The Atlas Annuity Podcast

5 Reasons Smart People Resist Annuities (At First) | Episode 98 Here's a strange truth: annuities solve one of the biggest problems in retirement—not running out of money. And yet, they're one of the most emotionally rejected financial tools that exist. That's the paradox. People say they want certainty. They say they want peace of mind. They say they want income they can't outlive. But when you offer them guaranteed income, something in their brain short circuits. In this episode, we're not talking about rates, fees, or products. We're talking about why your brain resists annuities, even when they make sense. In This Episode, You'll Discover: ✅ The "What If I Die Early?" Trap – Why loss aversion makes you obsess over the wrong risk (and why dying early isn't actually a financial problem) ✅ The Control Illusion – How you've already given up control in retirement, and why delegating risk isn't the same as losing control ✅ The Overconfidence Bias – Why believing "I can do better in the market" is more emotional than logical—and what retirement math really looks like ✅ The Complexity Shutdown – Why annuities feel complicated (and why you don't need to understand how they work to benefit from them) ✅ The Legacy Question – Should you prioritize leaving money behind or avoiding becoming a burden while you're alive? The Big Reframe: Annuities don't replace investing—they quiet the fear that interferes with investing. When your basics are covered with guaranteed income, you can actually invest more confidently, spend without guilt, and sleep better at night. I'll share a real client story about Mark and Susan—a couple who went from resisting annuities to discovering how guaranteed income gave them MORE freedom, not less. Key Takeaway: Guaranteed income doesn't reduce flexibility—it creates it. Annuities don't replace the growth part of your portfolio. They support it. About the Atlas Annuity Podcast: Hosted by Marty Becker, owner of Atlas Financial Strategies in St. Louis, Missouri, this podcast specializes in safe money retirement strategies. Each episode breaks down complex retirement concepts into simple, actionable insights so you can make confident decisions about your financial future. Resources Mentioned: Free Video Series: "20% More Spendable Income in Retirement" at AtlasAnnuity.com Book a free consultation call at AtlasAnnuity.com Connect With Marty: Website: AtlasAnnuity.com Subscribe for weekly episodes on retirement planning, annuities, and safe money strategies Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult with a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could benefit from this information. Thanks for listening!

If someone handed you a suitcase with a million dollars and said it has to last the rest of your life, would you feel confident or nervous? Most people say nervous—and that reveals everything wrong with how we think about retirement. In this episode, host Marty Becker breaks down groundbreaking research on the "Peak 65 Zone"—a demographic tsunami where over 11,000 Americans turn 65 every single day. The problem? The traditional three-legged stool of retirement (pension, Social Security, savings) has collapsed to just one leg, and most retirement plans were never designed to solve the real challenge retirees face. You'll discover: Why retirement isn't about how much you have, but how long your income will last The critical difference between accumulation and distribution (and why your 401(k) only solves half the problem) What the Peak 65 research reveals about creating guaranteed lifetime income Why fewer than 20% of Americans still have pension access—and what that means for you Whether you're approaching retirement or already there, this episode will change how you think about turning your savings into income you cannot outlive.

In this episode, Marty Becker walks through a real retirement income case study involving a married couple who recently met with an advisor at Fidelity. The couple is fully retiring within the next year and needs $10,000 per month in guaranteed income on top of Social Security. Marty breaks down their current portfolio, explains why a 70/30 stock-to-bond mix and a 4% withdrawal rate can create long-term risk, and shows how sequence of returns can impact retirement outcomes—especially when one spouse is much younger. The episode compares a traditional single premium immediate annuity recommendation with a more advanced strategy using multiple annuities. Marty explains how both approaches provide the same lifetime income guarantees, but how a multi-annuity strategy can reduce the amount of capital required while improving income reliability, lowering withdrawal rates, and increasing discretionary assets. You’ll also learn: Why worst-case and best-case scenarios matter in retirement planning How guaranteed income changes withdrawal rates and income reliability The pros and cons of simplicity versus efficiency in annuity strategies When a multi-annuity approach works best, and who it may not be right for This episode is ideal for retirees or near-retirees who are evaluating annuity recommendations from large firms like Fidelity and want to understand if there is a smarter, more efficient way to generate lifetime income. To learn more about annuities and see if a strategy like this fits your situation, visit atlasannuity.com to watch the “20% More Spendable Income in Retirement” video series or schedule a short Zoom call to get your questions answered.

