Boomers, Bucks, and Bling Podcast

Carl Spiteri

Unlock the secrets to financial success with the Boomers, Bucks, and Bling Podcast!Hosted by Carl Spiteri, a veteran Mortgage Loan Originator with over 30 years of experience, this podcast is your ultimate guide to mastering the financial intricacies of buying, selling, and lending in today's dynamic market. Whether you're a home buyer, lender, or seller, Carl's expert insights and practical advice will empower you to make informed decisions that lead to lasting financial stability.Each episode breaks down complex financial concepts into easy-to-understand discussions, featuring everything from credit scoring and budgeting tips to the latest trends in commercial and residential lending. With guest appearances from industry professionals and real-world examples, Boomers, Bucks, and Bling offers valuable perspectives that can help you navigate the financial landscape with confidence.Tune in to stay ahead of the curve and take control of your financial future!

  1. 1D AGO

    Staying Home, Staying Independent: Inside the World of Boutique In-Home Care

    Send us a text Boomers, Bucks, and Bling Episode 21 | Staying Home, Staying Independent: Inside the World of Boutique In-Home Care More and more boomers want to age at home — but what does in-home care really involve? In this episode of Boomers, Bucks & Bling, Carl sits down with Johanna Gach of Griswold Home Care to break down the world of boutique caregiving. They cover: -Home care vs. home health -What caregivers actually help with -How much in-home care costs -The pros and cons of aging in place -When it’s time to consider other options -How families can plan before care becomes urgent If you’re supporting aging parents or planning ahead for yourself, this episode is a must-listen for understanding your options and staying independent at home. 🎧 Listen to More Episodes:   Spotify: https://ow.ly/ttaN50TZH81   Apple Podcasts: https://ow.ly/cFb350TZH84   YouTube Playlist: https://ow.ly/cwaf50TZH8u   Guest Info: Johanna Gach Phone: (858) 346-0569 Email: johanna.gach@griswoldcare.com Website: https://www.griswoldcare.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanna-gach-a251452/ Got questions or topics you want covered? Drop them in the comments or visit https://carlspiteri.com Let’s Connect! Call: (858) 526-3037 Email: carl.spiteri@benchmark.us Carl Spiteri Branch Manager | Mortgage Advisor NMLS ID: 286890 Licensed in: CA, AZ, FL, ID, MI, MT, NV, OG, OH, SC, SD, TN, WA, WY Benchmark Mortgage Ark-La-Tex Financial Services, LLC | NMLS ID: 2143

    19 min
  2. OCT 22

    Design Your Home Like a Rockstar (and Age Like One Too) | Boomers, Bucks, & Bling Ep. 20

    Send us a text What if your home could be both stunning and perfectly set up to support you as you age? 🏡 In this episode of Boomers, Bucks & Bling, Carl sits down with Brittany Hancock, founder of B Home Design and universal design expert, to talk about how to design your home like a rockstar. From zero-threshold showers that feel like a spa, to “midnight snack lighting” that keeps late-night cookie runs safe, Brittany shares practical and surprisingly beautiful ways to make your home work for you through every chapter of life. We dive into: -Why safety and style should share the spotlight -Clever lighting tricks to make everyday living easier -The power of color psychology and warmth post-COVID -Game-changing storage hacks that make kitchens truly accessible -Elevator & stair lift options that let you enjoy your entire home Whether you’re remodeling now or planning ahead, this episode will leave you inspired to rethink how your space can support your lifestyle for decades to come. 🎧 Listen to More Episodes:   Spotify: https://ow.ly/ttaN50TZH81   Apple Podcasts: https://ow.ly/cFb350TZH84   YouTube Playlist: https://ow.ly/cwaf50TZH8u   Guest Info: Brittany Hancock | Interior Designer, B Home Design SD Phone: (760) 315-5556 Website: https://www.bhomedesignsd.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bhomedesignsd The Safety Sisters: thesafetysisters.com Got questions or topics you want covered? Drop them in the comments or visit https://carlspiteri.com Let’s Connect! Call: (858) 526-3037 Email: carl.spiteri@benchmark.us Carl Spiteri Branch Manager | Mortgage Advisor NMLS ID: 286890 Licensed in: CA, AZ, FL, ID, MI, MT, NV, OG, OH, SC, SD, TN, WA, WY Benchmark Mortgage Ark-La-Tex Financial Services, LLC | NMLS ID: 2143

