Retirement Planning Pipe-Line

AmeriLife Retirement.Radio Network

Welcome to the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line! Your go-to resource for smart, strategic retirement planning. Whether you're a few years from retirement or just getting serious about your financial future, Retirement Planning Pipe-Line delivers expert insights, actionable advice, and real-world strategies to help you retire confidently and comfortably. Hosted by Retirement Planning Specialists Charles “David” Pipes, and Steve Zareck, this is the radio show and podcast that breaks down key topics like investment planning, tax strategies, Social Security optimization, estate planning, and more — all with a clear focus on helping you build a secure retirement. With 30 years of Retirement Planning experience, Charles and Steve cut through the noise, simplify the complex, and guide you through the pipeline to a well-prepared retirement. No jargon. No hype. Just clear, practical guidance to help you take control of your future. Subscribe now and start building your retirement game plan — one episode at a time! Call: 850-424-8977

  1. 12/06/2025

    Smart Financial Planning for the New Year - The Truth About Lifetime Income in Today’s World

    In episode 13 of the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line – Retirement Planning Specialists David Pipes and Steve Zareck get you ready for the new year with practical financial planning you can achieve to improve your retirement portfolio for 2026! Enjoying the podcast? Leave a 5-star rating and review - it helps more people find the show! Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to further secure your financial future. Make sure to subscribe to the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review! Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with David and Steve and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to the radio show every Saturday morning at 8am CST --- WCOA News Talk 104.9 FM and 1370 AM  Listen to Previous Episodes: https://retirementpipeline.com/podcast Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@retirementplanningpipeline --- Connect with Charles “David” Pipes: Phone --- 850-424-8977 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 850-424-8977 Email --- szareck@amerilife.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-zareck-53b443b1 --- Charles “David” Pipes is a highly respected retirement planning specialist based in South Alabama, known for his analytical precision and client-focused approach. With dual degrees in Actuarial Science and Statistics, David brings a strong mathematical foundation to every financial strategy he designs. His deep understanding of risk, probability, and long-term forecasting has made him a trusted professional for individuals planning for retirement security and strategizing income. David combines technical expertise with a personal commitment to helping clients achieve financial peace of mind in their retirement years. Steven Zareck is a trusted independent retirement specialist and Market Leader for AmeriLife, serving clients across the Florida Panhandle, Southern Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. With over 30 years of experience in the retirement planning space, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of the financial needs of retirees. Backed by a degree in Economics, Steve applies a strong foundation in economic principles to help clients navigate complex financial decisions with clarity and confidence. His deep economic insight allows him to craft retirement strategies that are both practical and resilient in the face of changing market conditions.

    1 hr
  2. 12/04/2025 · BONUS

    Podcast Extra—Inflation, Tariffs, and Dupe Culture: How We’re Shopping This Holiday Season

    In this interview, Retirement.Radio’s Matt McClure speaks with Mary Hines Droesch, head of consumer and small business products at Bank of America, about holiday shopping trends. A major focus is how inflation and tariffs influence consumer behavior. The discussion also explores how dupe culture is emerging as a popular trend among younger generations who seek affordable alternatives to high-end branded items, while highlighting generational differences in gift-giving preferences and shopping habits. Mary emphasizes practical strategies for managing holiday expenses, including budgeting, using rewards cards, and taking advantage of bulk purchasing opportunities to maximize value during the holiday season. --- Listen to the radio show every Saturday morning at 8am CST --- WCOA News Talk 104.9 FM and 1370 AM Listen to Previous Episodes: https://retirementpipeline.com/podcast Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@retirementplanningpipeline ---  Connect with Charles “David” Pipes: Phone --- 850-424-8977 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes   Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 850-424-8977 Email --- szareck@amerilife.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-zareck-53b443b1 ---  Charles “David” Pipes is a highly respected retirement planning specialist based in South Alabama, known for his analytical precision and client-focused approach. With dual degrees in Actuarial Science and Statistics, David brings a strong mathematical foundation to every financial strategy he designs. His deep understanding of risk, probability, and long-term forecasting has made him a trusted professional for individuals planning for retirement security and strategizing income. David combines technical expertise with a personal commitment to helping clients achieve financial peace of mind in their retirement years.  Steven Zareck is a trusted independent retirement specialist and Market Leader for AmeriLife, serving clients across the Florida Panhandle, Southern Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. With over 30 years of experience in the retirement planning space, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of the financial needs of retirees. Backed by a degree in Economics, Steve applies a strong foundation in economic principles to help clients navigate complex financial decisions with clarity and confidence. His deep economic insight allows him to craft retirement strategies that are both practical and resilient in the face of changing market conditions.

