“Fun With Annuities” The Annuity Man Podcast
Fun With Annuities® Podcast is hosted by America’s Annuity Agent, Stan The Annuity Man®. Hear brutal annuity facts with no sales pitches from the top independent agent in the country, licensed in all 50 states. Author of 7 books, Stan dives deep on all annuity types and strategies. It’s fun, learning the contractual truths on how annuities actually work and if they’ll fit your personal retirement lifestyle. Listen in on how you can be livin’ the reality, not the dream.
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Golden Goose of Annuities Confidence: Fun With Annuities
06/02/2026
Golden Goose of Annuities Confidence: Fun With Annuities
Why haven’t annuities collapsed even when a carrier fails? In this episode, you’ll learn how the “golden goose of annuity confidence” is protected behind the scenes—by state guarantee funds, big carriers, and a quiet “annuity mafia” that refuses to let the system break. In this episode, The Annuity Man discusses: State guarantee funds vs. FDIC The “golden goose of annuity confidence” Role of big carriers and the “annuity mafia” Demographic tidal wave of retiring boomers Private credit exposure and carrier selection strategy Key Takeaways: State guarantee funds exist as a backstop for fixed annuities, but wise carrier selection and strong financials matter more than simply staying under coverage limits. The true protection behind annuities is an industry-level commitment to maintain public confidence, with large carriers stepping in so weaker players don’t poison the entire market. Annuities are fundamentally about transferring risk and contractually solving for principal protection, lifetime income, legacy, and long-term care. With tens of thousands of Americans turning 65 every day, demand for contractual guarantees is set to surge, especially when markets eventually experience a serious downturn. Despite concerns about private credit and complex balance sheets, disciplined advisors who focus on carrier quality and contractual guarantees can still confidently recommend annuities that back up their promises. "We only look at the contractual guarantees of the policy." — Stan the Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Contractual Drool Cups & Annuity Diapers: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
05/31/2026
Contractual Drool Cups & Annuity Diapers: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
In this episode, Stan “The Annuity Man” delivers a blunt, edutaining wake-up call about the realities of aging, why retirement is really “chapter two,” and how to use annuities and intentional spending so you don’t die with a pile of unspent money and a lifetime of regrets. In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Contractual drool cups and annuity diapers as a reality check Three phases of retirement: go-go, slow go, no go Core functions and questions behind annuity planning Learning to spend, enjoy life, and give money while alive Lifestyle, legacy, and peace-of-mind planning in chapter two Key Takeaways: Retirement should be viewed as “chapter two,” a pivot away from accumulation and toward actually enjoying the life you’ve worked for. If you live long enough, you’ll likely reach a “no-go” phase, so the goal is to make the most of your go-go and slow-go years instead of hoarding money you’ll never spend. Annuities exist to solve specific contractual needs: principal protection, lifetime income, legacy, and long-term care. Many people must actively retrain themselves to spend, travel, and enjoy life, especially if they grew up poor or hyper-focused on saving and tax avoidance. Gifting money and supporting family or causes while you’re still alive can create more impact and joy than waiting to pass it on after you’re gone. "If you have never learned how to spend, teach yourself how to spend." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Peel and Play Annuities: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
05/24/2026
Peel and Play Annuities: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
Looking for a way to protect your principal, skip the fees, and simply live off the interest? In this episode, Stan breaks down “peel and play” annuities and shows how multi-year guarantee annuities (MIGAs) offer simple, contractual returns without the complexity or risk of market-based products. In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Peel and play annuities concept and misconceptions How multi-year guarantee annuities (MIGAs) work Tax deferral advantages vs. CDs Building and managing a MIGA ladder strategy MIGAs for risk management and legacy planning Key Takeaways: Not all annuities are designed for lifetime income; some are built specifically for principal protection and simple interest withdrawal. Multi-year guarantee annuities function similarly to CDs but are issued by life insurance companies and offer guaranteed, contractual yields. Using MIGAs in non-qualified accounts allows interest to grow tax deferred and be rolled from contract to contract, effectively pushing the tax bill into the future. A laddered MIGA strategy can provide steady, predictable interest while keeping the original principal intact and available for future decisions. When the goal is “don’t lose money” and “keep it simple,” guaranteed products like MIGAs may be more aligned than complex, hypothetical, or bonus-driven indexed annuities. "Warren Buffett had two rules. Rule number one: never lose money. Rule number two, never forget rule number one, he would love peel and play annuities." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Faith, Fiduciaries and Annuities: Fun With Annuities
05/19/2026
Faith, Fiduciaries and Annuities: Fun With Annuities
