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...
“Can I Retire?” Julie’s Journey to a New Chapter
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline sits down with Julie to hear the story of her transition from a decades-long career in real estate to retirement.
After working since she was a teenager and spending her career in real estate—including roles in IT, marketing, recruiting, brokerage leadership, and consulting—Julie reached a point where she began asking a question many people approaching retirement eventually face: Can I really retire?
Julie shares what it was like to prepare for retirement while balancing work and caring for an aging parent, how...
Where Should Your Retirement Income Come From?
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline and Will Schroeder tackle one of the most important questions you'll face once the paychecks stop coming: Where should your retirement income actually come from?
Your retirement savings may be spread across 401(k)s, IRAs, Roth accounts, taxable investments, cash, real estate, and other assets. But deciding which account to draw from first isn't simply a matter of picking the largest balance. Taxes, Medicare premiums, required minimum distributions, capital gains, and your future goals all play a role.
Matt explains how...
Retirement Investing: Why Your Portfolio Still Needs to Grow
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline and Will Schroeder explore how your investment strategy needs to evolve as you transition from working and saving to retirement and spending.
Many people assume retirement means moving everything into safer investments and getting out of the stock market altogether. But Matt explains why that approach may not provide the long-term growth needed to keep pace with inflation, rising expenses, and a potentially decades-long retirement.
Instead of thinking about retirement as a switch from “risk” to “no risk,” Matt and Will discuss the importance of redefi...
What to Do Before You Retire: Making the Most of Your 59½ Rebellion
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline and Will Schroeder continue their conversation about the 59½ Rebellion and explore what people can actually do during the years between 59½ and retirement.
For many people, 59½ isn't a finish line. It's a window of opportunity—a chance to test drive retirement, make strategic tax decisions, rethink Social Security, prepare for future required minimum distributions, and figure out what life after work will actually cost.
Matt explains why retirees often have more control over their tax situation during these years than they realize, inclu...
The Retirement Tax Traps Nobody Warns You About
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline and Will Schroeder take a closer look at one of the most important—and often overlooked—financial windows in retirement planning: the years between 59½ and 65.
Many people think of 59½ simply as the age when they can access retirement accounts without the early-withdrawal penalty. But Matt explains why it can be much more than that. These years can create valuable opportunities to rethink your tax strategy, build taxable assets, explore Roth conversions, manage your tax brackets, and prepare for the years when required minimum distributions eventually begin...
Before You Retire: Questions to Put Your Retirement Plan Through the Ringer
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline and Will Schroeder take a step back and ask a bigger question: What does it really mean to be ready for retirement?
Retirement planning isn't just about Social Security, Roth conversions, investment balances, or picking a date on the calendar. It's about preparing for the life you want while also making sure your plan can withstand the things you can't predict.
Matt challenges the traditional question of “What do you want to retire to?” and offers a different perspective: What do you...
Are You Really Ready to Retire? The Questions You Need to Ask First
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline and Will Schroeder tackle one of the biggest questions facing anyone approaching retirement: Just because you can retire, does that mean you should?
For many people, retirement represents freedom—the moment they've been working toward for decades. But before pulling the trigger, there are some important questions to answer. Do you know what you're actually spending each month? Have you tested what it feels like to live on your retirement income? Is your tax strategy ready for th...
Before You Retire, Answer These Three Questions
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline shares the core mindset behind the 59½ Rebellion and explains why a successful retirement requires much more than reaching a financial milestone.
Drawing from decades of experience helping hundreds of families prepare for retirement, Matt compares two very different retirement journeys—one driven by frustration and one guided by purpose—to illustrate how planning both financially and emotionally can dramatically shape your future.
He introduces three powerful questions everyone should answer before retiring: Why are you retiring? How w...
The Retirement Identity Crisis Nobody Talks About
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline explores one of the most overlooked aspects of retirement: the identity crisis that can happen when your career ends, but your ambition doesn't.
For decades, many of us have defined ourselves through work, raising families, solving problems, and achieving goals. But retirement doesn't magically erase our desire to grow, contribute, or pursue meaningful challenges. Instead, many retirees discover that financial readiness is only one piece of the equation.
Matt explains why retirement often feels flatter than expected...
Retirement Isn't Always A Shared Finish Line
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline explores two of the biggest concerns facing pre-retirees and empty nesters: what happens when spouses aren't ready to retire at the same time, and what happens when family responsibilities continue long after retirement begins?
Many couples assume retirement is a shared finish line, but real life often looks different.
One spouse may be financially and emotionally ready to retire while the other is still building a business, enjoying their career, or simply not ready for the transition. Matt discusses how couples can navigate...
There's No Perfect Time To Retire
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline tackles one of the most common questions pre-retirees face: "Am I retiring at the wrong time?"
With constant headlines, market volatility, political uncertainty, and changing economic conditions, it's easy to feel like retirement should be delayed until the "perfect" moment arrives. The problem? That perfect moment rarely exists.
Matt explores why successful retirement planning isn't about predicting the future—it's about building flexibility into your plan. He shares practical ways to shift your mindset from timing the market to creating a strategy that ca...
How To Build A Retirement Plan That Gives You Options
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline continues his discussion on the 59½ Rebellion—a framework designed to help empty nesters and pre-retirees test-drive retirement before making the leap.
While many people focus exclusively on their finances, Matt explores the often-overlooked factors that can make or break a successful retirement: your identity, where you want to live, your relationships, and the flexibility built into your financial plan.
From downsizing decisions and second homes to Social Security timing, healthcare planning, and finding purpose beyond your career, this episode offers practical guidance for cre...
Learning How To Spend After A Lifetime Of Saving
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, financial planner Matt Meline introduces the concept of the "59½ Rebellion" — a practical and surprisingly liberating approach to preparing for retirement before you officially leave the workforce.
For decades, most people focus on one financial objective: accumulating wealth. But retirement requires a completely different mindset. Matt explores why the transition from saving money to spending it can be one of the most difficult emotional shifts retirees face and shares a simple exercise designed to help you prepare for that change.
Beyond finances, Matt discusses the importance of...
How To Lower College Costs (Without Cutting Corners)
In this episode of Empty Nest Full Pockets, financial advisor Will Schroeder shifts from fears to action - sharing practical strategies families can use to reduce the cost of college and make smarter financial decisions.
While there’s no magic solution to make college free, Will breaks down real, actionable ways to lower expenses - from maximizing scholarship opportunities to exploring alternative education paths. Drawing from his own experience, he highlights common mistakes students make (and how to avoid them), while offering insights that can save families thousands over time.
You’ll a...
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.
Digital Asset: Download Our Empty Nest Success Checklist - https://prairiefirewealth.com/areas-of-focus/empty-nest-planning/
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.
Digital Asset: Download Our Empty Nest Success Checklist - https://prairiefirewealth.com/areas-of-focus/empty-nest-planning/
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!
Digital Asset:
Download Our Empty Nest...
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:
Download Our Empty Nest Success Checklist - https://prairiefirewealth.com/areas-of-focus/empty-nest-planning/
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:
Download Our Empty Nest Success Checklist - https://prairiefirewealth.com/areas-of-focus/empty-nest-planning/
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.
—
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.
Digital Asset:
#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...
