Empty Nest Full Pockets Podcast

Matt Meline, CFP
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Investing
  • Updated Weekly

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 a DBA of Sanctuary Securities, Inc. and Sanctuary Advisors, LLC.

  1. 2d ago

    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 will you stay fully engaged in your new life? What legacy do you want to leave behind? If you're approaching retirement and wondering how to make this next chapter meaningful—not just financially secure—this episode provides a thoughtful framework to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Empty Nest Full Pockets: How to Emotionally and Financially Prepare for Your Family's Future As your children prepare for their next chapter, it's time to prepare for yours. In Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline offers practical guidance for navigating the emotional and financial realities of becoming an empty nester, including college planning, retirement preparation, housing decisions, family relationships, and creating a meaningful future after the kids leave home. Learn how to build financial confidence while embracing the opportunities that come with this new season of life. Get your copy here: https://prairiefirewealth.com/book/ Episode Topics Covered The Philosophy Behind the 59½ RebellionWhy Retirement Is About More Than Financial IndependenceLessons from Real Retirement Success StoriesCommon Mistakes That Can Derail RetirementWhy Defining Your "Why" MattersUnderstanding Your Motivation for RetiringThe Emotional Side of Retirement PlanningThe Meaning Behind "Clear Eyes, Full Hearts"Living with Purpose During RetirementSpending Money with ConfidenceCreating a Retirement Vision That Inspires YouBuilding a Meaningful LegacyGiving Back Through Mentorship and ServiceHow to Make the Second Half of Life Your Best ChapterPreparing for Retirement with Intention— I sincerely appreciate your support. Thank you for being a part of our podcast journey. If you haven't already, please subscribe to stay updated with the latest episodes. Your subscription means the world to me! I’d love to hear from you; here are some ways to connect: Web: https://www.prairiefirewealth.com/ Email: info@pfwplanning.com Get a copy of my book: Empty Nest, Full Pockets: How to Emotionally and Financially Prepare for Your Family’s Future at https://amzn.to/3PovUWM

  2. Jul 22

    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, why freedom can actually feel uncomfortable after a lifetime of productivity, and how the 59½ Rebellion encourages you to begin preparing emotionally—long before your last day of work. Whether you're five years from retirement or already there, this episode offers a fresh perspective on creating a life filled with purpose, curiosity, and intentional living. Empty Nest Full Pockets: How to Emotionally and Financially Prepare for Your Family's Future As your children prepare for their next chapter, it's time to prepare for yours. In Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline offers practical guidance for navigating the emotional and financial realities of becoming an empty nester, including college planning, retirement preparation, housing decisions, family relationships, and creating a meaningful future after the kids leave home. Learn how to build financial confidence while embracing the opportunities that come with this new season of life. Get your copy here: https://prairiefirewealth.com/book/ Episode Topics Covered Why Retirement Can Trigger an Identity CrisisThe Difference Between Financial Readiness and Emotional ReadinessWhy Ambition Doesn't End When Your Career DoesThe Myth of "Relaxing Forever"Transitioning from Productivity to PurposeWhy Empty Nesters Often Experience Similar FeelingsRetiring To Something Instead of From SomethingSelf-Reflection and Discovering What Drives YouWhy Freedom Can Feel UncomfortableThe Emotional Challenges Many Men Face in RetirementFinding New Sources of Purpose and FulfillmentThe 59½ Rebellion PhilosophyPreparing Emotionally Before You RetireBuilding a Retirement Life with Intention— I sincerely appreciate your support. Thank you for being a part of our podcast journey. If you haven't already, please subscribe to stay updated with the latest episodes. Your subscription means the world to me! I’d love to hear from you; here are some ways to connect: Web: https://www.prairiefirewealth.com/ Email: info@pfwplanning.com Get a copy of my book: Empty Nest, Full Pockets: How to Emotionally and Financially Prepare for Your Family’s Future at https://amzn.to/3PovUWM