When faith, trust, and money intersect, consumers can get hurt. In this episode, Stan the Annuity Man calls out prosperity gospel sales tactics, misused fiduciary labels, and explains how to protect yourself with contractual guarantees and a true second opinion. In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Definition and misuse of the “fiduciary” label Religion, churches, and faith-based annuity sales Prosperity gospel and financial product pitching Friends, family, and local agents selling limited annuity options The importance of second opinions and contractual guarantees Key Takeaways: A plaque on the wall or a fiduciary title is no substitute for genuinely putting a client’s best interests first. Using church relationships or religious trust to sell annuities is a growing problem and can easily cross ethical lines. Consumers should be wary of buying complex products from friends, family, or small local circles that only offer one or two annuity types. Multi-level marketing and prosperity-focused messaging around annuities demand extra skepticism and independent verification. Treat major annuity decisions like a serious medical diagnosis; always seek a second opinion before committing significant retirement savings. "Fiduciary means that you're putting the client's best interest ahead of the advisor." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Lifetime Income Backstops: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
05/17/2026
Lifetime Income Backstops: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
Think annuities mean your money disappears when you die? In this episode, Stan The Annuity Man breaks down lifetime income backstops and shows how to structure annuities so every penny is guaranteed to go to your beneficiaries—not the “evil annuity company.” In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Common misconceptions about lifetime income annuities Life-only annuities vs. annuities with backstops Single premium immediate annuities, deferred income annuities, and QLACs Cash refund, installment refund, and period certain structures Income riders on index and variable annuities as lifetime income solutions Key Takeaways: Many people, including financial professionals, misunderstand annuities and wrongly assume the money vanishes at death, when in reality, there are numerous ways to protect beneficiaries. Life-only structures deliver the highest lifetime income but intentionally accept the risk that no money may remain for heirs if death occurs early. Cash refund and installment refund backstops ensure that every unused dollar of premium ultimately goes to beneficiaries rather than being retained by the annuity company. Periodic certain options are generally less efficient, because they simply guarantee a minimum payout period rather than maximizing long-term protection and benefits for heirs. Income riders attached to index or variable annuities focus on the contractual income guarantee, with the underlying annuity acting as the death benefit backstop, often providing strong lifetime income solutions. "We only look at the contractual guarantees of the policy. We only own it for what it will do, not what it might do." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Annuities Produce Fun Coupons: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
05/11/2026
Annuities Produce Fun Coupons: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
What if you treated every dollar as a “fun coupon” instead of something to hoard and stress over? In this episode, Stan The Annuity Man lays out how annuities can create guaranteed income, break the scarcity mindset, and give you permission to finally enjoy Chapter Two of your life. In this episode, The Annuity Man discusses: Money as “fun coupons” and winning the game Core purposes of annuities and principal protection Taxes, rich mindsets, and not over-optimizing Scarcity scars, personal hardship, and financial trauma Using guaranteed income to actually enjoy life in Chapter Two Key Takeaways: Money is most powerful when it’s treated as a tool for enjoyment and experiences, not just accumulation. Annuities are primarily designed for principal protection and lifetime income, creating predictable “fun coupons” you can actually spend. Obsessing over taxes, markets, and spreadsheets often prevents people who have already “won the game” from enjoying their lives. A scarcity mindset rooted in past financial hardship can trap even very wealthy people in fear, unless they consciously choose to spend and live. Building an income floor with guarantees (like annuities, Social Security, pensions, and RMDs) can free you to focus on lifestyle, relationships, and Chapter Two of life. "Money is nothing more than fun coupons." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Annuitization Sweeping the Nation: Fun With Annuities
05/05/2026
Annuitization Sweeping the Nation: Fun With Annuities
Discover why annuitization has quietly powered lifetime income for over 200 years—and why it’s poised to “sweep the nation” as more Americans hit retirement age. In this episode, you’ll hear a no-fluff breakdown of how annuities really work, how they compare to Social Security, and how to secure chapter two of your life with guaranteed income. In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Historical roots of annuities and annuitization Annuitization as lifetime income and its connection to Social Security Impact of AI, medical advances, and longevity on annuity payouts Common misconceptions about annuities and beneficiary protections Structuring lifetime income in retirement and the future of annuitization Key Takeaways: Annuitization is fundamentally about turning a lump sum into a guaranteed stream of payments, often for life, and has been relied on for centuries. Social Security is effectively the most widely owned annuitization product, proving that many people already value lifetime income even if they claim to “hate annuities.” As life expectancies increase due to medical and technological advances, annuity payouts are projected to stretch over longer periods, changing how benefits are priced and structured. Properly structured annuities don’t simply “keep your money when you die”; in most modern designs, any unused value passes on to your beneficiaries. For the second chapter of life, guaranteed income and an income floor can matter more than chasing market returns, speculation, or complex investment fads. "Lifetime Income is a pension - a transfer of longevity risk. Annuitization has been embraced by this nation for a very, very, very long time." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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What Are Life Insurance Death Bonds?: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
