Clark Smith, President of Golden Years Financial, Interviewed on The Influential Entrepreneurs Podcast Discussing Retirement Challenges

June 27, 2025 at 15:09 PM EDT

Clark Smith discusses retirement challenges

Listen to the interview on the Business Innovators Radio Network: Interview with Clark Smith President of Golden Years Financial Discussing Retirement Challenges

In this episode of Influential Entrepreneurs, host Mike Saunders welcomes Clark Smith, president of Golden Years Financial, to discuss retirement challenges. Clark shares his personal journey into the financial services industry, highlighting the impactful life experiences that shaped his understanding of the importance of retirement planning. He recounts the struggles of his grandmother, who faced financial difficulties in her later years after losing her husband, emphasizing the need for preparation and foresight in retirement. Clark’s story illustrates the significant role that early experiences can play in guiding one’s career choices and the critical importance of retirement planning for individuals and families.

Retirement is often perceived as the ultimate reward for years of hard work—a finish line where individuals can finally relax and enjoy the fruits of their labor. However, this perspective can be misleading. As Clark Smith, president of Golden Years Financial, highlights in his podcast, retirement can present a host of unforeseen challenges that may not only disrupt the idyllic vision many have but also create significant anxiety for retirees.

One of the most pressing challenges retirees face is the potential for dwindling income. After years of receiving a steady paycheck, many individuals find themselves in a new phase where their income streams may start to diminish. This shift can lead to a constant undercurrent of anxiety, as retirees grapple with the reality of managing their finances without the regular income they once relied on. The unpredictability of stock markets can exacerbate this issue, turning what was once a solid financial plan into a precarious balancing act.

Inflation is another critical factor that can erode the purchasing power of retirees. Clark recalls the inflationary period that began in the late 1960s, serving as a reminder of how rising prices can transform simple pleasures into luxuries that may become out of reach. For retirees, a consistent increase in living costs can significantly impact their quality of life, especially if their income does not keep pace with inflation. As Clark points out, having sufficient income can mitigate the effects of inflation, allowing retirees to maintain their lifestyle despite rising costs.

Health issues can arise unexpectedly during retirement, adding another layer of complexity to financial planning. Clark notes that about 70% of Americans will require long-term care at some point in their lives, which can lead to significant financial strain. The emotional and financial burden of healthcare costs can transform what should be the “golden years” into a struggle for dignity and security. This reality underscores the importance of planning for potential health-related expenses well in advance.

Clark shared: “Golden Years Financial is dedicated to assisting individuals in achieving the retirement of their dreams. Our goal is to empower you to leave the job behind while maintaining your income, all while having contingency plans in place for life’s unexpected challenges. We ensure you have the income you need today and also guide you in growing your wealth for a secure future.”

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/embed/2YzDypIp76g

About Clark Smith

Clark Smith boasts an impressive career spanning over three decades in the financial advisory realm. He embarked on his journey in 1990 as a financial advisor with Dean Witter Reynolds, quickly rising to prominence as the firm’s youngest Retirement Planning Specialist by 1993. Specializing in Retirement Financial Planning, Clark has dedicated his career to helping clients achieve their long-term financial goals.

His career trajectory continued upward, becoming Vice President of Investments at Prudential Securities in 1995. From 2000 to 2006, Clark served as Vice President of Investments at UBS, further honing his expertise in investment strategies. In 2006, he took a significant leap by becoming a founding partner and portfolio manager at Woodridge Capital Portfolio Management, where his leadership extended to managing a hedge fund at Woodridge Partners from 2008 to 2016.

After a brief retirement from 2015 to 2020, Clark re-entered the financial sector as a Senior Financial Advisor and Director of Retail Operations. His commitment to nurturing talent led him to become the Head of Training for financial advisors from 2022 to 2024, where he played a pivotal role in shaping highly experienced as well as new financial advisors.

Clark Smith’s career reflects a steadfast dedication to financial excellence and leadership, marked by his strategic vision and commitment to education and mentorship within the industry. His specialization in Retirement Financial Planning underscores his passion for guiding clients towards secure and fulfilling retirements.

Learn more: https://goldenyearsria.com/

Insurance products are offered through the insurance business Golden Years Financial. Golden Years Financial is also an Investment Advisory practice that offers products and services through AE Wealth Management, LLC (AEWM), a Registered Investment Adviser. AEWM does not offer insurance products. The insurance products offered by Golden Years Financial are not subject to Investment Adviser requirements. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Any references to protection, safety or lifetime income, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the issuing carrier. This podcast is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Golden Years Financial is not permitted to offer and no statement made during this show shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency. The information and opinions contained herein provided by third parties have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed by Golden Years Financial.

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Clark Smith, President of Golden Years Financial, Interviewed on The Influential Entrepreneurs Podcast Discussing Retirement Challenges

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