  3. Jun 26

    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 different retirement timelines while staying aligned on their long-term goals. He also dives into the realities of the "sandwich generation"—supporting adult children while simultaneously caring for aging parents. From financial assistance and healthcare concerns to setting healthy boundaries and managing feelings of guilt, Matt shares practical insights for balancing family responsibilities without sacrificing your own future. If you're approaching retirement and wondering how to navigate family obligations, relationship dynamics, and differing timelines, this episode offers a thoughtful framework for moving forward with confidence. Empty Nest Full Pockets: How to Emotionally and Financially Prepare for Your Family's Future As your children prepare for their next chapter, it's time to prepare for yours. In Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline offers practical guidance for navigating the emotional and financial realities of becoming an empty nester, including college planning, retirement preparation, housing decisions, family relationships, and creating a meaningful future after the kids leave home. Learn how to build financial confidence while embracing the opportunities that come with this new season of life. Get your copy here: https://prairiefirewealth.com/book/ Episode Topics Covered Why Couples Often Retire on Different TimelinesRedefining What Retirement Actually MeansThe Benefits of a Phased Retirement ApproachFinancial Readiness vs. Emotional ReadinessWhy Retirement Doesn't Have to Be an All-or-Nothing DecisionUsing Trial Periods, Sabbaticals, and Part-Time Work Before RetiringHow to Create a Retirement Plan That Works for Both SpousesReal-Life Examples of Staggered Retirement TransitionsCommunication Strategies for Couples Approaching RetirementCoordinating Retirement Income and BenefitsMedicare and Social Security Considerations for CouplesThe Importance of Flexibility in Retirement PlanningNavigating Retirement as Part of the Sandwich GenerationSupporting Adult Children Without Jeopardizing Your FutureHelping Aging Parents Financially and EmotionallyPreparing for Potential Long-Term Care NeedsManaging Unexpected Family ExpensesBalancing Family Support with Personal Financial GoalsSetting Healthy Financial Boundaries with Loved OnesOvercoming Guilt Around Money and Family ResponsibilitiesProtecting Your Financial Freedom While Caring for OthersBuilding a Retirement Plan That Accounts for Family UncertaintyCreating Confidence Through Planning and Communication— I sincerely appreciate your support. Thank you for being a part of our podcast journey. If you haven't already, please subscribe to stay updated with the latest episodes. Your subscription means the world to me! I’d love to hear from you; here are some ways to connect: Web: https://www.prairiefirewealth.com/ Email: info@pfwplanning.com Get a copy of my book: Empty Nest, Full Pockets: How to Emotionally and Financially Prepare for Your Family’s Future at https://amzn.to/3PovUWM

  4. Jun 24

    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 can adapt to life's inevitable surprises. Whether you're approaching retirement or actively deciding when to make the leap, this episode will help you move beyond fear and focus on what really matters: having a plan that gives you confidence regardless of what the headlines say. Empty Nest Full Pockets: How to Emotionally and Financially Prepare for Your Family's Future As your children prepare for their next chapter, it's time to prepare for yours. In Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline offers practical guidance for navigating the emotional and financial realities of becoming an empty nester, including college planning, retirement preparation, housing decisions, family relationships, and creating a meaningful future after the kids leave home. Learn how to build financial confidence while embracing the opportunities that come with this new season of life. Get your copy here: https://prairiefirewealth.com/book/ Episode Topics Covered The Myth of the "Perfect" Retirement DateWhy Headlines and Financial News Create Retirement AnxietySeparating Market Noise from Long-Term PlanningCommon Fears About Retiring at the Wrong TimeWhy Flexibility Matters More Than Perfect TimingShifting Your Mindset from Timing to AdaptabilityHow a Strong Retirement Plan Handles Market VolatilityUnderstanding Financial Guardrails and Withdrawal StrategiesBuilding Buffers for Unexpected Life EventsPlanning for Healthcare and Long-Term Care RisksCreating Flexible Social Security Claiming StrategiesTax Diversification and Retirement Income PlanningWhy Retirement Planning Should Focus on Ranges, Not DatesThe Benefits of Creating a Retirement WindowHow to Evaluate Retirement Readiness with ConfidenceManaging Uncertainty Without Delaying Your FutureThe Role of Financial Planning in Reducing Retirement StressLearning to Trust the Plan You've BuiltMoving from Fear-Based Decisions to Purposeful PlanningWhy Strategy Matters More Than Market Conditions— I sincerely appreciate your support. Thank you for being a part of our podcast journey. If you haven't already, please subscribe to stay updated with the latest episodes. Your subscription means the world to me! I’d love to hear from you; here are some ways to connect: Web: https://www.prairiefirewealth.com/ Email: info@pfwplanning.com Get a copy of my book: Empty Nest, Full Pockets: How to Emotionally and Financially Prepare for Your Family’s Future at https://amzn.to/3PovUWM

