When markets get rocky and headlines turn alarming, it’s easy to feel like you need to do something - and fast. But according to experts, the biggest mistake investors make during volatile times is often the simplest: getting out of the market at the wrong moment. In this episode, Laurel Steward and Gerald Green of Mattson Financial Services break down why emotional decisions can cost you, and how a disciplined strategy can help protect your long-term retirement goals. We’ll walk through how market swings tied to geopolitical events have historically played out, and why staying invested may be the key to capturing the market’s best days. Plus, we’ll explain how downturns can actually create opportunity, especially when it comes to strategic Roth conversions that could boost your tax-free income later in retirement. If you’re nearing retirement or already there, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you stay confident, avoid costly mistakes, and make smarter financial decisions - no matter what the market throws your way. Schedule a retirement check-up now at www.MattsonFinancial.com.

Everyone’s filling out basketball brackets this time of year, but are you paying enough attention to your tax bracket? In this episode, Laurel Steward of Mattson Financial Services breaks down why your tax bracket could have a bigger impact on your retirement than you think. We also discuss a hidden tax surprise affecting many retirees: recent Social Security changes that boosted benefits, but also triggered higher taxes. Plus, with ongoing global tensions and volatility, is this just another short-term dip or something more?  In the time it takes you to watch a basketball game, you could be setting up your financial plan! Start now at www.MattsonFinancial.com.

Global headlines can make investors uneasy, especially when conflict erupts overseas and markets react in real time. In this episode, Laurel Steward and Gerald Green of Mattson Financial Services break down what rising tensions in the Middle East could mean for the markets in the short term, and more importantly, what it doesn’t mean for your long-term retirement plan.We also tackle a big debate happening on Wall Street right now: Is the classic 60/40 portfolio outdated?If you’re wondering how to protect your portfolio from uncertainty without sacrificing the returns needed to fund retirement, this episode will help you cut through the noise and focus on what truly matters. Still have concerns? Connect for a chat at www.MattsonFinancial.com.  

What do championship hockey teams and successful retirees have in common? They know that defense wins. This week, Gerald Green and Corey Davis of Mattson Financial Services in West Michigan break down the same principles that lead to gold medals in games - discipline, preparation, and protecting the net - and how they can help you build a retirement game plan that lasts.  Learn how to build a strong defensive strategy around your portfolio so you can protect what you’ve worked so hard to earn and retire with greater confidence. Schedule a complimentary retirement review at www.MattsonFinancial.com.

Layoffs aren’t just headlines - they’re personal. For baby boomers nearing retirement, today’s shifting labor market can feel unsettling. On this week's episode, Laurel Steward and Gerald Green of Mattson Financial Services break down the latest corporate restructuring and what it means for your investments, income strategy, and long-term security. Taylor Steward also joins us to talk about your "total portfolio" and why that includes Social Security. If you're looking for the kind of plan that helps you make confident decisions instead of emotional ones when it comes to your financial strategy, reach out to our team at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

The Dow Jones Industrial Average reaching 50,000 is a historic market milestone, but what does it mean for retirement investors? And how do we keep reaching these milestones when there's still uncertainty in the economy? On this week's episode, Gary Mattson & Gerald Green of Mattson Financial Services discuss the significance of this event, and the particular strategy that helps retirement investors take advantage of the market highs (and lows!). Need a second opinion on your investment strategy before the next market downturn? Schedule a chat with our team at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Major corporations are cutting jobs, and for many workers who are close to retirement, a layoff doesn’t just mean losing a paycheck - it can feel like losing the plan they’ve spent decades building. In this episode, Gary Mattson & Laurel Steward of Mattson FInancial Services unpack the economic forces driving today’s wave of corporate downsizing and what it means for those nearing retirement. More importantly, we explore what happens next. How do you replace lost income? Should you consider early retirement? What about Social Security timing, healthcare, severance packages, and protecting your investment portfolio during uncertainty? We’ll share real-world insight, walking through practical strategies, tough conversations, and the steps that can turn a sudden job loss into a manageable transition instead of a financial crisis.Need help when that paycheck stops? Schedule a second opinion at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Tax season isn’t just about gathering 1099 forms. It’s also a great time to take a closer look at how tax-efficient your investment portfolio really is. In this episode, Taylor Steward and Gerald Green of Mattson Financial Services unpack insights on tax efficiency based on account types and tax documents, and explore what investors can do to better “shelter” their investments from unnecessary taxes. We’ll talk through common areas of confusion, why tax efficiency matters year after year, and how reviewing your portfolio annually can help keep more of your money working for you.Whether you need help preparing your tax return or want to work with an advisor to help with tax efficiency, start a conversation that will help you think more strategically about taxes and investing. Connect now at www.MattsonFinancial.com.

While we wait for Congress to deal with the issue of health care subsidies, a lot of our listeners who planned to retire before 65 may wonder whether they can afford health care premiums before Medicare kicks in. On this week's episode, Laurel & Taylor Steward of Mattson Financial Services discuss how they're helping clients navigate around this tricky issue, and still enjoy the early retirement they deserve. We'll also discuss frequent scenarios that couples run into during their retirement journey.Whether it's health care, taxes, Social Security, estate planning, investments or income, let us help you find more clarity and confidence in your plan. Learn more at www.MattsonFinancial.com.

From Venezuela to tariffs to the escalating feud with the Fed, there's no shortage of headlines to fuel more volatility on Wall Street to start the year. But will the January indicator set the tone for 2026? And if so, how do you prepare your portfolio? On this week's episode, Laurel Steward and Gary Mattson of Mattson Financial Services discuss strategies to help you avoid emotional decisions and stay on track with your goals. They'll also discuss a Canadian lottery winner's controversial jackpot decision - and how some retirees face the same type of choice with their money. Need a second opinion on your retirement portfolio? Connect with our team at www.MattsonFinancial.com.