Unlocking Lifetime Financial Security & The Future of Wealth | E113 feat. Cheryl L. Evans, JD (Milken Institute)

What does it really take to achieve lifelong financial security in a changing world? In this episode, Barbara Bickham sits down with Cheryl L. Evans, JD—Director of the Lifetime Financial Security (LFS) Program at the Milken Institute—to discuss the evolving landscape of retirement, the impact of generational wealth transfer, and why women need to be at the forefront of financial planning. Whether you’re navigating the start of your financial journey or contemplating legacy and longevity, this thought-provoking conversation is packed with actionable insights, future-forward trends, and inspiring perspectives for investors, innovators, and anyone interested in the intersection of finance and social impact.

Key takeaways include:

• The realities behind “peak 65” and the massive shift as Boomers retire

• How Gen Z and Millennials can tackle the unique financial headwinds they face

• Why personalized retirement strategies matter more than ever

• The pivotal role of guaranteed income products and the reinvention of pensions

• The great wealth transfer—what it means for women, venture capital, and entrepreneurship

Don’t miss this deep dive into how financial security impacts individuals, families, and the future of investment.

Guest Information Guest Name:
Cheryl L. Evans, JD Bio: Cheryl L. Evans is the Director of the Lifetime Financial Security Program at the Milken Institute. With a background as a securities lawyer (formerly at the SEC) and training in life coaching, Cheryl brings a unique perspective to wealth building, retirement planning, and financial empowerment across generations.

Email: cevans@milkeninstitute.org
LinkedIn: Cheryl Evans LinkedIn

Episode Outline

1. The Evolution of Retirement & Longevity
   Explore how demographic shifts (like “peak 65” as Boomers hit retirement age) are reshaping policies, products, and individual decisions around lifetime financial security.
   Link: Milken Institute LFS Program

2. Meeting Millennial and Gen Z Financial Challenges
   Dive into current research and expert panel insights on wealth-building challenges faced by younger generations—from student debt to home-buying hurdles—and strategies for future financial success.

3. Women, Wealth Transfer & Financial Confidence
   Learn about the upcoming great wealth transfer to women, the specific challenges and opportunities this presents, and why empowering women with financial literacy and leadership is more vital than ever.

Resources:

• Lifetime Financial Security Report: https://milkeninstitute.org/report/shifting-retirement-paradigm-financial-security

• Enhancing Retirement: Advancing Lifetime Income for All

  https://milkeninstitute.org/content-hub/research-and-reports/reports/enhancing-retirement-advancing-lifetime-income-all

• Our Afternoon with Gloria Steinem https://milkeninstitute.org/article/our-afternoon-gloria-steinem

• Addressing the Financial Headwinds Faced by Gen Z and Millennials https://vimeo.com/1076695634

• Ellevest (Women-focused wealth management)

• Gloria Steinem’s “Talking Circles” on women’s financial confidence

• Joia Louie Dreyfus’ “Wiser Than Me” podcast

• “Let Them” by Mel Robbins (book)

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