Saturday State of Mind

Arcadia Financial Group

Retirement should feel like every day is a Saturday! Mike and Jess Panico, the husband-and-wife team behind Arcadia Financial Group, help retirees turn financial confidence into a lifestyle they love. From their own humble beginnings in a heatless basement, they built Arcadia Financial to help others make the most of their next chapter through smart, intentional financial planning. On the Saturday State of Mind podcast, Mike and Jess share real retirement stories, smart financial strategies, and inspiration for building a fulfilling, stress-free retirement.

  1. 11/13/2025

    029: The Nathan Carman Story: A Great Estate Plan Ends in Tragedy with Liz Nolin

    After building generational wealth and creating trusts, you expect to leave a lasting legacy and provide for your beneficiaries. But today’s episode reveals how even the best intentions can unravel in ways no estate documents can prevent. We’re thrilled to welcome back attorney Liz Nolin of Nolin Law to discuss the Nathan Carman case—a chilling and unsettling New England story where money, mental health, and inheritance collide. Liz shares the real events involving the unsolved murder of Nathan’s grandfather, the disappearance of his mother at sea, and the family’s legal battle over a multi-million-dollar estate, illustrating how even the best-drafted estate documents can’t control human behavior. Ultimately, this episode highlights the main lesson: even the most carefully planned estate documents cannot control the unpredictable nature of human behavior. We’ll discuss how anticipating emotional conflict is essential, and why it’s critical to consider how money might affect your family in difficult times, both positively and negatively, before deciding what legacy to leave behind.  KEY TAKEAWAYS:  The Tragic Real Life Case of Nathan CarmanNathan Inherites 6 Figures from His GrandfatherA Fishing Trip with Nathan’s Mom Ends in TragedySuspicions Around Two Family Deaths AriseNathan Carman Is Found Dead In PrisonA Great Estate Plan Doesn’t Solve EverythingHow An Inheritance Creates Bigger Problems SHOW NOTES Get full access to the show notes and resources mentioned by visiting: https://arcadia.financial/nathan-carman-story DISCLOSURE: Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC (Arcadia) is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the state of New Hampshire. The information presented in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is intended for a broad, general audience. It is not intended as, and should not be construed as, an offer, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Any references to investment strategies, philosophies, or client experiences are illustrative and may not be representative of all clients or outcomes. Arcadia Financial has a reasonable basis to believe that this content does not include any false or materially misleading statements and presents information in a fair and balanced manner. No portion of this communication should be construed as tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax or legal professional for guidance specific to your situation. Investment advisory services are provided through Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Insurance products and services are offered through Arcadia Financial Group, LLC, by appropriately licensed agents. Bookkeeping and tax preparation services are provided by Arcadia Tax, LLC. These affiliated entities operate independently but are under common ownership.

    27 min
  2. 11/06/2025

    028: How Couples Can Avoid Conflict in Retirement with Mike and Jessica Panico

    Retirement is often thought of as a dream season of life—but what happens when couples have different visions of what that dream looks like? Whether it’s disagreements about spending, travel, or simply how one person is more active than the other, these differences can quickly escalate from small frustrations into ongoing tension. In this episode, we explore how couples can navigate conflict and find alignment before and during retirement. From the spender-versus-saver dynamic to staggered retirement dates, these issues often start—not about money—but with a lack of communication.  With proper planning and open communication, retiring spouses will have a better understanding of each other’s goals and expectations, can make more informed decisions about when to retire, how to manage their finances, and what kind of lifestyle they want to create together. By having these conversations early, you’ll be able to make the most of this next chapter together. KEY TAKEAWAYS:  The Real Source of Conflict in RetirementWhy Communication Is More Important Than MoneyWhen One Spouse Wants to Retire Before the OtherMaking Compromises as a Spender vs SaverHow Financial Advisors Help Mediate & Bridge the Gap SHOW NOTES Get full access to the show notes and resources mentioned by visiting: https://arcadia.financial/how-couples-can-avoid-conflict-in-retirement DISCLOSURE: Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC (Arcadia) is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the state of New Hampshire. The information presented in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is intended for a broad, general audience. It is not intended as, and should not be construed as, an offer, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Any references to investment strategies, philosophies, or client experiences are illustrative and may not be representative of all clients or outcomes. Arcadia Financial has a reasonable basis to believe that this content does not include any false or materially misleading statements and presents information in a fair and balanced manner. No portion of this communication should be construed as tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax or legal professional for guidance specific to your situation. Investment advisory services are provided through Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Insurance products and services are offered through Arcadia Financial Group, LLC, by appropriately licensed agents. Bookkeeping and tax preparation services are provided by Arcadia Tax, LLC. These affiliated entities operate independently but are under common ownership.

