Tag: Seniors
Is a Reverse Mortgage Right for You? with Michael Banner (Ep. 7)

Is a Reverse Mortgage Right for You? with Michael Banner (Ep. 7)

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What can reverse mortgages reveal about financial security during retirement?

Carol Chiarito welcomes Michael Banner, a seasoned professional in reverse mortgages, to unravel their intricacies and role in enhancing retirement plans. Michael shares his compelling personal journey into the reverse mortgage industry and how this financial tool has significantly evolved over the years. 

They also discuss how reverse mortgages can transform home equity into a steady growth opportunity and debunk myths surrounding their use. 

Tune in and learn how to use home equity as an asset and how reverse mortgages can support quality of life!

Join Carol and Michael as they discuss:

  • Understanding how reverse mortgages work today
  • How using reverse mortgages can enhance retirement living 
  • The benefits of home equity growth through reverse mortgages
  • Purchasing a new home with a reverse mortgage 
  • Exploring the podcast “62 Who Knew” and living longer, happier lives
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Carol Chiarito:

Connect with Michael Banner:

About Our Guest: 

Michael Banner has been a mortgage broker/banker in Florida for the past 40+ years. Self-employed for the majority of his career, Michael founded the largest for-sale-by-owner mortgage company in the nation in 1995. 

From 2002-2005 Michael was the National Sales Manager of Real Estate Mortgage Network. A New Jersey-based mortgage banking company he operated out of Florida building a national branch network.

Michael left REMN late in 2005 and formed LoanWell America, INC, specializing in the emerging reverse mortgage market.

In 2006, he founded the American C.E. Institute, LLC, which grew into one of the largest reverse mortgage education platforms in the nation. Michael then joined Security One Lending in December 2011 as their National Education Director.

He formed Professional Mortgage Alliance, LLC in January 2015 which grew into a multi-licensed mortgage brokerage operation in 5 states.

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Medicare Madness: Navigating the Complex World of Medicare with James Grabinski (Ep. 3)

Medicare Madness: Navigating the Complex World of Medicare with James Grabinski (Ep. 3)

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Medicare can feel overwhelming, but what if it didn’t have to be?

This week on JubilAge, Carol Chiarito sits down with Medicare professional James Grabinski to untangle the chaos of “Medicare Madness”—that critical time when seniors need to rethink their plans. 

With over 25 years of experience, Jim breaks down everything from Parts A, B, and D to Supplements and Advantage Plans, making it easier to understand. He also highlights key changes coming in 2025, like the $2,000 cap on prescription drug costs.

Curious how to obtain the right coverage now and for the future? 

Jim’s practical insights help seniors take control, whether it’s managing medications, traveling between states, or preparing for long-term care.

Key Highlights:

  • 2025 Medicare Changes: A $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs and the elimination of the “donut hole”
  • Understanding Medicare Plans: Clear breakdowns of Parts A, B, and D, and the benefits of Medicare Supplements versus Advantage Plans
  • Navigating Medicare’s Complexity: Why working with a local agent offers personalized support over call centers, especially when reviewing coverage
  • Top Tips for Seniors: How to prepare key details—medications, doctors, and current coverage—for a successful plan review
  • Special Considerations: Medicare tips for military retirees and “snowbirds” who travel between states and need nationwide coverage
  • And much more!

Resources:

Connect with Carol Chiarito:

Connect with James Grabinski:

About Our Guest:

James Grabinski has been a dedicated insurance professional since 1999 and an Honor Roll Member of the Million Dollar Round Table. With designations like FICF, LUTCF, and FSCP, James and his team specialize in guiding seniors through the Medicare system, making it easier to navigate this complex landscape.  Licensed across multiple states, he brings a wealth of experience and insight, helping consumers understand the ins and outs of Medicare. Based in the scenic Hudson Valley of New York, wine and apple country, James shares his expertise from the heart of the region, home to Angry Orchard.

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Joyful Aging: Real Talk on Wealth, Family, and Caregiving (Ep. 2)

Joyful Aging: Real Talk on Wealth, Family, and Caregiving (Ep. 2)

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Aging isn’t just about preparing for the future; it’s about enjoying every moment while ensuring your financial well-being. 

But how can we balance quality of life, joy, and financial stability as we grow older?

What if aging could be more about living joyfully today while ensuring well-being for tomorrow?

With a unique threefold method, this week on JubilAge, Carol Chiarito helps financial advisors foster meaningful and forward-thinking conversations with clients and inspires seniors to plan their futures with optimism while encouraging families to build stronger relationships through honest discussions about elder care.

Key Highlights:

  • Transforming long-term financial planning by encouraging seniors to enjoy their wealth today
  • Navigating complex family dynamics and open conversations about elder care
  • Equipping financial advisors to lead vital “kitchen table talks” with clients and their families
  • Sneak peek of upcoming episodes featuring new perspectives on how advisors can support aging clients and their families
  • And much more!

Resources:

Connect with Carol Chiarito:

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JubilAge: Transform Aging into Joy and Financial Wisdom (Ep. 1)

JubilAge: Transform Aging into Joy and Financial Wisdom (Ep. 1)

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Aging is a journey filled with joy, purpose, and financial considerations.

How can we ensure financial security while celebrating the beauty of life’s later stages? How do we support seniors in navigating their financial needs and aspirations?

In this inaugural episode of JubilAge, join host Carol Chiarito as she delves into the unique challenges and joys of aging, with a focus on integrating financial security and vibrancy into your later years.

Carol shares her journey from educating clients in their state retirement plans to becoming a passionate advocate for seniors, guiding both individuals and financial advisors on how to secure and enjoy every moment of retirement. 

Tune in and discover insights on educating clients, supporting elder care, and celebrating aging through engaging stories and expert advice!

Carol discusses: 

  • Carol’s journey from traditional finance to specializing in seniors
  • The launch and purpose behind JubilAge and its relation to the Senior Moments podcast
  • The concept of “leveling up” instead of just aging
  • The value of engaging in community events like “Party Like It’s 1959” to celebrate life’s milestones
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Carol Chiarito:

About Your Host:

Carol Chiarito is a seasoned financial advisor with a passion for educating and empowering seniors. She began her career in 2004, specializing in the Colorado State Retirement Plan, where she traveled extensively to help people understand their retirement options. Over time, her focus shifted to working with seniors, inspired by her experiences assisting her aging mother. This led her to sell most of her financial advisor book of business and concentrate on helping clients navigate through retirement.

Carol is also an educator at heart, having started her career as a teacher. She combines her teaching skills with her knowledge to provide valuable insights to both seniors and financial advisors. She is actively involved in her community, particularly through her work with Kiwanis, and enjoys spending time with her large family.

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