    7 min
  3. 11/21/2025

    Protect, Grow, Prepare: Smart Money Moves for 2025

    In episode 12 of the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line – Retirement Planning Specialists David Pipes and Steve Zareck discuss why choosing to retain MYGAs (Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities) and Fixed-Indexed Annuities over Bank CDs are a more beneficial choice for your retirement portfolio. Plus, why understanding the real rate of return—the number that determines whether you’re getting ahead financially or slowly falling behind in retirement – the key dangers to nominal vs. Real. Enjoying the podcast? Leave a 5-star rating and review - it helps more people find the show!  Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to further secure your financial future. Make sure to subscribe to the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review! Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with David and Steve and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge.   --- Listen to the radio show every Saturday morning at 8am CST --- WCOA News Talk 104.9 FM and 1370 AM Listen to Previous Episodes: https://retirementpipeline.com/podcast Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@retirementplanningpipeline ---  Connect with Charles “David” Pipes: Phone --- 850-424-8977 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes   Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 850-424-8977 Email --- szareck@amerilife.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-zareck-53b443b1 ---  Charles “David” Pipes is a highly respected retirement planning specialist based in South Alabama, known for his analytical precision and client-focused approach. With dual degrees in Actuarial Science and Statistics, David brings a strong mathematical foundation to every financial strategy he designs. His deep understanding of risk, probability, and long-term forecasting has made him a trusted professional for individuals planning for retirement security and strategizing income. David combines technical expertise with a personal commitment to helping clients achieve financial peace of mind in their retirement years.  Steven Zareck is a trusted independent retirement specialist and Market Leader for AmeriLife, serving clients across the Florida Panhandle, Southern Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. With over 30 years of experience in the retirement planning space, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of the financial needs of retirees. Backed by a degree in Economics, Steve applies a strong foundation in economic principles to help clients navigate complex financial decisions with clarity and confidence. His deep economic insight allows him to craft retirement strategies that are both practical and resilient in the face of changing market conditions. Chapters (00:00:00) - Retirement Planning Pipeline(00:01:16) - Retirement Planning Pipeline(00:02:27) - Don't Overpay for CDs(00:08:24) - Don't Let Your Bank Make Money Off You(00:08:47) - CDs, Cash Early or Risky?(00:10:00) - CD Rates, Retirement Planning(00:13:11) - Retirement Planning Pipeline(00:13:53) - Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities and Fixed indexed annuity(00:16:35) - Do I Need a High-Rated Investment?(00:17:32) - Mutual Planner: Fixed-Rate Annuity(00:22:59) - The Retirement Planning Pipeline(00:24:51) - How to Plan for Retirement(00:27:26) - Financial Wisdom Quote of the Week(00:28:19) - Final Healthcare Prep(00:33:44) - Retired Money: Do You Risk $200,000 in Your(00:35:18) - David Broker on Client Goals(00:38:24) - The Retirement Planning Pipeline(00:40:11) - Real Rate of Return vs. Nominal Returns(00:43:44) - Retirement Savings: Maximizing Income in Retirement(00:48:25) - How to Use Your Money in Retirement(00:51:17) - The Retirement Planning Pipeline(00:51:52) - Amerilife Annuity: Bonus Annuity(00:54:04) - Military Employment Director Ryan Burgos(00:54:23) - Hire a Veteran Day(00:55:32) - Steve Knows How to Get a Job(00:58:04) - How DAV helps employers look to hire veterans(00:59:40) - Service Disabled Veteran on 'EWTN'

    1 hr
  4. 11/14/2025

    Countdown to the Financial Year-End - Smart Moves for Your Money Before the Clock Runs Out!

