When you sit down with Michael Battalini, you quickly realize that his work is about far more than numbers. As the founder of Pittsburgh Wealth Management Group and longtime host of The Safe Retirement Radio Show, Michael blends financial expertise with something even more powerful — a deep-rooted commitment to family, tradition, and the people of Pittsburgh.
Inspired by his father’s remarkable career and grounded in the values passed down from his Italian grandparents, Michael has built a legacy of helping others retire with confidence and purpose. In this exclusive Ciao Pittsburgh interview, he shares the personal stories, cultural influences, and timeless advice that continue to shape his life and work.
What inspired you to get into the financial services industry?
My inspiration to get into the financial Services industry was definitely, my father, Mark Battalini. He started out in the insurance industry in the 60’s and rose through the ranks at Metropolitan Life to be their #1 salesman in the entire company (over 25,000 sales reps) in 1979. He then moved in the financial services industry and became a top producer for a local Pittsburgh firm for many years leading up until the time that we started the Pittsburgh Wealth Management Group together in 2011.
You’ve been hosting Safe Retirement Radio Show for a number of years — what do you enjoy most about connecting with Pittsburghers through the airwaves?
What I love most about our radio show is the ability to reach so many people across our region and empower them with knowledge. On the Safe Retirement Radio show, we break down complex topics so listeners can make informed financial decisions. There’s nothing more rewarding than hearing from someone who says, “I heard you on the radio, and it gave me the push to take action.” The end result is seeing people become clients and then watching them be able to really start enjoying their retirement! Clients send me pictures all the time of themselves…..traveling, spending time with family & grandkids. That is what is all about and I love seeing that!
What sets The Pittsburgh Wealth Management Group apart in how you help clients prepare for retirement?
We pride ourselves on creating customized, income-focused retirement plans tailored to each client’s needs and goals. Our team takes the time to listen and educate, and we prioritize strategies that protect income and manage risk — so clients can enjoy retirement without constantly worrying about the markets.
What are some common concerns you hear from clients when it comes to planning for retirement, especially in today’s financial landscape?
The most common concerns are running out of money, rising healthcare costs, and the impact of inflation. Many also worry about taxes in retirement. Our job is to show clients how to build reliable income streams, plan for unexpected expenses, and create a tax-efficient strategy so they can navigate these uncertainties.
How has growing up in the Pittsburgh area influenced your approach to business and building relationships with clients?
Pittsburgh is a city built on hard work, loyalty, and community. Growing up here taught me the importance of integrity and treating people like family. In my business, I believe in long-term relationships, not transactions — and in always doing what’s right for clients, just like I would do for my own family.
As an Italian-American, do you think your heritage plays a role in how you approach family, legacy, and financial planning?
Absolutely. Family is everything in Italian culture, and that value is at the core of my approach. I believe financial planning should protect not only you, but also your loved ones, and create a legacy that reflects your life’s work and values. That sense of responsibility drives me every day.
What’s a favorite Italian tradition or saying that you carry with you in life or work?
Well, growing up, I heard one saying over and over when I was a kid that has stuck with me through the years. I heard it first from my grandfather and then from my dad:
Meglio vivere un Giorno da leone che cent’anni da pecora
which means,
It is better to live one day as a Lion than 100 years as a sheep!
Was there a particular family member — maybe a Nonno or Zio — who inspired your work ethic or values?
My grandfather was a huge influence on me. I practically lived at my Italian grandparents’ house growing up as a kid, so I got to spend a ton of time with them. My grandfather came to America with nothing but worked tirelessly to provide for his family. He worked odd jobs until he got hired as a laborer for the Aliquippa & Southern Railroad Company. He worked 39 ½ years without ever missing a day of work. When you think of that, 39 ½ years without ever missing a day, it is an amazing accomplishment, and he was really proud of it. That type of work ethic has been a huge inspiration to not only myself but to many of my family members.
Let’s talk food for a second — what’s the one Italian dish that always reminds you of home?
Gnocchi’s! My grandmother was a great cook and she made all different types of meals that the whole family loved from Polenta to Pasta fagioli and everything in between, but my favorite was always her gnocchi’s! They cooked everything in their basement kitchen which by the way “smelled like heaven”. She made the sauce from scratch using the tomatoes from my grandfather’s garden. They both passed away about 35 years ago, but I remember having dinner there as a family like it was yesterday. It was more than a just a meal; it’s fond memories of family, love and tradition.
Finally, what advice would you give to the next generation of Italian-Americans in Pittsburgh looking to build a strong financial future while honoring their roots?
Stay true to your values, work hard, and never forget where you came from. Build a plan for your financial future early, and don’t be afraid to ask for professional guidance. And always remember: your heritage is a strength — the dedication, loyalty, and love of family that define our culture can guide you to both personal and financial success.
