Tag: Financial Freedom
The Hidden Value of Collectibles: Building Wealth Beyond Stocks (Ep. 13)

The Hidden Value of Collectibles: Building Wealth Beyond Stocks (Ep. 13)

By |

What hidden treasures might be tucked away in your closet?

In this episode of Retire Rich: Tales of Financial Freedom, Marc Hernandez explores the fascinating world of collectibles and how they might be a hidden asset in your financial portfolio. Join him as he explores the potential of collectible investments, from rare sports cards to autographed memorabilia.

In this episode, Marc discusses his personal experiences with collectibles:

  • Exploring how art, coins, and sports memorabilia can be part of your wealth strategy
  • Understanding the tax advantages of investing in collectibles
  • Insights on determining the value of your collectibles
  • Tips on authenticity and finding trustworthy auction houses

Connect with Marc Hernandez: 

 Connect with Carlos Lopez: 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More
Empowering Your Financial Future: Life Insurance Strategies (Ep. 12)

Empowering Your Financial Future: Life Insurance Strategies (Ep. 12)

By |

What makes life insurance more than just a death benefit?

In this episode of “Retire Rich: Tales of Financial Freedom,” host Carlos Lopez sits down with Steve Loving, a life insurance expert from Simplicity, to unravel the evolving world of life insurance. Whether you’re wondering about the differences between term and universal policies, curious about how life insurance can be a tax-free income stream, or exploring options for securing your children’s financial future, this episode is packed with insights.

Carlos and Steve discuss:

  • The evolution of life insurance options over the years
  • How policies can supplement retirement income
  • Adding long-term care riders to existing policies
  • Strategies for ensuring children and building early wealth
  • Flexible features of Index Universal Life Insurance

Connect with Carlos Lopez:

 

Connect with Marc Hernandez:

 

 Connect with Steve Loving:

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More
Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) Strategies for a Tax-Efficient Retirement (Ep.11)

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) Strategies for a Tax-Efficient Retirement (Ep.11)

By |

Turning 73 could change your financial game plan. Using what tool though?

Marc Hernandez unpacks the mystery behind Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). You’ll learn why these rules exist and how they might impact your 401(k)s, IRAs, and other retirement plans. 

With personal anecdotes and clear guidance, Marc helps take the anxiety out of financial planning, ensuring you won’t be caught by surprise. 

Marc discusses: 

  • RMD Basics: Understand what RMDs are and how they work
  • Age Milestones: Discover the “magic numbers” in retirement finance
  • Penalty Precautions: Avoid common mistakes that could cost you
  • Tax Considerations: Plan smart when accessing your savings
  • And more!

Connect with Marc Hernandez: 

Connect with Carlos Lopez: 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More
Helping Educators Gain Financial Independence with Socorro Houghtaling (Ep. 10)

Helping Educators Gain Financial Independence with Socorro Houghtaling (Ep. 10)

By |

What hurdles do educators face when planning for retirement? 

Marc Hernandez chats with retired educator Socorro Houghtaling to uncover the financial challenges teachers face. They dive into the secrets of achieving financial freedom and share tips for navigating the complex world of investments and retirement planning. 

This conversation is packed with insights and appealing stories that resonate with educators and anyone planning for the future. Whether you’re just starting your career or nearing retirement, this episode offers valuable advice for your financial journey. 

Episode highlights include:

  • Financial Challenges for Educators: Common obstacles teachers face when saving for the future. (Starts at [00:02:22])
  • How educators often sign up for financial products without adequate guidance (Starts at [00:05:33])
  • Why having a personal financial advisor can be a game-changer (Starts at [00:13:10])
  • Advice for Upcoming Retirees: Insightful tips for educators approaching retirement on optimizing their savings (Starts at [00:24:16])
  • And more!

Connect with Marc Hernandez: 

Connect with Carlos Lopez: 

Connect with Socorro Houghtaling: 

About Our Guest: 

Socorro Houghtaling brings 30 years of dedicated service to Brownsville ISD. Holding a degree in Mid-Management, she has served as an Elementary School Principal for 13 years and held various administrative roles for 10 years. Her journey began with 7 years of classroom teaching. Before education, she had 10 years of HR experience with JCPenney and 8 years in retail. Socorro also holds life and health insurance licenses. Active in the community, she is a Pro affiliate with BARSE and serves on the St. Joseph Church finance committee.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More
From Mexico to Financial Freedom: Lucy Lopez’s Inspiring Journey (Ep. 5)

From Mexico to Financial Freedom: Lucy Lopez’s Inspiring Journey (Ep. 5)

By |

Lucy Lopez’s journey from a small town in Mexico to a successful life in the United States is a testament to determination and resilience.

How did she overcome the challenges of immigration, education, and financial management? 

What lessons can we learn from her experiences?

In this episode of Retire Rich: Tales of Financial Freedom, Carlos Lopez is joined by his inspiring mother, Lucia “Lucy” Lopez, who shares her journey from a small town in Mexico to becoming a successful educator and investor in the United States. 

Get ready to gain unique insights into how Lucy navigated major life transitions and financial decisions, highlighting the importance of determination, education, and careful investing.

Carlos and Lucy discuss: 

  • Lucy’s story of immigrating from Mexico and starting her education in the U.S. at age 11
  • Lucy’s time in the military and her transition into a successful teaching career
  • The financial lessons and investment strategies Lucy applied to achieve financial stability
  • How Carlos was inspired by his mother’s journey and the pivotal role it played in shaping his approach to financial advising
  • And more!

Connect with Marc Hernandez: 

Connect with Carlos Lopez: 

About Our Guest: 

Carlos Lopez’s mom, Lucy Lopez, originally from Mexico, has led an inspiring life marked by determination and resilience. She moved to the United States at age 11, starting first grade despite her advanced age. Overcoming numerous challenges, she graduated high school and joined the military, serving in Germany. After her service, she pursued higher education, eventually earning a master’s degree and becoming a dedicated educator for 27 years. Lucy’s financial acumen, developed through careful investments and savings, has ensured her financial stability. Her story is a testament to perseverance, hard work, and the importance of education and financial literacy.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More
Turning Adversity into Financial Success: Renee Armstrong’s Inspirational Journey (Ep. 3)

Turning Adversity into Financial Success: Renee Armstrong’s Inspirational Journey (Ep. 3)

By |

Financial freedom often begins with overcoming personal challenges and making informed decisions.

This week, Marc Hernandez sits down with special guest Renee Armstrong, an esteemed colleague from his team, to delve into her personal journey through financial planning and overcoming challenges. 

As Renee shares her experiences, you’ll gain insights into the importance of having a financial advisor and how personalized financial planning can make a significant difference in achieving long-term goals.

Marc and Renee discuss: 

  • Renee’s financial journey at the age of 28, when she sought financial advice after losing her husband
  • The importance of establishing a relationship with a financial advisor to meet future financial goals
  • Insights into the benefits and financial planning strategies for employees in government and public service roles
  • How Renee transitioned from her government job to a career in financial services, exemplifying the continuous learning and adaptability in financial planning
  • And more!

Connect with Marc Hernandez: 

Connect with Carlos Lopez: 

Connect with Renee Armstrong:

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More