05/04/2026
What Are Life Insurance Death Bonds?: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
Ever wondered what really happens when companies offer to “buy your life insurance policy” or your annuity payments? In this episode, Stan “The Annuity Man” pulls back the curtain on life insurance death bonds, secondary market annuities, and the ethical gray areas you need to understand before you cash out. In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Life insurance death bonds explained How companies buy life insurance policies and death benefits 1035 exchanges and moving life insurance cash value into annuities Secondary market annuities, structured settlements, and legal pitfalls Tax treatment differences and the PILL framework for evaluating annuities Key Takeaways: There’s an active market where companies buy the rights to life insurance death benefits, paying policyholders a lump sum today and then waiting to collect the tax-free payout when they die. A 1035 exchange allows you to move cash value from life insurance into an annuity without triggering taxes, but you must understand that tapping that cash value as a “loan” is not the same thing as tax-free income. The secondary market for annuities and structured settlements has seen significant ethical and regulatory concerns, so anyone considering selling those income streams should proceed with caution. Life insurance death benefits are tax-free and probate-free to beneficiaries, but annuity death benefits issued by the same life insurance companies do not receive the same tax treatment. Before buying an annuity, you should clearly define what you want your money to do contractually and when you want those guarantees to start; only then can you determine if an annuity fits your needs under the PILL framework. "Life insurance is the best return on investment you'll never see because you're dead." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Is The IRS Living in Your Head Rent Free?: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
04/27/2026
Is The IRS Living in Your Head Rent Free?: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
Is the IRS living in your head rent-free? Stan the Annuity Man breaks down why tax obsession might be costing you more joy than dollars and what to focus on instead. In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Obsession with taxes and IRS rules Future tax rates, national debt, and policy uncertainty Roth conversions, rule changes, and break-even analysis QLACs, annuities, and tax-related product decisions Scars of scarcity, spending in retirement, and enjoying life now Key Takeaways: Letting tax fears dictate every financial and lifestyle decision can rob you of the very life you saved and invested for. Tax rates are likely to rise over time, and no individual can control that reality—what you can control is how you structure guarantees and how fully you live your life. Converting to Roths or buying tax-favored products without running the real break-even numbers is a mistake; decisions should be grounded in math, not fear. Many people carry “scars of scarcity,” continuing to live like they’re broke long after they’ve financially “won the game,” and their spouses or families may be quietly suffering for it. True tax planning should come from qualified professionals like CPAs, CFPs, or tax attorneys, not from product salespeople stretching beyond their legal and professional lane. "Don't let the IRS live in your head rent-free." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Carpe Annuity Dang Diem!: Fun With Annuities
04/21/2026
Carpe Annuity Dang Diem!: Fun With Annuities
What happens to annuity payouts when AI and medical breakthroughs start pushing life expectancy through the roof? In this episode, Stan reveals why current life expectancy tables are a one-time bargain and how to use them to your advantage. In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Carpe Annuity Diem and seizing today’s annuity opportunities Impact of AI and medical breakthroughs on life expectancy tables Building an income floor with Social Security, RMDs, and annuities Joint lifetime income for spouses and real-life lifestyle examples Mindset shift from accumulating money to spending and enjoying it Key Takeaways: Advances in AI and medical breakthroughs like GLP‑1 drugs are likely to extend lifespans, which will eventually reduce payout levels on new lifetime income products, making today’s life expectancy tables unusually attractive. Locking in guaranteed lifetime income now—through SPIAs, DIAs, QLACs, and income riders—can secure favorable payout rates before tables are adjusted for longer life expectancy. Social Security and required minimum distributions function as annuity-like income streams, and combining them with actual annuities creates a dependable income floor. Structuring annuities on a joint-life basis is a way of honoring a spouse who has “put up with you for years,” ensuring they’re financially secure and free to live well if they outlive you. Winning the financial game isn’t just about accumulating assets; it’s about learning to spend, travel, upgrade your lifestyle, and enjoy your money while you’re healthy—before your beneficiaries are the ones flying first class. "Carpe annuity dang diem really comes down to life expectancy. Tables are in your favor right now. You might want to shop for that right now, son." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Women Rule the Annuity World Part 1: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