  5. Jun 19

    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 creating a retirement that feels fulfilling—not just financially secure. If you're approaching retirement and wondering what life will actually look like after work, this conversation will help you think beyond the numbers and start designing your next chapter with confidence. Empty Nest Full Pockets: How to Emotionally and Financially Prepare for Your Family's Future As your children prepare for their next chapter, it's time to prepare for yours. In Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline offers practical guidance for navigating the emotional and financial realities of becoming an empty nester, including college planning, retirement preparation, housing decisions, family relationships, and creating a meaningful future after the kids leave home. Learn how to build financial confidence while embracing the opportunities that come with this new season of life. Get your copy here: https://prairiefirewealth.com/book/ Episode Topics Covered Continuing the 59½ Rebellion FrameworkWhy Retirement Should Be Test-Driven Before It HappensFinding Purpose and Identity Beyond Your CareerTurning Passions and Skills Into Meaningful Retirement ActivitiesMapping Out Your Ideal Retirement WeekGeography Decisions: Should You Stay, Move, or Downsize?The Pros and Cons of Relocating in RetirementUsing Travel and Short-Term Rentals to Test Potential Retirement LocationsWhy Community Matters More Than You ThinkNavigating Housing Decisions with Low Mortgage RatesEvaluating Second Homes and Lifestyle ChangesThe Importance of Relationship Planning in RetirementAdjusting to Spending More Time Together as a CoupleHow Practice Reduces Retirement AnxietyUnderstanding Financial Guardrails and Spending FlexibilityCreating a Sustainable Retirement Spending PlanTax Diversification and Roth Conversion StrategiesWhy Retirement Doesn't Have to Be an All-or-Nothing DecisionThe Benefits of a Gradual or Part-Time Retirement TransitionCreating a Personalized Social Security Claiming StrategyCommon Social Security Mistakes That Can Cost Families ThousandsHealthcare Planning for Early RetireesOvercoming the Fear of Leaving Employer-Sponsored BenefitsBuilding Confidence Before Pulling the Retirement TriggerDesigning a Retirement That Aligns With Your Values and Goals— I sincerely appreciate your support. Thank you for being a part of our podcast journey. If you haven't already, please subscribe to stay updated with the latest episodes. Your subscription means the world to me! I’d love to hear from you; here are some ways to connect: Web: https://www.prairiefirewealth.com/ Email: info@pfwplanning.com Get a copy of my book: Empty Nest, Full Pockets: How to Emotionally and Financially Prepare for Your Family’s Future at https://amzn.to/3PovUWM

  6. Jun 17

    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 test-driving retirement by experimenting with your time, exploring future hobbies and passions, and developing a deeper understanding of your identity outside of work. By taking small steps before retirement arrives, you can gain clarity, confidence, and a better sense of what your next chapter could look like. If you're approaching retirement and wondering what life will actually feel like once the paychecks stop, this episode offers a thoughtful roadmap for making the transition with purpose. Empty Nest Full Pockets: How to Emotionally and Financially Prepare for Your Family's Future As your children prepare for their next chapter, it's time to prepare for yours. In Empty Nest Full Pockets, Matt Meline offers practical guidance for navigating the emotional and financial realities of becoming an empty nester, including college planning, retirement preparation, housing decisions, family relationships, and creating a meaningful future after the kids leave home. Learn how to build financial confidence while embracing the opportunities that come with this new season of life. Get your copy here: https://prairiefirewealth.com/book/ Episode Topics Covered • Introducing the "59½ Rebellion" Framework • Why Retirement Should Be Test Driven • Taking Time Away from Work Before You Retire • Evaluating How You Really Want to Spend Your Time • The Emotional Shift from Saving to Spending • Understanding the Freedom of Penalty-Free Retirement Withdrawals • Why Many Retirees Struggle to Spend Their Savings • Practicing Retirement Income Before Retirement Begins • Moving from Accumulation to Financial Freedom • The Psychology of Watching Your Account Balances Change • How Small Withdrawals Can Build Confidence • Why Retirement Is More Than a Financial Decision • Exploring Identity Beyond Your Career • The Importance of Hobbies and Purpose in Retirement • Discovering New Passions and Interests • Using Personality Assessments to Better Understand Yourself • How Self-Knowledge Can Shape Your Retirement Experience • Creating a Retirement Lifestyle That Fits You — I sincerely appreciate your support. Thank you for being a part of our podcast journey. If you haven't already, please subscribe to stay updated with the latest episodes. Your subscription means the world to me! I’d love to hear from you; here are some ways to connect: Web: https://www.prairiefirewealth.com/ Email: info@pfwplanning.com Get a copy of my book: Empty Nest, Full Pockets: How to Emotionally and Financially Prepare for Your Family’s Future at https://amzn.to/3PovUWM

