To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/ZtuAJ14nZck

Want a second act that pays and still lets you live your life? We sit down with franchise expert and serial entrepreneur Cliff Nonnenmacher to map a practical path to semi-absentee ownership for people who want cash flow, not a new full-time job. From golf-ball hustles to Wall Street to scaling franchise systems, Cliff’s journey reveals how to pair discipline with demand so your retirement stays uncompromised.

We break down the myths that keep many would-be owners on the sidelines and dig into the sectors with real tailwinds: the silver tsunami of aging Americans driving mobility and small-format assisted living; the trades and tool-based services poised to win as labor tightens and robotics elevate operators; the booming pet economy powering grooming and training; and youth enrichment stepping in where schools leave gaps. Instead of chasing shiny brands, we focus on models with low fixed costs, strong margins, and clear KPIs that support an executive approach—hire a rock star manager, tie incentives to performance, and protect your time.

Financing gets demystified too. Most clients use SBA loans with a 30–40% injection, and Cliff explains how ERISA-compliant rollovers can deploy retirement funds into a franchise with no taxes, penalties, or loan payments, while preserving tax deferral on exit. He also shares a step-by-step playbook for validation: talk with existing owners in your age bracket and market, confirm ramp timelines, hiring realities, marketing channels, and unit economics before you wire a dollar. The message is simple: be unreasonably selective, trade fear for due diligence, and choose a system that matches your goals so you can create durable, local cash flow and a legacy your family can run—or sell—on your terms.

If you’re curious about a path that keeps you sharp, adds income, and protects your lifestyle, press play. Then subscribe, share this with a friend who’s “retiring but not done,” and leave a review with the one sector you’d bet on next.

Cliff Nonnenmacher’s Info:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 561-277-3710

Website:

We love hearing from you!! Record your retirement questions anytime at www.RetirementForLife.com

• Subscribe to our channel for our latest content visit: Our YouTube Channel
• Elevate Your Retirement with the AIM Secure Retirement Assessment... our most popular tool! Powerful customized insights for retiree's or those nearing retirement. Answer 8 simple questions and receive your personalized assessment including the top three action items most likely to supercharge your chances of Retirement Success.
• If you're interested in learning more about our trademarked AIM Retirement System, visit: AIMRetire.com
• Want to connect with Chris? Schedule a 15 Minute Retirement Readiness call to discuss whatever's on you mind about retirement Retire15.com or just shoot him an email at mailto:[email protected]
• Try out the industry's leading financial planning software on your own. We give RFL listeners unlimited free access to the Free Online Planning Tool

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To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/QPZ7kevkAjI

Markets have been on a heater—and that’s exactly when discipline matters most. We unpack a rare three-year streak of strong S&P 500 returns, compare it with the only two times history saw something similar, and explain why one period led to a decade of gains while the other opened the door to a brutal bust. Rather than chase predictions, we share how to build a retirement that stays on track whether AI-fueled momentum keeps running or volatility returns in a hurry.

We get practical about diversification and call out a common trap: spreading accounts across four or five institutions and calling it risk management. Real diversification lives inside the portfolio, not across a stack of statements. You can own thousands of securities through a single, well-structured account, simplify life for your spouse or heirs, and still control asset mix, tax location, and rebalancing. We pair that with a clear risk budget and rules that trim overheated positions back to target—so your long-term income doesn’t depend on market mood.

We also break down the new catch-up contribution rules slated for January 2026, including Roth-only catch-ups for earners above 145,000 dollars and the enhanced catch-up for those in their early 60s. While the government favors near-term tax revenue, retirees can benefit from greater Roth balances that cut future tax drag and add flexibility to withdrawal strategies. Layer in stress tests, a funded income floor, and spending guardrails, and you get a plan that absorbs shocks without panic selling.

If you’re wondering whether to lean into AI winners, rebalance after big gains, or consolidate scattered accounts, this conversation gives you a straight path forward—no fear-mongering, no crystal balls. Follow and subscribe for more data-driven retirement planning, and leave a review with your biggest question about navigating strong markets responsibly.