In episode 95 of the Atlas Annuity Podcast, Marty Becker reviews the Axonic Trailhead fixed indexed annuity—a product that's making waves in the industry. As of December 2025, Axonic offers the highest S&P 500 cap rate for an A-rated company with no fees and no risk to your gains. Marty breaks down why this matters and shares his philosophy on indexing options. After nearly a decade in the business, he explains why he relies on the "good old trusty S&P 500" over hypothetical indexes that often underperform their back-tested projections. In this episode, you'll learn: Key features of the Axonic Trailhead FIA (5, 7, and 10-year terms) Why the S&P 500 remains the most reliable index for growth The truth about proprietary indexes and hypothetical illustrations Unique benefits like the interest boost after the first crediting term How Axonic compares to other A-rated carriers Whether you're looking to protect a portion of your portfolio or seeking reliable growth with downside protection, this episode gives you an honest, no-nonsense review of one of the market's leading fixed indexed annuities.

In this episode, Marty Becker explores a powerful but often overlooked benefit of annuities—asset protection. After a conversation with an estate planning attorney from Florida, Marty breaks down how annuities can shield your non-qualified (after-tax) assets from legal threats, and why protection levels vary dramatically by state. You'll discover which states offer unlimited protection (like Florida and Texas), which provide limited or conditional coverage, and how to strategically use annuities as a legal shield for your retirement savings. If you have substantial assets outside of your IRA or 401(k), this episode reveals an important protection strategy that many retirees overlook. Key Topics Covered: Why IRA money is already protected under ERISA How non-qualified assets are vulnerable to creditors Three categories of state annuity protection laws Which states offer the strongest asset protection Real-world example from an estate planning attorney Strategic considerations for high-net-worth retirees Whether you're a business owner, professional, or simply want to protect what you've worked hard to build, this episode provides crucial insights into using annuities as financial armor.

In this episode, Marty breaks down why long-term care planning is one of the most overlooked parts of retirement—and why it can have serious financial consequences if ignored. Most people don’t realize how common long-term care needs are or how expensive they can become. With nursing home costs reaching $72,000 to $100,000 per year, and Medicare offering almost no help, retirees often find themselves facing difficult choices. Marty explains the realities of Medicaid, the quality of care offered in many facilities, and why relying on it as a fallback can lead to problems. He also walks through the three main types of long-term care policies and how they work, including traditional standalone plans, life insurance with LTC riders, and asset-based long-term care options. From there, he breaks down the new Nationwide Care Matters long-term care annuity. This product can double or even triple your benefit on day one and continue growing every year with a guaranteed interest rate. Marty shares a real example of how the benefits expand over time and compares it to the risks of trying to self-fund care using market returns. You’ll also learn what it takes to qualify for benefits, how the elimination period works, and what makes this annuity different, including penalty-free withdrawals, international benefits, and the ability to use a 1035 exchange. If you want to see how long-term care fits within your retirement plan and whether the Nationwide Care Matters annuity makes sense for you, schedule a time to talk at AtlasAnnuity.com.

  Did you know that your fixed index annuity is only as good as the indexing options offered? In episode 92 of the Atlas Annuity Podcast, Marty Becker reviews the Lincoln Financial OptiBlend 5, a unique 5-year fixed index annuity that breaks the mold with first-year withdrawals and multiple S&P 500 options.   While most annuities make you wait until year two for penalty-free withdrawals, this one gives you access to 10% starting day one. Marty explains why, after a decade in the business, he increasingly relies on the tried-and-true S&P 500 over flashy hypothetical indexes with unrealistic backtested returns.   Learn how this A+ rated product from a company founded with Abraham Lincoln's son's blessing could serve as your short-term bridge to retirement income—with issue ages up to 85, RMD flexibility, and nursing home waivers included.  

Can you really earn up to 13.25% growth without risking your principal? In this episode, Marty Becker breaks down a five-year fixed index annuity that offers protection, flexibility, and short-term opportunity — without locking your money away for life. You’ll learn: How the flooring method lets you choose how much of your interest gains to risk — not your principal. Why a five-year annuity can be a smart bridge between safety and growth. How to use annuities in five-year chunks to protect your income during market downturns. The difference between chasing the “best” annuity and finding the right fit for your goals. If you’re not ready for a lifetime income plan but still want protection from market losses, this strategy may give you the balance you need. Visit AtlasAnnuity.com to watch Marty’s free video series or schedule a short call to find the right annuity decision — the first time.

