Take Pride in Retirement

Early projections suggest Social Security recipients could receive a larger cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in 2027—but is that really something to celebrate? In this episode of Take Pride in Retirement, Matt McClure and Josh Rhett Noble explain how the Social Security COLA is calculated, why a larger increase often signals higher inflation, and what retirees should really focus on when planning for long-term financial security. They also discuss why inflation affects retirees differently than workers, why LGBTQ+ retirees may face unique financial challenges, and how a comprehensive retirement income strategy can help protect purchasing power no matter what inflation does next. If you've seen headlines about a possible 2027 Social Security increase, this episode will help you understand what they really mean. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. Because retirement isn't just about having enough money—it's about having the freedom to create unforgettable experiences. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Many people assume they understand how Social Security works—until they discover just how many important rules they've been missing. In this episode of Take Pride in Retirement, Matt McClure and Josh Rhett Noble break down one of the most misunderstood areas of retirement planning: Social Security spousal and survivor benefits. They explain who qualifies, how benefits are calculated, common misconceptions, and why claiming decisions today can affect retirement income for years to come. Listeners will also learn how these rules apply to same-sex married couples following marriage equality, why divorced spouses may still qualify for benefits, and why working with a Registered Social Security Analyst can help maximize lifetime income. Whether you're married, divorced, widowed, or simply planning ahead, this conversation could help you avoid costly mistakes and make more informed retirement decisions. Because retirement isn't just about having enough money—it's about having the freedom to create unforgettable experiences. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Summer travel is in full swing—but so are higher prices. On this episode, Matt flies solo once again while Josh recovers, and welcomes Shikha Narula, Head of Rewards at Bank of America, for a conversation about how Americans are making travel happen despite rising costs. They discuss travel rewards, budgeting strategies, flexible planning, and why experiences continue to be a priority for so many families. After the interview, Matt explains how travel fits into a comprehensive retirement plan, why rewards points should supplement—not replace—a sound financial strategy, and how LGBTQ+ retirees can intentionally build travel goals into their long-term financial future. Because retirement isn't just about having enough money—it's about having the freedom to create unforgettable experiences. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Artificial intelligence is changing nearly every aspect of our lives—including our careers, earning potential, and ultimately, our retirement plans. This week, Josh is under the weather, so Matt flies solo with a fascinating conversation featuring Dr. Antoinette "Toni" Farmer-Thompson, President of Strayer University. Together they explore how AI is transforming higher education, why AI fluency is becoming an essential workplace skill, and what that means for anyone preparing for retirement. Then Matt connects the dots between career longevity, higher lifetime earnings, Social Security timing, and retirement readiness—especially for members of the LGBTQ+ community who may have experienced career interruptions or discrimination along the way. Artificial intelligence isn't just a technology story anymore. It's becoming a retirement planning story. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

For decades, we've been told to save, save, save for retirement. But what happens when retirement finally arrives and it's time to start spending? In this episode, Josh and I explore one of retirement's biggest emotional challenges: learning how to enjoy the money you've worked so hard to save. We talk about why so many retirees become afraid to spend, how a thoughtful retirement income strategy can provide confidence, and why having a plan is about much more than simply growing your investments. We also discuss why this conversation can be especially meaningful for LGBTQ+ retirees, who may have different family structures, caregiving considerations, and retirement income goals than many traditional planning models assume. If you've ever wondered, "Can I really afford to enjoy my retirement?" this episode is for you. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Chapters (00:00:00) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:00:57) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:02:41) - Matt: On Retirement Spending(00:08:52) - Q&A: Planning for Caregiving in Retirement(00:10:06) - When Do You Finally Get to Enjoy Your Money?(00:13:27) - How to Spend Your Retirement Money(00:17:13) - Take Pride in Retirement

Is Social Security really running out of money? If you've seen alarming headlines about the Social Security trust fund being depleted by 2032, you're not alone—and you're probably wondering what it means for your retirement. In this episode, I sit down with Josh to separate fact from fear. We break down what the trust fund actually is, why Social Security isn't simply "going broke," what could happen if Congress doesn't act, and why making decisions based on scary headlines could cost you thousands of dollars over the course of your retirement. We also talk about why Social Security planning can be especially important for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples, who may face unique retirement planning considerations involving survivor benefits, chosen family, caregiving, and lifetime income. If you've ever wondered whether you should claim benefits early because you're afraid Social Security won't be there, this episode is for you. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Chapters (00:00:00) - LGBTQ Money(00:00:58) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:02:22) - Is Social Security Going Broke? No(00:08:21) - Social Security for LGBTQ+ People(00:11:24) - Social Security: Myth Busting(00:13:42) - Three Things You Need to Know About Social Security(00:16:49) - Social Security Question(00:18:20) - To Take Pride in Retirement

New Medicaid work requirements are scheduled to take effect in 2027, and some healthcare experts are raising concerns about how they could affect cancer patients and survivors. Retirement.Radio's Matt McClure sits down with Dr. Julie Gralow, Chief Medical Officer and Executive Vice President of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), to discuss the potential consequences of these changes. They explore how additional paperwork and reporting requirements could create barriers to care, the risks associated with coverage interruptions, and what patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers should know as states begin implementing the new rules. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Chapters (00:00:00) - Medicaid Work Requirement Could Hurt Cancer Coverage(00:00:30) - Medicaid Work Requirement(00:05:55) - Sen. Graylow on the Medicaid issue(00:06:44) - Dr. Julie Graylow on retirement and oncology