    In episode 11 of the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line - As the year draws to a close, it’s crunch time for investors and retirees alike. In episode 11 of the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line, Retirement Planning Specialists David Pipes and Steve Zareck unwrap the financial countdown to year-end, breaking down the key decisions that can impact your retirement strategy and tax outlook.  Plus: RMDs Unwrapped – What Required Minimum Distributions mean for your retirement accounts, how to calculate them, and smart ways to manage the tax bite. 401(k) Rollovers Explained – The dos and don’ts of rolling overqualified funds, plus how to avoid costly mistakes that can derail your retirement plans. From Savings to Income – Strategies for transitioning qualified funds into a reliable income stream that supports your lifestyle throughout retirement.  Enjoying the podcast? Leave a 5-star rating and review - it helps more people find the show! Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to further secure your financial future. Make sure to subscribe to the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review! Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with David and Steve and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge.   ---   Listen to the radio show every Saturday morning at 8am CST --- WCOA News Talk 104.9 FM and 1370 AM  Listen to Previous Episodes: https://retirementpipeline.com/podcast Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@retirementplanningpipeline   --- Connect with Charles “David” Pipes: Phone --- 850-424-8977 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes   Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 850-424-8977 Email --- szareck@amerilife.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-zareck-53b443b1 ---  Charles “David” Pipes is a highly respected retirement planning specialist based in South Alabama, known for his analytical precision and client-focused approach. With dual degrees in Actuarial Science and Statistics, David brings a strong mathematical foundation to every financial strategy he designs. His deep understanding of risk, probability, and long-term forecasting has made him a trusted professional for individuals planning for retirement security and strategizing income. David combines technical expertise with a personal commitment to helping clients achieve financial peace of mind in their retirement years.  Steven Zareck is a trusted independent retirement specialist and Market Leader for AmeriLife, serving clients across the Florida Panhandle, Southern Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. With over 30 years of experience in the retirement planning space, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of the financial needs of retirees. Backed by a degree in Economics, Steve applies a strong foundation in economic principles to help clients navigate complex f...

    1 hr
  5. 11/08/2025

    The Retirement Reality Hour - Interest Rates, Tax Traps, and Healthcare Costs — What You Don’t Know Could Derail Your Retirement.

    In episode 10 of the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line, David and Steve detail the rising healthcare costs that could affect your ENTIRE retirement plan. Plus, the guys, go over how annuities are the safest option against market volatility.  Enjoying the podcast? Leave a 5-star rating and review - it helps more people find the show! Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to further secure your financial future. Make sure to subscribe to the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review! Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with David and Steve and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge.   ---   Listen to the radio show every Saturday morning at 8am CST --- WCOA News Talk 104.9 FM and 1370 AM Listen to Previous Episodes: https://retirementpipeline.com/podcast Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@retirementplanningpipeline   ---    Connect with Charles “David” Pipes: Phone --- 851-236-4371 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes   Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 851-236-4371 Email --- szareck@amerilife.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-zareck-53b443b1    ---    Charles “David” Pipes is a highly respected retirement planning specialist based in South Alabama, known for his analytical precision and client-focused approach. With dual degrees in Actuarial Science and Statistics, David brings a strong mathematical foundation to every financial strategy he designs. His deep understanding of risk, probability, and long-term forecasting has made him a trusted professional for individuals planning for retirement security and strategizing income. David combines technical expertise with a personal commitment to helping clients achieve financial peace of mind in their retirement years. Steven Zareck is a trusted independent retirement specialist and Market Leader for AmeriLife, serving clients across the Florida Panhandle, Southern Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. With over 30 years of experience in the retirement planning space, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of the financial needs of retirees. Backed by a degree in Economics, Steve applies a strong foundation in economic principles to help clients navigate complex financial decisions with clarity and confidence. His deep economic insight allows him to craft retirement strategies that are both practical and resilient in the face of changing market conditions.

    1 hr
  6. 11/04/2025 · BONUS

    Podcast Extra: The Proper Steps to Take for a Successful Retirement

    In this piece, brought to you by Retirement.Radio's Jim Tarabocchia, we explore the basics steps to take – and break them down – for further clarity on preparing for retirement.   Key Points Covered: The importance of saving for retirement – NOW Balancing your investments – How a healthy mix of riskier investments can help weather the market’s uncertainty especially as you get closer to retirement. The importance of seeking professional guidance when planning financially for the future.   --- Listen to the radio show every Saturday morning at 8am CST --- WCOA News Talk 104.9 FM and 1370 AM Listen to Previous Episodes: https://retirementpipeline.com/podcast Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@retirementplanningpipeline  ---  Connect with Charles “David” Pipes: Phone --- 850-424-8977 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 850-424-8977 Email --- szareck@amerilife.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-zareck-53b443b1  ---  Charles “David” Pipes is a highly respected retirement planning specialist based in South Alabama, known for his analytical precision and client-focused approach. With dual degrees in Actuarial Science and Statistics, David brings a strong mathematical foundation to every financial strategy he designs. His deep understanding of risk, probability, and long-term forecasting has made him a trusted professional for individuals planning for retirement security and strategizing income. David combines technical expertise with a personal commitment to helping clients achieve financial peace of mind in their retirement years. Steven Zareck is a trusted independent retirement specialist and Market Leader for AmeriLife, serving clients across the Florida Panhandle, Southern Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. With...

