The Retirement Message

A shark sighting at the beach sparks a deeper conversation about retirement readiness. In this episode, Annetta Carter explores what it means to “need a bigger boat” when it comes to your financial future. From debt and emergency funds to inflation, long-term care, and overreliance on Social Security, she outlines the warning signs that your plan may not be seaworthy. Plus, hear how real-life health events can sink even...

What if the biggest challenge in retirement isn’t saving, but knowing when—and how—to spend? Annetta Carter explores the emotional side of enjoying your nest egg, balancing “go-go years” with long-term security, and why regular check-ins and stress-testing your plan matter. Hear real stories about life’s curveballs, the power of life insurance, and how having permission to spend can transform you...

Market rallies may grab headlines, but the real risk for those nearing retirement is how a downturn can derail your income plan. In this episode, Annetta Carter explains why protecting against sequence of returns risk matters more than chasing short-term gains—and how fixed index annuities and structured notes can help fight for your future. Learn how rebalancing, in-service rollovers, and a methodical approach can cushion yo...

What if the biggest surprise in retirement isn’t how much you’ve saved, but how much you’ll owe in taxes? In this episode, Annetta Carter breaks down why understanding tax rules, Social Security strategies, and inflation is key for protecting your income and legacy. Discover how proactive planning can help you avoid costly mistakes, minimize tax burdens, and keep your family’s future secure. From Roth conver...

What if the real risk in your retirement plan isn’t the market, but a one-size-fits-all approach? This episode of The Retirement Message with Annetta Carter features Brad Jenkins, creator of Market Guard, as he reveals why true financial stability means balancing growth with preservation, customizing strategies for every stage of life, and understanding your own “time and temperature.” Discover how innovation, int...

Are you prepared for a retirement that could last 30 years—or for the wealth you might inherit along the way? This episode of The Retirement Message with Annetta Carter explores how to build income streams that keep pace with longevity, why annuities deserve a second look, and how to navigate the “great wealth transfer” with confidence. Learn the importance of personalized planning, understanding tax implications,...

What if the real risk in retirement isn’t just market swings, but emotional decisions? Annetta Carter shares how a non-emotional, mathematical approach can help you navigate volatility, avoid costly mistakes, and build lasting income. Learn why understanding taxes, Social Security, and investment choices matters—and how proactive planning can keep your retirement on track, no matter what headlines say.

Ready to connect ...

Is your retirement plan as unique as your life—or are you stuck with a one-size-fits-all strategy? This episode of The Retirement Message with Annetta Carter explores the critical decision between a pension lump sum and monthly check, why simplifying your financial life matters, and how independent advice can help you avoid costly mistakes. Learn how to align your risk score with your true tolerance, being prepared for long-t...

Are you at risk of fumbling your retirement just inches from the goal line? This episode of The Retirement Message with Annetta Carter reveals why outliving your assets is the top fear for retirees—and how guaranteed income, smart annuities, and updated strategies can help you avoid costly mistakes. Learn how to shift from accumulation to income, spot outdated investments, and preserve your future from market surprises, long-...

How much will healthcare really cost in retirement—and could “one more year” at work make all the difference? This episode of The Retirement Message with Annetta Carter dives into the realities of rising medical expenses, Medicare options, and the impact of delaying retirement for better financial prospects. Learn why planning for insurance, long-term care, and unexpected costs is essential, and how a strategic ex...

Is Social Security really enough to fund the retirement you want—or is it just a “gimme putt” in a much bigger financial game? This episode of The Retirement Message with Annetta Carter reveals why relying on a single income source can leave you short, how inflation and longevity can derail even the best-laid plans, and why regular financial reviews are as important as dental checkups. Learn how to build a compreh...

Is your financial advisor really working for you—or just making you feel stuck? This episode of The Retirement Message with Annetta Carter explores the warning signs that it might be time to put your advisor on the hot seat. Discover why personal connection, clear communication, and tailored strategies matter more than credentials alone. Plus, learn how to create predictable income in retirement, budget for hobbies, and avoid...

What if your career ends sooner than you planned—are you ready to pivot into retirement? Annetta Carter shares real stories of unexpected job loss, the importance of emergency funds, and how to build a flexible financial plan that bridges the gap. Learn why budgeting, health insurance options, and market volatility matter, and discover how MarketGuard’s methodical approach can help protect your nest egg. Find out why pl...

What if the biggest challenge in retirement isn’t saving, but knowing when—and how—to spend? Annetta Carter explores the emotional side of enjoying your nest egg, balancing “go-go years” with long-term security, and why regular check-ins and stress-testing your plan matter. Hear real stories about life’s curveballs, the power of life insurance, and how having permission to spend can transform you...

What if the real risk in retirement isn’t just market swings, but emotional decisions? Annetta Carter shares how a non-emotional, mathematical approach can help you navigate volatility, avoid costly mistakes, and build lasting income. Learn why understanding taxes, Social Security, and investment choices matters—and how proactive planning can keep your retirement on track, no matter what headlines say.

Ready to connect ...

What would you do if Social Security benefits were suddenly cut by 23%? In this episode, Annetta Carter shares practical strategies to prepare for possible changes, from building a backup savings plan to considering deferred income annuities. Plus, learn why conversations about legacy, beneficiaries, and digital accounts with aging parents matter more than ever. Whether you’re just starting to plan or helping family navigate ...

What if the biggest threat to your retirement isn’t the market—but the timing of your withdrawals? In this episode, Annetta Carter of Magnolia Financial Strategies explains how sequence of returns risk can quietly erode your savings, even with a solid average return. She also explores how annuities and structured notes can act as buffers, offering stability and flexibility in volatile markets. Whether you're planning fo...

What happens when you panic and pull out of the market—only to watch it rebound days later? In this episode, Annetta Carter breaks down the emotional side of investing and why timing the market rarely works. From asset allocation to risk tolerance and annuity misconceptions, she shares practical strategies for building a retirement plan that fits your lifestyle. Whether you're in your 40s or nearing retirement, this episode h...

What if your retirement plan is built on outdated rules? In this episode, Annetta Carter breaks down common misconceptions—from the 4% rule to lazy money sitting in savings—and shares modern strategies for long-term care, guaranteed income, and tax-efficient planning. Whether it’s choosing annuities, managing risk with MarketGuard, or preparing early for a 30-year retirement, Annetta offers practical insights to h...