Imagine having access to a growing reserve of tax-free retirement funds that most financial advisors never mention. For homeowners age 60 and older, this hidden "fourth bucket" of retirement money exists in your home equity - and it could be worth hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars over your lifetime.

In this eye-opening conversation with reverse mortgage expert Don Graves, we explore seven powerful ways to use a federally-insured reverse mortgage to maximize Social Security benefits and strengthen your overall retirement plan. Don shatters common misconceptions about reverse mortgages, explaining how this government-sponsored program allows homeowners to access a portion of their equity without giving up ownership or making monthly payments.

The most fascinating aspect? The growing line of credit feature that turns home equity into an appreciating asset. A 65-year-old with a $600,000 home might initially access $178,000, but that line of credit can grow to nearly $800,000 by age 85 and potentially reach $1.8 million by age 95 - regardless of home value fluctuations.

We explore practical strategies like creating a bridge to delay claiming Social Security until 70 (increasing benefits by 8% annually), reducing Social Security taxation by eliminating mortgage payments, funding Roth IRA conversions without depleting other assets, and managing Medicare premium increases. One financial advisor reported creating an additional $665,000 in retirement funds for clients using just one of these strategies.

The discussion provides particularly valuable insights for those carrying mortgage payments into retirement. By eliminating a $1,500 monthly mortgage payment, retirees can save approximately $22,000 annually in taxable withdrawals from IRAs while simultaneously reducing Social Security taxation. It's a double benefit most people completely overlook.

Ready to discover if you're sitting on a potential retirement goldmine? Visit housingwealthmasterclass.com to learn more about leveraging your home equity for a stronger, more secure retirement future.

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The retirement landscape is changing dramatically as we navigate the "Peak 65" era—where over 11,200 Americans are turning 65 daily in 2025, the highest rate in history. How prepared are we for this unprecedented demographic shift?

Jason Fichtner, former Deputy Commissioner of Social Security and Executive Director of the Retirement Income Institute for the Alliance for Lifetime Income, brings his remarkable expertise to tackle some of retirement planning's most misunderstood concepts. Drawing from his experience overseeing Social Security's policies, Fichtner dismantles common misconceptions about claiming strategies, explaining why the difference between claiming at age 62 versus 70 represents a staggering 77% increase in lifetime benefits.

One simple but profound shift Fichtner advocates is changing how we frame claiming ages—moving away from misleading terms like "early eligibility age" and "full retirement age" toward more accurate descriptions: "minimum monthly benefit age" and "maximum monthly benefit age." This small language adjustment completely transforms how Americans approach their claiming decisions.

With traditional pensions disappearing, today's retirees face the challenge of creating their own retirement paychecks. Fichtner introduces the concept of protected income as a crucial asset class alongside traditional investments, explaining how "bridge annuities" can provide income while delaying Social Security benefits to maximize guaranteed, inflation-protected income for life. His powerful mantra—"Income is the outcome in retirement"—cuts through complex financial jargon to focus on what truly matters: creating reliable income streams that last as long as you do.

Whether you're approaching retirement or helping loved ones navigate this transition, this episode provides clear, actionable strategies from one of the nation's foremost retirement security experts. Take the first step toward a secure retirement by scheduling your complimentary consultation at 866-780-SAFE (7233) and receive your free copy of "Bulletproof: The Safe and Secure Retirement Income Plan."

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Ever wonder what happens when economic theory meets real-world political change? I've witnessed it firsthand. After struggling to sell a property for four straight months in 2024 (even having to resort to owner financing), I listed another in 2025 following the election—it sold in ONE DAY with multiple cash offers above asking price. This stark contrast perfectly illustrates how leadership impacts economic confidence and your financial future.

This revelation came on the heels of my extraordinary day with Glenn Beck at his Dallas studio—a day that transformed my perspective and led to an exciting announcement. I'm humbled to share that Safe Money Radio is now the ONLY financial planning show endorsed by Glenn Beck. Walking through his American Museum, holding historical artifacts including Hitler's key ring and cloth from Lincoln's assassination, and witnessing Glenn shoot Lee Harvey Oswald's gun created an unforgettable experience. But what struck me most was Glenn's unwavering commitment to his audience's trust—something that deeply resonates with my own philosophy as a Certified Financial Fiduciary.

Trust isn't built on flashy presentations or free dinner seminars—it's earned through knowledge, ethics, and genuine care for clients' outcomes. That's why I've dedicated countless hours to obtaining five financial designations, including recently completing the Tax Planning Certified Professional program where I studied 477 different financial topics over 203 hours. I've seen too many clients come through my door after being sold inappropriate products by advisors who prioritized commissions over suitability, and it's what drives me to maintain the highest standards of fiduciary responsibility.

As political and economic climates shift, having a trusted advisor who understands these changes becomes increasingly valuable. Don't entrust your life savings to someone based solely on charisma or convenience. Call us at 866-780-SAFE for a free financial consultation and receive my bestselling book "Bulletproof: The Safe and Secure Retirement Income Plan"—now proudly endorsed by Glenn Beck himself.

