Empty Nest Full Pockets Podcast
The Empty Nest Full Pockets Podcast is designed to explore the financial and emotional issues of life's second half. From paying for college to dealing with aging parents, empty nesting, navigating careers, dealing with taxes, and getting ready for retirement, we share experiences, ideas, and a platform to celebrate what we believe is one of the most exciting periods of your life.Registered Representative of Sanctuary Securities Inc. and Investment Advisor Representative of Sanctuary Advisors, LLC. Securities offered through Sanctuary Securities, Inc., Member. SIPC. Advisory services offered through Sanctuary Advisor, LLC., an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. PrairieFire Wealth Planning is...
Why College Planning Feels So Overwhelming (and How to Fix It)
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, financial advisor Will Schroeder dives into one of the most pressing concerns for parents today: how to plan for college without feeling overwhelmed - or financially stretched too thin.
With college costs rising at an alarming rate, many families are left wondering how they’ll afford one of the biggest expenses of their lifetime. Will breaks down why affordability is the #1 fear for parents and walks through what “good” college planning actually looks like - starting earlier than most families expect.
From setting clear expect...
Stop Guessing, Build a Smarter Retirement Plan
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, financial planner Matt Meline breaks down a powerful concept that can transform how you experience retirement: the “Permission to Spend” framework.
After years of disciplined saving, many empty nesters still struggle to enjoy their money. Instead of feeling freedom, they feel hesitation — constantly questioning whether they’re spending too much, too soon.
Matt explains how this mindset often comes from a lack of structure, not a lack of savings.
Using a simple yet impactful example, he compares two reti...
The Retirement Problem No One Talks About: Spending
Notes:
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, financial planner Matt Meline tackles one of the biggest — and most overlooked — challenges in retirement: spending with confidence.
After years of saving, many empty nesters still hesitate to enjoy their money. Why? Because uncertainty around taxes, withdrawals, and timing creates fear of making a costly mistake.
Matt introduces the “Permission to Spend” framework — a tax-smart strategy designed to help you turn your savings into reliable income while minimizing unnecessary taxes. Through real-life examples and practical insights, he explains how coordi...
The Legal & Financial Guardrails Every Sandwich Generation Family Needs
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, financial planner Matt Moline continues the conversation around caring for aging parents — but this time, he dives deeper into the legal, financial, & family dynamics that can either create clarity… or chaos.
What’s the difference between a power of attorney and a healthcare directive?
Why do unequal sibling dynamics create so much tension?
And how do you help mom & dad without jeopardizing your own retirement?
Matt walks through the practical guardrails every empty nester needs — from understanding legal documents to protecting your retirement accounts...
Caring for Aging Parents Without Sacrificing Your Retirement
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, financial planner Matt Moline turns the focus to a deeply personal and often emotional topic: caring for aging parents without sacrificing your own financial future.
As part of the “sandwich generation,” many empty nesters find themselves balancing support for adult children while quietly stepping into a new role with their own parents. Matt explores how to approach this season intentionally — not reactively — and how to build financial and emotional guardrails that protect both generations.
From healthcare planning and housing decisions to elder fraud protection and difficul...
Helping Your Adult Children Without Guilt
In this episode of the Empty Nest Full Pockets podcast, financial planner Matt Meline tackles one of the hardest challenges empty nesters face: how to help adult children without guilt, resentment, or financial damage to your own future.
Matt walks through the heart of the Permission to Help framework — learning how to say yes strategically, no without guilt, and use financial leverage wisely when needed. From weddings and cars to kids moving back home, this episode offers real-life examples and practical guardrails that replace emotional reactions with clarity and confidence.
Permission to Help My Adult Children (Without Hurting Retirement)
In this episode of the Empty Nest Full Pockets podcast, financial planner Matt Meline introduces a powerful mindset shift for empty nesters: helping your adult children isn’t the problem — helping without a plan is.