We love hearing from you!! Record your retirement questions anytime at www.RetirementForLife.com

• Subscribe to our channel for our latest content visit: Our YouTube Channel
• Elevate Your Retirement with the AIM Secure Retirement Assessment... our most popular tool! Powerful customized insights for retiree's or those nearing retirement. Answer 8 simple questions and receive your personalized assessment including the top three action items most likely to supercharge your chances of Retirement Success.
• If you're interested in learning more about our trademarked AIM Retirement System, visit: AIMRetire.com
• Want to connect with Chris? Schedule a 15 Minute Retirement Readiness call to discuss whatever's on you mind about retirement Retire15.com or just shoot him an email at mailto:[email protected]
• Try out the industry's leading financial planning software on your own. We give RFL listeners unlimited free access to the Free Online Planning Tool

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To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/ltEr9bLvG34

We bring in Winsor Consulting to unpack today’s most common scams hitting retirees and how to stop them with simple habits. We share a clear rule—say no and verify—and walk through passwords, MFA, privacy settings, and how to spot fake emails and links.

• why criminals target credentials and reused passwords
• how to apply the say no and verify rule
• deepfakes and voice cloning used in grandparent scams
• wire fraud and business email compromise patterns
• password managers and 12 to 16 character passphrases
• turning on MFA and using authenticator apps
• Facebook privacy settings and oversharing risks
• how to hover and check real senders and links
• using encrypted portals for sensitive documents
• who to call first when something feels off

We love hearing from you!! Record your retirement questions anytime at www.RetirementForLife.com

• Subscribe to our channel for our latest content visit: Our YouTube Channel
• Elevate Your Retirement with the AIM Secure Retirement Assessment... our most popular tool! Powerful customized insights for retiree's or those nearing retirement. Answer 8 simple questions and receive your personalized assessment including the top three action items most likely to supercharge your chances of Retirement Success.
• If you're interested in learning more about our trademarked AIM Retirement System, visit: AIMRetire.com
• Want to connect with Chris? Schedule a 15 Minute Retirement Readiness call to discuss whatever's on you mind about retirement Retire15.com or just shoot him an email at mailto:[email protected]
• Try out the industry's leading financial planning software on your own. We give RFL listeners unlimited free access to the Free Online Planning Tool

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The AIM Retirement System provides a comprehensive, team-based approach to retirement planning that typically takes two months to implement and features nearly 20 planning components designed to maximize retirement success.

• Process begins with a Connection Visit focused on understanding personal goals and retirement dreams
• Team approach includes specialists in tax planning, investment management, and financial advising
• Four main goals: maximize chances of retirement success, increase income stability, apply advanced tax strategies, maximize multi-generational wealth
• Initial meetings deliberately focus on personal information rather than financial details
• Most clients begin skeptical but grow comfortable as they progress through the system
• Multiple contact methods available: aimassessment.com, retire15.com, or through the website
• Virtual planning meetings are increasingly common and often more efficient than in-person meetings
• Connection Visit typically lasts 90 minutes with minimal pressure to proceed
• Information gathering between visits includes collecting tax returns, investment statements, and other financial documents

Ready to see if the AIM Retirement System might be right for you? Visit aimassessment.com to schedule a complimentary one-on-one visit and learn more about how we can help you prepare for the most treacherous part of your financial life.

We love hearing from you!! Record your retirement questions anytime at www.RetirementForLife.com

• Subscribe to our channel for our latest content visit: Our YouTube Channel
• Elevate Your Retirement with the AIM Secure Retirement Assessment... our most popular tool! Powerful customized insights for retiree's or those nearing retirement. Answer 8 simple questions and receive your personalized assessment including the top three action items most likely to supercharge your chances of Retirement Success.
• If you're interested in learning more about our trademarked AIM Retirement System, visit: AIMRetire.com
• Want to connect with Chris? Schedule a 15 Minute Retirement Readiness call to discuss whatever's on you mind about retirement Retire15.com or just shoot him an email at mailto:[email protected]
• Try out the industry's leading financial planning software on your own. We give RFL listeners unlimited free access to the Free Online Planning Tool

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To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/TVcvYz4mISs

Financial transparency between spouses is critical for retirement planning and can prevent disaster when one partner passes away. We discuss real-life examples of what happens when couples don't share financial responsibility and knowledge.