    14 min
  3. 10/30/2025

    027: The Hidden Costs of Retiring Early with Mike and Jessica Panico

    Retiring early might sound like a great idea to those who are in a position to do so, but most people don’t realize that there are hidden costs associated with making that decision. From outrageous healthcare premiums to the cost of claiming Social Security early, there are significant expenses that can erode the nest egg that you’ve worked so hard to create. Today, we’re exploring the lesser-known financial and emotional realities that come with leaving the workforce before the age of 65. We’ll explain why most people underestimate just how much longer their money needs to last if they retire even a few years early and how the gap before Medicare eligibility can become a significant monthly expense. We also discuss the psychology of money and how drawing on savings instead of relying on a paycheck or Social Security alters the way people think and spend their money. Early retirement can be a reality, but having a financial plan that accounts for these additional expenses can reduce stress, allowing you to enjoy your retirement years instead of worrying about whether you have enough to make it through. KEY TAKEAWAYS:  Why the Average Retirement Age is Getting YoungerThe Emotional Burnout That Pushes People to Retire EarlyThe Hidden Costs of Healthcare Before Age 65How Retiring Early Impacts Social Security BenefitsThe Psychological Impact of Spending Your Nest Egg Early SHOW NOTES Get full access to the show notes and resources mentioned by visiting: https://arcadia.financial/hidden-costs-of-retiring-early DISCLOSURE: Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC (Arcadia) is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the state of New Hampshire. The information presented in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is intended for a broad, general audience. It is not intended as, and should not be construed as, an offer, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Any references to investment strategies, philosophies, or client experiences are illustrative and may not be representative of all clients or outcomes. Arcadia Financial has a reasonable basis to believe that this content does not include any false or materially misleading statements and presents information in a fair and balanced manner. No portion of this communication should be construed as tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax or legal professional for guidance specific to your situation. Investment advisory services are provided through Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Insurance products and services are offered through Arcadia Financial Group, LLC, by appropriately licensed agents. Bookkeeping and tax preparation services are provided by Arcadia Tax, LLC. These affiliated entities operate independently but are under common ownership.

    13 min
  4. 10/23/2025

    026: How A Financial Planner Helps you Prepare for Taxes in Retirement with Mike and Jessica Panico

    When most pre-retirees begin preparing for retirement, they often assume their income tax bills will be lower in the future. Which is a fair assumption because if the regular paychecks stop, then the taxes owing should be lower, right? But that’s not always the case. In this episode, we’re breaking down why that assumption doesn’t apply to everyone and how taxes can quietly sneak back into your life if you’re not prepared. We’ll explain the difference between tax preparation and tax planning, and why filing your taxes once a year isn’t the same as creating a long-term strategy to protect your wealth. We also discuss why today’s “permanent” tax cuts are not guaranteed to remain in place forever and how rising rates could affect retirees in the years ahead. We also discussed how Social Security and required minimum distributions (RMDs) can impact Medicare surcharges and how much money you actually get to keep from Uncle Sam. KEY TAKEAWAYS:  The Difference Between Tax Preparation and Tax PlanningWhy Taxes in Retirement Can Sneak Up on YouHow RMDs Can Trigger Higher Taxes and PenaltiesThe “Hydra” Effect of TaxesHow Proactive Planning Helps Keep More of Your Money SHOW NOTES Get full access to the show notes and resources mentioned by visiting: https://arcadia.financial/financial-planner-taxes-in-retirement DISCLOSURE: Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC (Arcadia) is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the state of New Hampshire. The information presented in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is intended for a broad, general audience. It is not intended as, and should not be construed as, an offer, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Any references to investment strategies, philosophies, or client experiences are illustrative and may not be representative of all clients or outcomes. Arcadia Financial has a reasonable basis to believe that this content does not include any false or materially misleading statements and presents information in a fair and balanced manner. No portion of this communication should be construed as tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax or legal professional for guidance specific to your situation. Investment advisory services are provided through Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Insurance products and services are offered through Arcadia Financial Group, LLC, by appropriately licensed agents. Bookkeeping and tax preparation services are provided by Arcadia Tax, LLC. These affiliated entities operate independently but are under common ownership.