We dive into the emotional and financial tension so many parents feel as they navigate supporting adult kids, caring for aging parents, and still protecting their own retirement. Matt shares the “Permission to Help” framework, real-life examples, and practical guardrails to help you support your family without sacrificing your future. If you’re part of the sandwich generation, this episo...
Maximizing Your Retirement: Tax Strategies for a Secure Future
In this episode, we dive deep into the intricacies of retirement income planning, focusing on the strategic order of asset withdrawals to optimize tax efficiency. We discuss the common philosophy of withdrawing from taxable accounts first, followed by tax-deferred and tax-free accounts, and explore the benefits of Roth conversions for long-term tax savings. We also touch on the importance of understanding Social Security benefits and the mindset shift needed to embrace a "permission to spend" approach in retirement.
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Building Your Retirement Paycheck: The Power of Financial Guardrail
In this episode, Matt Meline, a certified financial planner and founder of Prairie Fire Wealth Planning, delves into the intricacies of retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of shifting the focus from the anxiety of running out of money to establishing a structured spending plan. He introduces the concept of "guardrails," which provide retirees with a clear framework for their financial future, allowing them to navigate market fluctuations without panic.Â
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00:00:00 - Introduction to Retirement Planning
00:01:36 - The Concept o...
Spending Strategies and Confidence in Retirement
In this episode of the Empty Nest Full Pockets podcast, we join financial planner Matt Meline as he guides listeners through the essential strategies for achieving financial freedom in retirement. We explore key topics, including managing healthcare costs, navigating inflation, and understanding the importance of tax planning. Matt emphasizes the need for a solid spending plan and encourages listeners to embrace their newfound freedom while ensuring they are prepared for any financial surprises. Join us as we help you turn this life transition into your next great chapter!
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How to Achieve Financial Freedom in Retirement for Empty Nesters
In this episode, we discuss the crucial topic of spending in retirement, addressing common concerns about whether individuals are spending the right amount and how to navigate financial fears and guilt. Matt Meline shares insights from his recent keynote at the Arizona Oasis Conference, emphasizing the importance of transitioning from saving to spending with confidence. We explore the need for a comprehensive spending plan that incorporates fixed income sources like Social Security and annuities, as well as investment withdrawals. Additionally, Matt introduces innovative tools that help establish financial guardrails and stress tests, ensuring our listeners can enjoy their retirement...
The Empty Nest Means Big Changes | EP4
What if the silence after your kids leave isn’t emptiness, but your invitation to grow? In today’s inspiring episode, Matt Meline shares a powerful case study for anyone feeling lost, restless, or ready to reinvent themselves after years of putting family first. From letting grief breathe to rediscovering creativity and redefining career purpose, Matt reveals how to turn the empty nest into a season of growth, joy, and self-discovery. If you’ve ever wondered what’s next after raising kids, this one’s your permission to slow down, get curious, and dream again. Press play, feel the shift, and...
What Do We Do with The House? Real Estate Decisions for Empty Nesters
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, host Matt Meline helps you navigate one of the biggest questions after the kids move out. Should you downsize, right-size, or stay put? With real-life stories and practical insights, Matt shows how your home decision isn’t just about space, but about shaping the life you want in this next chapter.
Digital Asset:
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Episode highlights:
(2:51) Memories, meaning, and family attachment
(4:36) Financial lens: Mortgages and hidden costs
(6:59) Gr...
When Adult Children Need Help: A Parent's Guide | EP2
Strengthening futures by protecting your own. In today’s episode, Matt Meline unpacks the hidden costs of financial help, from everyday emergencies to big milestones like weddings and first homes. With personal stories and practical strategies, Matt shows how to set healthy boundaries, create mindful giving plans, and protect your retirement without losing your generosity.
Digital Asset:
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Episode highlights:
(2:52) Why generosity often turns into obligation
(4:28) Retirement risks of supporting kids
(6:26) Setting boundaries on big ex...