  7. May 29

    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 also get a behind-the-scenes look at the college planning software Prairie Fire Wealth Planning uses to help families estimate true costs, uncover financial aid opportunities, and identify potential funding gaps - so you can plan with clarity instead of guesswork. If you’re looking for practical ways to make college more affordable, this episode is packed with strategies you can start using today. Digital Asset Get Free Access to the PFW College Money Plan https://prairiefirewealth.com/areas-of-focus/empty-nest-planning/ Episode Topics Covered  Why Scholarships Matter More Than You Think  A Costly Mistake: Not Taking Scholarship Applications Seriously  Tip #1: Apply for Every Scholarship Opportunity  Tip #2: How to Appeal Your Financial Aid Offer  When Appealing Financial Aid Can Make a Big Difference  Tip #3: Lower-Cost College Pathways (Community College & 3-Year Degrees)  How Community College Can Cut Costs Significantly  Accelerating Graduation with a 3-Year Degree Path  Earning College Credits in High School to Save Money  Tip #4: Saving on Textbooks and Education Materials  Avoiding Unnecessary Expenses on Course Materials  Inside the College Cost Planning Software  How to Estimate the True Cost of Different Schools  Understanding Financial Aid, Grants, and Scholarships  Identifying Your College Funding Gap  Comparing High-Cost vs. Lower-Cost School Options  How Academic Performance Impacts Scholarship Opportunities  Planning How to Cover the Remaining Cost of College  Key Takeaways from Empty Nest Full Pockets Why Community College Can Be a Strategic Financial Decision  I sincerely appreciate your support. Thank you for being part of our podcast journey. If you haven’t already, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone navigating the college planning process. Let’s stay connected: 🌐 Web: https://www.prairiefirewealth.com/ 📧 Email: info@pfwplanning.com — I sincerely appreciate your support. Thank you for being a part of our podcast journey. If you haven't already, please subscribe to stay updated with the latest episodes. Your subscription means the world to me! I’d love to hear from you; here are some ways to connect: Web: https://www.prairiefirewealth.com/ Email: info@pfwplanning.com Get a copy of my book: Empty Nest, Full Pockets: How to Emotionally and Financially Prepare for Your Family’s Future at https://amzn.to/3PovUWM

  8. May 15

    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 expectations with your child to understanding the true return on investment of a college education, this episode offers practical guidance to help you approach the process with clarity and confidence. Will also introduce the PFW College Money Plan and the tools available to help families build a personalized strategy - so you can make smarter decisions without sacrificing your financial future. If college planning feels overwhelming, this episode will help you move from uncertain to prepared. Digital Asset Download the PFW College Money Plan (Free Access) https://prairiefirewealth.com/areas-of-focus/empty-nest-planning/ Episode Topics Covered  Why College Affordability Is the #1 Concern for Parents  Welcome to Empty Nest Full Pockets  Introduction to the PFW College Money Plan Course  What Good College Planning Looks Like  Setting Expectations Early with Your Child  When to Start the College Planning Process  The Importance of College Visits (and Timing Them Right)  Having a Decision Before Senior Year  The 3 Biggest Fears Parents Have About College  The Rising Cost of College (and Why It’s Accelerating)  Real Cost Projections for Public vs. Private Schools  Why Early Planning Is Critical for Families  Navigating the Transition from Parent to Mentor  Setting Communication Expectations with Your College Student  Managing Independence and Family Connection  Understanding Return on Investment (ROI) for College  Balancing Cost vs. Career Earnings Potential  The Intangible Value of College (Growth, Relationships, Life Skills)  I sincerely appreciate your support. Thank you for being part of our podcast journey. If you haven’t already, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone preparing for or navigating the college planning process. Let’s stay connected: 🌐 Web: https://www.prairiefirewealth.com/ 📧 Email: info@pfwplanning.com — I sincerely appreciate your support. Thank you for being a part of our podcast journey. If you haven't already, please subscribe to stay updated with the latest episodes. Your subscription means the world to me! I’d love to hear from you; here are some ways to connect: Web: https://www.prairiefirewealth.com/ Email: info@pfwplanning.com Get a copy of my book: Empty Nest, Full Pockets: How to Emotionally and Financially Prepare for Your Family’s Future at https://amzn.to/3PovUWM

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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 a DBA of Sanctuary Securities, Inc. and Sanctuary Advisors, LLC.

Information

  • Creator
    Matt Meline, CFP
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Empty Nest Full Pockets Podcast
  • Show Website
    Empty Nest Full Pockets Podcast