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: 850-565-1705

  1. 3D AGO

    Inflation-Proof Your Retirement: Real Returns, Sustainable Income, and Endless Growth

    In episode 19 of the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line – Retirement Planning Specialists David Pipes and Steve Zareck touch on Income streams that never run out, preventing inflation from impacting your retirement, and the REAL COST of inflation! They discus the hidden fees and charges on 401(k)s and other retirement accounts that could actually be threatening those very savings…Plus, how to never let your savings run out, and the dangers of taking distributions at the wrong time… 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 --- 850-565-1705 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 850-565-1705 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. 5D AGO · BONUS

    Bonus Episode: How to Build a Recession-Ready BudgetCore Theme

    Recession talk is back for 2026—it may not be in every headline, but the odds aren’t at zero percent. You need to be prepared for the scenario of a possible recession.Key Points Covered: Emergency Funds --- Start by building (or topping off) an emergency fund that covers three to six months of living expenses. Picking the Right Budgeting System – Whether old or new, using a budgeting system can help consolidate while keeping stress away. Configure your Financial Portfolio – Strategies to ensure your financial portfolio remains in a strong position. --- 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 --- 850-565-1705 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 850-565-1705 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.

    2 min
  3. FEB 14

    The Hidden Costs Draining Your Retirement Savings - Silent Wealth Killers That Could Be Quietly Putting a Strain on Your Financial Security

    In episode 18 of the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line – Retirement Planning Specialist David Pipes discusses the hidden fees and charges on 401(k)s and other retirement accounts that could actually be threatening those very savings…Plus, how to never let your savings run out, and the dangers of taking distributions at the wrong time… 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 --- 850-565-1705 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 850-565-1705 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
  4. FEB 6

    Simplifying your Retirement - Strategies for a Secure and Fulfilling Future

    In episode 17 of the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line – Retirement Planning Specialists David Pipes and Steve Zareck break down early vs. delayed social security claiming, the things you need to know – the keys – to a successful retirement in 2026, and maximizing growth and income together for a more balanced retirement portfolio! 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 --- 850-565-1705 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 850-565-1705 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
  5. FEB 3 · BONUS

    Podcast Extra: Emergency Savings Strategies—Building a Safety Net Without Feeling Overwhelmed

    Retirement.Radio's Matt McClure sits down with Rod Griffin, Senior Director of Consumer Education and Advocacy at Experian, for a practical and timely conversation about emergency savings. With rising living costs, recent holiday spending, and ongoing debt repayment putting pressure on household budgets, many Americans struggle to set money aside for unexpected expenses. Matt and Rod break down common emergency fund guidelines—ranging from three to six months of expenses or more—while emphasizing that the most important step is simply getting started. Rather than focusing on intimidating savings targets, the discussion highlights the value of small, consistent contributions that build momentum over time. The conversation also explores actionable strategies for freeing up cash flow, including tracking expenses, reducing recurring bills, and using available tools to identify unused subscriptions or high-cost credit options. Matt and Rod wrap up by connecting emergency savings to long-term financial stability, stressing the importance of automation, protecting credit health, and taking full advantage of employer-matched retirement contributions. Host: Retirement.Radio’s Matt McClure Guest: Rod Griffin, Senior Director of Consumer Education and Advocacy at Experian --- 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 --- 850-565-1705 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 850-565-1705 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 changin...

    8 min
  6. JAN 30

    Securing your Golden Years: Rethinking Retirement Income

    In episode 16 of the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line – Retirement Planning Specialists David Pipes and Steve Zareck break down qualified vs. non-qualified funds in retirement, why the IRS created qualified funds, and steering through financial shifts in 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 --- 850-565-1705 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 850-565-1705 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(00:01:07) - Retirement Planning Pipeline(00:02:20) - Qualified vs Non-Qualified Funds in Retirement(00:10:18) - Qualified Funds for Retirement(00:13:04) - The Retirement Planning Pipeline(00:14:08) - Common Retired Mistakes About Qualified Funds(00:18:30) - Maximizing Your Retirement Income(00:23:13) - Q4 Qualified Funds and Non-Qualified Funds for Retirement(00:25:50) - Moved Qualified Funds(00:29:29) - Retirement Planning Pipeline: Quote of the Week(00:31:27) - What are Qualified Funds and Are They Necessary?(00:33:41) - Steve Ballentine: How to help a client live a stress(00:41:03) - The Retirement Planning Pipeline(00:41:57) - Retirement Shifts From Accumulation to Distribution(00:44:17) - Maximizing Income in Retirement(00:50:20) - Retirement Plans for People in Their 70s(00:54:41) - The Retirement Planning Pipeline(00:55:30) - The Retirement Planning Pipeline(00:57:59) - How to Take Control of Holiday Debt

    1 hr
  7. JAN 28 · BONUS

    Podcast Extra: Important Tax Changes for the 2026 Filing Season

    Retirement.Radio’s Matt McClure sits down with Mark Steber, Chief Tax Officer of Jackson Hewitt, to break down what taxpayers need to know heading into the 2026 tax season. They discuss some of the biggest changes on the horizon, including an estimated $300 billion in refunds expected for millions of Americans — and why filing early and accurately can make a real difference. Steber walks through several new tax benefits, including deductions for tipped and overtime workers and a new tax break for seniors age 65 and older. The conversation also covers practical tips on getting organized, choosing a trusted tax professional, and avoiding common tax scams. It’s a timely, practical discussion designed to help listeners feel informed, prepared, and confident as tax season approaches. ---  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 --- 850-565-1705 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 850-565-1705 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) - Tax Season 2022(00:00:34) - Tax Filing Season 2018(00:01:20) - The New Tax Law for Americans 2018(00:06:26) - Tax Tips for 2018

    8 min
  8. JAN 23

    Securing your Golden Years: Rethinking Retirement Income

    In episode 15 of the Retirement Planning Pipe-Line – Retirement Planning Specialists David Pipes and Steve Zareck stress why Social Security can’t be your only source of income in retirement, and break down inflation-proof planning for your retirement portfolio! 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 --- 850-565-1705 Email --- Charles.Pipes@Amerilifeagent.com Website --- https://retirementplanningpipeline.com/ LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-pipes Connect with Steve Zareck: Phone --- 850-565-1705 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(00:02:11) - Social Security: Can it Ever Cover Your Retirement Costs?(00:06:27) - Maximizing Your Retirement Income(00:12:17) - The Secret to Retiring Well(00:12:39) - Social Security: When Should You Take Your Social Security?(00:13:37) - The Retirement Planning Pipeline(00:14:44) - Are Fixed Annuities Necessary for Retired People?(00:20:32) - Maximizing Income in Your Retirement Plan(00:24:31) - Retirement Planning Pipeline(00:27:01) - How to Manage Holiday Debt(00:29:36) - Retirement Income Alternatives(00:32:44) - Renting a Home in Retirement?(00:36:29) - Real Estate or Rentals?(00:37:12) - Separation of Qualified Funds and Retirement Income(00:43:25) - What is an expense ratio and why does it matter?(00:45:42) - Should We Concern Our Clients About Retirement Accounts?(00:49:00) - Steve Broker on Retirement and Sequential Returns(00:53:04) - Retirement Planning Pipeline: When Will You Be Available?(00:55:48) - The Retirement Planning Pipeline(00:57:56) - How to Prepare for Retirement

    1 hr

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: 850-565-1705