Financial Reset for Empty Nesters | EP1
What do you do when the kids leave and life feels different financially and emotionally? In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline shares how to reset your finances and reclaim your purpose in this new chapter. From extra cash flow to insurance, housing, and long-term planning, Matt shows how to turn transition into opportunity. You’ll also learn why this isn’t just about money, it’s about rediscovering your why and aligning your goals with what matters most. Tune in and take the first step toward making your empty nest full of freedom and possibility.
Empty Nest Full Pockets: Purpose After Parenting
What comes after the kids leave home and the house gets quiet? This podcast is for parents stepping into the empty nest stage and wondering what’s next. If your kids are grown and you’re ready to focus on your own goals, this show will help you with everything from smart financial planning and retirement decisions to managing family changes and rediscovering your purpose. Welcome to Empty Nest Full Pockets podcast.
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I sincerely appreciate your support. Thank you for being a part of our podcast journey. If you haven't already...
#19 - Protecting Mom and Dad from Elder Scams
Have you ever wondered how scammers exploit technology to deceive even the most vigilant among us? This episode of The PrairieFire Podcast reveals the latest schemes—from fake QR codes to romance scams—and equips you with simple, effective ways to protect yourself. Join Matt Meline and Will Schrader as they share tips from a financial crime expert on recognizing red flags and staying one step ahead. Don’t miss this vital discussion to safeguard your finances and peace of mind.
If you encounter a scam, here are the steps and websites to report it:
1. IC3 (I...
#18 - Helping Mom and Dad with Housing Expert Jennifer Voigt
How can you support aging parents while keeping your peace of mind? In today’s episode, Matt Meline connects with senior living expert Jennifer Voigt to share tips on starting tough conversations, planning, and exploring home health care. From recognizing signs of needed changes to managing family dynamics and finances, this episode offers practical guidance to help you make informed decisions for your loved ones.
Jennifer Voigt is an expert in senior living and real estate. She has years of experience helping families navigate the challenges of elder care and housing transitions. Jennifer combines her industry knowledge wi...
#17 - Caring for Mom and Dad - Becky's Story
What happens when the roles reverse, and you become your parent’s caregiver? In this episode, Matt Meline and longtime friend Becky Pratt share a deeply personal journey through caregiving’s emotional and financial challenges. Becky reflects on her family’s experiences, from managing shared real estate to helping her mother transition into assisted living. She also shares practical tips for fostering family communication and solving challenging problems creatively. Becky’s insights will inspire and guide you whether you’re starting this journey or deep in it.
Becky Pratt, CRCM, QRD®, is a seasoned leader in audit and banking...
#16 - Caring for Mom and Dad
Are you prepared to support your aging parents through life’s most challenging transitions? In today’s episode, Matt Meline shares practical, compassionate strategies for discussing finances, health, and long-term care. You’ll discover how to organize their affairs, prevent costly mistakes, and safeguard them from scams. Matt also provides a step-by-step checklist to guide you through every challenge. Whether you’re a caregiver or planning for the future, this episode equips you with the tools and confidence to help your loved ones feel safe, secure, and supported.
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#15 - Life Moves Pretty Fast: Lessons from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
Are you playing it too safe in life—or holding onto things that aren’t important? In this episode, Matt Meline looks at the iconic 80s classic “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” and reveals surprising lessons on living with more courage, joy, and purpose. Learn how Ferris, Cameron, and their unforgettable day off can inspire you to handle anxiety, take bold steps, and even rethink your finances. Whether it’s stepping out of your comfort zone or making time for what truly matters, this episode is packed with simple yet powerful tips to help you enjoy today while building a secure tom...
#14 - Every Move You Make: Financial and Life Lessons from The Police's Classic Song
Are you tired of stressing over every single transaction in your bank account? Matt Meline explores how our desire for control can sometimes go too far. Using the classic 80s hit "Every Breath You Take" as a metaphor, Matt shows how obsession can sneak into our financial habits. Discover how to break free from money worries and build a healthier relationship with your finances. Learn practical tips to simplify your financial decisions, grow your savings, and find peace of mind. Tune in to learn how to control your money without letting it control you!
