From Accumulation to Activation

In this episode, we discuss the importance of focusing on outcomes in retirement planning, including the role of annuities and MYGAs in providing stability and predictable income. The conversation covers tax deferral benefits, asset allocation strategies, and how annuities can be used effectively in nonprofit foundations. Listeners will gain insights from industry research and learn how to evaluat...

This episode examines the role of liquidity in annuities, the impact of market value adjustments, and the strategic use of QLACs in retirement income planning. Listeners will learn about surrender charges, free withdrawal provisions, and how annuities may enhance portfolio flexibility. The discussion also highlights how QLACs can help defer required minimum distributions and manage longevity risk,...

This episode examines important factors in retirement income planning, including annuity expenses, fee structures, and the role of tax-deferred growth. The conversation focuses on how different financial strategies may impact long-term outcomes and risk management. Topics include evaluating existing annuities, understanding cost versus value, and exploring how tax-efficient approaches may support...

In this episode of Accumulation to Activation, Mike and Tim analyze the Fisher Investments “Annuity Insights” report and discuss the importance of contract understanding, product evolution, and professional guidance in retirement income planning. The conversation covers annuity types, longevity risk, mortality credits, and the role of technology in optimizing portfolios. This content is provided f...

In this episode of Accumulation to Activation, the hosts examine how fixed and fixed indexed annuities are being evaluated as bond alternatives within retirement income planning. Mike, Tim, and Steve discuss interest rate risk, portfolio volatility, tax considerations, and income planning preferences. The episode emphasizes advisor process, education, and framework‑based conversations rather than...

The episode examines how advisors can evaluate existing annuity contracts in light of changing interest rates, shifting client goals, and retirement risks. By introducing the concept of “refinancing retirement,” the conversation highlights how a structured review process may help advisors determine whether current income strategies continue to align with client needs. This discussion is educationa...

As interest rates change, retirement income strategies should be reviewed—not ignored. In this episode of Accumulation to Activation, Mike McGlothlin and Tim Ash explore how annuity performance reviews can help advisors reassess older variable annuities and identify opportunities to improve retirement income outcomes. The conversation focuses on why annuities purchased during low‑interest‑rate env...

Qualified retirement accounts represent one of the largest sources of wealth for most Americans—and one of the biggest planning challenges. In this episode of Accumulation to Activation, Mike McGlothlin and Tim Ash break down the concept of a Qualified Reset Plan and how advisors can more intentionally plan for income, longevity, and legacy using qualified funds. The discussion explores how tools...

Transferring wealth across generations requires intentional planning and proactive family engagement. In this episode of Accumulation to Activation, Mike McGlothlin and Tim Ash discuss multigenerational planning strategies designed to help financial advisors retain assets and strengthen long‑term client relationships. The conversation explores why assets are often lost during generational transiti...

In this episode of Accumulation to Activation, Mike McGlothlin and Tim Ash discuss key retirement planning considerations for middle America, including Social Security coordination, retirement income concepts, healthcare planning, and longevity risk. The conversation highlights how advisors can deliver greater value through education, efficiency, and thoughtful planning strategies for today’s mass...

As record numbers of Americans turn 65 in 2026, healthcare and retirement income planning become critical focus areas for financial advisors. In this episode of Accumulation to Activation, Mike McGlothlin and Tim Ash take a deep dive into healthcare planning in retirement and how advisors can help clients navigate Medicare decisions, rising healthcare costs, and long‑term care risks over time. The...

2026 brings a surge of Americans turning 65, creating new challenges for financial advisors. In this episode, Mike McGlothlin and Tim Ash share actionable strategies to help clients transition from employment to enjoyment. Learn how to manage inflation risk, optimize Social Security, and build sustainable income plans. Plus, insights on healthcare costs, fixed-income risk, and leveraging annuities...

Higher interest rates have unlocked the powerful strategy of annuity arbitrage — leveraging today’s rate environment to boost guaranteed income, reduce insurance costs, and create tax-efficient legacies. Learn how clients can “refinance” annuities, turn qualified assets into a personalized Roth-like solution, and take control of wealth transfer for future generations. For more resources and inform...

Qualified Longevity Annuity Contracts (QLACs) remain one of the most underutilized tools in retirement planning. Hosts Mike McGlothlin and Tim Ash break down the new $210,000 limit, why removing the 25% cap matters for client strategies, and how QLACs can help defer RMDs, reduce taxes, and protect against longevity risk. Listen now to learn how to turn recent legislative updates from the Secure Ac...

Living longer sounds great — until clients face the financial and emotional realities that come with it. In this episode of From Accumulation to Activation, Tim and Mike unpack the risks of outliving your income, skyrocketing healthcare costs and the critical role of guaranteed lifetime income. They share practical strategies for advisors to help clients plan for retirement with confidence, includ...

Can your clients turn their 401(k) into a pension-like asset? In this episode, Mike and Tim unpack the concept of ‘pensionizing’ using an annuity, explore QLAC strategies and share how advisors can help clients create guaranteed lifetime income while managing longevity and tax risks in retirement.

Explore how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act reshapes estate and tax planning. Learn what's new, such as clarity on estate tax exemptions, and what remained in place, including retirement contribution limits and RMD rules. Mike McGlothlin and Tim Ash share insights on wealth planning, income tax implications for inherited accounts and techniques like annuity arbitrage that could improve outcomes.

What really happens to your clients’ qualified money? In this kickoff episode of From Accumulation to Activation, Mike McGlothlin and Tim Ash reveal the four possible outcomes for retirement assets—and why taxes, longevity, and guaranteed income strategies matter more than ever. Learn how to move clients from employment to enjoyment with confidence.

Introducing the From Accumulation to Activation podcast! Subscribe now to get notified when the first episode is available for listening — coming September 30!