Ready, Set, Retire!

Is your retirement confidence built on real planning—or just a strong market streak? On this episode, Steve Anzuoni breaks down why rising market gains can create a false sense of security without a written income plan. He explains the difference between saving for retirement and planning real retirement income, highlights the risks of market timing and sequence-of-returns, and discusses how...

Annuities don’t fail retirees—confusion does. On this episode, Steve Anzuoni breaks down why so many people misunderstand annuities and how that confusion can derail an otherwise solid retirement plan. Steve explains the difference between simple and complex income products, why goals matter more than rates, and how guaranteed income can change how retirees actually live and spend...

Inflation is everywhere, yet many retirees say they’re doing just fine—so what’s really going on? On this episode, Steve Anzuoni breaks down how retirees are absorbing rising costs, why guaranteed income matters more than headlines, and how to think clearly about cash flow once the paycheck stops. The conversation cuts through fear, financial noise, and novelty investments—...

What happens when a lifetime of saving suddenly feels fragile? On this episode Steve Anzuoni breaks down the emotional shift from accumulation to retirement and why a “pile of money” isn’t the same as a plan. The conversation explores market volatility near retirement, assigning purpose to savings, and the bucket-based approach to income, growth, emergencies, and enjoyment. You&r...

One simple habit could quietly unravel a retirement plan—and most couples don’t realize it until it’s too late. Steve Anzuoni unpacks why treating one partner as “the money person” creates unnecessary risk, especially when life changes fast. The conversation moves through shared financial awareness, Social Security realities, income gaps, common retirement myths, and...

Market swings, war headlines, and retirement jitters collide—so what actually matters when your paycheck stops? On this episode, Steve Anzuoni cuts through volatility to focus on retirement income, guaranteed cash flow, and why a pile of savings isn’t the same as a plan. They break down income “buckets,” the psychology of spending in retirement, and how guaranteed sources l...

What if the real retirement risk isn’t market swings, but losing the paycheck you depend on? Steve Anzuoni breaks down why so many Americans doubt retirement is even possible and why replacing income matters more than chasing growth. He explains the shift from pensions to personal savings, the role Social Security really plays, and how an income‑first approach can change how people think abo...

When everyday expenses start competing with your future, where should the line be drawn? On this episode Steve Anzuoni breaks down why tapping retirement accounts can be a costly move and why separating money by purpose matters more than ever. The conversation explores “bucket” strategies for income, emergencies, inflation, and fun, along with real-world examples of using existing asse...

A tax refund can be more than a windfall—it can become a turning point. On this episode Steve Anzuoni breaks down how recent tax law changes may impact retirees and near retirees, then explores smarter ways to put that money to work. The conversation covers legacy planning, retirement income versus account balances, and the real difference between retirement and financial freedom. Steve expl...

One spouse does the dishes, the other does the money—until retirement makes that division risky. On this episode Steve Anzuoni unpacks why both partners must understand the full financial picture. The conversation covers shared responsibility, Social Security’s role in retirement income, strategies that address longevity and market swings, and a simple “bucket” framework fo...

What if the next financial shock isn’t a market crash—but your own personal debt? On this episode, Steve Anzuoni breaks down rising credit card interest rates, the national debt debate, and why managing your personal finances matters more than predicting the next “black swan.” He dives into market uncertainty, political gridlock, luxury habits of the ultra‑rich, and how eve...

When rising costs force tough financial choices, how do you protect your future without sacrificing your present? On this episode, Steve Anzuoni explores why Americans are cutting retirement savings, the real difference between needs and wants, and how spending habits matter as much as account balances. He breaks down the transition from building wealth to using it wisely, the hidden risks in poli...

A surprising truth about your 401(k) could change the way you think about retirement. In this episode, Steve Anzuoni breaks down the hidden tax traps retirees face and reveals how proactive planning can help you keep more of what you’ve earned. From creating tax‑efficient income to understanding guaranteed lifetime payout options, Steve and Jessica dive into practical strategies that help re...