What if one of the biggest keys to retirement success wasn't working harder—but working smarter? In this episode of Take Pride in Retirement, Josh and I discuss why automation can be one of the most powerful tools available when it comes to building long-term financial security. The truth is, most of us have good intentions when it comes to saving and investing, but life gets busy. That's why creating systems that work automatically can help keep you on track even when your attention is focused elsewhere. We'll talk about automating retirement contributions, savings transfers, bill payments, investment rebalancing, and other financial habits that can make a meaningful difference over time. We'll also discuss why small changes—like increasing a retirement contribution by just 1%—can potentially have a significant impact on your future. If you've ever struggled to stay consistent with your financial goals, this episode is for you. Because retirement success isn't usually the result of one big decision. It's the result of thousands of small, smart decisions made consistently over time. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Have your financial goals slipped a little this year? If so, you're definitely not alone. A lot of people start the year feeling motivated and excited about saving more, paying down debt, or getting serious about retirement planning. But by the time summer rolls around, life happens. Vacations, unexpected expenses, busy schedules, and simple procrastination can make those goals feel a lot less urgent. In this episode, Josh and I talk about why so many people lose momentum on their financial goals by the middle of the year—and why June is actually the perfect time for a reset. We'll discuss how to review your retirement contributions, evaluate your investment strategy, make sure your beneficiary designations are up to date, and identify small improvements that can make a big difference over time. Most importantly, we'll talk about why progress beats perfection when it comes to building a successful retirement. No matter where you are today, there's still plenty of time to finish the year strong and move closer to the retirement you deserve. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

June is Annuity Awareness Month, and in this follow-up episode, Matt and Josh focus on the questions every retiree should ask before investing in an annuity. Rather than starting with a product, Matt explains why it's critical to start with the problem you're trying to solve—and whether an annuity is actually the right solution. The conversation explores retirement income planning, longevity risk, market volatility, survivor benefits, liquidity concerns, and how annuities may address unique financial planning needs within the LGBTQ+ community. Matt also explains what "guaranteed income" really means, discusses potential drawbacks and fees, and highlights the importance of beneficiary planning for both traditional and chosen families. If you've been curious about annuities but aren't sure what questions to ask, this episode serves as a practical roadmap to help you make informed decisions. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

June is Annuity Awareness Month, and that means it's time to tackle one of the most misunderstood topics in retirement planning. Matt and Josh dive into the world of annuities, breaking down common myths, explaining the different types available, and helping listeners understand how these products may fit into a retirement income strategy. Are annuities all the same? Do they lock up your money forever? Are they only for wealthy investors? Matt addresses these questions and more while explaining how annuities can help create reliable retirement income—especially for LGBTQ+ retirees who may face unique financial planning challenges due to career interruptions, delayed family formation, or reliance on chosen family. Whether you've heard great things about annuities or horror stories, this episode focuses on education rather than sales pitches, helping you understand the facts so you can make informed decisions about your retirement future. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

In this second installment of our listener-inspired retirement Q&A series, Josh is back with another round of some of the most common questions I hear from LGBTQ+ individuals and couples preparing for retirement. We tackle important topics including the biggest retirement mistakes people make, how often you should really be checking your investment accounts, what happens if one partner handles all the finances, whether you should pay off your mortgage before retirement, concerns about Social Security's future, and what a truly successful retirement actually looks like. Along the way, we discuss why retirement planning is about much more than investments, why communication between partners matters, and why retirement success is ultimately about creating a life you love—not simply accumulating the largest account balance possible. If you're looking for practical retirement guidance delivered in a straightforward and relatable way, this episode is for you. No matter who you are, where you come from, who you love, how you identify, or how much money you have, you deserve a retirement you can take pride in. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

What are the biggest retirement questions LGBTQ+ individuals and couples are asking right now? In this special Q&A episode of Take Pride in Retirement, Josh puts me in the hot seat as we tackle some of the most common retirement planning questions I hear from clients and listeners. We discuss Social Security claiming strategies for married couples, how marriage equality impacts retirement planning today, how much cash retirees should keep on hand, estate planning considerations for people without children, the truth about annuities, and whether it's ever too late to catch up on retirement savings. Along the way, we explore some of the unique financial planning challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and couples, including survivor benefits, chosen family considerations, and the importance of keeping estate documents up to date. If you've ever wondered whether you're making the right retirement decisions—or if you're worried you may be behind—this episode is packed with practical guidance designed to help you move forward with confidence. No matter who you are, where you come from, who you love, how you identify, or how much money you have, you deserve a retirement you can take pride in. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Retirement.Radio’s Matt McClure speaks with Dr. Ryan Potter about the growing issue of hearing loss among first responders and why protecting hearing health is so important in high-pressure emergency situations. Dr. Potter explains that long-term noise exposure impacts an estimated 80% of law enforcement officers, 40% of firefighters, and 45% of EMS providers, creating challenges that can affect both job performance and quality of life. The conversation also highlights practical ways everyone can protect their hearing, from using hearing protection in loud environments to getting baseline hearing evaluations and taking a proactive approach to long-term hearing health. Dr. Potter shares the personal story that inspired his career in audiology and discusses how Hearing Life is helping people improve their hearing through assessments, treatment options, and special savings opportunities for first responders. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Chapters (00:00:00) - How hearing can help first responders(00:00:39) - What is hearing loss among first responders?(00:02:15) - First Responders: How to Protect Their Hearing(00:04:49) - What Inspired You to Dedicate Your Life to Hearing Loss?(00:06:25) - Dr. Ryan Potter Discusses Hearing Health for First Responders

On this episode of Take Pride in Retirement, Josh and I dive into a new study from Goldman Sachs that found something incredibly important: people with a written, personalized retirement plan tend to feel more confident, save more consistently, and experience better financial outcomes overall. We talk about the difference between simply having retirement accounts and actually having a strategy — and why that distinction matters so much, especially for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples navigating retirement without a traditional template. We also discuss the emotional side of retirement planning, the importance of financial confidence, and the role consistency and “financial grit” play in long-term success. If you’ve ever wondered whether your current retirement approach is enough — or if you’re simply “winging it” — this episode is for you. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

