Retirement is your time to explore, but meaningful travel takes more than just picking a destination. It’s about creating experiences that align with your values, health, and financial goals.

In this episode, Certified Retirement Counselor Mark Struthers talks with veteran travel journalist Megan Padilla about how to plan trips that are memorable, manageable, and meaningful. With 25 years of travel writing, Megan shares insider strategies for smarter travel decisions, including when to use a travel advisor, how to budget for bucket-list trips, and why “slow travel” often leads to the richest memories.

Listen in to learn how to design travel that fits your lifestyle, saves time and stress, and strengthens your relationships along the way.

Curious about working with Mark? Go to:

Disclosure:

Investment advisory services are offered through Sona Financial LLC (DBA Sona Wealth Advisors, Sona Wealth, Sona Wealth Management), an investment adviser registered in the state of MN. Sona Financial only offers investment advisory services where it is appropriately registered or exempt from registration and only after clients have entered into an investment advisory agreement confirming the terms of engagement and have been provided a copy of the firm’s ADV Part 2A brochure and document. 

This video or article is for educational purposes only and is not exhaustive. Nothing discussed during this show/episode should be viewed as investment advice. Diversification and/or any strategy that may be discussed does not guarantee against investment losses but is intended to help manage risk and return. If applicable, historical discussions and/or opinions are not predictive of future events. The content is presented in good faith and has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable. The content is not intended to be legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult a legal, tax, or financial professional for information specific to your individual situation.

This content has not been reviewed by FINRA.

The holiday season brings out our generous spirit, but are you giving in the smartest way possible?

In this episode, Certified Retirement Counselor Mark Struthers explains how to make your charitable giving more tax-efficient, emotionally rewarding, and financially sustainable through Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) and Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs).

Mark breaks down the pros and cons of each, shares practical examples (including his famous “Pebbles Donor-Advised Fund”), and highlights how recent tax law changes, including the SALT cap increase and new charitable deduction rules, can impact your giving this year.

Listen in to learn how you can help others and strengthen your financial plan before year-end.

Curious about working with Mark? Go to:

Disclosure:

Investment advisory services are offered through Sona Financial LLC (DBA Sona Wealth Advisors, Sona Wealth, Sona Wealth Management), an investment adviser registered in the state of MN. Sona Financial only offers investment advisory services where it is appropriately registered or exempt from registration and only after clients have entered into an investment advisory agreement confirming the terms of engagement and have been provided a copy of the firm’s ADV Part 2A brochure and document. 

This video or article is for educational purposes only and is not exhaustive. Nothing discussed during this show/episode should be viewed as investment advice. Diversification and/or any strategy that may be discussed does not guarantee against investment losses but is intended to help manage risk and return. If applicable, historical discussions and/or opinions are not predictive of future events. The content is presented in good faith and has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable. The content is not intended to be legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult a legal, tax, or financial professional for information specific to your individual situation.

This content has not been reviewed by FINRA.

Scams are getting smarter, and retirees are increasingly in the crosshairs.

In this episode, Certified Retirement Counselor Mark Struthers talks about one of the fastest-growing threats to retirees: financial fraud (especially powered by AI). He shares real-world stories of people caught in sophisticated scams and explains how emotion, urgency, and technology combine to create the perfect trap.

Mark also reveals why retirees, especially in a post-pension world, are more vulnerable than ever — and what steps you can take to safeguard your money, identity, and peace of mind.

Listen in to learn practical steps to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your retirement from modern scams that sound more convincing than ever.

Curious about working with Mark? Go to:

Disclosure:

Investment advisory services are offered through Sona Financial LLC (DBA Sona Wealth Advisors, Sona Wealth, Sona Wealth Management), an investment adviser registered in the state of MN. Sona Financial only offers investment advisory services where it is appropriately registered or exempt from registration and only after clients have entered into an investment advisory agreement confirming the terms of engagement and have been provided a copy of the firm’s ADV Part 2A brochure and document. 

This video or article is for educational purposes only and is not exhaustive. Nothing discussed during this show/episode should be viewed as investment advice. Diversification and/or any strategy that may be discussed does not guarantee against investment losses but is intended to help manage risk and return. If applicable, historical discussions and/or opinions are not predictive of future events. The content is presented in good faith and has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable. The content is not intended to be legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult a legal, tax, or financial professional for information specific to your individual situation.

This content has not been reviewed by FINRA.

Healthcare costs are rising, and new legislation could bring big changes to Medicare, Medicaid, and retirement planning. In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers interviews health insurance expert Matt Wicklund about the “One Big Beautiful Bill” and how upcoming policy changes will affect Medicare, Medicaid, and premium tax credits.

