Presence vs Presents

Set Up a 529 Plan for your Grandchildren

Bestselling Author and Retirement Planning Expert, Matt Richman, introduces 529 plans and explains how they function as tax-advantaged savings accounts for education. He breaks down how contributions grow, what qualifies as eligible expenses, and how recent rule changes have made these plans more flexible. The episode helps grandparents and parents understand how to plan for future education costs effectively.

Presence vs Presents

Bestselling Author and Retirement Planning Expert, Matt Richman, shares a powerful philosophy: your presence in your family’s life matters more than the presents you give. He emphasizes intentional living in retirement—using time and resources to build memories, strengthen relationships, and create lasting impact rather than accumulating or passing down material wealth.

Using a Reverse Mortgage for Tax Free Income in Retirement

Bestselling Author and Retirement Planning Expert, Matt Richman,  explores the emotional and financial realities of leaving a home as an inheritance. He explains how reverse mortgages can allow retirees to enjoy their wealth while living, rather than leaving behind a property that heirs may not want. The discussion highlights practical scenarios where using equity creates better outcomes for both retirees and their families.

Reverse Mortgages as Tax Free Money in Retirement

Bestselling Author and Retirement Planning Expert, Matt Richman, breaks down the fundamentals of reverse mortgages, clarifying common misconceptions and explaining how they can be used as a strategic tool in retirement planning. He outlines who qualifies, how funds can be accessed, and why this option can provide valuable cash flow for retirees who are “house-rich but cash-poor.”

Talking About Retirement Planning with Your Children and Grandchildren

Bestselling Author and Retirement Planning Expert, Matt Richman, encourages retirees to talk openly with their children (and sometimes grandchildren) about the basics of the plan: where accounts are held, who the advisor is, what the general intent is, and how decisions will be carried out. He explains that secrecy often creates chaos—especially when a parent becomes incapacitated or passes away—because heirs scramble during grief and may conflict over assumptions. He highlights how proactive conversations can reduce entitlement, prevent sibling tension (especially with complicated assets like farmland), and help families understand “the why” behind charitable giving or other allocations. The goal is not oversharing details, but creating clarity and continuity.