Episodios

  • 4 Key Ages for Generation X in Retirement Planning | Ep 27

    4 Key Ages for Generation X in Retirement Planning | Ep 27
    Jul 10 2025

    Download the Seven Principles eBook: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/free-ebook-page?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonal

    Mark Zagurski, a proud Gen Xer, dives into the four critical ages for Generation X (born 1965–1980) in retirement planning: 50, 59½, 62, and 73. As Gen Xers juggle peak earning years with expenses like mortgages and kids’ education, Mark highlights the importance of these milestones. At 50, catch-up contributions allow for boosted retirement savings. At 59½, penalty-free access to retirement funds begins. Age 62 marks eligibility for Social Security, though early claiming reduces benefits. Finally, at 73, required minimum distributions (RMDs) kick in for tax-deferred accounts. Mark emphasizes personalized planning to navigate these milestones effectively.

    You’ll learn:

    How catch-up contributions at age 50 can accelerate retirement savings.

    Why age 59½ offers greater flexibility for accessing retirement funds.

    The trade-offs of claiming Social Security at age 62 versus waiting.

    How RMDs at age 73 impact tax-deferred accounts and planning.

    Why Gen Xers need a tailored retirement strategy to balance competing financial demands.

    “When it comes to retirement, it doesn’t matter where you started, all that matters is where you finish.” - Mark Zagurski

    Are you a Gen Xer ready to plan for these milestones? Visit www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com to download our eBook and schedule a no-obligation consultation with a Mutual of Omaha advisor.

    Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

    Download the Seven Principles eBook

    Instagram

    Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors

    Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting

    --

    Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

    This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions. Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone. Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.
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    12 m
  • Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Before Retirement? | Ep 26

    Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Before Retirement? | Ep 26
    Jul 3 2025

    Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/get-connected/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonal

    In this episode, Mark Zagurski tackles the hotly debated question: should you pay off your mortgage before retirement? With nearly 20% of homes in major U.S. metros owned by people 65 and older still carrying mortgages, this decision carries significant financial and emotional weight. Mark breaks down four reasons to pay off your mortgage, peace of mind, lower expenses, interest savings, and housing security, and four reasons to keep it, including low interest rates, liquidity needs, opportunity costs, and tax deductions. He also explores how home equity, a major component of net worth for retirees, can be leveraged through options like reverse mortgages to generate income in retirement.

    You’ll learn:

    The pros and cons of paying off your mortgage before retirement.

    • How home equity fits into your overall retirement strategy.

    • The role of reverse mortgages in accessing cash flow without monthly payments.

    • Why personal finance decisions, like mortgage payoff, must be tailored to your situation.

      The importance of considering opportunity costs in your financial planning.

    • “The home is a large asset and needs to be considered as part of total wealth and as a possible asset to generate retirement income.” - Mark Zagurski

      Ready to explore how your home fits into your retirement plan? Head to www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com to download our eBook and connect with a Mutual of Omaha advisor for a no-obligation consultation.

      Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

      Download the Seven Principles eBook

      Instagram

      Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors

      Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting

      --

      Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

      This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions. Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone. Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.
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    10 m
  • Two Ways for Crowdfunding Your Future | Ep 25

    Two Ways for Crowdfunding Your Future | Ep 25
    Jun 26 2025

    Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/get-connected/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonal

    In this episode of the Make It Personal Podcast, Mark Zagurski explores two time-tested strategies, life insurance and annuities, that act as a form of “crowdfunding” to secure your financial future and that of your family. While modern crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe have become popular for addressing unexpected expenses, Mark explains why relying on them for critical needs, like funeral costs, is less secure than planning ahead with insurance products. He traces the historical roots of risk pooling back to Ancient Greece and Rome, showing how life insurance and annuities leverage the law of large numbers to provide guaranteed financial protection. Mark emphasizes the certainty and peace of mind these tools offer compared to the uncertainty of crowdfunding campaigns.

    You’ll learn:

    • The historical origins of crowdfunding and how life insurance and annuities share similar principles.

    • How life insurance ensures financial security for your loved ones.

    • How annuities provide a reliable income stream for retirement.

    • Why crowdfunding is not a substitute for a disciplined financial plan.

    • The importance of working with a financial advisor to tailor a strategy to your needs.

    “With life insurance, you know with certainty that if the unexpected happens, your loved ones will be financially secure.” - Mark Zagurski

    Want a personalized plan to secure your family’s future? Visit www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com to download our free eBook and schedule a no-obligation consultation with a Mutual of Omaha advisor today.

    Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

    Download the Seven Principles eBook

    Instagram

    Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors

    Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting

    --

    Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

    This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions. Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone. Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.
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    8 m
  • Is a Financial Advisor Really Worth It? The Value of Trusted Guidance

    Is a Financial Advisor Really Worth It? The Value of Trusted Guidance
    Jun 19 2025
    Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/get-connected/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonalIn this episode of the Make It Personal Podcast, host Mark Zagurski tackles one of the most common, and important, questions people ask: Do I really need a financial advisor? With so much financial content flooding the internet, from talking heads to self-proclaimed “gurus”, it’s hard to know what’s credible and what’s truly in your best interest. Mark offers an honest, inside look at what a trusted financial advisor really does, how they add value beyond just buying investments, and why personalized advice outshines generic online tips every time.Drawing from over 30 years of experience, and sharing wisdom from top advisor Marty Higgins, Mark explores the key differences between buying financial “products” and building a strategic, long-term plan. He walks through the real-life benefits of working with a professional, from creating holistic financial roadmaps to ensuring plans stay on track through life’s inevitable twists and turns. This episode also addresses common objections, like whether paying a 1% fee is worth it, and sheds light on the true cost (and risk) of a DIY financial approach.Key takeaways:A financial advisor’s real value is personalized guidance, not just buying investments.Paying a 1% fee may not make sense for simple tasks, but it can be well worth it for comprehensive planning and behavioral coaching.Good advisors add value through tax strategies, estate planning, risk management, and by keeping your plan on track when emotions run high.Personalized advice helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures your plan is self-completing, designed to work even if life throws you unexpected curveballs.Financial planning is not a one-time task; it requires regular updates, strategic adjustments, and a partner who understands your unique goals.Thinking about whether professional financial advice is right for you? Visit www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com to connect with one of our expert advisors for a no-obligation consultation, download our free eBook, or subscribe to our monthly newsletter. Your future deserves a personal touch!“Good advice is never free, but bad advice can cost you everything.” - Mark ZagurskiConnect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:Download the Seven Principles eBook: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/free-ebook-page?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonalInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/makeitpersonal_podcast/Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors: https://www.facebook.com/MutualofOmahaAdvisorsFBSign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/get-connected/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonal--Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions. Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone. Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.
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    12 m
  • The Truth About Investment Assumptions: Average vs. Actual Returns

    The Truth About Investment Assumptions: Average vs. Actual Returns
    Jun 12 2025

    Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/get-connected/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonal

    In this episode of the Make It Personal Podcast, host Mark Zagurski tackles one of the most overlooked yet critical components of financial planning: assumptions. Every solid financial plan relies on a mix of facts, like your age and income, and assumptions, such as how long you’ll live, what inflation will look like, and most importantly, your expected rate of return. But what happens when those assumptions don’t align with reality?

    Mark dives into the crucial distinction between average and actual rates of return, showing how misleading averages can distort your financial picture. Using simple, relatable examples, including a breakdown of the S&P 500’s performance over 30 years, Mark explains how sequence of returns and real-world market behavior can significantly impact your savings and retirement outcomes.

    Whether you're accumulating wealth or planning retirement withdrawals, understanding the true nature of investment returns is vital. This episode underscores the importance of keeping your plan updated and partnering with a trusted advisor who can adjust your strategy as life and the market evolve.

    Key takeaways:

    • Every financial plan is built on facts and assumptions, both need regular review.

    • Average rate of return and actual return are not the same and can lead to very different outcomes.

    • The S&P 500’s long-term average of 10.59% translated to a real return closer to 8.97% over 30 years.

    • Overestimating returns during retirement can cause you to outlive your money.

    • Ongoing plan reviews and realistic assumptions improve your chances of meeting long-term goals.

    Want to ensure your financial assumptions are on track? Visit www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com to download our free eBook or connect with one of our expert advisors for a no-obligation consultation. Make your financial plan personal, and powerful!

    “The average return might sound impressive, but it’s the actual return that tells the real story.” - Mark Zagurski

    Connect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:

    Download the Seven Principles eBook:

    Instagram:

    Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors:

    Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting:

    --

    Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

    This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions. Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone. Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.
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    11 m
  • The Hidden Cost of Subscription Creep: How to Take Back Control of Your Finances | EP 22

    The Hidden Cost of Subscription Creep: How to Take Back Control of Your Finances | EP 22
    Jun 5 2025
    Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/get-connected/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonalIn this episode of the Make It Personal Podcast, host Mark Zagurski takes a lighthearted but impactful look at a growing financial trap many of us fall into: subscription creep. With humor, a nod to classic Gen X TV, and real-world data, Mark explores how small, recurring charges, whether for streaming services, news sites, or monthly deliveries, quietly drain your wallet over time. According to recent studies, the average American spends over $200 a month on subscriptions, often underestimating by $100 or more.Mark connects this to the broader theme of personal finance, reminding listeners that financial discipline starts with awareness. He shares simple, actionable strategies for auditing your subscriptions, canceling unused services, and reallocating that money toward your long-term goals. Highlighting insights from Dr. Benjamin Hardy’s Be Your Future Self Now and Atomic Habits by James Clear, Mark emphasizes that small daily decisions, like canceling an unused $10 subscription, can snowball into significant financial gains.Key takeaways:Subscription creep is a real financial drain, most people underestimate what they’re spending by a wide margin.Averages show Americans spend $219/month on subscriptions; small changes can add up to big savings.Regularly auditing your subscriptions can free up funds for saving, investing, or paying down debt.Apps like Rocket Money can help identify hidden subscriptions (though manual reviews are still key).The principle of “1% better every day” applies: simple steps like swapping out a daily coffee purchase can build long-term wealth.Canceling unused subscriptions and redirecting those savings can be a simple first step toward achieving your bigger financial goals.Ready to tighten up your finances? Download our free eBook or schedule a no-obligation consultation at www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com. Don’t just let small leaks sink your financial ship—make it personal!“The subscription economy thrives on convenience—but convenience without awareness can cost you.” - Mark ZagurskiConnect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:Download the Seven Principles eBook: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/free-ebook-page?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonalInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/makeitpersonal_podcast/Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors: https://www.facebook.com/MutualofOmahaAdvisorsFBSign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/get-connected/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonal--Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions. Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone. Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.
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    9 m
  • Navigating Medicare: Making the Right Healthcare Choice in Retirement | EP 21