May is Military appreciation month, a time to honor the men and women who serve and have served our great nation…And while we honor those associated with the military, members and veterans are fighting a different battle: finances, and purpose.Key Points Covered: Finding a purpose -  For many who leave the military, the biggest challenge isn’t just money — it’s finding purpose in a new civilian world. Financial Stability - With a solid financial foundation, veterans gain the freedom to chase meaningful work instead of just any paycheck. Financial Options - Several powerful financial vehicles are available specifically for former service members. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

There’s one fear that keeps coming up again and again when it comes to retirement—and it’s not what you might think. In fact, more Americans say they’re afraid of running out of money than they are of death itself. In this episode, Josh and I unpack why that fear is so widespread, why it’s getting worse, and what’s really driving it beneath the surface. We talk about everything from rising healthcare costs and longer life expectancies to the disappearance of pensions and uncertainty around Social Security. Most importantly, I walk you through how to turn that fear into action—by building a real income plan that gives you clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. Because retirement shouldn’t feel like a guessing game. If you’ve ever wondered whether your money will last—or how to make sure it does—this episode is for you. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Pensions used to be the gold standard for retirement—but for most of us today, they’re a thing of the past. In this episode, I’m breaking down how you can create your own personal pension using annuities and why that matters more than ever—especially for those of us in the LGBTQ+ community. Josh and I walk through what an annuity actually is (in plain English), the different types you should know about, and how to figure out how much income you’ll really need in retirement. We also talk about why retirement isn’t just about building a big nest egg—it’s about turning that money into reliable, lifelong income you can count on. If you’ve ever wondered how to replace your paycheck in retirement—or how to protect yourself from market uncertainty—this episode is for you. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

What you don’t know about money can cost you—especially when it comes to retirement. In this episode, Josh and I take a Mythbusters-style approach to some of the most common (and costly) financial misconceptions out there. We’re talking about things like employer matches, annuities, Social Security, longevity, and Medicare—and separating fact from fiction. These myths don’t just lead to confusion… they can lead to missed opportunities, lost income, and real financial stress down the road. We also dig into why these misconceptions can have an even bigger impact in the LGBTQ+ community—where many of us are planning without traditional safety nets, relying more on personal savings, and navigating systems that weren’t always built with us in mind. Most importantly, I’ll show you what to do instead—so you can replace guesswork with a plan that’s built for you. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Chapters (00:00:00) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:00:53) - A Taste of Pride in Retiring With Matt McClure(00:01:23) - Coming soon: How to Budget for Retirement(00:02:52) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:04:04) - 5 big misconceptions about retirement plans(00:07:52) - Myth #2: All Annuities Are Bad(00:12:13) - Myth #3: Social Security Will Disappear(00:17:21) - 4 Myth #3, Medicare covers everything. Don't Outlive(00:23:24) - Myths About Retirement

Inflation might be “cooling” according to the headlines—but if you’re like most people, it probably doesn’t feel that way. In this episode, Josh and I break down what’s really going on with inflation, why prices are still so high, and what it all means for your retirement plan. We talk about the disconnect between the numbers you hear in the news and the reality you feel every day at the gas pump, the grocery store, and beyond. We also dive into why inflation can hit the LGBTQ+ community even harder—especially when it comes to relying on personal savings, navigating healthcare costs, and planning without a traditional family safety net. Most importantly, I walk you through what you can actually do about it—from building reliable income streams to planning for rising costs and creating a strategy that reflects your real life. If you’ve been feeling stressed, uncertain, or like your money just isn’t going as far as it used to… you’re not imagining it. But there are steps you can take—and that’s what this episode is all about. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Chapters (00:00:00) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:00:58) - Take Pride in Retirement with Matt McClure(00:01:26) - Inflation: How to manage it in retirement(00:03:16) - Inflation and the LGBTQ+ Community(00:07:26) - The Top Concerns of Americans(00:10:16) - How Do You Feel About Your Financial Situation?(00:13:38) - The Biggest Fears People Have About Retirement and Living(00:16:05) - Inflation during the Pandemic(00:19:35) - Retirement Planning: How to Control Your Money(00:22:37) - Facebook Live: A Conversation About the World(00:23:02) - Mr. Noble's Retirement Speech(00:24:25) - Take Pride in Retirement

What are the biggest financial mistakes that can quietly derail your retirement? In this episode, Josh and I break down some of the most common bad money habits I see—and how you can avoid them before they cost you. We talk about why emotional investing—especially during market downturns—can do more harm than good, and what to do instead. I also walk through key decisions around Social Security, including when it might make sense to delay benefits and how that impacts long-term income, especially for LGBTQ+ couples navigating spousal and survivor benefits. We also dive into the everyday habits that can make or break your financial future—like not saving first, avoiding a budget, carrying high-interest debt, or overspending on housing. And most importantly, we talk about the biggest mistake of all: not having a plan. As always, we bring it back to the unique realities of the LGBTQ+ community—from chosen family dynamics to planning without traditional support systems—and why having a personalized strategy matters more than ever. If you want to build a retirement you can truly take pride in, this episode will help you identify what to fix—and how to move forward with confidence. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

How much do you really need to retire? You’ve probably heard the latest “magic number”—$1.46 million—but in this episode, I’m breaking down why that number might not matter as much as you think. Josh and I dive into what’s driving that number higher, including inflation, longer life expectancy, and uncertainty around Social Security. But more importantly, I explain why retirement planning shouldn’t be focused on hitting one big savings goal—it should be about creating reliable income that lasts for the rest of your life. We also talk about where people actually stand today (and why many feel behind), what younger savers can do right now to set themselves up for success, and how those closer to retirement can still make meaningful progress. And as always, we highlight the unique challenges and opportunities within the LGBTQ+ community—from career disruptions to chosen family planning and the importance of getting your legal and financial ducks in a row. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or discouraged about your retirement savings, this episode is designed to shift your mindset—and give you a clear path forward. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Financial Literacy Month continues, and in this episode, I’m focusing on something that doesn’t get talked about enough in retirement planning—fraud and scams. After dealing with a fraud situation myself recently, this topic hit close to home. Josh and I break down why fraud is one of the biggest threats to your retirement, how scammers operate, and what you can do to protect your hard-earned money. I’m also joined by Kathy Stokes from the AARP Fraud Watch Network, who shares eye-opening insights from a new study showing just how widespread fraud has become—and why it can happen to anyone. We’ll cover the most common red flags, practical steps to safeguard your accounts, and exactly what to do if you ever find yourself targeted. Because retirement planning isn’t just about growing your money—it’s about protecting it. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

