Live Well - Tools for a Healthier, Wealthier Life

Matt Wilson breaks down the second pillar of successful investing: balance. From the bucket strategy that takes the fear out of market volatility to the real cost of panic selling, this episode delivers the statistics and frameworks every investor needs to stay disciplined when markets get turbulent.KEY TAKEAWAYS● Balance is the secret weapon of successful investors, and going all in on one idea, stock, sector, or trend is one of the biggest mistakes you can make● The bucket strategy organizes your money into three categories: short-term needs (1 to 3 years), intermediate goals (5 to 10 years), and long-term growth, giving each dollar a clear purpose● Bonds smooth the ride: they produce positive returns about 80% to 85% of the time and dramatically reduce portfolio volatility, even if they don't grow as fast as stocks● Missing just the 10 best stock market days over a 20-year period cuts your total returns in half, and those best days almost always follow the worst ones● The stock market has historically returned about 10% annually, but the average investor earns only about 6% or less because of panic selling, trend chasing, and abandoning their plan● Building a cash reserve before aggressively paying off debt protects you from being one unexpected event away from financial devastation● Don't vote with your portfolio: the market has been positive in 20 out of 24 presidential election years since 1928, and 10-year returns after any election have historically been positiveGUEST INFOThis is a solo episode hosted by Matt Wilson, Financial Advisor, Coach, and Business Owner at Cornerstone Wealth Services in South Bend, Indiana. The episode was recorded live at Truth Work Media's Momentum Studios in South Bend.RESOURCES● Cornerstone Wealth Services: https://www.mattwilsonfinancial.com● Truth Work Media (podcast production and Momentum Studios): https://www.truthworkmedia.com● Downloadable investor checklist connected to the Four Pillars series (available on Matt's website and in show notes)CONNECT● Website: https://www.mattwilsonfinancial.com● Podcast: Live Well with Matt Wilson● Recorded at: Truth Work Media Momentum Studios, South Bend, Indiana#LiveWellPodcast #MattWilson #FinancialPlanning #WealthBuilding #BucketStrategy #InvestingBalance #MarketVolatility #RetirementPlanning #BondsAndStocks #Diversification #FinancialWellness #CornerstoneWealthServices

Welcome to the first episode of a four-part series on investing! Matt focuses on building wealth the right way, through solid principles, discipline, and long-term strategy, not chasing trends or media hype. Learn what makes an investment truly “quality” and how it can help secure your financial future.

One of the biggest challenges in retirement isn’t just saving enough money. It’s turning those savings into a reliable, sustainable income stream. That’s where the bucket strategy comes in.Matt explains that by dividing assets into separate “buckets” for short-term needs and long-term growth, retirees can create structure and clarity in their plan. This approach helps reduce stress, prevent impulsive decisions during market swings, and build lasting confidence about the future.

Grief is a universal part of life, yet it follows no set timeline and offers no simple roadmap. This week, Scott and Nancy Bonner, facilitators of a local GriefShare chapter, explore the deeply personal journey of coping with the loss of a loved one.Together, they discuss the vital role of community, the importance of facing and acknowledging grief, and how shared experiences can help break the isolation that often comes with loss.

Are you making the most of your 409 deferred compensation plan?For high earners, these plans can reduce today’s taxes and boost retirement savings, but once you choose your payout structure, it’s usually irrevocable.Before deciding, consider three things: the tax impact, how the payouts fit into your retirement income plan, and your employer’s financial stability.

This week, Matt and Steve continue their discussion on the financial realities of raising a child with special needs, and the numbers may surprise you.Families can face lifetime costs ranging from $1.4 million to $2.8 million, making early and intentional planning essential. Matt and Steve explore key financial tools, such as special needs trusts and ABLE accounts, and explain how they can help protect your child’s future without jeopardizing critical benefits. Listen as they share tools that can empower families with practical strategies, trusted resources, and reassurance that they don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

Caring for a loved one with special needs comes with emotional and practical challenges that require strength, resilience, and support. In this episode, Matt is joined by Steve Gundy, a coach who shares insights from both personal experience and professional work. They discuss the importance of community, practical strategies for navigating daily challenges, and how families can move forward with clarity and hope.

