Take Pride in Retirement

Legacy planning is more than documents—it’s an act of love. In this powerful episode of Take Pride in Retirement , Matt McClure explains why estate and legacy planning are especially vital for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. From understanding wills and trusts to ensuring chosen family and causes are protected, this episode explores how to create a plan that reflects your true self. Plus, Matt spe...

How much do you really know about Social Security? This week on Take Pride in Retirement , host Matt McClure—your advisor, your pal, your confidant—sits down with Martha Shedden, president and co-founder of the National Association of Registered Social Security Analysts (NARSSA). Together, they break down what LGBTQ+ retirees need to know when making Social Security decisions—and how the wrong mov...

Retirement isn’t just about reaching “your number”—it’s about building a sustainable income plan that supports your life, your dignity, and your pride. In this empowering episode of Take Pride in Retirement , host Matt McClure breaks down why having a reliable income strategy matters more than simply saving up a big nest egg. From the importance of fixed indexed annuities to the three-bucket strat...

In this special summertime episode of Take Pride in Retirement , host Matt McClure—your friend, your advisor, your pal, and your confidant—shares a five-step guide to getting your retirement plan in shape. Whether you're just beginning your journey or already in your post-work life, these practical, affirming steps are tailored specifically for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. What you'll learn: ️‍...

“You deserve a life — a real one, a full one.” That quote from Jonathan Van Ness sets the tone for this week’s heartfelt episode of Take Pride in Retirement . Matt McClure (now an RSSA—Registered Social Security Analyst!) walks you through 9 ways to create the retirement you deserve, regardless of where you’re starting financially. Whether you’re single, married, have a chosen family, or you’re de...

You’ve built your nest egg—now it’s time to protect it. In this episode, Matt McClure, your host, advisor, pal, and confidant, dives deep into annuities and other safe money strategies tailored for LGBTQ+ retirees. Learn the truth about annuities, how to turn your savings into income, and why declaring victory means shifting from growth to preservation. Plus, tips on minimizing hidden fees, maxing...

Guest : Dr. Chantal Cousineau-Krieger, Ophthalmologist, National Eye Institute   ️ May is Healthy Vision Month , and Matt McClure sits down with Dr. Chantal Cousineau-Krieger , an ophthalmologist with the National Eye Institute , to explore how your eye health connects to your overall wellness —especially as you age. We discuss: How conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure impact your visi...

Retirement isn’t just about saving — it’s about spending smart . In this jam-packed episode of Take Pride in Retirement , Matt McClure breaks down the often-overlooked decumulation phase of retirement. From guaranteed income strategies like annuities to maximizing Social Security benefits (especially for LGBTQ+ couples), Matt offers clear, compassionate, and practical advice to help you retire wit...

Retirement planning isn’t one-size-fits-all—especially for LGBTQ+ folks. In this heartfelt and practical episode, Matt McClure tackles the unique challenges and opportunities the community faces around aging, healthcare, and building strong support systems beyond the traditional family model. From chosen family caregiving circles to smart financial strategies, Matt walks you through how to retire...

In this bonus episode, we dive into the importance of tackling credit card debt before it spirals out of control. You'll hear insights from Robin Growley of Bank of America, who shares practical tips and a message of hope for anyone feeling overwhelmed by debt. Whether you're just starting to manage your finances or already feeling buried, this interview reminds us it’s never too late to take cont...

Are your final wishes protected? On this episode of Take Pride in Retirement , licensed financial advisor Matt McClure covers the essentials of retirement planning for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies. Learn how to maximize your Social Security benefits, why estate documents like wills and trusts are non-negotiable, and how to ensure your partner or chosen family is cared for—no matter what. Matt als...

This episode of Take Pride in Retirement features a powerful conversation with Christina DaCosta from SAGE (Advocacy and Services for LGBTQ+ Elders) about building financial security for LGBTQ+ elders through SAGECents. Matt McClure also shares why cutting mortgage debt, controlling RMDs, and smarter savings choices can help you live proudly, safely, and securely in retirement. It's time to plan w...

Reviewing your retirement portfolio with a licensed advisor is just one of many ways you can build your financial independence and confidence. Taking small actions today can make all the difference down the road in retirement!   -- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://takeprideinretirement.com/   Connect with Matt: https://takeprideinretirement.com/#contact Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https:...