April is Financial Literacy Month, and in this episode, I’m breaking down some of the biggest retirement blind spots I see all the time when working with clients—especially within the LGBTQ+ community. Josh and I walk through the risks that often go unnoticed: living longer than expected, underestimating healthcare costs, misunderstanding taxes in retirement, and relying too heavily on savings without a real income strategy. These aren’t mistakes people are intentionally making—they’re gaps in planning that can quietly reshape your retirement if left unaddressed. We also talk about how these issues can uniquely impact LGBTQ+ individuals and couples, from aging without traditional support systems to navigating Social Security and healthcare decisions. If you want to build a retirement plan that gives you clarity, confidence, and income you can count on, this episode is for you. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

If retirement is on your radar—even a little bit—this is one of the most important conversations you can hear. In this episode of Take Pride in Retirement, Josh and I are diving into what’s known as the retirement red zone—that critical 5 to 10-year window before you retire, plus those first few years after you leave the workforce. And let me tell you… what you do during this time can truly make or break your financial future. We walk through six key steps you should be taking right now to strengthen your retirement plan—from building your “human capital” and creating a Social Security strategy, to making sure you have a solid safety net and protecting yourself from sequence of returns risk. And as always, we bring it back to our LGBTQ+ community—because many of us are navigating retirement without traditional support systems, pensions, or generational wealth. That makes planning ahead not just important… but essential. This episode is all about taking control while you still can—so you’re not scrambling later. If you’re within a decade of retirement—or already stepping into it—this is your roadmap. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Happy "America Saves Week!" Guest: Shikha Narula, Head of Consumer Deposit Products at Bank of America Key Takeaways from the Interview Saving remains a priority—but it’s challenging: ~52% of Americans say saving is a top priority ~72% say inflation and cost of living are impacting finances Automation is one of the easiest wins: Tools like debit round-ups (e.g., “Keep the Change”) Recurring automatic transfers to “pay yourself first” Balance saving with lifestyle (don’t eliminate joy spending): Cut back—not cut out—small treats Identify “joy spending” categories and prioritize intentionally Use the 50/30/20 framework: 50% needs 30% wants 20% savings Make big goals more achievable: Break savings goals into smaller milestones Set deadlines and celebrate progress Use separate accounts for specific goals (reduces temptation) Free up extra cash with small adjustments: Review subscriptions Reduce unnecessary spending (rideshare, etc.) Small changes can compound over time Helpful resources mentioned: America Saves Week BetterMoneyHabits.com Bank of America Life Plan tools Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Market volatility is something we all hear about—but if you’re close to retirement or already there, it hits a whole lot differently. In this episode of Take Pride in Retirement, Josh and I break down what’s really going on when the markets get shaky—and more importantly, what you can actually do about it. Because this isn’t just about numbers on a screen… it’s about your income, your lifestyle, and your peace of mind. We talk through the real risks retirees face—especially something called sequence of returns risk—and why timing matters more than most people realize once you start taking withdrawals. Then, we walk through five practical strategies to help you stay in control, even when the market feels anything but predictable. From building a cash buffer to adjusting your investment mix, being flexible with withdrawals, avoiding emotional decisions, and creating reliable income streams—this episode is all about preparation over panic. And as always, we bring it back to what matters most for our LGBTQ+ community. Many of us are building retirement on our own terms, without traditional pensions or safety nets—so having a smart, personalized plan isn’t just helpful… it’s essential. If the market has you feeling uneasy right now, take a deep breath. You’ve got more control than you think—and we’re here to help you use it. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

April is National Financial Literacy Month. It started back in the early 2000s when Congress realized too many Americans were leaving school without the first clue about how to manage a paycheck, a credit card, or a financial future.  Fast-forward to 2026, and the problem hasn’t gone away. Nearly half of U.S. adults still give themselves a C-minus or worse on money knowledge…Key Points Covered: Review one monthly bill and see if you can cut, renegotiate, or cancel it Set one small savings goal — even twenty bucks a paycheck counts Learn just one new money concept — like how compound interest works for you instead of against you Sit down with your partner or your kids and have one honest conversation about money. No judgment, Just real talk Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Chapters (00:00:00) - April is National Financial Literacy Month

This is part two of our series on the financial realities of losing a spouse, and in this episode, Josh and I shift from problems to solutions. I'm sharing the exact action steps you can take—both before and after loss—to protect yourself and your partner. I reveal the five most common mistakes people make in the first year after losing a spouse, what I call the "fog period" when grief impairs decision-making. From selling homes too quickly to claiming Social Security at the wrong time, I break down the costly errors that can affect your finances for decades. The statistics are sobering: more than 62% of people report feeling unprepared, and only 4% of retirees claim Social Security at the optimal time. But here's the good news: couples who plan together are significantly more confident and financially secure. I walk you through exactly what you should be doing right now—from open communication about finances to updating beneficiary designations, establishing powers of attorney, and making sure both partners understand where all the accounts and documents are. For LGBTQ+ couples, I emphasize why ironclad estate planning isn't optional—it's essential. We've fought too hard for our rights not to use them fully. I explain why our legal documents need to be bulletproof, especially in situations where discrimination may still exist or when dealing with potentially unsupportive family members. Plus, I'm throwing in a bonus segment for anyone who feels they started retirement planning late. I share five concrete steps to catch up, from maximizing contributions to creating a realistic budget. And yes, I'll explain why that folder of important documents needs to exist in your home—right now. Remember: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The time to plan isn't after loss strikes—it's today. If you're ready to create your own protection plan, I'm here to help. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Chapters (00:00:00) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:00:58) - Take Pride in Retirement: The Money Matters(00:03:23) - Grief and financial decisions: The first year(00:10:18) - What should widows do to manage their finances after losing a spouse(00:15:59) - What LGBTQ Couples Need to Do To Protect Each Other(00:19:12) - How Prepared Are Couples for a Spouse's Death?(00:21:09) - What Should Married Couples Do to Prepare for Their Wedding?(00:23:27) - What happens if couples don't plan for the death of a spouse(00:25:50) - LGBTQ+ Family Financial Planning Basics(00:27:39) - Should LGBTQ Families Work With a Financial Advisor?(00:29:20) - 5 Steps to Catch Up on Your Retirement Plan(00:34:31) - Widow's Guide to Retirement Planning(00:36:39) - Pride in Retirement with Matt McClure