04/20/2026
Women Rule the Annuity World Part 1: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
Women are living longer, inheriting more, and increasingly driving the biggest decisions in retirement and legacy planning. In this episode, Stan “the Annuity Man” lays out why women truly rule the annuity world and how couples can proactively design lifetime income and legacy plans that actually work in “chapter two” of life. In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Women’s longevity and joint lifetime income annuities Planning the Baby Boomer wealth transfer Husbands’ responsibility for “chapter two” planning Lifetime income, risk reduction, and legacy for widows Building a women-focused annuity and education division Key Takeaways: Because women statistically outlive men, structuring joint lifetime income annuities can ensure uninterrupted payments and long-term financial security for surviving spouses. The coming trillions in Baby Boomer wealth transfer make it critical to plan how assets move first from husband to wife, and then to children and grandchildren. In many marriages, one partner cares little about investments and only wants to know that income, lifestyle, and family priorities will be protected if something happens to the other. Shifting some assets from risk-based portfolios into contractual lifetime income and principal protection can better align with the needs and risk tolerance of widows. Proactive, structured planning—often using annuities, trusts, and clearly defined instructions—can remove guesswork and stress for surviving spouses and future generations. "Be proactive in the planning. Put something in place." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Carrier Ratings and State Guaranty Funds: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
04/13/2026
Carrier Ratings and State Guaranty Funds: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
Think the state guaranty fund is your safety net? Stan pulls back the curtain on how these funds actually work, when they’ve stepped in, and why carrier quality and claims-paying ability matter even more. In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Understanding guaranty funds without relying on them Treating annuities as confidence-driven decisions Looking beyond ratings to real due diligence Prioritizing strength, scale, and scrutiny in carrier selection Key Takeaways: State guaranty funds provide limited protection, but they are not comparable to the FDIC and cannot be used as a sales pitch. They exist as a backstop, not a primary reason to choose an annuity. Annuities depend on trust in the insurer’s ability to pay over time. Strong carriers and industry stability are essential to maintaining that confidence. Ratings from major agencies are only a starting point. True evaluation requires digging into financials, operations, and potential risks that may not show up in headline grades. Not all carriers are equal, even if highly rated. Size, stability, and deeper risk factors like private credit exposure matter, making disciplined filtering critical to long-term reliability. "Annuities are confidence products. You have to have confidence to give the money to the life insurance company." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Decreasing Income Rider Teaser Rates: Fun With Annuities
04/07/2026
Decreasing Income Rider Teaser Rates: Fun With Annuities
Are annuity companies quietly setting you up for a pay cut in retirement? Stan “The Annuity Man” exposes the truth about decreasing income rider teaser rates and how to avoid a nasty surprise in year 11. In this episode, The Annuity Man discusses: Understanding income riders Choosing strong and reliable carriers Avoiding misleading teaser rates Prioritizing transparency and long-term thinking Key Takeaways: Income riders are built to provide lifetime income through contractual guarantees, not projections. They can be structured in different ways, but the goal stays the same. Create a reliable income you can count on for life. Not all carriers are created equal when it comes to long-term guarantees. Focusing on A+ rated providers increases confidence that income promises will be honored. This protects your plan over the long run. Some income riders offer high payouts early, then drop significantly later on. This can create problems as costs rise over time. Stable or increasing income is often the wiser and more sustainable choice. It is easy to focus on what looks good upfront, but the full picture matters more. Understanding how income behaves over time helps you make better decisions. Choose clarity and consistency over short-term appeal. "What we’re seeing now are carriers that will have the highest payout for 10 consecutive years, but after year 10, it severely drops off the cliff." — Stan the Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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10 Percent Free Withdrawal Annuity Nonsense: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
04/05/2026
10 Percent Free Withdrawal Annuity Nonsense: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Understanding that “free withdrawals” come at a cost Recognizing misleading annuity sales claims Focusing on purpose before choosing a product Prioritizing guarantees and long-term impact Key Takeaways: The 10% withdrawal feature is not a bonus but access to your own money. Taking withdrawals reduces key benefits like lifetime income, death benefits, and overall contract value. Phrases like bonuses, free withdrawals, and market upside with no downside can be misleading. These features are often part of the contract structure and not true added value. Annuities should be selected based on clear goals, such as when you want income to start and what guarantees you need. The product should match the purpose, not the sales pitch. Every decision, especially withdrawals, affects the contract’s guarantees. Understanding these tradeoffs upfront is essential to protecting long-term financial outcomes. "Upfront bonus is candy for the stupid. There's nobody giving money away at an annuity company… It's a teaser to get you involved." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Annuity Dart Throw or Contractual Rifle Shot?: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