In this Podcast Extra , Matt talks with Ed Grocholski, Chief Marketing Officer at Junior Achievement, about the evolving mission of Take a Child to Work Day & Beyond . Discover how financial education and career exposure can shape young people's futures—and how you or your company can get involved. Schedule your free consultation at TakePrideInRetirement.com   -- Listen to Previous Episodes: h...

Market dips, rising tariffs, inflation—oh my! If you're feeling anxious about your finances right now, you're not alone. In this episode, Matt McClure breaks down what’s happening, what it means for LGBTQ+ retirees and pre-retirees, and what you can do to protect your money. You’ll learn: Timely tax tips from Jackson Hewitt's Mark Steber What to know about tariffs and market volatility Why panic-s...

Procrastinated on your taxes? You’re not alone—but time’s almost up. Matt McClure shares urgent insights from Jackson Hewitt’s Mark Steber on what you  must  do before April 15 to avoid major penalties. From filing extensions to natural disaster relief, don’t miss this last-minute tax survival guide. -- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://takeprideinretirement.com/   Connect with Matt: https://ta...

It’s America Saves Week—a perfect time to recommit to those financial resolutions you made in January. In this special podcast extra, Matt McClure speaks with Robin Growley, Head of Consumer Deposits at Bank of America, about smart, simple ways to build your savings. From automating deposits to using the 50/30/20 rule, learn how to set yourself up for financial success—without feeling overwhelmed....

What do tariffs, taxes, and Social Security have in common? They all impact your retirement — especially if you're part of the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode of Take Pride in Retirement , we break down how recent tariff announcements are shaking up the market and what LGBTQ+ pre-retirees and retirees need to know now. You’ll learn: Why Social Security’s 2026 COLA may not be the good news it see...

Retirement isn’t one-size-fits-all—especially for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. In this episode, Matt McClure walks you through how to take a smart inspection of your retirement plan and why it’s so important to build a future that’s inclusive, customized, and secure. You’ll learn: What a “smart inspection” of your financial plan actually includes Why LGBTQ+ retirees need a backup plan for Socia...

In this episode of Take Pride in Retirement , Matt McClure is joined by LGBTQ+ advocate and former Biden administration official Jonathan Lovitz for a powerful conversation about identity, advocacy, and financial empowerment. They dive into the unique challenges and opportunities facing LGBTQ+ individuals and entrepreneurs, including how to build wealth, why DEI matters, and how your financial pla...

Nobody likes to talk about money and end-of-life planning—but avoiding it can create big problems down the road. In this episode, Matt McClure breaks down why LGBTQ+ individuals need to take estate planning and financial conversations seriously. Discover the key documents you need, how to update beneficiaries, and how to make sure your wishes are honored. Don't leave it to chance—get the tools you...

Home is where the heart is... or is it? In this episode, we explore the pros and cons of aging in place versus relocating in retirement—especially for LGBTQ+ individuals. From cost of living to social connections and healthcare access, Matt McClure helps you navigate this life-changing decision. Also, Mark Jaeger from TaxAct shares insights on tax planning for small business owners.   Listen to Pr...

Are you prepared for what disappears when you retire? In this episode, we dive into the four major things that vanish once you leave the workforce and how you can plan ahead to maintain financial stability. Plus, a conversation with Protect Our Care’s Leslie Dach on proposed Medicaid cuts and how they could impact millions, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.   Listen to Previous Episodes:...

Market volatility can be unnerving, but a solid financial plan can help you stay the course. In this episode, Matt McClure sits down with Christine Benz, Morningstar’s Director of Personal Finance and author of How to Retire , to discuss smart retirement strategies, asset allocation, and financial planning for the LGBTQ+ community. Plus, Matt shares insights on how to beat the bank’s CD rates with...

In this episode, Matt sits down with Philip Rafshoon, entrepreneur and advocate, to talk about his experience opening and running one of Atlanta’s most beloved LGBTQ+ spaces—Outwrite Bookstore. We discuss the financial challenges of entrepreneurship, lessons learned, and how planning for the future can help you live life on your terms. Listen to Previous Episodes: https://takeprideinretirement.com...