways:

Ready to tighten up your finances? Download our free eBook or schedule a no-obligation consultation at www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com. Don’t just let small leaks sink your financial ship—make it personal!

“The subscription economy thrives on convenience—but convenience without awareness can cost you.” - Mark Zagurski

Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

→ Download The Game of the Decade eBook

→ Download the Seven Principles eBook

→ Instagram

→ Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors

→ Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting

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Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 

This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions.  Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone.   Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.

In this episode of the Make It Personal Podcast, host Mark Zagurski tackles one of the most confusing and critical aspects of retirement: planning for healthcare. With nearly 99% of retirees age 65 and older qualifying for Medicare, understanding your options is essential for safeguarding your financial and physical well-being in retirement. Mark breaks down the differences between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage, helping listeners evaluate the complexities of coverage, costs, and provider choice.

Drawing from Mutual of Omaha’s nearly 60 years of experience with Medicare, Mark outlines the key factors that determine which plan is right for you, from network flexibility to out-of-pocket costs. Listeners will also learn about the six simple questions Mutual of Omaha advisors ask to tailor a Medicare solution that fits each person’s unique lifestyle, health needs, and budget.

Key takeaways:

If you’re nearing retirement or already enrolled in Medicare and feeling uncertain about your healthcare coverage, this episode offers clarity and actionable steps. Visit www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com to schedule a no-obligation consultation or download helpful resources. Don’t leave your healthcare—and your financial future—to chance. Make it personal!

“The right Medicare plan for you depends on your doctors, your travel habits, and your comfort with risk.” - Mark Zagurski

Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

→ Download The Game of the Decade eBook

→ Download the Seven Principles eBook

→ Instagram

→ Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors

→ Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting

--

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 

This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions.  Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone.   Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.

In this episode of the Make It Personal Podcast, Mark Zagurski takes recent college graduates, and those advising them, through the essential first steps to financial success after graduation. From ancient graduation traditions like diplomas and gowns to the more modern tradition of student loan debt, this episode highlights both the history and the current challenges facing today’s grads.

With student debt averaging over $29,000 and many young adults feeling anxious about their financial future, Mark emphasizes that while it may feel overwhelming, it’s never too soon to start planning. He outlines four foundational steps every new graduate should take: budgeting, saving, investing, and debt management. Along the way, Mark shares personal stories, practical advice, and timeless principles to help listeners build a solid financial footing as they step into adult life.

You’ll learn:

Whether you're a new graduate or someone looking to reset your financial path, this episode provides clear, actionable steps to get you moving in the right direction. Ready to get started? Visit www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com to download the free eBook “Seven Principles for Your Financial Success” or to schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of Mutual of Omaha’s expert advisors. Make smart moves today for a stronger tomorrow!

“The day you walk off your college campus may not be the day you need a formal financial plan, but it’s never too early to have a plan for your future.” - Mark Zagurski

Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

→ Download The Game of the Decade eBook

→ Download the Seven Principles eBook

→ Instagram

→ Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors

→ Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting

--

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 

This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions.  Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone.   Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.

In this episode of the Make It Personal Podcast, Mark wraps up the two-part series on the 10 most important financial decisions that shape your long-term success. Building on last week’s exploration of education, career, budgeting, and saving, this episode tackles the next five pivotal choices that deepen and secure your financial foundation.

Mark revisits the crucial difference between saving and investing, explaining why both are essential but serve distinct purposes. He emphasizes that true wealth-building requires a thoughtful investment strategy aligned with your personal risk tolerance and long-term goals. The episode then moves into decisions around marriage and family, unpacking how life partnerships and raising children add layers of financial responsibility and the need for coordinated household planning.

Next, Mark dives into risk management, detailing why life insurance, disability coverage, and long-term care protection are indispensable parts of a complete financial plan. He guides listeners through the many facets of retirement planning, covering everything from Social Security timing to creating reliable income streams. Finally, he addresses risk management in retirement, explaining how to guard against inflation, longevity risk, market downturns, and escalating health care costs.

You’ll learn:

Want a plan that’s personal to you? Download the free eBook “Seven Principles for Your Financial Success” at www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com and schedule a no-obligation consultation with a Mutual of Omaha advisor today. Secure your future by making smart, intentional choices now!

“In the simplest terms, one of the most essential financial issues in retirement is: will our money outlive us, or will we outlive our money?” - Mark Zagurski

Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

→ Download The Game of the Decade eBook

→ Download the Seven Principles eBook

→ Instagram

→ Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors

→ Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting

--

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 

This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions.  Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone.   Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.

In this episode of the Make It Personal Podcast, the team dives into one of life’s most overwhelming and yet critical arenas: financial decision-making. Host Mark walks listeners through the sheer volume of choices we make daily, estimated at 35,000 per day, and zooms in on the 10 most important financial decisions that shape long-term success. This episode kicks off with the first five, helping listeners break down complex topics into actionable steps.

Mark starts by laying a philosophical foundation, highlighting a key truth from Stoic philosopher Seneca: while we can’t choose our parents, everything after that is a matter of choice. With that grounding, the episode digs into the pivotal decisions that define financial wellness:

Education: From choosing whether to attend college to selecting a major and considering post-grad work, your formal education is the gateway to both opportunity and debt.

Where You Live: Location influences not only your cost of living but also job opportunities and overall quality of life.

Career Path: One-third of your life is spent working. Mark discusses how aligning your career with your values and goals pays dividends beyond just a paycheck.

Budgeting: Managing cash flow through tracking, planning, and adjusting is foundational to financial health.