• Both spouses must be involved in financial planning regardless of interest level
• Requiring both partners to attend planning meetings ensures everyone understands the plan
• When one spouse dies, the surviving spouse often needs significant support for about a year
• Separate finances make comprehensive planning nearly impossible 
• Different risk tolerances between spouses require compromise, not separate strategies
• Women statistically outlive men and need to be prepared to manage finances independently
• Financial disagreements are a leading cause of divorce, even after decades of marriage
• An advisor should make complex concepts understandable for both spouses
• Both spouses should know where to find important documents and account information

Take time this month to have honest financial conversations with your spouse and ensure you're both prepared for whatever the future holds.

We love hearing from you!! Record your retirement questions anytime at www.RetirementForLife.com

• Subscribe to our channel for our latest content visit: Our YouTube Channel
• Elevate Your Retirement with the AIM Secure Retirement Assessment... our most popular tool! Powerful customized insights for retiree's or those nearing retirement. Answer 8 simple questions and receive your personalized assessment including the top three action items most likely to supercharge your chances of Retirement Success.
• If you're interested in learning more about our trademarked AIM Retirement System, visit: AIMRetire.com
• Want to connect with Chris? Schedule a 15 Minute Retirement Readiness call to discuss whatever's on you mind about retirement Retire15.com or just shoot him an email at mailto:[email protected]
• Try out the industry's leading financial planning software on your own. We give RFL listeners unlimited free access to the Free Online Planning Tool

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To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/cbLr-zpQEqU

What keeps experienced retirement planners up at night? After decades in the business, I'm tracking three critical trends that will reshape retirement planning for years to come.

First, we're witnessing an extraordinary market streak—15 positive years out of the last 17. But history tells a sobering story: since 1869, only 13.5% of four-year periods have shown positive returns in all four consecutive years. While we've positioned our clients to weather any market environment, this statistical reality reminds us why removing investment risk from retirement planning is crucial.

More importantly, I'm watching a seismic shift in retirement planning priorities. While most advisors have expanded from investment-centric approaches to include estate planning and tax strategies (which we embrace as CPAs), insurance is rapidly becoming retirement planning's fourth critical pillar. The evidence is alarming: health insurance premiums jumping 10%+ annually for even young, healthy groups; homeowners insurance spiking 10.4% in 2024 alone; and long-term care options dwindling from over 100 providers to merely 6-8 companies today.

These escalating costs represent significant risks to retirement security that must be addressed proactively. I believe we're moving toward socialized medicine in America as healthcare funding approaches 50% government contribution (up from just 22% in 1970).

Beyond these technical concerns lies what truly matters in retirement. I always ask new clients: "If you won a billion-dollar lottery today, what would change in your life?" Their answers reveal what retirement planning should ultimately serve—your deeper values and aspirations.

Life is short. Buy a lottery ticket. Dream a little. What would you do with complete financial freedom? Whatever that answer is, surround yourself with people who encourage you to pursue those dreams. Because retirement isn't about investments or taxes—it's about living the life you truly want.

We love hearing from you!! Record your retirement questions anytime at www.RetirementForLife.com

• Subscribe to our channel for our latest content visit: Our YouTube Channel
• Elevate Your Retirement with the AIM Secure Retirement Assessment... our most popular tool! Powerful customized insights for retiree's or those nearing retirement. Answer 8 simple questions and receive your personalized assessment including the top three action items most likely to supercharge your chances of Retirement Success.
• If you're interested in learning more about our trademarked AIM Retirement System, visit: AIMRetire.com
• Want to connect with Chris? Schedule a 15 Minute Retirement Readiness call to discuss whatever's on you mind about retirement Retire15.com or just shoot him an email at mailto:[email protected]
• Try out the industry's leading financial planning software on your own. We give RFL listeners unlimited free access to the Free Online Planning Tool

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To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at 

The transition from saving to spending in retirement represents the most challenging and risky part of your financial life, requiring strategic planning to avoid running out of money. We break down three critical "hacks" that can transform your retirement security by reducing market dependency and increasing guaranteed income sources.