03/29/2026
Annuity Dart Throw or Contractual Rifle Shot?: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Focusing on contractual guarantees Avoiding “dart throw” annuity products Clarifying the purpose of the annuity Recognizing the value of timing and simplicity Key Takeaways: Evaluate annuities strictly as contracts based on guaranteed terms, not projections or marketing illustrations. The goal is to buy an annuity for what it will do contractually, rather than what it might do in hypothetical scenarios. Be cautious of complex market-linked annuities such as variable annuities, indexed annuities, and RILAs. These products often include multiple moving parts, caps, and fees that can limit outcomes and create unnecessary complexity. Start by identifying what you want the money to contractually accomplish and when those guarantees should begin. Annuities are best used to solve specific needs such as principal protection, lifetime income, legacy planning, or long-term care support. Lifetime income payouts are influenced by life expectancy assumptions, which may change over time. Straightforward products like MYGAs and contracts with clear guarantees can provide predictable outcomes without relying on market speculation or promotional incentives. "You ask two questions… What do you want the money to contractually do? When do you want those contractual guarantees to start? That’s it.” — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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The Realities of Annuity Affordability: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
03/22/2026
The Realities of Annuity Affordability: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Building a reliable income floor Focusing on guarantees, not projections Using annuities to transfer longevity risk Planning for growth and inflation Key Takeaways: Retirement affordability means having a guaranteed income that consistently covers essential bills every month, providing peace of mind and financial stability for life’s second chapter. Annuities should be purchased for what they are contractually guaranteed to deliver, not for hypothetical growth or market stories. The emphasis is on certainty and dependable income rather than speculation. Annuities provide lifetime income by shifting longevity risk to the insurance carrier, and many structures also extend payments to a spouse, ensuring financial security for both partners. No product can fully protect against hyperinflation. Retirees can add additional income products later to increase their income floor, keeping pace with rising expenses and maintaining long-term security. "Affordability means income floor. Affordability means money hitting your bank account every single month, regardless of what happens. Affordability is having a lifetime income stream as long as you’re breathing." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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No Commission Annuities…but With an Annual Fee: Fun With Annuities
03/17/2026
No Commission Annuities…but With an Annual Fee: Fun With Annuities
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Understanding how annuity commissions work Avoiding misleading “no-commission” products Focusing on contractual guarantees, not hype Shopping broadly and matching products to needs Key Takeaways: Understand how annuity commissions work Annuity commissions come from the insurance company’s reserves, not the client’s premium. Your invested amount is fully at work, meaning commissions don’t reduce your initial principal. Some fee-only or fiduciary advisors label annuities as no-commission but layer ongoing advisory or wrap fees, which can equal or exceed traditional commissions, making them economically similar or worse. Strip away marketing claims and illustrations. Ask: what is guaranteed, what risk is transferred, and when do guarantees start? Decisions should be based on these concrete, contractually defined elements. There’s no single “best” annuity. Choose the one that solves your specific problem, offers the highest contractual guarantees, and aligns with your income goals. Avoid flashy promises and always compare multiple carriers. "There's nothing complex about the annuity business. The only people making it complex are the people selling it." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Jimmy Dean Sausage Annuity Legacy Strategy: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
03/08/2026
Jimmy Dean Sausage Annuity Legacy Strategy: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Planning for a lasting legacy to protect clients and business continuity Creating a client-first culture by prioritizing guarantees over commissions Fostering radical transparency through honesty and owning mistakes Using trust and straightforward service to stand out in a commoditized market Key Takeaways: Preparing for the future keeps client trust intact even after the founder is gone. Documented processes and succession plans ensure smooth operations. Continuity strengthens reputation and confidence. Prioritize guarantees over commissions to align the team with client outcomes. Focus on what the client receives, not what the team earns. This builds credibility and trust. Honesty guides every decision and strengthens relationships. Owning mistakes openly fosters loyalty. Clear communication reduces friction. In a commoditized market, trust and client focus set you apart. Straightforward, consistent service matters more than product complexity. Clients remember integrity above all. "Annuities are commodity products. We all sell the same thing. If anyone tells you otherwise, they are lying." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Lifetime Income Is the Ultimate Outcome: Fun With Annuities