    25 min
  3. OCT 6

    Tax Surprises in Retirement: Avoiding the Double Whammy | Boomers, Bucks & Bling Ep. 19

    Send us a text In this episode of Boomers, Bucks & Bling, Carl welcomes back financial advisor Jon to tackle one of the biggest challenges Baby Boomers face in retirement—unexpected taxes. From 401(k) withdrawals to Social Security taxation, John breaks down the “double whammy” many retirees don’t see coming—and how to plan ahead to keep more of your money. What you’ll learn in this episode: -Why withdrawing from your 401(k) or IRA can trigger higher taxes than expected -The “double whammy” of paying taxes on distributions and then paying taxes again to cover them -How longevity risk and inflation can eat away at retirement savings -Hidden costs of healthcare in retirement—Medicare surcharges, Social Security taxation, and rising premiums -Smart strategies for retirement income distribution: pensions, Social Security timing, savings vs. retirement accounts -The power of bracket filling and step-up in tax basis to protect your wealth -Why reverse mortgages can provide tax-deferred retirement income 👉 If you’re planning for retirement or already retired, this episode is packed with insights on how to avoid costly mistakes and make your money last. 🎧 Listen to More Episodes:   Spotify: https://ow.ly/ttaN50TZH81   Apple Podcasts: https://ow.ly/cFb350TZH84   YouTube Playlist: https://ow.ly/cwaf50TZH8u   Guest Info: Jon Beyrer CFP(r) – Senior Financial Advisor and Partner at Blankinship & Foster, LLC Phone: (858) 755-5166 Website: https://www.bfadvisors.com/team/jon-beyrer/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-beyrer/  Subscribe for more episodes about:  ✔️ Medicare, Medicaid, & Social Security  ✔️ Reverse Mortgages & Financial Safety  ✔️ Retirement Planning & Aging in Place  ✔️ Lifestyle tips for Boomers & Gen X Got questions or topics you want covered? Drop them in the comments or visit https://carlspiteri.com Let’s Connect! Call: (858) 526-3037 Email: carl.spiteri@benchmark.us Carl Spiteri Branch Manager | Mortgage Advisor NMLS ID: 286890 Licensed in: CA, AZ, FL, ID, MI, MT, NV, OG, OH, SC, SD, TN, WA, WY Benchmark Mortgage Ark-La-Tex Financial Services, LLC | NMLS ID: 2143

    22 min
  4. SEP 22

    Big Bill, Big Changes: Medicare & Retirees | Boomers Bucks & Bling Ep. 18

    Send us a text Welcome to Boomers Bucks and Bling, where retirement planning gets a modern (and sometimes thrilling) twist!  In this episode, host Carl Spiteri is joined once again by Medicare expert Keith Betkowski to unpack the newly passed HR1 legislation—nicknamed the “Big Beautiful Bill.” 💸 Spoiler: It includes $800 billion in cuts to Medicare and Medicaid. In This Episode:  We explore what these changes could mean for retirees and older adults—especially when it comes to rising out-of-pocket healthcare costs, shrinking plan options, and how rural communities may be hit hardest. 💡 Topics Covered: - How the bill could change Medicare Advantage & supplement plans  -The future of dental, vision, and transportation coverage - Why some hospitals are cutting staff & services - How AI is being used in cost-saving (and care-changing) ways  -What retirees can do now to prepare - How reverse mortgages might offer financial flexibility for those aging in place Whether you’re already retired or just planning ahead, this episode gives you the inside scoop on a bill that could reshape how older Americans access healthcare. 🎧 Listen to More Episodes:   Spotify: https://ow.ly/ttaN50TZH81   Apple Podcasts: https://ow.ly/cFb350TZH84   YouTube Playlist: https://ow.ly/cwaf50TZH8u    Guest Info:  Keith Betkowski – Medicare & Medicaid Expert  Email: kbetko@icloud.com  Phone: (415) 971-0384  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithbvhs15/  Subscribe for more episodes about:  ✔️ Retirement Planning  ✔️ Medicare, Medicaid, & Social Security  ✔️ Reverse Mortgages  ✔️ Aging in Place & Financial Safety  ✔️ Lifestyle tips for Boomers & Gen X  Got questions or topic suggestions? Drop them in the comments or visit https://carlspiteri.com