A donor-advised fund (DAF) is a powerful way to give to charity while maximizing tax benefits. Matt explains how a DAF works, why it’s especially useful in high-income years, and how donating appreciated assets can help avoid capital gains taxes while growing charitable dollars tax-free. Listen to see if a donor-advised fund could be a smart fit for your charitable strategy.

What if just 15 minutes a week could improve both your family’s finances and your relationships?Listen as Matt explores the power of a weekly family money meeting, a simple habit that can reduce stress, improve communication, and create a shared understanding around money.

You can save more in your 401(k) than you think.The after-tax 401(k) option for high savers is often overlooked. In 2025, while the employee contribution limit was $22,500, total 401(k) contributions can reach $69,000, including employer match.Always review your plan rules to see if this option fits your strategy.#AfterTax401k #MegaBackdoorRoth #RetirementPlanning #HighIncomeSavers #WealthBuilding #FinancialEducation #InvestSmart #TaxStrategy #401kTips #MoneyMinute

Can you claim a spousal Social Security benefit now and switch to your own later?In this episode, Matt breaks down why, for most people, the answer is no. Thanks to a rule called deemed filing, anyone born on or after January 2, 1954, automatically applies for both their own and their spouse's benefits at the same time and receives the higher amount. That means the old strategy of claiming one benefit first and switching later is off the table.Listen to learn how timing, strategy, and informed decisions can make a big difference in your Social Security benefits and your long-term financial well-being.

This week, Matt is joined by Keith Langan from Columbia Threadneedle to explore the complexities of retirement, focusing on seven key aspects that are often overlooked.Contrary to common perception, retirement is not just a celebration of newfound freedom; it can be one of life’s most stressful transitions. Leaving the structured rhythm of work can bring losses in routine, identity, community, and purpose. Keith highlights the importance of preparing not only financially but also mentally and emotionally for this major life stage. Retirement can be approached with a sense of purpose and connection, rather than merely stepping away from work, to ensure a truly fulfilling and meaningful experience.

In this episode, Matt and Lyndon Azcuna continue their discussion on how addiction develops, why it’s so hard to break, and what parents need to understand to protect their children. They break down the addiction cycle in simple terms, exploring the triggers that push kids toward unhealthy coping habits and the emotional pain that often sits beneath those patterns.You’ll hear practical, non-negotiable strategies that every parent can use to help their children build emotional awareness and resilience, so they can face difficult feelings without turning to harmful escapes. Throughout the conversation, Lyndon highlights the power of humility, authentic connection, and cultivating a deeper relationship with God as essential tools for navigating life’s challenges.

This week, Lyndon Azcuna returns to discuss the complex realities of addiction, personal crises, and the transformative power of healing within community. Matt and Lyndon unpack the many layers of addiction, exploring not only the behavioral aspects but also the emotional and psychological roots that often fuel these struggles. Lyndon shares why true healing goes far beyond managing symptoms; it requires understanding the deeper issues of the heart and building genuine, supportive relationships.

When you borrow against your 401(k), you’re not just taking out a loan; you’re giving up the potential growth your investments could have earned. While tapping into your retirement savings might seem like an easy solution, Matt breaks down the hidden costs and long-term consequences that often go overlooked. Listen as Matt dives into the important factors to consider before borrowing from your 401(k).

Grief is universal, but how we face it can change everything. This week, Matt continues his conversation with longtime friend and chaplain Dan Duncan to discuss loss, healing, and hope. Together, Matt and Dan confront the staggering reality of veteran suicide and share real strategies for finding strength through vulnerability, community, and care. They also discuss how to navigate grief and support those who carry its weight.