03/03/2026
Lifetime Income Is the Ultimate Outcome: Fun With Annuities
In this episode, The Annuity Man discusses: Building lifetime income as the real retirement goal Securing your income floor before adding complexity Using annuities to solve income and protection problems Locking in guarantees before longevity shifts the math Key Takeaways: Retirement planning is not about account balances but about creating income you cannot outlive. “Chapter One” is for accumulation, but “Chapter Two” only works when a reliable lifetime income replaces your paycheck. Without that income foundation, lifestyle freedom in retirement is fragile. Guaranteed sources like Social Security, pensions, and recurring IRA distributions form your income floor. If that floor already covers your lifestyle, additional annuities may be unnecessary. Retirement strength begins with certainty, not excess products. Annuities are designed to address four needs: principal protection, income for life, legacy, and long-term care. For lifetime income, structures can protect spouses and beneficiaries, countering the common “money goes poof” misconception. Proper design determines outcomes. As AI and medical advances extend life expectancy, insurers will eventually adjust payout assumptions downward. Today’s guarantees may be more favorable than future quotes once updated tables reflect longer lifespans. For those planning to secure a lifetime income, timing could materially impact results. "If lifetime income is the ultimate outcome, you need to start planning for that now. You need to start locking those guarantees in now." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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The Best Kind of Money Is Guaranteed Money: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
03/01/2026
The Best Kind of Money Is Guaranteed Money: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Building an income floor before chasing growth Using annuities for risk transfer, not market upside Avoiding hype and choosing guarantees that last Key Takeaways: Retirement is about securing essential expenses with contractual guarantees, not chasing hypothetical returns. The priority is creating an income floor through sources like Social Security, pensions, and properly structured annuities. Once that foundation is set, the rest of the portfolio can pursue growth without threatening stability. Annuities are transfer-of-risk products, not growth engines meant to mirror the stock market. They are designed to provide principal protection, lifetime income, legacy options, and long-term care support. Buying them for upside potential misunderstands their purpose and creates misplaced expectations. Promises of upside with no downside, flashy bonuses, and inflated back-tests are red flags because nothing in an annuity is free. The right questions are what you want the money to contractually do and when those guarantees should begin. Strong lifetime income planning also requires highly rated carriers, since once you commit, there are no mulligans. "What's the best annuity? The answer is, it's the one that solves for your specific situation and provides the highest contractual guarantee with a solid, highly rated company." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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It’s Time to Consider a Respirator Annuity: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
02/22/2026
It’s Time to Consider a Respirator Annuity: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Understanding what lifetime income really guarantees Separating guarantees from projections Understanding the structure before judging the product Thinking strategically about longevity timing Key Takeaways: A lifetime income annuity pays as long as you are alive, even in extreme medical situations. It transfers longevity risk from you to the insurance company. The guarantee is contractual, not conditional on health or account value. Many products are sold with optimistic growth illustrations, but projections are not promises. The real value lies in the contractual income guarantee. Decisions should be based on what must happen, not what might happen. Taxation depends on the type of account funding the annuity, not the annuity label itself. Payout structures like life with a cash refund determine what heirs receive. Clarity on structure prevents confusion and costly assumptions. If life expectancy continues to rise, future payout rates may decrease. Locking in income today could secure stronger lifetime payments. Timing is a strategic response to longevity risk. "All lifetime income from all lifetime income products… is a combination of return of principal plus interest." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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RMDs Are in Essence a Forced Annuity: Fun With Annuities
02/17/2026
RMDs Are in Essence a Forced Annuity: Fun With Annuities