Episode highlights:
(1:30...
#13 - Maverick Moves: Financial Lessons From "Top Gun"
Are you unsure if you're taking too many risks with your finances or not enough? In this episode, Matt dives into what Top Gun can teach us about managing risk, building discipline, and making better financial decisions. You'll get practical tips on investing, future planning, and staying on track with your goals. Don't miss out on these valuable lessons that can help guide your financial journey!
Episode highlights:
(1:48) Lessons from Top Gun
(3:01) Risk management
(4:09) Understand your risk profile, diversify, and avoid overconfidence
(6:20) Personal story of investing and risk tolerance
(7:33) Discipline and consistency<...
#12 - Lessons Learned From "The Breakfast Club"
Are your money habits stuck in the past? In this episode, we revisit the iconic movie “The Breakfast Club” to uncover surprising money lessons. What stereotypes about money might be holding you back? Let’s explore how vulnerability and financial growth can help break these barriers and create a more robust economic future. Tune in to hear practical tips on overcoming the fear of change, learning new financial skills, and discovering how to live in the gain, not the gap.
Episode highlights:
(2:30) The Breakfast Club: Breaking stereotypes and finding vulnerability
(3:59) Peer pressure and financial decisions
(5...
#11 - 529 Leftovers – How do we keep them in OUR Fridge?
Do you want to know what to do with leftover money in your 529 plan? In this episode of the Prairie Fire podcast, we explore easy and practical ways to handle extra funds, including new rules that let you roll them into a Roth IRA. Whether your child got a scholarship, changed career plans, or took a different path, we offer helpful tips to ensure your hard-earned savings don’t go to waste. Perfect for parents and grandparents who want to feel confident about managing their 529 plan wisely.
Episode highlights:
(2:28) The Pritchard family’s scenario with three diff...
#10 - 3 Tips for College Savings Month
How do you make college savings work for your family? In today’s episode, Matt shares three essential tips from a parent who successfully sent four kids to college—without breaking the bank. You’ll learn why it’s okay to save a little less than expected, how to think beyond traditional four-year universities, and why involving your kids in the money conversation is crucial. Tune in to gain practical insights to help you make the right choices for your family’s future.
Episode highlights:
(2:06) College cost planning for state schools
(4:03) Saving under the bogey
(7:54...
#9 - Do Not Overpay for College - We Mean It!
Did you know most families are overpaying for college? In this episode, we break down why it happens and what you can do to avoid it. Learn practical tips for picking the right school, maximizing financial aid, and negotiating a better deal. Whether you’re a parent planning for your child’s future or a student weighing college options, this episode offers valuable insights to save money and reduce stress. Tune in for advice that could change your thoughts about paying for college!
Episode highlights:
(2:13) Why do we care?
(3:22) Choose schools wisely to avoid overpayingÂ
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#8 - Artificial Intelligence For Empty Nesters
Are you curious about how AI could make your life easier and more enjoyable as you transition into retirement? In this episode, Matt Meline shares practical tips on using AI to manage your home, finances, health, and travel plans. Learn how these intelligent tools can help you save time, stay connected, and make the most of your golden years! Tune in for an informative discussion tailored to those embracing the next exciting chapter of life.
Episode highlights:
(1:27) AI benefits for Empty Nesters
(2:29) Practical uses of ChatGPT
(4:18) AI in household management
(5:03) AI for personal...
#7 - 3 Tips for Every Pending Empty Nester
Are you feeling unprepared for the day your child leaves home? You're not alone! Join Matt Meline as he shares three essential insights that every soon-to-be empty nester should know. From embracing the inevitable change to planning your newfound freedom, this episode will help you navigate this significant life transition with confidence and joy. Tune in and discover how to turn the empty nest phase into an opportunity for personal growth and fulfillment.