In this episode, my husband Josh and I tackle one of the toughest topics in retirement planning: what happens financially when you lose a spouse. I know this isn't easy to think about, but it's absolutely critical—especially for those of us in the LGBTQ+ community who face unique challenges. I break down the real numbers: over 1.2 million Americans age 60+ lose a spouse every year, and newly widowed individuals experience an average income drop of about 11%. Even more concerning? 41% say they had no financial planning discussions with their spouse beforehand. We dive deep into what changes when you lose a partner—from Social Security survivor benefits (spoiler: you don't keep both checks) to pension structures, tax filing status shifts, and what I call the "widow's penalty." I explain why the lower-earning spouse's benefit disappears, how your tax rate can actually increase even as your income drops, and why decisions you made years ago about pensions can have huge consequences now. For LGBTQ+ couples, this conversation has extra layers. We've fought hard for marriage equality and survivor benefits—now we need to protect those rights with ironclad estate planning. I share practical steps you can take today to prepare, including smart Social Security claiming strategies and how to minimize the financial shock of widowhood. This isn't about being pessimistic—it's about protecting the people you love and the independence you've worked so hard to build. If you're concerned about your own situation or want to make sure you have a plan in place, I encourage you to reach out for a complimentary consultation. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Chapters (00:00:00) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:00:53) - Take Pride IN Retirement: Widower's Retirement(00:04:27) - When You Lose A Partner, Do You Think About The Emotional(00:05:19) - What to Do About Retirement Debt When You're Gay(00:07:03) - Nearly 1.2 million Americans age 60 and older lose a spouse(00:10:22) - Widow and Widowers Financial Double Hit(00:15:28) - Widowhood and Social Security(00:17:56) - LGBTQ Pension and Retirement Plan Issues(00:20:27) - Widow's Taxes on the IRS(00:22:22) - Widows and Social Security: What to Do Ahead of Time

Welcome back to part two of our Women's History Month series! Josh and I are continuing our deep dive into retirement planning issues that specifically impact women, with a focus on the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode, we tackle one of the most critical decisions you'll make in retirement: when to claim Social Security. Should you take it at 62, or is waiting until 70 the smarter move? I break down the key claiming decisions, including how delaying your benefits can give you an 8% annual increase—essentially an 8% raise every year you wait past your full retirement age. For women who statistically live longer than men, and especially for lesbian couples where both partners may have longer life expectancies, this decision becomes even more crucial. As a Registered Social Security Analyst, I explain how spousal and survivor benefits work for married couples, and why coordinating your Social Security strategy as a household is absolutely essential. The higher-earning spouse's benefit often becomes the survivor benefit, so maximizing that monthly check can make a huge difference later in life. Since marriage equality only became nationwide in 2015, many same-sex couples haven't had as much time to plan for these coordinated strategies—making it even more important to get it right. We also explore the power of financial education and confidence building. This episode is packed with actionable strategies and real solutions. Remember, knowledge is power, but applied knowledge is true power. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

I'm excited to share a special episode of Take Pride in Retirement with you! Not only are we diving deep into critical retirement planning issues for women during Women's History Month, but I'm also introducing someone very special—my husband, Josh Rhett Noble, who's joining me as co-host going forward. In this episode, Josh and I tackle the unique retirement challenges that women face, with a particular focus on women in the LGBTQ+ community. We discuss some eye-opening statistics that every woman needs to know: women live an average of five years longer than men, earn only 82 cents for every dollar men earn, and 65% have career interruptions due to caregiving responsibilities. For lesbian couples, these challenges are multiplied. I break down what I call the "widow's tax"—the financial impact that hits when one spouse passes away, changing your tax filing status and reducing household income, often by a third. We also explore longevity risk and why planning for 30+ years of retirement is becoming the norm rather than the exception. With 70% of people needing long-term care at some point, having a comprehensive plan is more critical than ever. Whether you're in a same-sex relationship, straight, single, or anything in between, this episode offers practical strategies for Social Security optimization, income planning, and building a retirement you can truly take pride in. As always, I'm here to help. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Market volatility got you stressed? I'm here to help you keep calm and carry on! In this episode, I'm tackling emotional investing and explaining why discipline beats panic every single time. I'm sharing why you don't need a complete financial overhaul to make progress—small, incremental changes can create massive long-term impact. I'm covering the power of compound interest, catch-up contributions, and redirecting raises into your retirement accounts. I'm also discussing LGBTQ+-specific protection strategies that are non-negotiable: estate planning, powers of attorney, and income protection through products like fixed indexed annuities. Plus, I'm recapping spring financial cleaning tips that could save you serious money. Whether markets are up or down, I'm here to help you build a retirement strategy that lasts. Let's focus on what we can control together! Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