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The financial world is undergoing a seismic shift as women stand poised to inherit an estimated $30-70 trillion in the coming decade. Yet many women remain unprepared to manage this wealth, often due to deeply ingrained money narratives formed in childhood.

Lindsey Lewis, Managing Director for the Center for Women at the American College of Financial Services, takes us on a fascinating journey through the historical context that has shaped women's relationship with money. She reveals how Wall Street's male-dominated culture created divergent investment approaches—steering men toward growth portfolios while placing women in conservative bond investments—a pattern that continues to influence financial confidence today.

The conversation explores the troubling "graying divorce" phenomenon, where couples separate after 50+ years together, often leaving one partner financially vulnerable after decades of delegating money decisions. With 90% of women destined to become the primary financial decision maker at some point in their lives, developing financial literacy has never been more crucial.

Lewis introduces powerful concepts like "money scripts"—unconscious beliefs about wealth formed before age seven that dictate adult financial behaviors. She offers practical wisdom about HSA accounts (describing them as "triple tax-free"), retirement planning strategies specifically for women's longer lifespans, and how qualified financial professionals add measurable value through behavioral coaching during market volatility.

For younger generations, particularly Gen Z digital natives who often receive financial information from unqualified social media influencers, Lewis highlights the need for credible education sources like the American College's free "Know Yourself, Grow Your Wealth" program and new Retirement Course.

Whether you're concerned about your own financial future or supporting a loved one through financial transition, this episode delivers transformative insights about wealth, gender, and the changing financial landscape. Take the first step toward financial empowerment—visit our website to access free educational resources or call for a complimentary consultation with a qualified professional.

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Fear of running out of money in retirement is the number one financial concern for most Americans – and for good reason. As lifespans extend and traditional retirement vehicles prove increasingly vulnerable to market volatility, the search for guaranteed lifetime income has never been more crucial.

In this eye-opening conversation with Sheryl Moore, the nation's foremost annuity expert and founder of Wink market research firm, we explore the frequently misunderstood world of fixed index annuities and why they deserve serious consideration in your retirement strategy. Sheryl shares her personal journey from struggling single mother to industry authority, including how watching her 401(k) become a "201(k)" during the dot-com crash led her to discover the protective benefits of indexed annuities before age 30.

We methodically dismantle the most persistent myths surrounding annuities: that insurance companies keep your money when you die (they don't), that they're loaded with hidden fees (most fixed index annuities have none), that your money is permanently locked away (most offer 10% annual penalty-free withdrawals), and that you miss out on market dividends (a worthwhile trade-off for downside protection).

The conversation takes a compelling turn when addressing longevity risk – with experts suggesting the first person to live to 150 may already exist, and with American centenarians outnumbering those in any other nation, the mathematical certainty of traditional withdrawal strategies becomes questionable. Through risk pooling and mortality credits, insurance companies can guarantee you'll never outlive your money – something no market-based investment can promise.

Whether you're approaching retirement or already there, this discussion offers crucial insights into creating retirement income that lasts as long as you do. Ready to discover if fixed index annuities might play a role in your financial future? Call us at 866-780-7233 for a complimentary consultation and free copy of Sheryl's book "Why I Bought Indexed Annuities."

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The retirement landscape has fundamentally changed, and your old tax strategies might be setting you up for disaster. America's IRA expert Ed Slott delivers a wake-up call about the hidden dangers lurking in your tax-deferred accounts.

Gone are the days when IRAs were valuable wealth transfer vehicles. Since the SECURE Act eliminated the stretch provision, these accounts have transformed into what Slott bluntly calls "the worst possible asset to own and build on." Now, most non-spouse beneficiaries must empty inherited IRAs within just 10 years, potentially facing massive tax bills during their peak earning years.

What about that tax deduction you've been chasing? Slott provocatively labels it a "fake deduction" – merely a loan from the government that must be repaid at uncertain future rates. With current tax rates historically low and massive government debt suggesting higher future rates, the conventional wisdom of deferring taxes could be catastrophically wrong. "Your IRA is really just a joint account with Uncle Sam," Slott warns, "and he determines what his percentage will be."

The solution? Consider Roth conversions while tax rates remain favorable. By paying taxes now at known rates, you lock in a 0% tax rate for life and potentially 10 years beyond for your beneficiaries. This creates certainty in an otherwise uncertain tax environment.

Beyond tax planning, guaranteeing retirement income has proven crucial for retiree happiness. Research consistently shows people with guaranteed income sources spend more confidently and worry less about market volatility. As Slott observed with his own mother who lived well into her 90s with annuity income, "People with guaranteed income are just happier people."

Don't let outdated strategies derail your retirement dreams. Contact a qualified retirement income professional who understands today's dramatically different tax landscape and can help defuse your potential retirement tax time bomb.

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The Social Security landscape is changing dramatically with the recent passing of the Social Security Fairness Act, which eliminates two long-standing provisions that have affected millions of public employees. Retirement income expert Heather Schreiber joins us to unpack what this means for teachers, police officers, firefighters, and others who've earned pensions from non-covered employment.