Listen in to learn the two biggest mistakes retirees make and practical advice, like when to enroll in Medicare, why brokers can save you money and stress, and how to factor healthcare costs into your financial plan. You'll hear what to watch for in 2025-2026, how rural services and Medicare Advantage plans may change, and simple ways to protect both your health and your finances in retirement.

Curious about working with Mark? Go to:

Disclosure:

Investment advisory services are offered through Sona Financial LLC (DBA Sona Wealth Advisors, Sona Wealth, Sona Wealth Management), an investment adviser registered in the state of MN. Sona Financial only offers investment advisory services where it is appropriately registered or exempt from registration and only after clients have entered into an investment advisory agreement confirming the terms of engagement and have been provided a copy of the firm’s ADV Part 2A brochure and document. 

This video or article is for educational purposes only and is not exhaustive. Nothing discussed during this show/episode should be viewed as investment advice. Diversification and/or any strategy that may be discussed does not guarantee against investment losses but is intended to help manage risk and return. If applicable, historical discussions and/or opinions are not predictive of future events. The content is presented in good faith and has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable. The content is not intended to be legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult a legal, tax, or financial professional for information specific to your individual situation.

This content has not been reviewed by FINRA.

The 4% rule has been the gold standard for decades, but is it holding you back? What if you could retire earlier, spend more, and still feel confident your money will last?

In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers introduces his Green Light Spending approach, a smarter, more flexible alternative to the rigid 4% rule. Listen in as Mark explains how to align your spending with real-life market conditions and personal goals so you can make the most of your healthiest, most active retirement years.

Curious about working with Mark? Go to:

Disclosure:

Investment advisory services are offered through Sona Financial LLC (DBA Sona Wealth Advisors, Sona Wealth, Sona Wealth Management), an investment adviser registered in the state of MN. Sona Financial only offers investment advisory services where it is appropriately registered or exempt from registration and only after clients have entered into an investment advisory agreement confirming the terms of engagement and have been provided a copy of the firm’s ADV Part 2A brochure and document. 

This video or article is for educational purposes only and is not exhaustive. Nothing discussed during this show/episode should be viewed as investment advice. Diversification and/or any strategy that may be discussed does not guarantee against investment losses but is intended to help manage risk and return. If applicable, historical discussions and/or opinions are not predictive of future events. The content is presented in good faith and has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable. The content is not intended to be legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult a legal, tax, or financial professional for information specific to your individual situation.

This content has not been reviewed by FINRA.

We all know about retirement letters to employers, but what about the person who’s been by your side through every late night, career win, and missed vacation? What if retirement was marked not just with HR paperwork, but with a heartfelt letter to your spouse, the real partner who carried you across the finish line?

In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers introduces a novel idea: writing a retirement letter to your spouse. More than a love note, this letter sets expectations, celebrates sacrifices, and opens conversations that make the next chapter healthier, wealthier, and happier.

Get a one-page, customizable retirement letter template when you subscribe to our newsletter

Curious about working with Mark? Go to:

Disclosure:

Investment advisory services are offered through Sona Financial LLC (DBA Sona Wealth Advisors, Sona Wealth, Sona Wealth Management), an investment adviser registered in the state of MN. Sona Financial only offers investment advisory services where it is appropriately registered or exempt from registration and only after clients have entered into an investment advisory agreement confirming the terms of engagement and have been provided a copy of the firm’s ADV Part 2A brochure and document. 

This video or article is for educational purposes only and is not exhaustive. Nothing discussed during this show/episode should be viewed as investment advice. Diversification and/or any strategy that may be discussed does not guarantee against investment losses but is intended to help manage risk and return. If applicable, historical discussions and/or opinions are not predictive of future events. The content is presented in good faith and has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable. The content is not intended to be legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult a legal, tax, or financial professional for information specific to your individual situation.

This content has not been reviewed by FINRA.

Private equity and private credit have long been the playground of institutional investors and the ultra-wealthy, but now they may be coming to your 401(k). Is this a golden opportunity or a risky gamble for your retirement savings?

In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers breaks down the good, the bad, and the downright ugly pitfalls of adding private investments to retirement plans. Listen in to hear why even seasoned investors need to tread carefully when the stakes are your future security.

Curious about working with Mark? Go to:

Disclosure:

Investment advisory services are offered through Sona Financial LLC (DBA Sona Wealth Advisors, Sona Wealth, Sona Wealth Management), an investment adviser registered in the state of MN. Sona Financial only offers investment advisory services where it is appropriately registered or exempt from registration and only after clients have entered into an investment advisory agreement confirming the terms of engagement and have been provided a copy of the firm’s ADV Part 2A brochure and document. 