In this episode, The Annuity Man discusses: RMDs as a built-in income stream Building a reliable income floor for Chapter Two Stacking income sources intentionally Choosing truth over product-driven advice Key Takeaways: Required Minimum Distributions are not just tax events but forced withdrawals that create predictable income. Like Social Security, they function as an annuity whether you planned for one or not. Seeing RMDs as income rather than irritation changes how retirement planning is approached. Retirement is reframed as Chapter Two, a season focused on lifestyle and freedom. The priority is creating a guaranteed income floor that covers essential expenses regardless of markets. With that baseline secured, retirees gain confidence and flexibility in their financial decisions. An income floor can include Social Security, pensions, RMDs, dividends, rentals, bonds, CDs, treasuries, and MYGAs. RMDs must be factored in because they are predictable and legally required. Failing to include them can lead to unnecessary product purchases and inefficient planning. Not everyone needs to buy an additional annuity. If projected RMD income already meets lifestyle needs, additional guarantees may be unnecessary. A truth-first approach prioritizes client needs over sales, reinforcing trust and long-term credibility. "You already own an annuity, and it's called Social Security, and it's the best inflation annuity on the planet." — Stan the Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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How Will AI Affect Annuities?: Fun With Annuities
02/03/2026
How Will AI Affect Annuities?: Fun With Annuities
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Anticipating AI-driven longevity shifts Understanding how annuities are truly priced Locking in today’s assumptions before they change Choosing guarantees and carriers with intention Key Takeaways: Advances in artificial intelligence are expected to significantly extend life expectancy, especially through medical breakthroughs. Longer projected lifespans will materially affect how lifetime income products are priced in the future. Lifetime income annuities are driven primarily by life expectancy tables, not just interest rates. Longer expected lifespans mean more payments and lower annual income for new buyers over time. Current annuity pricing does not yet reflect potential AI-driven longevity gains. Securing income under today’s tables may result in higher lifetime payouts than those available later. Lifetime income annuities function as risk-transfer products, not return-on-investment vehicles. Selecting A-rated or better carriers is critical to ensure guarantees remain intact as longevity assumptions evolve. "Lifetime income is all about that income floor, the income coming in, or the income you’re planning for your spouse or your kids." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Kick the Tax Can Forever With MYGAs: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
01/25/2026
Kick the Tax Can Forever With MYGAs: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Understanding MYGAs as CD alternatives Using tax deferral to improve long-term growth Extending deferral through strategic rollovers Evaluating liquidity and fit Key Takeaways: A Multi-Year Guarantee Annuity functions like a CD with a fixed rate and a defined term. It offers principal protection, no market exposure, and predictable growth. Terms typically range from one to ten years, depending on the carrier. Unlike CDs in non-qualified accounts, MYGA interest is not taxed annually. Taxes are deferred until withdrawals are taken. This allows earnings to compound uninterrupted over time. At the end of a MYGA term, funds can be withdrawn or rolled into a new MYGA. A 1035 exchange allows this rollover without triggering taxes. This process can be repeated to defer taxes indefinitely. MYGAs often allow limited annual withdrawals, with gains taxed first. They appeal to those seeking stability, tax efficiency, and legacy growth. "Multi-year guarantee annuity is the annuity version of a CD—fixed rate, no moving parts, no market attachment." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Tom Hegna: Don't Worry, Retire Happy! (From the Vault)
01/20/2026
Tom Hegna: Don't Worry, Retire Happy! (From the Vault)
In this episode, The Annuity Man and Tom Hegna discuss: Saying no to DIY retirement What is the right age for retirement is How annuity addresses inflation Securing guaranteed lifetime income with annuities Key Takeaways: Retirement is not a DIY project; do it with a professional. The age for retirement would not be the same for many. If you want to get the optimal age, you have to spend some time calculating all the factors that go into it. Be creative in doing something that can help your retirement. It’s okay if you have to do a side-hustle or work longer. Having a huge income guaranteed allows you to make riskier and therefore more rewarding investments. When the account is drawn down to zero, the annuity company is still on the hook to pay. “They found that the happiest people in retirement were those people who were surrounded by their families and friends, and had guaranteed paychecks every single month." — Tom Hegna Check out Tom’s Books here: Connect with Tom Hegna: Website: LinkedIn: Facebook: Twitter: Pinterest: YouTube: Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Consider Giving Your Money Away Now: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
01/14/2026
Consider Giving Your Money Away Now: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Giving while you’re alive to create a meaningful impact Letting background inform legacy decisions Balancing support with personal responsibility Building a living legacy through intentional planning Key Takeaways: Providing financial support earlier in life can influence long-term stability and opportunity. Assistance during early adulthood often carries greater practical value than delayed inheritance. Financial philosophies are shaped by upbringing and lived experience. Recognizing these influences can help redefine traditional approaches to wealth transfer. Reducing unnecessary financial strain does not eliminate accountability or growth. Thoughtful assistance can coexist with independence and character development. Structured gifting and professional guidance enable sustainable generosity. Legacy is strengthened when wealth is deployed with purpose and long-term clarity. "We don't wait until death to give everything away or for them to get it. We help them as they're going along." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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The New Financial “F” Word: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