    22 min
  5. SEP 9

    From Equity to Income: How Boomers Can Make Retirement Work | Boomers, Bucks & Bling Ep. 17

    Send us a text In this episode of Boomers, Bucks, & Bling, Carl sits down with Southern California financial advisor Jon to talk about the biggest challenges Baby Boomers face in retirement. From rising housing costs to new tax rules, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help you protect your retirement income, keep your family close, and make the most of your equity. What you’ll learn in this episode: -The latest tax law changes in the new “Big Beautiful Bill” and what they mean for retirement planning -How the sandwich generation balances caring for aging parents while supporting adult children -Downsizing surprises: capital gains taxes, commissions, and hidden costs of selling a home -Creative ways to unlock home equity—from reverse mortgages to building ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) -The emotional side of retirement lifestyle: why staying connected improves health & longevity -The top financial questions Boomers ask: outliving your money, medical costs, and retirement security 👉 If you’re a Baby Boomer planning retirement, considering a reverse mortgage, or just looking for ways to make your retirement income last, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen to More Episodes:   Spotify: https://ow.ly/ttaN50TZH81   Apple Podcasts: https://ow.ly/cFb350TZH84   YouTube Playlist: https://ow.ly/cwaf50TZH8u   Guest Info: Jon Beyrer CFP(r) – Senior Financial Advisor and Partner at Blankinship & Foster, LLC Phone: (858) 755-5166 Website: https://www.bfadvisors.com/team/jon-beyrer/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-beyrer/  Subscribe for more episodes about:  ✔️ Medicare, Medicaid, & Social Security  ✔️ Reverse Mortgages & Financial Safety  ✔️ Retirement Planning & Aging in Place  ✔️ Lifestyle tips for Boomers & Gen X Got questions or topics you want covered? Drop them in the comments or visit https://carlspiteri.com Let’s Connect! Call: (858) 526-3037 Email: carl.spiteri@benchmark.us Carl Spiteri Branch Manager | Mortgage Advisor NMLS ID: 286890 Licensed in: CA, AZ, FL, ID, MI, MT, NV, OG, OH, SC, SD, TN, WA, WY Benchmark Mortgage Ark-La-Tex Financial Services, LLC | NMLS ID: 2143

    29 min
  6. AUG 11

    Medicare Made Simple — What You Really Need to Know Before 65 | Boomers Bucks and Bling Episode 16

    Send us a text Welcome to Boomers Bucks and Bling, where retirement planning gets a modern (and sometimes thrilling) twist!  In this episode, host Carl Spiteri sits down with Medicare expert Keith Burkowski to take the confusion out of one of the most important decisions retirees will face: signing up for Medicare. Whether you’re approaching 65 or helping a loved one through the process, this episode is your crash course in Medicare must-knows. 💡 In This Episode: - What each Medicare part (A, B, C, and D) actually covers  -When to enroll (and what happens if you miss the window)  -The difference between Medicare Advantage and Supplement (Medigap) - Common mistakes that lead to lifetime penalties  - How income affects your monthly Medicare premiums  - Real-world examples of how coverage works in emergency situations  - What retirees really need to consider when picking a plan  Keith also shares tips on choosing between HMOs and supplemental plans, how to avoid surprise out-of-pocket costs, and how Medicare planning ties into retirement stability and reverse mortgage options. 🎧 Listen to More Episodes:   Spotify: https://ow.ly/ttaN50TZH81   Apple Podcasts: https://ow.ly/cFb350TZH84   YouTube Playlist: https://ow.ly/cwaf50TZH8u   Guest Info:  Keith Burkowski – Medicare & Medicaid Expert  Email: kbetko@icloud.com  Phone: (415) 971-0384  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithbvhs15/  Subscribe for more episodes about:  ✔️ Medicare, Medicaid, & Social Security  ✔️ Reverse Mortgages & Financial Safety  ✔️ Retirement Planning & Aging in Place  ✔️ Lifestyle tips for Boomers & Gen X  Got questions or topics you want covered? Drop them in the comments or visit https://carlspiteri.com