    15 min
  5. 10/16/2025

    025: A Second Chance at Love & Living a Purposeful Life with Jim and Vicki Gotay

    Have you ever felt like you knew someone pretty well, and then sat down with them in a different setting, only to be blown away by how much you didn’t know? That’s what happened to us when we sat down with Jim and Vicki Gotay. If we had to pick a theme for this episode, it would be about the beauty and power of second chances. And Jim and Vicki Gotay’s story is a testament to their resilience and faith in making an impact with their lives to create better outcomes for others.  Whether it’s building orphanages in Central America to give second chances to kids who’ve barely had a first chance in this world or volunteering in their local community, they’ve made it their mission to live each day with intention and give back to those who are less fortunate. Their journey together is nothing short of remarkable. Their second chance at love has been a partnership built on a shared calling to do more and serve others. From overcoming hardships in childhood and early adulthood to finding true happiness with each other, Jim and Vicki’s story is beyond moving and inspiring. In this episode, they open up about their experiences with mission work, the lessons it’s given them about perspective and gratitude, and their hopes for the future in retirement. They share how faith guides every step they take and what it means to leave not just a legacy, but a living legacy—not one that impacts only their children and grandchildren, but also their community and others around the world. KEY TAKEAWAYS: A Retirement Shaped by Service and Volunteer WorkDiscovering Their Calling On Their First MissionEye-Opening Experiences Serving in Guatemala & JamaicaHow Mission Work Gives a New Perspective on LifeBecoming a Mama and Papa Bear to OrphansGrappling with Leaving Communities Behind After MissionsHow Jim & Vicki First Met Vicki’s Journey Through Loss and Finding Love AgainSecond Marriages, Parenting, and Learning from the PastChildhood Challenges, Foster Care, and Choosing JoyJim’s Military & Special Forces YearsOvercoming Bankruptcy, Career Struggles, and RebuildingFinding Trust in a Financial Advisor and Peace of MindWhat Jim & Vicki’s Ideal Saturday Looks Like SHOW NOTES Get full access to the show notes and resources mentioned by visiting: https://arcadia.financial/jim-vicki-gotay DISCLOSURE: Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC (Arcadia) is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the state of New Hampshire. The information presented in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is intended for a broad, general audience. It is not intended as, and should not be construed as, an offer, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Any references to investment strategies, philosophies, or client experiences are illustrative and may not be representative of all clients or outcomes. This episode features a client engaged with Arcadia as of this recording, who is sharing their personal experience. Their opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Arcadia. This client received a token of appreciation of nominal value for their participation. They were not promised or provided additional compensation, preferential treatment, or investment advice for appearing. Arcadia Financial has a reasonable basis to believe that this content does not include any false or materially misleading statements and presents information in a fair and balanced manner. No portion of this communication should be construed as tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax or legal professional for guidance specific to your situation.  Investment advisory services are provided through Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Insurance products and services are offered through Arcadia Financial Group, LLC, by appropriately licensed agents. Bookkeeping and tax preparation services are provided by Arcadia Tax, LLC. These affiliated entities operate independently but are under common ownership.

    1h 1m
  6. 10/09/2025

    024: The Psychology of Spending Money in Retirement with Mike and Jessica Panico

    For most, retirement planning means focusing on saving, sacrificing, and delaying gratification. Yet when the paycheck stops, many retirees unexpectedly struggle with the confidence to spend the money they’ve worked so hard for.  In this episode, we’re exploring the emotional roadblocks that prevent retirees from fully enjoying their wealth, ranging from fear of running out of money to waiting endlessly for “the right time” to spend, due to market or geopolitical conditions. We’re discussing why the very habits that help people build wealth—discipline, thrift, and caution—can make it challenging to transition into confident spending in retirement.  Ultimately, retirement isn’t just about having money—it’s about using it intentionally to create memories, enjoy freedom, and, as we like to say, “Live every day like it's Saturday.” With proper planning, working with a financial professional can provide the clarity and reassurance retirees need to confidently embrace this new phase of life. KEY TAKEAWAYS:  Why Spending in Retirement Feels DifficultWaiting for the “Right Time” to Spend Rarely WorksHow a Financial Plan Gives You Permission to SpendThe Best Financial Plans Are Tested with Scrutiny SHOW NOTES Get full access to the show notes and resources mentioned by visiting: https://arcadia.financial/psychology-of-spending-money-in-retirement DISCLOSURE: Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC (Arcadia) is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the state of New Hampshire. The information presented in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is intended for a broad, general audience. It is not intended as, and should not be construed as, an offer, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Any references to investment strategies, philosophies, or client experiences are illustrative and may not be representative of all clients or outcomes. Arcadia Financial has a reasonable basis to believe that this content does not include any false or materially misleading statements and presents information in a fair and balanced manner. No portion of this communication should be construed as tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax or legal professional for guidance specific to your situation. Investment advisory services are provided through Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Insurance products and services are offered through Arcadia Financial Group, LLC, by appropriately licensed agents. Bookkeeping and tax preparation services are provided by Arcadia Tax, LLC. These affiliated entities operate independently but are under common ownership.

