Retire Rich: Tales of Financial Freedom
Welcome to Retire Rich: Tales of Financial Freedom with Marc Hernandez and Carlos Lopez from MAH Financial. In this podcast, we guide professionals of all generations, including GenX, Millennials, and Baby Boomers, to answer an array of questions ranging from building wealth in 401(k) plans to selecting life insurance policies, including questions about IRAs, dividends, and bond alternatives. So, tune in as South Texas’ own financial advisors and fiduciaries, Marc and Carlos, draw from years of expertise, interview clients, and share stories of financial wisdom to accelerate your path to achieving your financial goals.
Episodes
In this episode, we cover key retirement planning strategies to help you strengthen your financial future heading into 2025. From maximizing Social Security and retirement contributions to reducing taxes and avoiding costly mistakes, these insights can help keep your plan on track.
Key Topics Covered:
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When to claim Social Security to maximize lifetime income
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2025 IRA and 401(k) contribution limits and catch-up opportunities
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In this episode, we break down the key elements of a strong, fulfilling retirement plan — from managing healthcare costs to staying emotionally grounded. A solid financial foundation, reliable income, and proactive planning can make your retirement healthier, happier, and more secure. We also cover why lifestyle habits matter just as much as numbers on a page. Connect with Marc Hernandez: LinkedIn: Marc Hernandez: https://www.li...
The Great Wealth Transfer is underway, with more than $84 trillion expected to move between generations—but relying on an inheritance is still a risky strategy. In this video, we cover why your personal retirement savings should remain your priority, how foundational legal tools like a Trust and a Will can protect your family, and why open communication matters in every estate plan.
We’ll also discuss how to align your Social Secur...
Sustained inflation doesn’t just raise prices—it can quietly chip away at your Social Security benefits. In this episode, we break down how COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustments) works, why it may not fully protect your spending power, and how rising Medicare premiums and taxes can offset your increase. What you’ll learn:
- Why COLA is imperfect and often lags behind real retir...
In this episode, the MAH Financial team discusses how an Indexed Universal Life (IUL) policy can be a powerful wealth-building tool with unique tax benefits. They break down the “triple crown” of advantages: tax-deferred growth, a tax-free death benefit for loved ones, and tax-free access to cash value during your lifetime. Learn how IULs compare to traditional accounts and how they can be used strategically for expenses like colle...
In this episode, MAH Financial explores how federal employees can access retirement funds early after a layoff by using IRS Section 72(t). The discussion breaks down how Substantially Equal Periodic Payments (SEPPs) work, calculation methods, the long-term commitment required, and the risks of triggering penalties if rules aren’t followed. The team also discusses how careful planning can make 72(t) a valuable strategy to bridge inc...
In this episode, we explore key retirement tax strategies including Roth IRA conversions, leveraging lower tax brackets, and maximizing the enhanced senior deduction. We break down how Social Security is taxed, what’s happening with the Social Security Trust Fund, and how upcoming tax cuts may impact retirees. Plus, we touch on evolving healthcare policies and what they could mean for your financial future!
In this episode, the team at MAH Financial Services discuss why planning for healthcare costs in retirement is so important. We break down Medicare and what each part covers, Medigap insurance, long-term care and more! Tune in to learn how you can strategically plan for healthcare costs, and spend less time worrying in retirement.
In this episode, we sit down with our client Joe to talk about how he’s navigating retirement with clarity and confidence. From staying organized to creating (and sticking to) a plan, Joe shares what’s worked for him and why sometimes, less is more. Tune in for practical insights on reviewing your retirement strategy and keeping things simple for a smoother journey ahead.
In this episode, we discuss what happens when you inherit an IRA as an individual versus inheriting as a couple. We'll also explore ways you might be able to reduce taxes on your IRA, and maximize your return. Let's dive in!
Kai-Zen is a strategic approach targeted to high-income earners. To put it simply, Kai-Zen allows you to finance your life insurance premium. Once a certain number of premiums have been paid, the bank will match those premiums for future payments. Tune in to learn more!
Sharp drops in major indexes and economic uncertainty have many pre-retirees and retirees wondering: “What does this mean for my future?” It’s natural to feel uneasy when markets move like this, especially if you’re nearing or already in retirement. But here’s the good news: market turbulence isn’t new—and if your strategy is built the right way, it’s something you’re already prepared for.
On today’s show, we’re breaking down how ...
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 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 pa...
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:
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...
Are you saving for the future or stuck in the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle?
This week on Retire Rich: Tales of Financial Freedom, Marc Hernandez explores the evolution of saving behaviors across generations, revealing why Baby Boomers succeeded and how Millennials and Gen Z could follow suit.
This conversation, brimming with valuable strategies and clear guidance, lays out a clear path to financial stability and wealth creation.
Tu...
When the unimaginable happens, grief and financial chaos often collide. Preparing now could spare your loved ones from unnecessary hardship.
Marc Hernandez draws on decades of expertise to guide listeners through the intricate financial and legal challenges that arise after losing a spouse or partner.
Packed with actionable insights and real-life examples, this conversation delivers a clear roadmap for navigating difficult transiti...
Retirement is supposed to be worry-free. However, without the right Medicare strategy, your healthcare might not be. Listen in to get it right.
This week on Retire Rich: Tales of Financial Freedom, Carlos Lopez is joined by Medicare professional Louis Kowalski. With 50+ years in the insurance industry, Louis breaks down the differences between Medicare Supplement plans like Plan G and Plan N and Medicare Advantage, which includes e...
Healthcare workers dedicate their lives to saving others — but who’s helping them plan their future, more so their financial future?
This week on Retire Rich: Tales of Financial Freedom, Marc Hernandez explores this critical question with Anissa Castillo, Director of Surgical Services at Valley Regional Medical Center.
Anissa reveals her powerful story, from starting as a surgical technologist to becoming a leader in healthcare, a...
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