The PrairieFire Podcast
The PrairieFire Podcast is designed to explore the financial and emotional issues of life's second half. From paying for college to dealing with aging parents, empty nesting, navigating careers, dealing with taxes, and getting ready for retirement, we share experiences, ideas, and a platform to celebrate what we believe is one of the most exciting periods of your life.
Registered Representative of Sanctuary Securities Inc. and Investment Advisor Representative of Sanctuary Advisors, LLC. Securities offered through Sanctuary Securities, Inc., Member. SIPC. Advisory services offered through Sanctuary Advisor, LLC., an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. PrairieFire Wealth Planning is a DBA of Sanctuary Securities, Inc. and Sanctuary Advisors, LLC.
Episodes
20 episodes
#19 - Protecting Mom and Dad from Elder Scams
Have you ever wondered how scammers exploit technology to deceive even the most vigilant among us? This episode of The PrairieFire Podcast reveals the latest schemes—from fake QR codes to romance scams—and equips you with simple, effective ways...
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24:30
#18 - Helping Mom and Dad with Housing Expert Jennifer Voigt
How can you support aging parents while keeping your peace of mind? In today’s episode, Matt Meline connects with senior living expert Jennifer Voigt to share tips on starting tough conversations, planning, and exploring home health care. From ...
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33:17
#17 - Caring for Mom and Dad - Becky's Story
What happens when the roles reverse, and you become your parent’s caregiver? In this episode, Matt Meline and longtime friend Becky Pratt share a deeply personal journey through caregiving’s emotional and financial challenges. Becky reflects on...
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24:09
#16 - Caring for Mom and Dad
Are you prepared to support your aging parents through life’s most challenging transitions? In today’s episode, Matt Meline shares practical, compassionate strategies for discussing finances, health, and long-term care. You’ll discover how to o...
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28:14
#15 - Life Moves Pretty Fast: Lessons from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
Are you playing it too safe in life—or holding onto things that aren’t important? In this episode, Matt Meline looks at the iconic 80s classic “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” and reveals surprising lessons on living with more courage, joy, and purpo...
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16:47
#14 - Every Move You Make: Financial and Life Lessons from The Police's Classic Song
Are you tired of stressing over every single transaction in your bank account? Matt Meline explores how our desire for control can sometimes go too far. Using the classic 80s hit "Every Breath You Take" as a metaphor, Matt shows how ob...
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18:53
#13 - Maverick Moves: Financial Lessons From "Top Gun"
Are you unsure if you're taking too many risks with your finances or not enough? In this episode, Matt dives into what Top Gun can teach us about managing risk, building discipline, and making better financial decisions. You'll get practical ti...
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15:18
#12 - Lessons Learned From "The Breakfast Club"
Are your money habits stuck in the past? In this episode, we revisit the iconic movie “The Breakfast Club” to uncover surprising money lessons. What stereotypes about money might be holding you back? Let’s explore how vulnerability and...
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19:21
#11 - 529 Leftovers – How do we keep them in OUR Fridge?
Do you want to know what to do with leftover money in your 529 plan? In this episode of the Prairie Fire podcast, we explore easy and practical ways to handle extra funds, including new rules that let you roll them into a Roth IRA. Whether your...
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11:57
#10 - 3 Tips for College Savings Month
How do you make college savings work for your family? In today’s episode, Matt shares three essential tips from a parent who successfully sent four kids to college—without breaking the bank. You’ll learn why it’s okay to save a little less than...
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23:46
#9 - Do Not Overpay for College - We Mean It!
Did you know most families are overpaying for college? In this episode, we break down why it happens and what you can do to avoid it. Learn practical tips for picking the right school, maximizing financial aid, and negotiating a better deal. Wh...
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17:05
#8 - Artificial Intelligence For Empty Nesters
Are you curious about how AI could make your life easier and more enjoyable as you transition into retirement? In this episode, Matt Meline shares practical tips on using AI to manage your home, finances, health, and travel plans. Learn how the...
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20:14
#7 - 3 Tips for Every Pending Empty Nester
Are you feeling unprepared for the day your child leaves home? You're not alone! Join Matt Meline as he shares three essential insights that every soon-to-be empty nester should know. From embracing the inevitable change to planning your newfou...
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12:23
#6 - Matt and Lisa's Empty Nest Journey
Are you ready to embrace the joys and challenges of an empty nest? Join Matt and his wife, Lisa, as they share their heartfelt journey of parenting four children into adulthood, managing a blended family, and making intelligent financial decisi...
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17:38
#5 - 5 Financial Blindspots to Avoid this Year
Is your financial plan ready for life after the kids move out? In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked aspects of the second half of life. We’ll discuss why it’s essential to reassess your finances, including taxes, investments, and bu...
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16:32
#4 - The 3 Buckets
Are you curious about the “three buckets of money” strategy? Join Matt Meline as he demystifies this approach in our latest episode. Imagine having three buckets: one for emergencies, another for middle lifestyle goals, and a third for long-ter...
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17:02
#3 - Budgeting For Fun
Are budgeting woes cramping your style? Tune in to our latest episode with Matt Meline as he flips the script on budgeting. Post-kids, your financial landscape changes, and guess what? It’s time to have some fun! Discover how to redirect funds ...
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14:11
#2 - 3 Financial Pitfalls to Avoid this Year
Are you prepared for this year's economic uncertainties? In this episode, Matt Meline offers crucial insights and actionable strategies that are not just general but specifically tailored to the current economic climate to help you navigate pot...
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16:30