12/31/2025
The New Financial “F” Word: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Questioning the fiduciary label Recognizing bad advice despite credentials Performing personal due diligence Choosing advisors carefully and staying informed Key Takeaways: “Fiduciary” is often misused by advisors as a marketing badge rather than a guarantee of acting in the client’s best interest. Consumers should not assume a plaque or certification automatically equals sound advice. Even certified fiduciaries can make improper or risky recommendations, as illustrated by a reverse mortgage case leading to unsuitable annuity and insurance products. Titles and certifications do not replace critical evaluation of financial advice. Do your own research, ask questions, and verify recommendations, especially when products are complex or seem too good to be true. Relying solely on an advisor's credentials can expose you to financial harm. Stan recommends fee-only fiduciaries for non-annuities but urges extra caution when advisors sell annuities. Seeking second opinions and consulting specialists helps protect against misleading or unethical guidance. "People are hiding behind a certification. They're hiding behind that F‑word, fiduciary, to recommend products that make no sense." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Terry Savage: Chicken Money Is Still Tasty (From the Vault)
12/30/2025
Terry Savage: Chicken Money Is Still Tasty (From the Vault)
In this episode, The Annuity Man and Terry Savage discuss: What is “chicken money”? Considering future crises in your financial plan Seeking trusted advisors Building an income floor Key Takeaways: Your “chicken money” is money that you can’t afford to lose. CDs, treasury bills, money markets, AAA municipal bonds, and MYGAs are suitable options. MYGAs and CDs are great for principal protection and tax deferral benefits. Focus on having an income floor and principal protection in retirement plans. It’s important to consider possible future financial crises and plan for them, regardless of political outcomes. Social Security is a primary source of retirement income. Seek trusted financial advice from fiduciaries who fully disclose costs and operate on a fee-only basis. See to it personally that you are able to customize your financial plan according to your goals. Have an income floor to protect yourself against market fluctuations and ensure financial stability. Social Security is a strong foundation for retirement income. Build on it with guaranteed products. Consider both the short-term and the long-term in your financial plan. "Chicken money, by definition, is money you cannot afford to lose, and as such, it belongs in things like short-term CDs, treasury bills." — Terry Savage Connect with Terry Savage: Website: LinkedIn: Facebook: New Book Link: Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Life Insurance Loans Are Not Income: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
12/24/2025
Life Insurance Loans Are Not Income: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Understanding why life insurance loans are not income Questioning glossy tax-free income pitches Keeping life insurance simple and purpose-driven Testing illustrations and setting clear expectations Key Takeaways: Loans from a life insurance policy are not income, just as bank loans are not income. They are tax-free only because they must be repaid, not because they create earnings. Calling them “tax-free income” is a misleading sales framing. Many life insurance illustrations rely on optimistic assumptions and attractive projections. High internal fees and commissions often benefit the agent more than the client. If a pitch sounds too good to be true, it usually deserves deeper scrutiny. Life insurance works best when focused on its core purpose: a tax-free death benefit. Level term coverage maximizes protection while minimizing cost and complexity. Avoid products with indexes, market ties, or unnecessary moving parts. Running illustrations at 0% growth reveals the true impact of fees and loan costs. This stress test shows whether a policy can sustain itself over time. Life insurance should be positioned as protection, not a tax-free income strategy. "With life insurance, you buy the most death benefit you can for the least amount of money. It's that simple." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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Roth IRA Annuity Industry Insanity: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
12/17/2025
Roth IRA Annuity Industry Insanity: Shootin’ It Straight With Stan
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Seeing through product-driven Roth pitches Recognizing political risk in long-term tax planning Keeping conversions separate from annuity products Avoiding shiny-object sales tactics Key Takeaways: Treat Roth conversions as tax decisions rather than annuity strategies. Rely on math and tax guidance instead of sales-driven framing. Understand that tax-free structures like Roths can face future policy shifts. Plan with awareness that political changes may affect long-term assumptions. Run conversion numbers independently of any annuity recommendation. Evaluate tax impact, break-even timing, and personal comfort before acting. Watch for bonuses, churning, and pressure to “flip” existing annuities. Focus on guarantees, documentation, and advice from qualified tax professionals. "You should never do a Roth conversion without talking to a Certified Financial Planner, a CPA, or tax lawyer. Period." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: Email: Book: : YouTube: Get a Quote Today:
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