• The "spending less when we're older" myth often ignores the significant impact of inflation
• Traditional 4% withdrawal rules leave 60% of retirement income dependent on unpredictable market returns
• Sequence of returns risk can deplete retirement accounts decades earlier than expected if markets decline early in retirement
• Hack #1: Optimizing Social Security timing can increase guaranteed income by tens of thousands annually
• Hack #2: Creating "Social Security 2.0" adds another layer of guaranteed lifetime income
• Hack #3: Strategic Roth conversions can virtually eliminate RMDs and potentially save six figures in lifetime taxes
• When implemented together, these strategies can reduce market dependency at age 82 from $100,000 to nearly zero
• The ideal retirement plan front-loads investment withdrawals in early years while building guaranteed income for later years

Visit our YouTube channel for dedicated playlists on all three retirement hacks discussed in this episode.

We love hearing from you!! Record your retirement questions anytime at www.RetirementForLife.com

• Subscribe to our channel for our latest content visit: Our YouTube Channel
• Elevate Your Retirement with the AIM Secure Retirement Assessment... our most popular tool! Powerful customized insights for retiree's or those nearing retirement. Answer 8 simple questions and receive your personalized assessment including the top three action items most likely to supercharge your chances of Retirement Success.
• If you're interested in learning more about our trademarked AIM Retirement System, visit: AIMRetire.com
• Want to connect with Chris? Schedule a 15 Minute Retirement Readiness call to discuss whatever's on you mind about retirement Retire15.com or just shoot him an email at mailto:[email protected]
• Try out the industry's leading financial planning software on your own. We give RFL listeners unlimited free access to the Free Online Planning Tool

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To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/7UF42D1Nlhw

Are you navigating retirement with a team of financial professionals but no real quarterback? You may be stuck in what I call "the retirement planning void" - a dangerous place where critical opportunities get missed between your investment advisor and your tax professional.

Today's episode tackles three major financial issues affecting retirees: the new spending and tax bill, tariff agreements (particularly with Japan), and most importantly, how to avoid the retirement planning void that threatens your financial security.

The spending bill extends historically low tax rates at a time when our national deficit is exploding - creating a unique window of opportunity for tax planning that many retirees are missing. With tax rates 33% lower than during Reagan's presidency, paying taxes now through Roth conversions may save you hundreds of thousands in future taxes.

Meanwhile, new tariff agreements with Japan are projected to bring $2.7 trillion into the U.S. over the next decade. While economists predict these will increase household expenses by roughly $2,300-$2,800 annually, popular Japanese vehicles like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord won't be affected since they're already manufactured domestically.

The retirement planning void represents perhaps the greatest threat to your financial security. Most retirees find themselves caught between financial advisors who excel at accumulation but lack tax expertise, and CPAs who can complete tax returns but rarely provide proactive planning. The result? No one is truly quarterbacking your retirement strategy when coordination matters most.

Ready to bridge this dangerous gap? Find a retirement specialist who understands both investment management and tax-efficient distribution strategies. Because retirement isn't just about no longer working - it's about navigating the most challenging financial period of your life with confidence and security.

We love hearing from you!! Record your retirement questions anytime at www.RetirementForLife.com

• Subscribe to our channel for our latest content visit: Our YouTube Channel
• Elevate Your Retirement with the AIM Secure Retirement Assessment... our most popular tool! Powerful customized insights for retiree's or those nearing retirement. Answer 8 simple questions and receive your personalized assessment including the top three action items most likely to supercharge your chances of Retirement Success.
• If you're interested in learning more about our trademarked AIM Retirement System, visit: AIMRetire.com
• Want to connect with Chris? Schedule a 15 Minute Retirement Readiness call to discuss whatever's on you mind about retirement Retire15.com or just shoot him an email at mailto:[email protected]
• Try out the industry's leading financial planning software on your own. We give RFL listeners unlimited free access to the Free Online Planning Tool

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To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at

Discover strategies for college planning that protect retirement savings while maximizing financial aid opportunities for your grandchildren. 