We discover how this legislation retroactively benefits those previously denied spousal or survivor benefits, with many already receiving substantial deposits. While this brings welcome relief to affected individuals, it accelerates the projected depletion of Social Security trust funds by about six months – moving the insolvency timeline from 2033 to mid-2032.

Medicare beneficiaries will see significant changes in 2025, including a new $2,000 out-of-pocket maximum for prescription drugs covered under Part D plans. However, we take a deep dive into the often-overlooked Medicare premium surcharges known as IRMA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts), which can increase your Part B premiums from $185 to over $600 monthly based on income from two years prior. One-time financial events like inheritances or Roth conversions can trigger these surcharges unexpectedly, making proactive planning essential.

The conversation shifts to the unique financial challenges women face in retirement. With longer lifespans, lower lifetime earnings due to caregiving responsibilities, and a higher likelihood of widowhood, women need specialized planning strategies. Heather introduces the concept of "Social Security autonomy" – ensuring you qualify for benefits based on your own work record rather than depending solely on spousal benefits, which can create conflicts in optimal claiming strategies.

Whether you're approaching retirement or already there, this episode provides critical information on navigating recent legislative changes and creating a secure financial future. For additional education, visit guaranteedsafemoney.com to access a free retirement course developed by the American College. Call us at 866-780-SAFE (7233) to schedule your complimentary consultation.

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The Horizons Conference by the American College of Financial Services gathers the world's best financial experts to share cutting-edge retirement strategies and revolutionary planning approaches with financial professionals.

• Lindsay Lewis explores retirement challenges facing women, including healthcare expenses and the importance of HSAs as triple tax-free accounts
• Jason Fichtner, former Deputy Commissioner of Social Security, explains why delaying benefits creates a 77% increase in monthly payments when waiting from age 62 to 70
• Don Graves introduces housing wealth as the often-overlooked "fourth bucket" of retirement planning with 52 different strategies for tapping home equity without mandatory payments
• Sophia Duffy discusses the Tax Planning Certified Professional program and why compassion distinguishes great financial advisors
• George Nichols III, American College president, shares why applied knowledge is more valuable than theoretical concepts in financial education

For a free financial consultation or to request a copy of Brad Pistole's best-selling book, "Bulletproof: The Safe and Secure Retirement Income Plan," call 866-780-7233. The American College is now offering a free retirement course for consumers - visit guaranteedsafemoney.com and click the retirement planning tab to register.

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The world's foremost retirement planning experts reveal game-changing strategies that could transform your financial future in this extraordinary episode recorded at the American College of Financial Services' inaugural Horizons Conference. 

After attending financial conferences for over 17 years, I've never experienced anything like this gathering of retirement planning luminaries. In this first installment of a special two-part series, I sit down with four distinguished guests whose research shapes how Americans approach retirement security.

Dr. Wade Pfau introduces the Retirement Income Style Awareness (RISA) assessment, a groundbreaking tool that matches retirement strategies to psychological preferences. He walks us through the four fundamental approaches to retirement income planning, explaining why one size doesn't fit all. Many retirees struggle with plans misaligned to their comfort levels – something the RESA helps identify and correct.

Dr. Michael Finke reveals startling research on what he calls the "license to spend." His studies prove retirees with guaranteed lifetime income sources spend far more freely than those relying solely on investment portfolios. "People don't like staring at a pile of money," he explains, highlighting how psychological factors often trump mathematical ones in retirement satisfaction.

Dr. David Blanchett discusses how medical advances like GLP-1 medications may dramatically increase not just average lifespans but the variability of lifespans. This creates profound planning challenges since traditional portfolio-based strategies struggle with extreme longevity scenarios. His empirical evidence shows people spend approximately 80% of lifetime income but only 50% of what they could from portfolio assets.

Jamie Hopkins addresses the psychological shift from saving to spending with his "Rewirement" concept. "We spend decades building our nest egg, then the day we retire, we have to start taking it apart," he notes, explaining why this transition proves so difficult. He also emphasizes planning for purpose and community after losing workplace connections.

Take control of your retirement future today by calling 866-780-SAFE for your complimentary RESA assessment and personalized retirement income strategy consultation.

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We tackle the top five retirement planning questions that can make or break your financial future, focusing on keeping your hard-earned money safe and providing guaranteed lifetime income.

• Early retirement considerations beyond savings, including health insurance costs until Medicare eligibility
• Critical health insurance planning for those retiring before 65
• Tax implications and potential penalties on early withdrawals from retirement accounts
• Social Security filing strategies based on marital status, age differences, and lifetime income maximization
• Why the higher earner should often delay claiming Social Security to protect the surviving spouse
• Understanding IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts) and its impact on Medicare premiums
• Roth conversion factors including the five-year rule, tax considerations, and funding the conversion tax
• The $400 billion shift toward annuities and guaranteed income sources in 2024
• How annuities provide risk protection and guaranteed lifetime income
• Why life insurance proceeds are 100% tax-free versus heavily taxed inherited retirement accounts
• The importance of working with Retirement Income Certified Professionals

Call us at 866-780-SAFE (866-780-7233) for a free financial consultation with a Retirement Income Certified Professional who can help create your customized retirement income plan.

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