Did you know that only one in four wealthy people actually has a solid estate plan?That means three out of four are leaving their money exposed to lawsuits, market drops, and even medical emergencies.If you’ve worked hard to build your wealth, you’ve got to make sure it’s protected.

This week, Matt Wilson welcomes his longtime friend and chaplain, Dan Duncan, for an intimate conversation about the realities of grief and loss. Drawing from personal experiences, including the death of his newborn grandson, Dan shares how grief is not an emotion to overcome, but a journey to walk through with compassion, faith, and community.Together, Matt and Dan explore what it means to live well in the midst of grief, rather than beyond it, offering heartfelt insights for anyone navigating loss or supporting others through it.

In this episode of The Live Well Podcast, host Matt Wilson speaks with Joe Keifer, Founder of Cornerstone Wealth Management. Matt and Joe unpack what it means to establish trust, credibility, and a client-first mindset, core ingredients for lasting impact in any venture. Joe also shares how taking calculated risks and building strong support systems have shaped his success. Whether you’re starting a business, nonprofit, or personal project, this conversation offers practical insights on perseverance and purpose.

Wealth isn’t just about what you build, it’s about how you protect it. Are your heirs prepared to manage what they’ll inherit? And are your advisors working together for your best interests, not their own? True wealth preservation means more than investments; it’s planning ahead so your legacy lasts.

This week, Matt Wilson and guest Lyndon Azcuna explore the importance of using practical tools to navigate life’s complexities and foster personal growth. They discuss the role of self-awareness and humility as key drivers of personal development and highlight the value of a biblical worldview in addressing life’s challenges. Matt and Lyndon also share actionable resources and frameworks. Listen for insights on how to live a life aligned with your values and promote overall well-being.

63% of people live paycheck to paycheck, even on $100K+.Lifestyle creep is killing your savings. In under 60 seconds, learn how to fix it with the 3-way raise rule: save some, invest some, upgrade a little.It's not about restriction, it's about retention.

In this episode, Matt takes on the confusing world of Medicare, a critical piece of healthcare that most people face as they approach retirement. To help unpack the details, Matt sits down with Medicare specialist Kyle Moore. Together, they dive into the different parts of Medicare, exploring what each one covers, what they cost, and the real-world implications for retirees. Along the way, Kyle clears up some of the most common misconceptions, like the belief that Medicare is completely free or that it automatically covers every medical expense.Listen for practical guidance that will help you confidently navigate your Medicare options.

Welcome to Money Minute with Matt, your dose of financial clarity in under 60 seconds.Credit card interest is now 22%+. A $5,000 balance = $1,000/year in interest. That’s invisible quicksand.Your future doesn’t belong to Visa, it belongs to you.#MoneyMinuteWithMatt #FinancialClarity #SmartMoneyMoves #DebtFreeJourney #CreditCardTips #BudgetBetter #WealthBuilding #FinancialWellness #MoneyMindset #LiveWell

This week, Matt continues his conversation with Lyndon Azcuna. They continue unpacking the deeper meaning of true wealth, beyond just income and liabilities. This episode dives into the often-overlooked “third box”: assets. Lyndon shares how a lack of awareness around this category can keep people stuck in financial struggle and limit their personal growth.They explore how financial well-being is inseparable from a sense of purpose, healthy relationships, and a strong connection to God. Together, they challenge limiting mindsets and highlight the value of viewing wealth through a more holistic lens.Chapters00:00 - Intro00:12 - The Importance of Awareness in Financial Health13:19 - Stories of Redemption18:25 - Where Hope Begins: The Journey of Restoration29:20 - Seeking HelpMentioned in this episode:Find Financial Freedom with Matt!Cornerstone Financial Services

