Make It Personal Podcast

In this episode, host Mark Zagurski takes a deep dive into one of the most misunderstood aspects of personal finance—taxes in retirement. Many people assume that once they stop working, their tax burden will automatically decrease, but the reality is far more complex. With a tax code that grows more complicated every year, understanding how federal income tax applies to your retirement savings is crucial.

Drawing from over 30 years in the financial industry, Mark unpacks the truth about how 401(k) withdrawals are actually taxed, the difference between marginal and effective tax rates, and why boilerplate financial advice from online “gurus” can be misleading. Mark also explores the history of U.S. taxation, from Benjamin Franklin’s famous “death and taxes” quote to today’s progressive tax system.

Key Takeaways:

• A $1 million 401(k) isn’t worth $1 million—learn how taxes impact retirement savings.

• Your marginal tax rate is not your effective tax rate—understanding the difference can save you thousands.

• Social media and financial “gurus” often oversimplify tax planning—you need a plan tailored to your situation.

• Tax laws change constantly—what worked 10 years ago may not work today.

• Engaging a financial advisor can help optimize your retirement tax strategy and protect your wealth.

If you’re serious about minimizing your tax burden in retirement, now is the time to create a strategic plan. Visit www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com to schedule a no-obligation consultation and ensure your financial future is secure.

“Most people think their 401(k) is worth a million dollars, but after taxes, that number might be very different.” - Mark Zagurski

Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

Download the Seven Principles eBook

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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 the final episode of this enlightening podcast series, the focus shifts to Principle #7: Find Good Financial Advice Tailored to Fit Your Needs. Over the past seven episodes, host Mark Zagurski has explored the Seven Principles for Your Success, including building a strong career foundation, balancing savings and investing, and protecting your family’s financial future. Mark ties it all together with the essential cornerstone: personalized financial advice.

Too often, personal finance advice is overly generalized, failing to account for unique life circumstances. Social media, financial websites, and so-called “gurus” offer quick-fix solutions, but one-size-fits-all approaches rarely deliver lasting results. Instead, the path to true financial security starts with tailored advice that reflects your individual goals, challenges, and aspirations.

Listeners will learn how to overcome common myths about working with financial advisors, such as the misconceptions that you need a lot of money to get started or that advisors only serve the wealthy. Mark highlights the importance of building a relationship with a trusted advisor who can adapt your financial plan as life evolves.

Key takeaways include:

• Why personalized financial plans outperform generic advice.

• How a financial advisor can help balance living for today with saving for tomorrow.

• Dispelling myths about the cost and value of professional financial guidance.

Start building a financial strategy that grows with you. Subscribe now and schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a Mutual of Omaha Advisor. Financial freedom is within reach—make it personal, make it yours.

“A sound financial plan has the potential to do more for your future than years of hard work alone.” - Mark Zagurski

Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

Download the Seven Principles eBook

Instagram

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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, host Mark Zagurski continues his exploration of the Seven Principles for Your Success with Principle #6: Conventional Advice Is Too Conventional – The Wisdom of Building Your Own Capital. After diving into career growth, saving vs. investing, and retirement planning, Mark shifts to a critical yet often overlooked aspect of personal finance: creating and safeguarding your own capital.

Building your own capital means having liquid, accessible funds tailored to your unique needs and circumstances. Listeners will learn why blindly following conventional advice can limit opportunities and why innovative strategies, like permanent life insurance, can offer tax-deferred growth, legacy protection, and guaranteed income. Drawing insights from an Ernst & Young study, this episode highlights the $240 trillion retirement savings gap and how personalized planning can address these challenges.

Key takeaways include:

• The importance of control, flexibility, and options in financial planning.

• Leveraging life insurance to protect against risks while growing your wealth.

• Why conventional advice, like over-reliance on 401(k)s, might not suit everyone.

• How asset location impacts your financial security.

Don’t settle for cookie-cutter solutions. Discover how personalized financial strategies can help you build lasting wealth while providing peace of mind. Subscribe now on your favorite platform, and download our “7 Principles” eBook through the show notes for actionable insights into financial success. At Mutual of Omaha Advisors, we help you make it personal—because it’s your money, your plan, and your future!

“The thing about personal finance is…well, it’s personal. Your plan has to be tailored to your unique situation, not a generic blueprint.” - 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:

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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 dives into Principle #5 of the Seven Principles for Your Success:Retirement Investing – It’s Personal and Subject to Change. Building on the foundations laid in previous episodes, Mark takes a personalized approach to the complexities of retirement planning. With retirement potentially lasting 30 years or more, this principle highlights the importance of tailored strategies that adapt to your evolving goals and circumstances.

Listeners will learn why a one-size-fits-all approach to retirement planning falls short and why understanding the nuances of asset location, tax implications, and withdrawal strategies is critical. Topics include the potential pitfalls of being “retirement plan rich but cash poor,” the pros and cons of 401(k) plans, and how to balance taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts for maximum flexibility.