    25 min
  7. JUL 28

    Boomers Bucks and Bling Ep. 15 | Why You Need a Living Trust Before Retirement

    Send us a text Boomers Bucks and Bling Ep. 15 | Why You Need a Living Trust Before Retirement Welcome back to Boomers Bucks and Bling—where retirement planning meets real talk, real strategy, and a little bit of sparkle ✨. In this episode, host Carl Spiteri sits down with estate planning attorney Danielle Barger, founding partner at Barger & Batiste Law. Together, they unpack why a living trust isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential, especially if you're nearing or in retirement. 🧠 In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why a living trust matters more than just “avoiding probate” What happens if one spouse becomes incapacitated without proper documents The real costs of not having a trust (spoiler: it’s expensive) Why reverse mortgage borrowers especially need to plan ahead The truth about transfer-on-death deeds, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives How to avoid probate delays, legal headaches, and family conflicts 👩‍⚖️ About Our Guest: Danielle Barger is a leading San Diego estate planning attorney specializing in trusts, wills, probate, and incapacity planning. Learn more at: 🌐 https://dbsquaredlaw.com 📞 (858) 886-7000 🎧 Listen to More Episodes: Spotify: https://ow.ly/ttaN50TZH81 Apple Podcasts: https://ow.ly/cFb350TZH84 YouTube Playlist: https://ow.ly/cwaf50TZH8u 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe and drop a comment! Let us know what retirement topic you’d like us to cover next. #LivingTrust #EstatePlanning #RetirementPlanning #ReverseMortgage #BoomersBucksBling #DanielleBerger #TrustAttorney #AvoidProbate

    24 min
  8. JUN 30

    Boomers Bucks and Bling Ep. 14 - Cyber Scams & AI Threats in Retirement: How to Stay Safe

    Send us a text Boomers Bucks and Bling Ep. 14 - Cyber Scams & AI Threats in Retirement: How to Stay Safe with Joe Erle Welcome to Boomers Bucks and Bling, where retirement planning gets a modern (and sometimes thrilling) twist! In this episode, host Carl Spiteri sits down with cybersecurity expert Joe Erle, finalist for the San Diego Business Journal Cyber Security Award and host of Ransomware Rewind. 🚨 In This Episode: We uncover how AI-powered scams, deepfakes, and phishing attacks are increasingly targeting retirees and boomers—and what you can do to protect yourself, your money, and your family. 🧠 Topics Covered: What AI really is (and how scammers are using it) Common scams affecting older adults Deepfake voice & video fraud How to recognize pig butchering and phishing schemes Cybersecurity tips: freezing credit, multi-factor authentication, password managers Real-life stories of fraud (including a $1.7M scam) 🔐 Whether you're retired, nearing retirement, or helping a loved one navigate financial safety, this episode is a must-watch. 🎧 Listen to the Podcast: Website: https://ow.ly/66R350TZH8i Spotify: https://ow.ly/ttaN50TZH81 Apple Podcasts: https://ow.ly/cFb350TZH84 YouTube: https://ow.ly/cwaf50TZH8u 🔗 Guest Info: Joe Erle – Cybersecurity Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance 🎙️ Podcast: Ransomware Rewind 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-earl 📲 Subscribe for more episodes about: ✔️ Retirement Planning ✔️ Reverse Mortgages ✔️ Financial Safety ✔️ Medicare, Social Security, and Home Safety ✔️ Lifestyle tips for boomers & Gen X 💬 Got a question or topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or visit https://carlspiteri.com

    26 min

About

Unlock the secrets to financial success with the Boomers, Bucks, and Bling Podcast!Hosted by Carl Spiteri, a veteran Mortgage Loan Originator with over 30 years of experience, this podcast is your ultimate guide to mastering the financial intricacies of buying, selling, and lending in today's dynamic market. Whether you're a home buyer, lender, or seller, Carl's expert insights and practical advice will empower you to make informed decisions that lead to lasting financial stability.Each episode breaks down complex financial concepts into easy-to-understand discussions, featuring everything from credit scoring and budgeting tips to the latest trends in commercial and residential lending. With guest appearances from industry professionals and real-world examples, Boomers, Bucks, and Bling offers valuable perspectives that can help you navigate the financial landscape with confidence.Tune in to stay ahead of the curve and take control of your financial future!