It’s starting to feel more like spring, and I'm using this episode to help you reset your retirement strategy for Q2 2026! I'm breaking down the current economic landscape, from Fed interest rates to market volatility, and explaining what it all means for LGBTQ+ investors like us. I'm covering the unique financial challenges our community faces—wage gaps, higher healthcare costs, employment discrimination, and delayed Social Security benefits. Plus, I'm sharing three key priorities for this season: updating legal documents, maximizing retirement contributions, and building your emergency fund. I'm also introducing the "fresh start effect" and how you can use this springtime energy to re-engage with your financial goals. Whether you're planning for retirement or already retired, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you take pride in your financial future. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Spring has arrived, and while your home gets its annual refresh, your finances might be collecting their own quiet clutter… First, clean up your accounts - If your money is scattered across multiple banks, and brokerage firms, it can feel chaotic. Next, declutter your debt - Multiple credit cards, loans with varying interest rates, and different due dates can create unnecessary pressure. Organize your income and expenses - Take a hard look at where your money actually goes each month Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Estate planning and automation—two topics that might not sound exciting, but trust me, they're critical for protecting everything you've worked for. In this episode, I'm breaking down why LGBTQ+ individuals face unique vulnerabilities when it comes to estate planning and what you can do about it right now. Did you know that only 15% of LGBTQ+ people have worked with a financial professional who understood their specific needs? Or that beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance policies override your will? Without proper documentation, your biological family could make decisions for you, even if you're estranged. Your partner might be locked out of your hospital room. Your assets could go to people who rejected you. I cover the essential documents you need—wills, trusts, healthcare directives, and powers of attorney—and why your beneficiary designations might be your biggest risk right now. Then I shift gears to talk about automation: how to set up your finances so they run on autopilot, reducing stress and freeing you up to actually enjoy retirement. This is part two of our spring cleaning series, and it's all about working smarter, not harder. Schedule a free consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com—let's protect your legacy and secure your future together! Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Spring has sprung, and it's time to clean up those retirement accounts! In this episode, I'm tackling something crucial for our community—finding forgotten retirement money, cutting hidden fees, and making sure your investments match where you are in life right now. Did you know that 57% of LGBTQ+ folks earn less than $50,000 annually? That means we can't afford to lose money to unnecessary fees or leave accounts scattered across old employers. I'll show you exactly how to track down those lost 401(k)s (yes, even from that job you left 15 years ago), identify fees that could be costing you tens of thousands, and check if your asset allocation still makes sense for your goals. Whether you've changed jobs due to discrimination, moved for acceptance, or just want to get your financial house in order, this episode gives you the roadmap. Visit TakePrideInRetirement.com to schedule a free consultation and let's build the retirement you can take pride in! Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Welcome to Episode 100! I can't believe we've reached this incredible milestone together. Thank you for being part of this journey as we help LGBTQ+ individuals and couples build retirements rooted in clarity, confidence, and pride. For this special episode, I'm diving deep into one of the most powerful retirement strategies available: tax-free income using life insurance. This is Part 2 of our life insurance series, and today we're getting tactical about taxes—specifically, how to create income streams that Uncle Sam can't touch. I start with a reality check for LGBTQ+ retirees: many of us are single later in life, we have fewer tax shelters, and we face higher income tax exposure than the general population. That's why tax strategy isn't optional—it's essential. And one of the most misunderstood tools in retirement planning is the Indexed Universal Life (IUL) policy. I introduce the three-bucket strategy that every retiree needs: taxable accounts, tax-deferred accounts (like 401(k)s and IRAs), and tax-free assets (like IULs and Roth accounts). For LGBTQ+ retirees specifically, we face what I call "invisible tax risks"—higher likelihood of being single later in life, loss of married filing advantages, and the widow's penalty (where one spouse passes and the surviving partner faces a similar income with smaller tax brackets, leading to significantly higher taxes). Tax-free income sources can help offset these risks. I also address life insurance as a volatility buffer – and I bust four major life insurance myths. Bottom line? Retirement planning in the LGBTQ+ community has never been one-size-fits-all. It requires flexibility, thoughtful strategies, and intentional protection. Life insurance can be a protection tool, a tax strategy, a legacy vehicle, and a source of confidence all rolled into one. Thank you for 100 episodes of this journey. Let's keep building retirements we can all take pride in. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Chapters (00:00:00) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:00:58) - Take Pride In Retirement(00:01:41) - Taxes and Retirement: How to Plan Your Life(00:04:01) - Retirement Tax Strategy: Life Insurance Policies(00:10:51) - LGBTQ+ Retirement Risks(00:13:24) - 3 Bucket Strategy for Retirement(00:19:48) - Life Insurance: Four Myths debunked(00:24:15) - LGBTQ Retirement Planning: Take Pride in Retirement(00:28:09) - Sponsored: Take Pride in Retirement

Life insurance isn't what it used to be—and that's great news for your retirement plan. Today's episode is all about how life insurance has evolved from a simple death benefit into a powerful financial asset that can protect you while you're still living. I break down the fundamental difference between term and permanent life insurance using a simple analogy: renting versus owning. Term insurance is like renting—it's temporary, inexpensive, and great for specific needs like income replacement when you're raising kids. But it expires right around the time you start thinking about legacy planning. Permanent insurance, on the other hand, is like owning—it builds cash value over time and becomes an asset you can actually use. For LGBTQ+ retirees, this distinction matters even more. Many of us didn't have access to spousal benefits for decades, changed jobs frequently, or didn't build traditional safety nets. That makes protection later in life more important, not less. And the question isn't just "do you have life insurance?"—it's "does it protect you and your loved ones for the life you're actually living?" The bottom line? Life insurance today is about independence, dignity, and protecting the people who matter most—no matter who they are. And in next week's episode, I'll show you how to use life insurance to create tax-free income in retirement. Stay tuned! Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Chapters (00:00:00) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:00:53) - Take Pride In Retirement(00:01:53) - LGBTQ+ Retirement Planning(00:05:01) - Life insurance for LGBTQ retirees(00:08:51) - Life Insurance Basics: Term vs Permanent Insurance(00:17:47) - Living Benefits in Life Insurance(00:27:01) - Life Insurance for Retirement Income(00:27:51) - To Take Pride in Retirement