Saving vs. Investing: Learn why building a solid savings cushion must come first—before chasing higher investment returns.

You’ll learn:

Ready to take the next step? Download the free eBook “Seven Principles for Your Financial Success” at www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com and schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of Mutual of Omaha’s expert advisors. Don’t just let life happen, make it personal!

“One-third of your life is spent at work, so your career choice has a massive impact on both finances and happiness.” - Mark Zagurski

Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

→ Download The Game of the Decade eBook

→ Download the Seven Principles eBook

→ Instagram

→ Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors

→ Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting

--

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 

This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions.  Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone.   Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.

In this episode of the Make It Personal Podcast, host Mark Zagurski pulls back the curtain on DIY financial planning. With over 30 years of experience in insurance, investments, and strategic communication, Mark takes you on a journey into what today’s internet really says about “doing it yourself" when it comes to finances—and why that might not be your best move.

From Google searches to Reddit threads, from 9 steps to 12, from Mike Tyson quotes to real stories from the field, this episode unpacks:

Mark also shares a moving personal story about loss, resilience, and the value of human guidance during life’s hardest financial (and emotional) curve balls.

“It’s never too late to create a plan for the financial security and freedom you deserve.”

Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

→ Download The Game of the Decade eBook

→ Download the Seven Principles eBook

→ Instagram

→ Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors

→ Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting

--

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 

This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions.  Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone.   Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.

In this episode, Mark Zagurski tackles a crucial financial question sparked by a conversation with his video producer—Is the Roth IRA the gold standard? With nearly 30 years of experience in training and developing financial advisors at Mutual of Omaha Advisors, Mark breaks down the differences between Roth and Traditional IRAs, explaining the advantages and trade-offs of each.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of:

• How the Roth IRA was created and why it differs from a Traditional IRA.

• The key benefits of a Roth IRA, including tax-free withdrawals in retirement.

• Roth 401(k) contributions, now available in over 90% of employer-sponsored retirement plans.

• Roth IRA conversions—when and why they might be a smart financial move.

• The tax question: Should you pay taxes now (Roth) or later (Traditional)?

• The impact of future tax rates and how to plan for financial flexibility.

• The connection between Roth IRAs and financial freedom—how they fit into a larger wealth-building strategy.

Mark also introduces an important perspective—considering tax-advantaged financial tools like cash value life insurance as a complementary option for wealth building and legacy planning.

The real question isn’t whether the Roth IRA is the gold standard, but whether it aligns with your financial goals. If you’re unsure about your retirement strategy, now is the time to create a plan tailored to your needs.

“A financial plan isn’t about guessing tax rates in the future; it’s about creating flexibility and control over your financial future.” - Mark Zagurski

Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

Download the Seven Principles eBook

Instagram

Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors

Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting

--

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 

This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions.  Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone.   Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.

Time moves fast, and for parents, the reality is stark—by the time a child turns 18, 80-90% of your time together has already passed. This episode dives deep into the importance of family vacations, financial planning, and balancing present experiences with future security.

Drawing from studies on childhood memories, vacation spending statistics, and financial planning insights, host Mark Zagurski explores:

• Why family vacations create lasting memories and why experiences often outweigh material possessions.

• The financial reality of vacations: the average cost for a family of four, debt trends, and budgeting strategies.

• The 5-10% income rule for vacation spending and why financial planning matters.

• How to plan vacations without going into debt, and why saving ahead makes all the difference.

• The long-term impact of prioritizing experiences while still securing financial stability.

While travel costs can add up, studies show that most parents have no regrets about investing in experiences with their children. However, without a financial strategy, many risk derailing their long-term financial goals.

Is there a way to have both? Yes—and that’s where personalized financial planning comes in.

Take control of your financial future while still making space for meaningful experiences. Schedule a no-obligation consultation at www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com today and start planning for a life that balances living for today and preparing for tomorrow.

“Memories last longer than things—investing in experiences with your family is just as important as financial planning.” - Mark Zagurski

Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

Download the Seven Principles eBook

Instagram

Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors

Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting

--

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 

This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions.  Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone.   Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.

What does it really take to become a millionaire? In this episode, host Mark Zagurski explores the realities behind wealth accumulation, challenging the myth that millionaires are simply born into money. Drawing from Ramsey Solutions’ National Study of Millionaires and the insights of The Millionaire Next Door, Mark uncovers how financial success is built through intentional habits, smart investments, and disciplined financial planning.

Listeners will learn how Omaha has become known for its high concentration of millionaires, how most self-made millionaires build wealth through 401(k) investments and strategic career choices, and why inheritance plays a far smaller role in millionaire status than many assume. Mark also breaks down the five key principles of accumulating wealth, from setting financial goals to living within your means and investing wisely.

Key Takeaways:

• 79% of millionaires didn’t inherit their wealth—they built it through hard work and financial discipline.

• A million dollars isn’t just for the elite—it may actually be necessary for a secure retirement.

• The “4% rule” can help estimate retirement income, but personalized financial planning is key.

• Saving is different from investing—both are essential, but the order matters.

• Staying the course through market fluctuations is what separates those who reach financial independence from those who don’t.

If you’re serious about building financial security, it’s time to take action. Visit www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com to schedule a no-obligation consultation and start your journey toward financial freedom today.

“The key to building wealth isn’t luck or inheritance—it’s setting a goal, staying disciplined, and making smart financial choices.” - Mark Zagurski

Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

Download the Seven Principles eBook

Instagram

Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors

Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting

--

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 

This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions.  Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone.   Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.