    Navigating Medicare: Making the Right Healthcare Choice in Retirement | EP 21
    May 29 2025
    Sign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/get-connected/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonalIn this episode of the Make It Personal Podcast, host Mark Zagurski tackles one of the most confusing and critical aspects of retirement: planning for healthcare. With nearly 99% of retirees age 65 and older qualifying for Medicare, understanding your options is essential for safeguarding your financial and physical well-being in retirement. Mark breaks down the differences between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage, helping listeners evaluate the complexities of coverage, costs, and provider choice.Drawing from Mutual of Omaha’s nearly 60 years of experience with Medicare, Mark outlines the key factors that determine which plan is right for you, from network flexibility to out-of-pocket costs. Listeners will also learn about the six simple questions Mutual of Omaha advisors ask to tailor a Medicare solution that fits each person’s unique lifestyle, health needs, and budget.Key takeaways:Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage: what they are and how they differ.Why your choice of doctors, travel habits, and health needs matter when selecting a plan.How premiums, out-of-pocket costs, and provider networks factor into your decision.Why it’s important to plan ahead to avoid unexpected health costs that can drain retirement savings.How Mutual of Omaha’s advisors use six key questions to guide you toward a personalized healthcare strategy.If you’re nearing retirement or already enrolled in Medicare and feeling uncertain about your healthcare coverage, this episode offers clarity and actionable steps. Visit www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com to schedule a no-obligation consultation or download helpful resources. Don’t leave your healthcare—and your financial future—to chance. Make it personal!“The right Medicare plan for you depends on your doctors, your travel habits, and your comfort with risk.” - Mark ZagurskiConnect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:Download the Seven Principles eBook: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/free-ebook-page?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonalInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/makeitpersonal_podcast/Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors: https://www.facebook.com/MutualofOmahaAdvisorsFBSign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/get-connected/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonal--Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions. Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone. Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.
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    10 m
  • The Big 4: Financial Steps Every College Grad Should Take Now | EP 20

    The Big 4: Financial Steps Every College Grad Should Take Now | EP 20
    May 22 2025
    In this episode of the Make It Personal Podcast, Mark Zagurski takes recent college graduates, and those advising them, through the essential first steps to financial success after graduation. From ancient graduation traditions like diplomas and gowns to the more modern tradition of student loan debt, this episode highlights both the history and the current challenges facing today’s grads.With student debt averaging over $29,000 and many young adults feeling anxious about their financial future, Mark emphasizes that while it may feel overwhelming, it’s never too soon to start planning. He outlines four foundational steps every new graduate should take: budgeting, saving, investing, and debt management. Along the way, Mark shares personal stories, practical advice, and timeless principles to help listeners build a solid financial footing as they step into adult life.You’ll learn:Why a personal budget is the cornerstone of financial success.How saving for an emergency fund provides security and flexibility.The importance of starting to invest early, even in small amounts.Practical strategies for managing and paying down student debt.Why balancing living for today with planning for tomorrow is key.Whether you're a new graduate or someone looking to reset your financial path, this episode provides clear, actionable steps to get you moving in the right direction. Ready to get started? Visit www.makeitpersonalpodcast.com to download the free eBook “Seven Principles for Your Financial Success” or to schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of Mutual of Omaha’s expert advisors. Make smart moves today for a stronger tomorrow!“The day you walk off your college campus may not be the day you need a formal financial plan, but it’s never too early to have a plan for your future.” - Mark ZagurskiConnect with Mutual of Omaha Advisors through the following links:Download the Seven Principles eBook: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/free-ebook-page?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonalInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/makeitpersonal_podcast/Facebook - Mutual of Omaha Advisors: https://www.facebook.com/MutualofOmahaAdvisorsFBSign Up For a Free Financial Strategy Meeting: https://makeitpersonalpodcast.com/get-connected/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=allplatforms&utm_mediacode=FCF&utm_campaign=makeitpersonal--Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult with the appropriate professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial decisions. Strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone. Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.
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    17 m