Episode highlights:
(1:48) Introduction to "3 Must-Know Tips"
(2:42) No one gets your child like you do
(3:39) None of us feels ready
(5:32) Developing...
#6 - Matt and Lisa's Empty Nest Journey
Are you ready to embrace the joys and challenges of an empty nest? Join Matt and his wife, Lisa, as they share their heartfelt journey of parenting four children into adulthood, managing a blended family, and making intelligent financial decisions. This conversation is filled with personal stories, practical advice, and laughter, ensuring you’re well-prepared for this new stage of life. Tune in and embrace the empty nest phase with confidence and joy!
Episode highlights:
(2:12) Beginning of empty nest journey
(3:24) Kids started living independently
(5:29) Financial planning for college and setting expectations
(8:10) Lessons learned fr...
#5 - 5 Financial Blindspots to Avoid this Year
Is your financial plan ready for life after the kids move out? In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked aspects of the second half of life. We’ll discuss why it’s essential to reassess your finances, including taxes, investments, and budgeting as an empty nester. Learn how shifting your focus from providing for your family to fulfilling your dreams can open up exciting new possibilities. We’ll also highlight the importance of re-evaluating insurance policies and helping your grown children become financially independent. Join us for a wealth of practical tips and inspiring stories to make the most of thi...
#4 - The 3 Buckets
Are you curious about the “three buckets of money” strategy? Join Matt Meline as he demystifies this approach in our latest episode. Imagine having three buckets: one for emergencies, another for middle lifestyle goals, and a third for long-term growth. Matt breaks down the benefits – from risk management to effective goal achievement. And don’t worry, he’ll spill the beans on mixing investments (think stocks and bonds) to create a sturdy financial portfolio. Tune in and unlock the secrets to securing your prosperous future!
Episode highlights:
(1:30) Three buckets of money framework
(4:54) The safety bucket
(7:02...
#3 - Budgeting For Fun
Are budgeting woes cramping your style? Tune in to our latest episode with Matt Meline as he flips the script on budgeting. Post-kids, your financial landscape changes, and guess what? It’s time to have some fun! Discover how to redirect funds toward activities that spark joy – travel, hobbies, or personal growth. Matt spills the beans on managing costs, newfound freedom, and turning budgeting into a delightful part of your life.
Episode highlights:
(1:57) Changes in expenses after kids leave home
(3:55) Discretionary vs. Fixed expenses
(5:00) Revisiting monthly expenses
(6:24) Fun budgeting areas: Travel, classes, and work...
#2 - 3 Financial Pitfalls to Avoid this Year
Are you prepared for this year's economic uncertainties? In this episode, Matt Meline offers crucial insights and actionable strategies that are not just general but specifically tailored to the current economic climate to help you navigate potential pitfalls. These steps are vital to avoiding financial pitfalls and having a successful year. Take advantage of this episode, filled with practical tips directly relevant to the current economic situation, to help you thrive amidst economic volatility.
Episode highlights:
(2:25) Understanding diversification, skills, and era of the masterclass
(4:08) Real-life examples of skill diversification
(6:10) Avoiding automation retirement and embracing...
#1 - PrairieFireing Your Life
Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Prairie Fire podcast, hosted by Matt Moline, CEO and founder of Prairie Fire Wealth Planning and author of "Empty Nest Full Pockets." In this episode, Matt shares his journey of overcoming fear and embracing change, like a prairie fire that clears the old to make way for the new. He talks about his midlife challenges and how they led him to find his purpose. This change not only affected his personal life but also inspired the creation of his company. At Prairie Fire Wealth Planning, Matt guides clients to rethink their financial...
The PrairieFire Podcast Trailer
What does it all mean? .......gulp!
The PrairieFire Podcast is digging deep to explore the financial, emotional and hilarious issues of the second half of life. Stick around for content including avoiding retirement pitfalls, understanding money messages and financial lessons from the 1980's!
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