Key takeaway points:

• Retirement is personal: Your strategy should reflect your unique lifestyle, goals, and financial situation.

• The power of location: Proper asset location can significantly impact your after-tax returns and retirement income.

• Rules of thumb are just starting points: Principles like the 10/4/80 “cheat code” need to be customized for individual circumstances.

• Professional guidance matters: A trusted financial advisor can help navigate tax strategies, account diversity, and market changes.

Ready to craft a retirement strategy that’s as unique as you?Subscribe now on your favorite podcast platform to stay updated on future episodes. Don’t forget to grab a copy of the accompanying eBook through the link in the show notes for a deeper dive into the Seven Principles. At Mutual of Omaha Advisors, it’s your money, your plan, and your future—let’s make it personal!

“Asset location matters as much as asset allocation; diversifying across taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts provides control, flexibility, and security.” - 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.

In this episode of the podcast, we dive into Principle #4 of the Seven Principles for Your Success: Protect Your Most Important Asset First—You and Your Family. Building on the foundation laid in previous episodes, host Mark Zagurski highlights why personal financial protection is the cornerstone of any effective financial plan.

Listeners will learn the importance of safeguarding their income and family’s future with life insurance, disability income insurance, and long-term care insurance. Mark breaks down common misconceptions, such as the “10-times income rule” for life insurance, and explains why a one-size-fits-all approach to financial advice often falls short.

Discover why your ability to earn an income is your greatest asset and how to protect it in the face of unexpected challenges. Explore real-world examples, such as how long-term care costs can erode savings without proper coverage, and why delaying decisions like purchasing life insurance can leave families vulnerable.

Key takeaways include:

• The critical role of self-completing financial plans.

• How to calculate adequate life and disability insurance coverage.

• The rising cost of long-term care and strategies to protect savings.

• Why personalized advice is essential in building a solid financial foundation.

Don’t navigate the complexities of financial planning alone. Subscribe to the podcast today and explore how proactive protection can empower your financial future. Download our free eBook, which outlines all Seven Principles, and start creating a plan that prioritizes what matters most—your family’s security.

“Think of life insurance as love in action—it’s about ensuring your family’s financial future, even when you’re not there to see it through.” - 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.

In this episode of the Make it Personal podcast, the journey through the Seven Principles for Your Success continues with Principle #3: Emotional Wants vs. Financial Needs. Host Mark Zagurski builds on the foundation laid in earlier discussions about careers and the difference between saving and investing, this principle dives into the mindset shifts needed to overcome societal pressures and impulsive spending habits.

Listeners will explore how emotional wants—fueled by social media comparisons and the “Keeping Up with the Joneses” mentality—can derail financial goals. Mark shares personal anecdotes and insights, emphasizing the power of delayed gratification, making conscious financial decisions, and differentiating between wants and needs.

Key takeaway points include:

• The financial drain of trying to compete with the Joneses.

• How small, consistent choices compound into significant financial impacts.

• The benefits of deferring large purchases, like cars or homes, and investing the savings.

• Real-world examples illustrating how behaviors become habits that shape financial futures.

• The importance of making decisions that align with personal long-term financial goals rather than fleeting emotional satisfaction.

Mark encourages listeners to consider the opportunity cost of their spending habits and to embrace a mindset that prioritizes control, flexibility, and financial stability.

Tune in now to challenge your financial thinking and take control of your money story. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you won’t miss the next deep dive into Principle #4. Grab your copy of the “Make It Personal” eBook, available via the link in the show notes, for even more insights into the Seven Principles for Your Success. Your financial freedom starts here!

“Trying to keep up with the Joneses can derail your financial goals. Their shiny new purchases often come with hidden debt and fleeting happiness.” - 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.

In this episode of Make It Personal, host Mark Zagurski dives into Principle #2 of the Seven Principles for Your Success: Savings vs. Investing: Know the Difference. Picking up from last week’s discussion on leveraging your career as a growth engine, Mark tackles the critical distinction between saving and investing, emphasizing the unique roles each plays in achieving financial security and long-term growth.

Listeners will discover why traditional advice to save 10-20% of income may fall short for most individuals, especially when unforeseen expenses arise. Mark highlights the importance of building a savings safety net for emergencies, such as six months of living expenses, before venturing into investment opportunities. Mark also sheds light on the potential pitfalls of conflating saving with investing and breaks down the risks and rewards of both strategies.

Key takeaways include:

• Saving provides immediate security and flexibility, while investing focuses on long-term growth.

• The importance of building an emergency fund before investing.

• Understanding the real difference between average and actual returns on investments.

• Why saving and investing are complementary strategies—not mutually exclusive.