On today’s Money Minute with Matt, he’s sharing a sobering truth: 70% of wealthy families lose their wealth by the second generation, and 90% by the third.Why does this happen? Too often, heirs inherit money without inheriting the knowledge to manage it. So here’s the real question: Are your children financially prepared, or just waiting for the payout?Wealth isn’t just about building assets. It’s about responsibility, planning, and foresight, so your legacy lasts for generations, not just years.Mentioned in this episode:Find Financial Freedom with Matt!Cornerstone Financial Services

In this episode, Matt explores the challenging yet rewarding path of navigating life’s toughest moments and the vital role of nurturing authentic relationships. Guest Lyndon Azcuna, opens up about his powerful journey of transformation through God’s love and mercy. They discuss how to stay anchored in your core values and beliefs during major life changes, including loss and personal crises. Lyndon shares how real resilience goes beyond inner strength; it's about the ability to love and serve others, rooted in a genuine connection with God. Together, Matt and Lyndon dive into what it truly means to live well, emphasizing honesty with ourselves, God, and those around us as the foundation for a purposeful life.Chapters00:00 - Intro05:54 - Beginning the Journey: A Story of Brokenness and Redemption17:43 - Restoration and Redemption in Relationships29:53 - The Pursuit of Restoration and Transformation40:10 - Living with Purpose: Navigating Life's ChallengesMentioned in this episode:Find Financial Freedom with Matt!Cornerstone Financial Services

This week, Matt and guest Domenic Scarpato from Trust & Will tackle one of life’s most avoided but essential topics: estate planning. Shockingly, more than two-thirds of Americans don’t have a will, leaving their loved ones vulnerable during an already difficult time.We break down why so many people put off this step, the common fears and roadblocks that get in the way, and, most importantly, how to move past them. Domenic shares expert insights on how to create a plan that protects your family, preserves your legacy, and prevents conflict down the road.Mentioned in this episode:Find Financial Freedom with Matt!Cornerstone Financial Services

In this episode, Matt dives into what he calls the "Core Four”, the essential skills that drive success and fulfillment in life. These aren't just abstract ideas; they’re practical tools you can use every day.He starts with the power of giving, not just money, but your time, energy, and attention. Giving is the foundation of a meaningful life. But just as important is the ability to receive, to be open, to be vulnerable, and to let others support you when you need it. Matt talks about the strength in saying no, setting boundaries, and protecting your time so you can focus on what truly matters. He also discusses the often-overlooked courage it takes to ask for help, and why that can be the most powerful move of all.Chapters00:00 Intro00:55 - Generosity07:54 - The Importance of Giving Beyond Finances16:02 - Understanding When to Ask for Help18:33 - Connecting Stories and Ideas: The Power of CommunityMentioned in this episode:Find Financial Freedom with Matt!Cornerstone Financial Services

Welcome to the premiere episode of Live Well, the podcast where financial clarity meets real-life transitions. Host Matt Wilson, financial advisor, business owner, and coach, shares the personal story behind the podcast, what it truly means to "live well," and why mindset is just as crucial as money. Drawing from nearly two decades of helping others through career shifts, loss, retirement, and reinvention, Matt introduces the Core Four principles that form a foundation for meaningful living.Whether you're navigating a major life change or simply want more alignment in your finances and purpose, this episode lays the groundwork for what’s to come.Chapters00:00 Intro00:36 - Navigating Life's Changes and Challenges09:57 - The Core Four: Foundations of Success10:54 - Changing Your Financial Mindset18:37 - Navigating Life Changes and Financial PlanningAbout Matt WilsonMatt Wilson learned the value of investing early, inspired by seeing his grandfather’s careful planning provide security for their family. As a financial advisor since 2008, Matt guides clients through his 3D Investment Process (Discover, Design, Deploy), helping them reach personal goals from education funding to retirement planning. Matt joined Cornerstone in 2021 to independently grow his practice. Outside of work, he enjoys golfing, traveling, and family time.ContactWebsite: http://www.mattwilsonfinancial.com/Email: [email protected] Mentioned in this episode:Find Financial Freedom with Matt!Cornerstone Financial Services