• College degrees still hold significant value, demonstrating a person's ability to persist toward long-term goals
• Traditional savings vehicles like 529 plans may not always be the optimal choice for every family situation
• Financial aid eligibility often depends on proper positioning of assets and income years before college begins
• School selection is crucial—finding the right campus, curriculum, and cost fit helps students graduate on time
• Even families with incomes over $300,000 may qualify for significant financial aid at certain institutions
• How you save for college can impact aid eligibility, with each $10,000 in certain savings potentially reducing aid by $500-$2,500
• The average student takes 5.8 years to complete a four-year degree, creating a potential $250,000 wealth swing
• Alternative savings strategies like IRAs, Roth IRAs, and certain insurance products may better protect financial aid eligibility
• Starting the college planning process early gives families more options and potentially better outcomes

Paul Compeau is a Certified Financial Planner, and the founding partner at BridgeWise College Planning. Using a CFO-style approach, he has helped over 500 families across the US plan how they will pay for college and save significantly, even at top-tier universities like NYU, Stanford, Michigan, and more.

Learn more about college planning strategies at BridgeWiseCP.com or by typing "Bridgewise College Planning" into Google.

We love hearing from you!! Record your retirement questions anytime at www.RetirementForLife.com

• Subscribe to our channel for our latest content visit: Our YouTube Channel
• Elevate Your Retirement with the AIM Secure Retirement Assessment... our most popular tool! Powerful customized insights for retiree's or those nearing retirement. Answer 8 simple questions and receive your personalized assessment including the top three action items most likely to supercharge your chances of Retirement Success.
• If you're interested in learning more about our trademarked AIM Retirement System, visit: AIMRetire.com
• Want to connect with Chris? Schedule a 15 Minute Retirement Readiness call to discuss whatever's on you mind about retirement Retire15.com or just shoot him an email at mailto:[email protected]
• Try out the industry's leading financial planning software on your own. We give RFL listeners unlimited free access to the Free Online Planning Tool

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To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/CEgPwpYGQX0

The recent tax bill, retirement health vitality agreement, and the evolution of guaranteed income strategies present both opportunities and challenges for today's retirees.

• Trump's tax bill keeps rates low for the foreseeable future, preventing significant tax increases in 2026
• National debt concerns remain critical despite short-term tax benefits
• Consider Roth conversions now while tax rates remain historically low
• The "$6,000 deduction" for Social Security recipients benefits only some retirees, not eliminating taxes completely
• Nearly two-thirds of Social Security recipients already paid no federal tax on benefits before the new legislation
• Retirement typically improves emotional wellbeing but requires maintaining physical health
• Get your heart rate up for just 30 minutes daily to significantly improve retirement quality
• Half a billion people worldwide will be over 80 by 2025, making health maintenance increasingly important
• "Social Security 2.0" provides guaranteed lifetime income regardless of market performance
• Proper retirement planning must account for potentially living to 95 or beyond

We love hearing from you!! Record your retirement questions anytime at www.RetirementForLife.com

• Subscribe to our channel for our latest content visit: Our YouTube Channel
• Elevate Your Retirement with the AIM Secure Retirement Assessment... our most popular tool! Powerful customized insights for retiree's or those nearing retirement. Answer 8 simple questions and receive your personalized assessment including the top three action items most likely to supercharge your chances of Retirement Success.
• If you're interested in learning more about our trademarked AIM Retirement System, visit: AIMRetire.com
• Want to connect with Chris? Schedule a 15 Minute Retirement Readiness call to discuss whatever's on you mind about retirement Retire15.com or just shoot him an email at mailto:[email protected]
• Try out the industry's leading financial planning software on your own. We give RFL listeners unlimited free access to the Free Online Planning Tool

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