This video or article is for educational purposes only and is not exhaustive. Nothing discussed during this show/episode should be viewed as investment advice. Diversification and/or any strategy that may be discussed does not guarantee against investment losses but is intended to help manage risk and return. If applicable, historical discussions and/or opinions are not predictive of future events. The content is presented in good faith and has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable. The content is not intended to be legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult a legal, tax, or financial professional for information specific to your individual situation.

This content has not been reviewed by FINRA.

Is all stress bad? Not quite. We’ve been told for years that stress is the enemy, but what if some stress is exactly what your body and mind need—especially as you age? In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers explores the surprising science behind The Stress Paradox by Dr. Sharon Horesh Bergquist.

Listen in to hear why certain types of stress, like cold plunges or cognitive challenges, may be the answer to a healthier and more fulfilling retirement. You'll learn about five types of “good stress” that can build resilience and vitality, plus how embracing discomfort can help you grow physically, mentally, and emotionally as you age.

Curious about working with Mark? Go to:

Disclosure:

Investment advisory services are offered through Sona Financial LLC (DBA Sona Wealth Advisors, Sona Wealth, Sona Wealth Management), an investment adviser registered in the state of MN. Sona Financial only offers investment advisory services where it is appropriately registered or exempt from registration and only after clients have entered into an investment advisory agreement confirming the terms of engagement and have been provided a copy of the firm’s ADV Part 2A brochure and document. 

This video or article is for educational purposes only and is not exhaustive. Nothing discussed during this show/episode should be viewed as investment advice. Diversification and/or any strategy that may be discussed does not guarantee against investment losses but is intended to help manage risk and return. If applicable, historical discussions and/or opinions are not predictive of future events. The content is presented in good faith and has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable. The content is not intended to be legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult a legal, tax, or financial professional for information specific to your individual situation.

This content has not been reviewed by FINRA.

Are your beneficiary designations putting your estate at risk without your knowledge? In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers sits down with estate planning attorney Jennifer Spalding to identify the hidden risks of beneficiary designations.

Listen in to learn the difference between per stirpes and per capita, how probate works, and why healthcare directives matter. You'll discover what you can do today to protect your legacy and your loved ones from costly surprises.

Resources:

Curious about working with Mark? Go to:

Jennifer Spalding

​​Jennifer was born and raised in Minnesota. She attended the University of St. Thomas where she majored in Political Science. Following college, she attended William Mitchell College of Law. Jennifer is admitted to the State of Minnesota, the United States District Court for the State of Minnesota, and the United States Supreme Court. Jennifer is a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association. Jenny was a prosecutor for the city of Eden Prairie prior to moving into Estate Planning. She is currently on the Board of Directors for the Southwest Metro Chamber of Commerce and on the Senior Advisory Committee for the City of Victoria.

Disclosure:

Investment advisory services are offered through Sona Financial LLC (DBA Sona Wealth Advisors, Sona Wealth, Sona Wealth Management), an investment adviser registered in the state of MN. Sona Financial only offers investment advisory services where it is appropriately registered or exempt from registration and only after clients have entered into an investment advisory agreement confirming the terms of engagement and have been provided a copy of the firm’s ADV Part 2A brochure and document. 

This video or article is for educational purposes only and is not exhaustive. Nothing discussed during this show/episode should be viewed as investment advice. Diversification and/or any strategy that may be discussed does not guarantee against investment losses but is intended to help manage risk and return. If applicable, historical discussions and/or opinions are not predictive of future events. The content is presented in good faith and has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable. The content is not intended to be legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult a legal, tax, or financial professional for information specific to your individual situation.

This content has not been reviewed by FINRA.

Are you paying too much for Medicare? You might be, especially if you’re overlooking the IRMAA surcharge. This little-known fee can quietly eat into your retirement savings if you're not careful.

In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers breaks down the top 10 strategies to help reduce or avoid this hidden tax on Medicare premiums. Listen in to learn how smart tax planning, like Roth conversions, tax-efficient withdrawals, and charitable giving, can save you thousands in retirement.

Curious about working with Mark? Go to:

Disclosure:

Investment advisory services are offered through Sona Financial LLC (DBA Sona Wealth Advisors, Sona Wealth, Sona Wealth Management), an investment adviser registered in the state of MN. Sona Financial only offers investment advisory services where it is appropriately registered or exempt from registration and only after clients have entered into an investment advisory agreement confirming the terms of engagement and have been provided a copy of the firm’s ADV Part 2A brochure and document. 

This video or article is for educational purposes only and is not exhaustive. Nothing discussed during this show/episode should be viewed as investment advice. Diversification and/or any strategy that may be discussed does not guarantee against investment losses but is intended to help manage risk and return. If applicable, historical discussions and/or opinions are not predictive of future events. The content is presented in good faith and has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable. The content is not intended to be legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult a legal, tax, or financial professional for information specific to your individual situation.

This content has not been reviewed by FINRA.