    2 min
  7. 10/31/2025

    Money & Medicare - The Hidden Connection Between Health and Wealth

    In episode nine of the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line, David and Steve dive deep into one of the most overlooked links in personal finance: the powerful connection between your health and your wealth. Medicare isn’t just a government program—it’s a cornerstone of retirement planning that can make or break your financial security later in life. The guys uncover how healthcare costs, coverage choices, and timing decisions can impact your long-term savings and lifestyle. From navigating Parts A, B, C, and D to understanding the hidden costs that catch retirees off guard, we’ll help you see how Medicare fits into the bigger picture of financial wellness. Enjoying the podcast? Leave a 5-star rating and review - it helps more people find the show!  Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to further secure your financial future. Make sure to subscribe to the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review! Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with David and Steve and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge.   --- Listen to the radio show every Saturday morning at 8am CST --- WCOA News Talk 104.9 FM and 1370 AM Listen to Previous Episodes: https://retirementpipeline.com/podcast Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@retirementplanningpipeline  ---  Connect with Charles “David” Pipes: Phone --- 850-424-8977 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 850-424-8977 Email --- szareck@amerilife.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-zareck-53b443b1  ---  Charles “David” Pipes is a highly respected retirement planning specialist based in South Alabama, known for his analytical precision and client-focused approach. With dual degrees in Actuarial Science and Statistics, David brings a strong mathematical foundation to every financial strategy he designs. His deep understanding of risk, probability, and long-term forecasting has made him a trusted professional for individuals planning for retirement security and strategizing income. David combines technical expertise with a personal commitment to helping clients achieve financial peace of mind in their retirement years. Steven Zareck is a trusted independent retirement specialist and Market Leader for AmeriLife, serving clients across the Florida Panhandle, Southern Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. With over 30 years of experience in the retirement planning space, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of the financial needs of retirees. Backed by a degree in Economics, Steve applies a strong foundation in economic principles to help clients navigate complex financial decisions with clarity and confidence. His deep economic insight allows him to craft retirement strategies that are both practical and resilient in the face of changing market conditions.

    1 hr
  8. 10/29/2025 · BONUS

    Bonus Interview: The Hidden Respiratory Risk for Retirees with Dr. Leonard Friedland

    In recognition of RSV Awareness Month, Retirement.Radio’s Matt McClure sits down with Dr. Leonard Friedland, Vice President and Director of Scientific Affairs and Public Health for GSK North America, and Carole, a National Senior Games athlete, to discuss how RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) affects older adults and why prevention matters.   Dr. Friedland explains that RSV is far more than a seasonal nuisance — it leads to an estimated 177,000 hospitalizations and 14,000 deaths each year among adults aged 65 and older in the U.S. Carole shares her personal story of contracting RSV despite her active lifestyle, detailing how the illness sidelined her and reshaped her approach to health and wellness.   Together, they highlight the importance of awareness, vaccination, and simple preventive steps to help older adults stay healthy through the respiratory virus season. Learn more and access helpful resources at SidelineRSV.com.   --- Listen to the radio show every Saturday morning at 8am CST --- WCOA News Talk 104.9 FM and 1370 AM  Listen to Previous Episodes: https://retirementpipeline.com/podcast Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@retirementplanningpipeline --- Connect with Charles “David” Pipes: Phone --- (850) 424-8977 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes   Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- (850) 424-8977 Email --- szareck@amerilife.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-zareck-53b443b1 --- Charles “David” Pipes is a highly respected retirement planning specialist based in South Alabama, known for his analytical precision and client-focused approach. With dual degrees in Actuarial Science and Statistics, David brings a strong mathematical foundation to every financial strategy he designs. His deep understanding of risk, probability, and long-term forecasting has ma... Chapters (00:00:00) - Symptoms of RSV in fall(00:00:53) - Dr. Friedland: Respiratory Syndrome in older adults(00:02:56) - Seniors Get Sick With RSV

    8 min

About

Welcome to the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line! Your go-to resource for smart, strategic retirement planning. Whether you're a few years from retirement or just getting serious about your financial future, Retirement Planning Pipe-Line delivers expert insights, actionable advice, and real-world strategies to help you retire confidently and comfortably. Hosted by Retirement Planning Specialists Charles “David” Pipes, and Steve Zareck, this is the radio show and podcast that breaks down key topics like investment planning, tax strategies, Social Security optimization, estate planning, and more — all with a clear focus on helping you build a secure retirement. With 30 years of Retirement Planning experience, Charles and Steve cut through the noise, simplify the complex, and guide you through the pipeline to a well-prepared retirement. No jargon. No hype. Just clear, practical guidance to help you take control of your future. Subscribe now and start building your retirement game plan — one episode at a time! Call: 850-424-8977