In episode 90 of the Atlas Annuity Podcast, Marty Becker explains why “convenience” can quietly cost you thousands in retirement income. When big investment firms start offering annuities through limited partnerships, they make the process simple — but not always in your best interest. Marty breaks down how these programs work, why independence matters when choosing your annuity, and how small differences in payout can turn into massive income losses over time. You’ll learn: Why independent advisors can access higher-paying annuity options How “easy” choices often mean limited choices The long-term cost of convenience in retirement planning How to make sure your income plan truly serves you Don’t settle for less just because it’s simple. Take control of your retirement income and make informed decisions that maximize what you’ve earned. Learn more or schedule your own independent annuity review at AtlasAnnuity.com.

In episode 89 of the Atlas Annuity Podcast, Marty Becker takes a deep dive into one of the biggest overlooked risks in retirement—financial fragility after the loss of a spouse. Drawing from research by the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College, Marty explains why future retirees may face tougher challenges maintaining their lifestyle after a financial shock, like medical expenses or the loss of a Social Security check. He breaks down how the shift from traditional pensions to 401(k)s has made income less dependable, and why the “4% rule” often falls short in today’s environment. To address this growing problem, Marty introduces a simple but powerful strategy using the American Equity Income Shield Bonus Annuity—a plan designed to replace lost income when a spouse passes away, with guarantees that grow every year for up to 20 years. He walks through how it works, why it’s flexible, and how it can ensure a surviving spouse never runs out of income. If you want to protect your spouse’s income, preserve your legacy, and create certainty in an uncertain world, this episode will show you how to plan ahead with confidence. Learn more or schedule a call at AtlasAnnuity.com.

In episode 88 of the Atlas Annuity Podcast, Marty Becker tackles one of the biggest fears retirees face — inflation. After years of rising prices, many people wonder if their money can really last as long as they do. Marty explains why relying on a traditional 60/40 portfolio and a fixed 3% inflation adjustment isn’t a foolproof strategy — and how it can actually cause you to run out of money too soon. He breaks down a better approach: combining guaranteed income from an annuity with a growth portfolio to cover inflation. You’ll hear real numbers, real scenarios, and why this strategy can help your money last into your late 90s — even in a worst-case market environment. If you want to stop guessing about your retirement income and start building a plan that stands up to inflation, this episode will show you how. Learn more or schedule a call at AtlasAnnuity.com.

In this episode of the Atlas Annuity Podcast, Marty Becker tackles one of the biggest fears in retirement — running out of money. Longevity risk is the risk of outliving your savings, and most advisors fail to plan for it properly. Marty explains why relying on the old 4% rule or a simple systematic withdrawal plan could put your retirement in danger. He walks through real numbers showing how long today’s retirees are living, why planning to age 92 isn’t enough, and what it really takes to make your money last a lifetime. You’ll learn: Why life expectancy has increased so much over the last century How longevity risk makes systematic withdrawal plans risky What rate of return you would need to safely withdraw for decades How annuities can guarantee income you can’t outlive If you want confidence that your retirement income will last as long as you do, this episode will show you how to take longevity risk off the table and enjoy your retirement years without fear. Learn more and schedule a call at AtlasAnnuity.com.

In episode 86 of the Atlas Annuity Podcast, Marty Becker takes a deep dive into systematic withdrawal plans and why they may not be the safe retirement strategy many advisors claim. Marty explains the origins of the 4% rule, why economists now suggest lower withdrawal rates, and how sequence of returns risk can devastate a portfolio — even when using a “safe” 60/40 allocation. He breaks down the three types of retirees — overfunded, underfunded, and constrained — and shows why constrained investors are most at risk when relying on a fixed withdrawal plan. Marty also highlights how even small timing differences, just a few months apart, can create dramatically different outcomes in retirement. Finally, he explains why accumulation-focused advisors often miss the mark in the distribution phase and how income annuities can remove timing risk entirely, guaranteeing income for life and giving retirees the freedom to spend with confidence. Learn more and schedule a call at AtlasAnnuity.com.