A surprising retirement strategy could turn a required tax burden into a powerful wealth‑building opportunity. On this episode, Steve Anzuoni breaks down proactive tax planning, smart RMD moves, and a little‑known way retirees can create tax‑free legacy dollars for their families. Jessica Forkel guides the conversation as they explore why couples should tackle money decisions together, how Social...

What if one retirement decision could reshape your financial future? On this episode of Ready, Set, Retire Podcast , Steve Anzuoni breaks down the rising interest in Social Security bridging — what it is, who benefits, and why timing matters. Steve tackles myths, longevity planning, guaranteed income strategies, inflation concerns, and the real questions retirees are asking today. From delay...

A simple lobster story turns into a revealing lesson about how retirement planning really works. In this episode, Steve Anzuoni breaks down why saving consistently is only half the battle — the real challenge begins when you shift from accumulation to creating sustainable income. Steve shares insights on 401(k) habits, common retirement missteps, and why specialized guidance matters when bui...

A surprising retirement trend is reshaping financial plans—and it’s happening faster than many expect. In this episode, Steve Anzuoni digs into why so many Americans are accelerating their retirement timelines and how shifting from “autopilot saving” to intentional planning can make all the difference. Steve shares real client stories, the power of organizing your financial...

What does a $102 million art heist have in common with your retirement plan? Both can be undone by a single, simple mistake. In this episode, Steve Anzuoni reveals the hidden pitfalls that threaten your financial future—from underestimating inflation and healthcare costs to the dangers of early withdrawals and credit card debt. Learn how to build a resilient income plan and avoid the traps t...

Are you unknowingly sabotaging your retirement with “spendophobia” or hidden Medicare costs? In this episode, Steve Anzuoni reveals the surprising traps retirees face, from the two-year Medicare premium lookback to the fear of spending hard-earned savings. Discover practical strategies like the “four buckets” approach, how to create your own pension, and why personalized ad...

Are your retirement plans built on optimism or reality? Dive into the surprising gap between when people expect to retire and when they actually do. Host Steve Anzuoni explores the real-world factors—health, family, finances, and routines—that can upend even the best-laid plans. Learn why flexibility and regular financial check-ins are crucial, and discover how assigning purpose to you...

Are you spending more to save more—and is it costing your retirement? This episode dives into “spaving,” the sneaky habit of overspending in the name of saving, and how it can quietly erode your nest egg. Host Steve Anzuoni unpack hidden fees, smart saving strategies, and the emotional side of retirement decisions. Plus, hear insights from rock legend Robin Zander of Cheap Trick...

Are you ready to turn your retirement savings into a reliable paycheck? Discover how everyday people—just like top athletes and savvy investors—strategically carve out guaranteed income for life. Host Steve Anzuoni shares real stories, expert tips, and actionable strategies for building your own “personal pension,” reducing risk, and making confident decisions as you approa...

What if your retirement income isn’t as secure as you think? Dive into the realities of Social Security, Cost of Living Adjustments or COLA, and the hidden pitfalls in retirement planning. Host Steve Anzuoni breaks down how to turn your savings into lasting income, avoid costly mistakes, and design a retirement plan that truly works for you. From guaranteed income strategies to the...

Ever wondered how a secret hotel sleeper or a Lego sculptor could boost your retirement income? This episode dives into creative side gigs, the financial realities of working in retirement, and the crucial planning steps to avoid costly mistakes. Discover how tax implications, Social Security, and annuities can impact your future—and why having a solid plan is the key to lasting financial co...

Are new retirement rules about to upend your 401(k) strategy? In this episode, Steve Anzuoni breaks down the latest changes to catch-up contributions, explains why paying yourself first is the key to financial freedom, and reveals his “buckets of money” approach for building multiple income streams in retirement. Discover how to turn your savings into guaranteed income, avoid common pi...