By Jukebox Time recently got a chance to interview Jon J. McKenzie in regard to his book The Retirement Planning Accelerator. We got insights into his book, his source of inspiration and much more.
Q: Welcome to Jukebox Time. What inspired you to write this book, and how does it reflect your personal journey with financial empowerment?
Jon J. McKenzie: Thank you very much for having me! The inspiration for this book stems from my journey, which began in the fast-paced world of the culinary arts. As a chef, I learned the value of precision and timing—qualities that shaped my approach to financial planning. Transitioning to entrepreneurship was a pivotal moment in my life, filled with both excitement and fear. I went from managing my personal finances to running multiple companies, one of which grew to over 100 employees. Suddenly, my financial decisions didn’t just impact me—they affected the livelihoods of my employees and their families.
This magnified my fears, particularly when it came to healthcare and tax strategies. I had to navigate the complexities of providing adequate healthcare benefits while also ensuring the financial stability of the business. On top of that, I needed to understand tax-saving strategies not only for myself but also to optimize operations for the company as a whole. These experiences taught me that financial planning isn’t just about personal gain; it’s about creating a system that benefits everyone involved.
My goal in writing this book was to turn those challenges into opportunities for empowerment. I wanted to create a guide that demystifies retirement planning and equips readers, regardless of their background, to secure a stable and fulfilling future. Through this book, I hope to share the lessons I’ve learned and help others navigate their own financial journeys with confidence and clarity.
Q: Was there a moment when you realized that financial literacy and empowerment were critical for everyone, no matter their background? Can you share that story?
Jon J. McKenzie: Absolutely. The turning point came when I was mentoring someone who worked a modest job but was passionate about achieving financial stability. They thought wealth-building was reserved for the elite. That moment crystallized the idea that financial literacy isn’t just for the privileged; it’s a right everyone deserves. It showed me that when people are given the right tools and knowledge, their potential for financial independence is limitless.
Q: You write with both authority and empathy. How has your own life shaped this balance of expertise and relatability?
Jon J. McKenzie: My background has taught me that life is full of diverse experiences—some inspiring, others humbling. From the precision required in a professional kitchen to the calculated risks of starting businesses, I’ve lived through the same fears and triumphs my readers face. This blend of experience allows me to write with an authoritative tone grounded in practical knowledge while maintaining empathy for the very real struggles people face.
Q: How does your approach to retirement planning and wealth-building differ from that of other experts in the field?
Jon J. McKenzie: What sets my approach apart is the emphasis on accessibility and practicality. I don’t write for the top 5% or speak in jargon that alienates readers. Instead, I focus on holistic financial well-being—bridging the gap between managing today’s challenges and planning for tomorrow. This book is designed for everyone, from teachers to janitors, ensuring that no one feels excluded from the conversation about financial empowerment.
Q: The book promises to simplify today’s financial jargon. What are some of the biggest barriers people face when understanding their finances, and how do you address them in the book?
Jon J. McKenzie: The biggest barriers are complexity and intimidation. Many people feel overwhelmed by technical terms and believe financial planning is out of reach. In the book, I break down complicated concepts into straightforward language and provide actionable steps. Through real-life examples and relatable scenarios, I make financial planning feel like a natural part of life rather than a daunting task.
Q: Your audience includes everyone—from CEOs to single mothers to janitors. Why was it important to you to make this book accessible to such a broad audience, and how did you ensure that it speaks to everyone?
Jon J. McKenzie: Financial security shouldn’t be a privilege—it’s a necessity for everyone. By writing this book, I wanted to create a resource that resonates with people from all walks of life. To achieve this, I focused on using universal examples, empathetic storytelling, and strategies that apply to a wide range of incomes and lifestyles. My goal was to create a guide that’s as relevant for a CEO as it is for someone working paycheck to paycheck.
Q: How do you envision this book impacting the financial landscape 5 or 10 years from now? Do you see it as part of a more significant movement for change?
Jon J. McKenzie: I see this book as a catalyst for a financial empowerment movement. In 5 to 10 years, I hope it inspires a cultural shift where people approach financial planning with confidence and clarity. I envision a world where individuals are not only prepared for retirement but are thriving, contributing to a stronger, more financially literate society.
This book isn’t just about individual success; it’s about creating ripple effects that influence families, communities, and even the broader economy. Imagine a single parent who reads this book and learns how to optimize their savings and invest strategically. Over time, that knowledge not only changes their life but also sets an example for their children, teaching them the importance of financial literacy from an early age. Ten years down the line, that child grows up with a strong foundation, potentially breaking cycles of financial insecurity for generations to come.
On a larger scale, widespread financial literacy can lead to a society where people are better prepared to weather economic uncertainties, reducing reliance on debt and fostering a culture of informed decision-making. This can create stronger communities and a more resilient economy. For example, if more people understand how to navigate healthcare planning, optimize taxes, and invest wisely, it could lead to reduced financial stress across the board and, in turn, higher productivity and well-being.
I see this book as part of a broader movement to make financial knowledge accessible to everyone. Over the next decade, I hope it contributes to a new standard of financial literacy where people feel empowered to take control of their futures. The ultimate goal is to create a society where financial planning is no longer intimidating but an integral, empowering part of life. By inspiring individuals to act, this book has the potential to drive collective change that benefits us all.
Q: Any tips or advice for aspiring writers?
Jon J. McKenzie: Start with your “why.” Writing becomes meaningful when it’s driven by purpose. Write with your audience in mind, and don’t shy away from sharing your authentic voice. Lastly, remember that writing is a journey—stay consistent and embrace the process.
Q: What’s your next book or project?
Jon J. McKenzie: My next project is a series of books focused on improving financial literacy and empowerment. Each book will delve into different aspects of financial growth, from starting and managing an LLC to optimizing taxes and building passive income streams. My ultimate goal is to create a library of resources that can guide people toward financial freedom.
Q.: Finally, as we ask all our guests, do you have any closing thoughts that you would like to share with the world and our readers?
Jon J. McKenzie: Financial independence isn’t just about money—it’s about freedom, peace of mind, and the ability to live life on your own terms. It’s about creating a future where you wake up each day without the weight of financial stress, where you can pursue your dreams and provide security for yourself and your loved ones. My hope is that this book not only inspires readers to take control of their financial future but also instills the confidence to believe they have the power to shape a secure and fulfilling life. Remember, no matter where you start, every step forward counts.
I want readers to know that this book is more than a guide—it’s a companion on your journey. It’s written with you in mind, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps that feel achievable, no matter your starting point. Enriching your life financially is the foundation, but I also want you to feel empowered emotionally—to replace fear with confidence, confusion with clarity, and uncertainty with hope.
As an author, I see my role as more than just delivering information. I want to work hand in hand with my readers, guiding them through challenges and celebrating their victories. I strive to be accessible, whether it’s through future projects, community interactions, or hearing directly from those who’ve read the book. Your journey matters to me, and
I’m here to support you every step of the way.
To anyone holding this book in their hands: know that you’re taking an incredible step toward creating the life you deserve. Your future is worth investing in, and this book is a tool to help you get there. Together, let’s build a future filled with financial stability, peace of mind, and the joy that comes with living on your own terms.
About the author: Entrepreneur, creator, and author, Jon has spent decades building businesses and inspiring others to pursue their financial and personal goals. Starting his professional journey as a chef, Jon understands the grit and passion it takes to succeed in any field. Drawing from his years as a successful entrepreneur, he is now committed to sharing his insights through his debut book, aimed at empowering readers to take charge of their financial futures. With a warm and accessible style, Jon makes complex topics approachable, offering practical strategies that resonate with aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals as well as everyday people.