In episode 85 of the Atlas Annuity Podcast, Marty Becker breaks down one of the most anticipated financial moves of the year—the Federal Reserve’s likely rate cut in September. We’ll cover what’s driving the Fed’s decision, how it really works behind the scenes, and most importantly, what it means for you. You’ll learn: The history and role of the Federal Reserve and why its decisions matter How rate cuts affect inflation, jobs, and real estate markets The ripple effects on savers, retirees, and safe-money products like CDs, bonds, and annuities Why annuity rates may shift over time when the Fed lowers interest rates What retirees need to consider now to protect their income and stability If you’ve ever wondered how Fed policy impacts your wallet and your retirement, this episode connects the dots in plain language. For more retirement education, visit AtlasAnnuity.com and explore the video series 20% More Spendable Income in Retirement. To see if annuities fit your plan, book a short Zoom call directly through the website. Subscribe to the Atlas Annuity Podcast for more insights on safe money strategies.

In this episode of the Atlas Annuity Podcast, Marty Becker introduces a brand-new product in the annuity world: the EquiTrust Smart Boost Index Annuity. Developed in partnership with Genesys—the pioneer of fixed index annuities—this innovative contract brings unique features designed to give retirees more flexibility, growth potential, and security. Marty breaks down the key details, including: Why EquiTrust’s financial strength ratings and solvency ratios matter. How the Smart Boost works differently from traditional bonuses. Key benefits like 7% penalty-free withdrawals, RMD-friendly design, and nursing home/terminal illness waivers. The 40% guaranteed boost to the death benefit and how it impacts your heirs. Real-world case studies showing how the product can work for retirement income, Roth conversions, and estate planning. Whether you’re exploring annuities for the first time or comparing options for your retirement portfolio, this episode offers clear insights into how the Smart Boost Index could fit into your strategy. Learn more and book a call with Marty at AtlasAnnuity.com

If you're facing a choice between taking a lifetime pension or a lump sum buyout, this episode is for you. Marty Becker shares a real-life conversation with a potential client offered $2,000/month for life—or a $350,000 lump sum. Which is better? The answer might surprise you. With firsthand experience losing his own pension, Marty breaks down: Why defined benefit pensions are becoming less reliable Real examples of massive pension plan failures What the PBGC actually guarantees (and what it doesn’t) How an income annuity can mimic (or even improve on) pension payouts Why a logical apples-to-apples comparison is the only way to decide Whether you're with a corporation or union, considering your options now or in the future, this episode will give you the clarity you need to make a smart, confident decision for your retirement. Want a custom side-by-side comparison? Book a short Zoom call at AtlasAnnuity.com

Did you know that your will doesn’t control who gets your retirement accounts? That job belongs to your beneficiary forms—and if those aren’t right, everything else falls apart. In this episode, Marty Becker explains why annuities have a built-in advantage when it comes to estate planning and passing your assets to loved ones. You’ll hear about three real-life court cases where families lost hundreds of thousands due to outdated forms—and how you can avoid the same fate. You’ll learn: Why annuities require beneficiary designations (and how that protects you) What accounts to review—and how to get physical proof of your forms How to organize and update your financial records What to avoid when inheriting an IRA or retirement account This episode is a must-listen for anyone who owns annuities, retirement accounts, or just wants to keep their estate plan airtight.

In this episode of the Atlas Annuity Podcast, Marty Becker explains why 2025 might be the best time in history to consider a Roth conversion strategy. You’ll learn: Why low tax rates make converting now more appealing How the SECURE Act created a tax trap for your heirs What a 20-year Roth conversion could mean for your legacy The real cost of doing nothing vs converting gradually How annuities can support your Roth strategy safely If you’ve saved diligently in a traditional IRA, this episode is a must-listen — especially if you plan to leave money behind for your family. Ready to explore your options? Visit atlasannuity.com to schedule a free call.

Tired of the emotional rollercoaster that comes with managing your own investments? In this episode, I break down a chart that shows exactly how most people react to market ups and downs—and why those reactions often lead to poor decisions. Then I lay out a side-by-side comparison: What happens if you follow the old 4% withdrawal rule versus using a guaranteed income strategy instead? We look at real numbers over a 25-year period in different market conditions—from the crash in 2000 to the bull run of the late '90s. If you’re trying to figure out how to protect your income without locking everything up or missing out on market growth, this episode is for you. Want to spend more and worry less in retirement? This might be your first step.

Not all annuities are created equal—and there’s no such thing as “the best annuity” for everyone. In this episode, Marty Becker breaks down a real client story to show how different recommendations can miss the mark when they aren’t tied to your specific goals and timeline. You’ll learn the one question that must be answered before making any annuity decision, how to spot vague or biased advice, and why small differences in income today can add up to six figures over retirement. If you're comparing quotes or second-guessing a recommendation, this episode is for you.