    12 min
  7. 10/02/2025

    023: The 5 Biggest Myths About Estate Planning with Liz Nolin

    When it comes to estate planning, many people procrastinate or avoid the conversation altogether. The reality is that most of the hesitation comes from myths—false beliefs that estate planning is only for the wealthy, that a will is enough, or that creating a trust means giving up control. These misconceptions prevent families from taking the necessary steps to protect their loved ones and assets. And we’re thrilled to welcome Attorney Liz Nolin of Nolin Law back to the podcast to help us speak truth and debunk the most common myths. Liz specializes exclusively in estate planning and helps clients understand that proactive planning is not about fear—it’s about creating peace of mind. With her straightforward approach, she debunks the biggest myths and shows how planning ahead can save families time, money, and heartache. From probate delays to estate tax ramifications, Liz explains why putting off these important conversations can create an even bigger mess in the long run. Simply put: whether you have children, assets, or people you care about, estate planning matters. And with Liz’s straightforward approach, she simplifies the complex and explains how getting your estate planning done sooner rather than later can save families time, money, and heartache. KEY TAKEAWAYS:  Myth #1: Estate Planning Is For Retirees/Older PeopleMyth #2: A Will Is Enough to Skip ProbateMyth #3: Estate Planning Is Too ExpensiveMyth #4: I Don’t Have Kids So I Don’t Need a PlanMyth #5: I Don’t Control the Money If I Create a Trust SHOW NOTES Get full access to the show notes and resources mentioned by visiting: https://arcadia.financial/liz-nolin-myths-about-estate-planning DISCLOSURE: Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC (Arcadia) is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the state of New Hampshire. The information presented in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is intended for a broad, general audience. It is not intended as, and should not be construed as, an offer, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Any references to investment strategies, philosophies, or client experiences are illustrative and may not be representative of all clients or outcomes. Arcadia Financial has a reasonable basis to believe that this content does not include any false or materially misleading statements and presents information in a fair and balanced manner. No portion of this communication should be construed as tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax or legal professional for guidance specific to your situation. Investment advisory services are provided through Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Insurance products and services are offered through Arcadia Financial Group, LLC, by appropriately licensed agents. Bookkeeping and tax preparation services are provided by Arcadia Tax, LLC. These affiliated entities operate independently but are under common ownership.

    23 min
  8. 09/25/2025

    022: Health in Retirement: Why It Matters More Than Your Portfolio with Mike and Jessica Panico

    When planning for retirement, most people focus on saving, investing, and ensuring their money lasts. However, what is often overlooked is just as important—your health. Without the right habits, routines, and proactive decisions, even the best financial plan can fall apart if poor health gets in the way of enjoying retirement.  In this episode, we’ll explore the critical connection between your health and an enjoyable retirement. We explain how small, consistent steps—like nutrition, exercise, and stress management—compound over time, just like your investments.  The reality is simple: money can’t buy back your health, but taking care of yourself today can give you more freedom tomorrow. Ultimately, prioritizing your health today creates more opportunities to enjoy your wealth, freedom, and the people you love in the years ahead. KEY TAKEAWAYS:  Life Expectancy Is Headed In the Wrong DirectionWealth Without Your Health Defeats the PurposeThe 3 Phases of a Typical Retirement Journey SHOW NOTES Get full access to the show notes and resources mentioned by visiting: https://arcadia.financial/health-in-retirement DISCLOSURE: Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC (Arcadia) is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the state of New Hampshire. The information presented in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is intended for a broad, general audience. It is not intended as, and should not be construed as, an offer, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Any references to investment strategies, philosophies, or client experiences are illustrative and may not be representative of all clients or outcomes. Arcadia Financial has a reasonable basis to believe that this content does not include any false or materially misleading statements and presents information in a fair and balanced manner. No portion of this communication should be construed as tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax or legal professional for guidance specific to your situation. Investment advisory services are provided through Arcadia Wealth Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Insurance products and services are offered through Arcadia Financial Group, LLC, by appropriately licensed agents. Bookkeeping and tax preparation services are provided by Arcadia Tax, LLC. These affiliated entities operate independently but are under common ownership.

    11 min

About

Retirement should feel like every day is a Saturday! Mike and Jess Panico, the husband-and-wife team behind Arcadia Financial Group, help retirees turn financial confidence into a lifestyle they love. From their own humble beginnings in a heatless basement, they built Arcadia Financial to help others make the most of their next chapter through smart, intentional financial planning. On the Saturday State of Mind podcast, Mike and Jess share real retirement stories, smart financial strategies, and inspiration for building a fulfilling, stress-free retirement.