This is part two of our healthcare series, and today we're shifting from awareness to action. Here's a statistic that might surprise you: nearly seven out of ten people turning 65 today will need some form of long-term care. And here's what really catches people off guard—Medicare does not cover long-term care. With nursing home costs easily exceeding six figures annually, where is that money going to come from? For my LGBTQ+ listeners, this conversation is especially critical. Many of us are likely to age alone or rely on chosen family for caregiving. Planning early isn't just about finances—it's about protecting your dignity, maintaining control over where you receive care, and ensuring you have options rather than being forced into situations by financial necessity. I break down several strategic options: standalone long-term care insurance, hybrid life insurance solutions with living benefits, and annuities that double your monthly income when you're in a long-term care facility. We also tackle the major decision between Medicare Advantage and Medigap—Medicare Advantage has lower upfront premiums but can surprise you with co-pays and network restrictions, while Medigap offers better predictability and provider flexibility. This choice matters even more for LGBTQ+ folks who may relocate in retirement or need access to inclusive providers. Finally, I reveal one of the most underrated planning tools: Health Savings Accounts. HSAs offer triple tax advantages—contributions may be tax deductible, growth is tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified healthcare expenses are tax-free. After age 65, you gain even more flexibility with these funds. The bottom line? Healthcare planning shouldn't be driven by fear. It's about building a retirement where you feel prepared, protected, and confident. Remember: control the things you can control—and healthcare decisions are absolutely within your control. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Chapters (00:00:00) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:00:58) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:02:13) - Retirement Healthcare Costs(00:02:56) - Take Pride in Retirement: Get Your Plan Done(00:04:18) - Long-Term Care in Retirement(00:11:41) - Choosing the right Medicare health care plan for retirement(00:14:44) - Healthcare Planning for LGBTQ Couples

Healthcare costs are one of the biggest sources of anxiety for people heading into retirement—and in this episode, I'm breaking down exactly what you need to know to prepare without panicking. I dive deep into Medicare's alphabet soup (Parts A, B, C, and D), revealing the costly mistakes that can haunt you for life—like late enrollment penalties that never go away. I also introduce you to IRMAA, those income-related surcharges that can double or even triple your Medicare premiums based on a two-year lookback. If you're within five years of turning 65, this timing discussion is absolutely critical. For my LGBTQ+ listeners, I address the unique dynamics we face: single retirees dealing with higher per-person costs, the reality of chosen family versus traditional caregiving structures, and the uneven access to employer benefits many of us have experienced throughout our careers. These factors make strategic healthcare planning even more essential for our community. I'm also joined by Carly Roszkowski from AARP, who shares invaluable insights about older workers navigating today's challenging job market. We discuss how AI is transforming the job search process—both as a challenge and as a powerful tool—and what resources are available for those looking to work longer or return to the workforce. This is part one of our healthcare series, and in the next episode, we'll tackle long term care coverage and other critical decisions you need to make. Don't miss it. Remember: you can control the things you can control—and healthcare planning is definitely one of them. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

In the last episode, we talked about why inflation still matters — especially for LGBTQ+ retirees. In this episode, we move from awareness to action. I walk through real strategies you can use to protect your retirement from rising costs, including how Social Security cost-of-living adjustments actually work (and where they fall short), how to build income streams that keep up with inflation, and why diversification and disciplined planning are critical over the long run. We also dive into one of the biggest drivers of healthcare inflation: prescription drug costs. I sit down with Antonio Ciaccia of 46brooklyn Research to unpack the hidden role pharmacy benefit managers play in drug pricing — and why it matters for your retirement plan. If you want to protect your purchasing power, build a resilient income strategy, and create a plan designed for real LGBTQ+ life experiences — this episode is packed with insights to help you take the next step. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

Inflation may not dominate the headlines like it did a few years ago — but make no mistake, it’s still reshaping retirement outcomes in a big way. In this episode, I break down why inflation remains one of the biggest long-term threats to financial security, especially for members of the LGBTQ+ community. From healthcare and housing to groceries and travel, rising costs don’t just impact your budget — they impact your independence. And for LGBTQ+ retirees who may be more likely to be single, rely on chosen family, or have faced career or legal barriers in the past, inflation can quietly shrink the margin for error even more. I’ll walk through how inflation compounds over time, why your personal inflation rate matters more than national averages, and how to stress-test your retirement plan so it holds up in uncertain economic conditions. Plus, we feature a recession-readiness report with practical steps to stay prepared no matter what the economy does next. If you want a retirement plan built specifically for your life, your identity, and your goals — this episode is for you. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

In this episode of Take Pride in Retirement, I’m diving into a topic that can quietly do more damage to your retirement than market volatility: taxes. We talk about “tax drag” — how even small inefficiencies can reduce your income over time — and why it matters especially for LGBTQ+ retirees who may face unique planning challenges around filing status, survivor planning, and income strategy. I break down how required minimum distributions (RMDs), Social Security taxation, and Medicare IRMAA surcharges can all impact what you actually take home in retirement. We also talk about Roth accounts, rollovers, and the importance of having a personalized tax strategy instead of relying on one-size-fits-all advice.  Plus, I’m joined by Rod Griffin from Experian for an important conversation about building an emergency fund. We discuss why so many Americans struggle to save, and simple ways to get started — even if you’re living paycheck to paycheck.  This episode is all about helping you keep more of what you’ve worked so hard to earn and building financial confidence for the future. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

In this episode of Take Pride in Retirement, I take a deep dive into one of the most overlooked threats to long-term financial security: hidden investment fees. Even small percentages — 1% here, a fraction there — can quietly compound over time and cost you tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in retirement. And for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples who may have fewer traditional safety nets, those costs can have an even bigger impact. I walk through where fees tend to hide, including 401(k)s, mutual funds, advisory structures, and workplace plans. We talk about how expense ratios work, why high-cost investments can reduce long-term growth, and how compounding can either help you build wealth — or work against you. Most importantly, I explain what you can actually do about it. Because retirement planning isn’t just about how much you save… it’s about how efficiently your money is working for you. If you’ve ever wondered whether your retirement plan is truly optimized, this episode will help you take a closer look under the hood. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