Packed with actionable insights and real-life examples, this episode equips listeners with the tools to create a balanced financial strategy tailored to their unique needs.

Ready to take control of your financial future? Subscribe to the podcast to stay updated on the remaining principles, and download our free eBook, Seven Principles for Your Financial Success. Your journey to financial freedom begins today!

“Saving provides safety, security, and flexibility for immediate needs, but investing builds wealth over time through growth and opportunity.” - 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.

In this episode, the Make It Personal podcast begins an in-depth exploration of the 7 Principles for Your Financial Success, starting with Principle #1: Your Career as a Growth Engine to Success. Host Mark Zagurski unpacks how your career or business serves as the cornerstone of financial prosperity, offering insights into maximizing your earning potential through skill development, personal growth, and strategic planning.

Listeners will learn why a person’s ability to earn income is their greatest asset, and how investing in their growth can create a multiplier effect for building wealth. Mark compares two employees, Bill and Sally, demonstrating how prioritizing self-improvement, rather than chasing quick investment returns, can significantly boost income and savings over time.

Key takeaway points include:

• The importance of skill enhancement and continuous learning in increasing earning potential.

• Why focusing on what you can control—like personal growth—outweighs obsessing over market returns.

• How a deliberate development plan and a “pay yourself first” strategy accelerate wealth-building.

Mark also discusses timeless financial wisdom from classics like The Richest Man in Babylon and Think and Grow Rich, emphasizing the value of specialized knowledge and intentional action in achieving financial success.

Ready to make your career the engine that drives your financial goals? Subscribe now and gain exclusive access to the Make It Personal eBook, available in the show notes. Don’t miss the next episode, where we dive into Principle #2: Saving vs. Investing – Know the Difference. Let’s build a financial future as unique as you are. It’s your money, your plan, your future—make it personal!

“Financial success starts with maximizing your greatest asset—your ability to earn an income.” - 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.

In this episode of the Make It Personal podcast, Mark Zagurski challenges the common belief that financial planning is a do-it-yourself project. While it’s tempting to rely on online resources, social media, or advice from well-meaning friends and family, DIY financial planning often overlooks the complexities and nuances of personal finance. From budgeting and investing to retirement and estate planning, Mark emphasizes that financial decisions should be as unique as the individuals making them.

Listeners will learn the pitfalls of relying on generic advice, including the risks of one-size-fits-all strategies offered by financial “gurus” on social platforms. Mark shares insights into the personalized approach Mutual of Omaha Advisors take, rooted in seven key principles for financial success. These principles—ranging from protecting your income to building your own capital—serve as a roadmap for achieving financial freedom tailored to your needs and goals.

Key takeaway points include:

• Why cookie-cutter advice fails to address individual circumstances.

• The importance of understanding emotional wants versus financial needs.

• How a trusted advisor can provide clarity, wisdom, and a customized plan.

For those seeking more than broad “rules of thumb,” this episode delivers practical wisdom to help you rethink your financial strategy. Ready to take control of your financial future? Download the Seven Principles for Your Financial Success eBook through the link in the show notes and subscribe to stay informed. Your personalized financial journey starts here.

“Financial planning isn’t a DIY project; it’s a tailored process requiring expertise and personal insight to achieve long-term success.” - 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.

Is there a “cheat code” for retirement planning? In this episode, Mark Zagurski, Director of Strategy and Communication for Mutual of Omaha Advisors, dives into the concept of “cheat codes” and their application to retirement planning. Drawing parallels to video game strategies, Mark unpacks the popular 10/4/80 rule—save 10% of your income, withdraw no more than 4% annually, and plan for 80% of your pre-retirement income. While simple, these rules serve as starting points, not definitive solutions.

Key takeaways include:

• Saving Smart: Why saving 10-20% of your income can be a powerful foundation for retirement, especially if you start early.

• The 4% Rule: Understanding withdrawal strategies and the risks of outliving your retirement savings.

• The 80% Rule: How realistic income replacement targets vary based on lifestyle, expenses, and unforeseen needs.

• Avoiding Instant Gratification: How resisting “keeping up with the Joneses” can safeguard long-term financial health.

• The Role of Professional Guidance: Why consulting a trusted financial advisor can help you navigate complexities and create a personalized plan.

Mark also challenges listeners to move beyond one-size-fits-all advice, emphasizing the importance of aligning financial strategies with individual goals and circumstances.

Ready to take control of your financial future? Whether you’re starting your journey or revisiting your plan, this episode offers actionable insights to guide you.

Discover how a Mutual of Omaha advisor can help you balance today’s priorities with tomorrow’s goals. Visit Mutual of Omaha Advisors to start building your personalized retirement plan today.

“Chasing instant gratification can sabotage long-term goals; a good financial plan helps you resist the urge to keep up with the Joneses.” - Mark Zagurski

Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

Download the Seven Principles eBook

Instagram

Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors

--

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.