On this episode of Take Pride in Retirement, I take a deep dive into Social Security planning, with a special focus on the issues that matter most to LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. From market volatility and inflation to spousal, survivor, and divorce-related benefits, this episode is all about helping you understand how Social Security really fits into your overall retirement plan.  I break down why claiming decisions are never one-size-fits-all, how timing can dramatically impact your lifetime income, and why guaranteed income matters even more if your career—or your relationships—didn’t follow a traditional path. We also talk about how taxes and Medicare premiums can quietly reduce what you actually keep, and why planning ahead can help you avoid unpleasant surprises later. No matter your relationship status, income level, or background, you deserve clarity and confidence heading into retirement. My goal with this episode is to help you replace guesswork with a strategy—and build a retirement you can truly take pride in. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

On this episode of Take Pride in Retirement, I’m joined by Mark Steber, Chief Tax Officer at Jackson Hewitt Tax Service, to break down some of the most important tax changes impacting individuals and retirees heading into 2026. We talk about new deductions, who qualifies, and how missing just one line on your return could mean leaving thousands of dollars on the table.  Before and after my conversation with Mark, I also dig into two critical planning topics that matter deeply for the LGBTQ+ community: managing everyday expenses in retirement and building (or rebuilding) a proper emergency fund. For many of us, retirement planning happens without traditional safety nets—no pensions, limited family support, or delayed access to spousal benefits—so flexibility and preparation are everything.  No matter who you are, where you’re from, or who you love—you deserve a retirement you can take pride in. This episode is all about giving you clarity, confidence, and control over the things you can manage. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

This episode is part two and the conclusion of our series on the five major retirement shifts happening right now—and how they’re affecting LGBTQ+ individuals and couples as we head into 2026. In part one, we talked about where you live, healthcare costs, and longevity. Today, we wrap things up by diving into two topics that often cause the most confusion—and the most mistakes: Social Security and purpose in retirement. We’ll take an honest look at: What Social Security was really designed to do (and what it wasn’t) Why relying on Social Security alone is risky How claiming decisions differ for single LGBTQ+ people versus couples Why purpose matters just as much as money in retirement And the biggest planning mistakes I see people making right now Retirement isn’t just about dollars and cents. It’s about confidence, clarity, and building a life you actually want to wake up to. This episode brings it all together. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Chapters (00:00:00) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:00:58) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:02:29) - Take Pride In Retirement(00:04:05) - Social Security: LGBTQ+ Plans for Retirement(00:12:38) - LGBTQ Retirement: What You Need to Know(00:16:30) - Biggest Retirement Mistakes to Avoid in 2026

Welcome back to Take Pride in Retirement—the show all about helping you build a retirement you can truly take pride in.  In this episode, I’m kicking off part one of a two-part series on the five major retirement shifts happening right now as we head into 2026—and why they matter especially for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. Retirement planning today isn’t just about hitting a certain age or saving a certain number. The rules are changing, and for our community, there are extra layers to consider—healthcare access, caregiving, safety, acceptance, and how long our money truly needs to last. In part one, we focus on the first three major shifts: Why where you live in retirement can matter more than when you retire The true and often underestimated cost of healthcare How longevity changes everything about retirement income planning  If you’ve ever wondered whether retirement is even possible for you, this episode is for you. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Chapters (00:00:00) - Take Pride in Retirement(00:00:57) - Take Pride IN Retirement!(00:03:22) - Take Pride in Retirement: Five Critical Retirement Shift(00:04:26) - How to Plan for Retirement(00:05:42) - Location and Retirement Strategy for LGBTQ+ People(00:10:45) - How to Plan for Retirement (free)(00:12:53) - Healthcare Costs in Retirement(00:15:24) - Healthcare Planning for LGBTQ+ Individuals(00:18:36) - Longevity Planning for Retired People(00:23:02) - Retirement Planning in 2030(00:23:27) - To Take Pride in Retirement

For many LGBTQ+ retirees, retirement planning comes with additional complexity. We weren’t always taught how to evaluate investment fees, and trusted institutions haven’t always protected our community. That’s why understanding what you’re paying — and why it matters — is so important. Fees can quietly drain your retirement income, especially once you stop working and start relying on your savings.  In this episode, I break down: Why most people don’t actually know how much they’re paying in fees How layered investment fees can silently erode retirement income Why outdated portfolio strategies — like relying heavily on bonds — may no longer work the way they used to How reducing fees can increase income without taking on more risk Then we move into one of the most important retirement planning conversations there is: income. If you’re ready to stop guessing about retirement and start building a plan that gives you confidence, control, and peace of mind, this episode is for you. Schedule your free financial consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com or call 855-246-9211. -- Request your free RSSA Roadmap for Social Security optimizationWatch full episodes on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TakePrideinRetirementShowFollow on BlueSky, Threads, Facebook, Instagram — just search Take Pride in Retirement --  Take Pride in Retirement is proud to be named one of the top Pride podcasts on the internet by FeedSpot. For more, go to https://blog.feedspot.com/pride_podcasts About Take Pride in Retirement:Take Pride in Retirement is a podcast dedicated to retirement planning solutions for the LGBTQ community. Host Matt McClure, a licensed fiduciary financial advisor, shares strategies to protect your hard-earned money while pursuing market-like growth. Matt holds the RSSA® credential as a Registered Social Security Analyst®, helping clients optimize their Social Security filing strategies to potentially increase lifetime income. He’s also a Certified Annuity Specialist® (CAS®), a designation earned through a 135+ hour graduate-level program in fixed-rate and variable annuities from the Institute of Business & Finance. Based in Georgia with his husband and two dogs, Matt spent over a decade in New York City, working with The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, NY1, and WCBS Newsradio 880. A career highlight includes reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.