Shows
The Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin HurstSocial Security Cuts by 2034? What You Need to KnowIs Social Security really running out of money, or are the headlines more dramatic than the data? In this episode, Colin is joined by Social Security expert Hamilton Morales to break down the 2024 Social Security Trustee Report and what it means for retirees, workers, and the future of the Social Security system. The big takeaway: if no changes are made by 2034, the trust fund will be depleted, and benefits could be cut by about 33%. That’s a serious concern, but it’s not the full picture.Hamilton explains why he doesn’t believe those cuts will actually happen...2025-07-3108 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin HurstBig Changes to Social Security for Ohio State WorkersBig changes just hit Social Security, and a lot of people don’t even realize they’re going to be impacted. To help make sense of it all, Colin sits down with special guest and Social Security expert, Hamilton Morales, to walk through what you need to know. He explains the major changes made by the Social Security Fairness Act of 2024, which officially became law on January 5, 2025. This new legislation eliminates the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO)- two rules that have long reduced or disqualified Social Security benefits for thousands of state workers with non...2025-07-2405 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin HurstThe #1 Social Security Myth (That Could Cost You Thousands)In this episode, Colin welcomes back Social Security expert Hamilton Morales to bust what he says is one of the biggest myths surrounding Social Security spousal benefits- and it’s a costly one! Many people believe a spouse automatically receives half of the other’s benefit. Not only is that often wrong, but misunderstanding the rules could mean losing out on thousands of dollars over your retirement years.Hamilton shares what your benefits are actually based on and why timing and eligibility matter far more than you think. They also dive into another confusing topic: widow’s benefi...2025-07-1705 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin HurstThe Biggest Social Security Mistakes (And How To Avoid Them) with Hamilton MoralesYou’ve been contributing to Social Security for your entire working life, but do you have peace of mind about when to start drawing from it? In this episode, Victor sits down with Hamilton Morales, a Social Security expert who breaks down the real decision points that come with turning on your Social Security benefit. He unpacks some of the biggest mistakes people make, like turning it on too early, or worse, copying their neighbor’s plan without thinking it through. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:📈 Why income- not net wo...2025-07-1417 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin HurstAre You Letting Headlines Hijack Your Portfolio?We all know the news can shape how we feel, but what if it’s also shaping how we invest? In this episode, Victor raises a crucial concern: how biased or emotionally charged headlines may sway investor behavior and cause short-term market volatility. Drawing from his own daily routine of listening to stock market reports, Victor explains why investors should be cautious about reacting to sensational news. The conversation highlights how market movements are often disconnected from actual company performance and why it’s vital to stay anchored in a sound investment strategy. Long-term planning and risk manag...2025-06-2603 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin HurstHow to Enjoy Life Now Without Ruining Your Retirement“How can I enjoy some of my life and my money while I’m young and healthy, without messing up my retirement?” That’s the question one client recently asked, and in this episode, Colin breaks it down. He shares why delaying joy until later doesn’t always make sense, and how smart planning can help you design a lifestyle that balances now and later.Colin walks through a real case study of a couple in their 60s who wanted more time and freedom now, without sacrificing their long-term security. By optimizing their income streams, including a strategic...2025-06-1905 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin HurstKnowing What Investments You Own and WhyInvesting isn’t just about spotting good opportunities; it’s about choosing the right ones for you. In this episode, Colin and Victor share a real-life story of a client who nearly put money into what he believed was a safe utility bond, but it turned out to be a high-risk oil and gas venture. Fortunately, he reached out for a second opinion and avoided a costly mistake.This story highlights a powerful truth: even a solid investment on paper can be a poor match for your personal goals. Understanding what you own, why you own it, and...2025-06-1206 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin Hurst5 Ways Wishful Thinking Can Damage Your RetirementA little hope is good for the soul, but when it comes to retirement planning, wishful thinking can lead to serious financial mistakes. In this episode, Colin and Victor walk through five common examples of wishful thinking that can quietly damage your retirement and how you can build a plan that protects your future instead of relying on luck. Beliefs like “I’ll just work forever” or “the market always goes up” may feel comforting, but they often stem from a desire to avoid hard truths, and that mindset can be dangerous when the unexpected strikes. This episode isn...2025-06-0624 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin HurstIs 2025 a Bad Time to Retire?Thinking about retiring in 2025 but feeling uneasy about market volatility, layoffs, or rising taxes? You’re not alone. That’s why Colin dives into one of the most common (and important) questions he’s hearing right now: Is this a bad time to retire? Whether you’re on the brink of retirement or still a few years out, this episode offers calm, practical options for how you can navigate retirement planning during uncertain times. You’ll learn why the “red zone” of retirement planning—10 years before and after—is the most important window for making smart financial moves. Colin breaks...2025-05-2205 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin HurstSaving vs. Planning: The Retirement Mistake That Could Cost You ThousandsYou might think your 401k is your retirement plan, but what if that mindset is setting you up for financial frustration later? In this eye-opening episode, Victor unpacks a common misunderstanding that could cost retirees thousands: confusing retirement accounts with actual retirement planning. Victor explains why treating your pre-tax retirement account as your catch-all fund- for cars, emergencies, vacations, and more- can come with hefty tax consequences. If you've ever considered pulling from your retirement to pay cash for a big purchase, this conversation is a must-hear. You'll learn the difference between saving and planning, why timing a...2025-05-1605 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin Hurst“Is It Bad to Leave My 401k Where It Is?”If you’re approaching retirement, it’s critical to make sure your 401k is working as efficiently as possible, not holding you back. In this episode, Colin and Victor tackle a common question: should you leave your 401k where it is when you retire? They walk through why leaving your account behind might limit your investment choices, expose you to higher hidden fees, and make accessing your money more complicated.You’ll also hear how rolling over to an IRA can give you greater flexibility, lower costs, and more control over your retirement dollars- and why taking advant...2025-05-0806 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin HurstRetirement Assassins: 5 Silent Killers of Your Financial FutureThe thing about assassins in the real world is that they’re sneaky and you don’t see them coming. The same is true for the silent killers of your retirement plan. In this episode, Colin and Victor reveal the most dangerous “retirement assassins” that can quietly derail decades of planning if you’re not on guard. From reacting emotionally during a market crash to ignoring inflation, higher taxes, long-term care, and even procrastination, each of these threats can undermine your peace of mind and financial security. Whether you’re five years away from retirement or already there, this e...2025-05-0125 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin HurstSide Gigs That Make Retirement More Fun (and More Secure)For many retirees, a little extra income can go a long way, and it doesn’t have to feel like “work.” In this episode, Colin shares fun, flexible side gigs that allow retirees to earn extra money while doing what they already enjoy. From working a few hours at the golf course to get free rounds, to pet-sitting for neighbors or selling handmade cards at local markets, these ideas aren’t just income generators—they’re lifestyle enhancers.Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:🐾 Pet-sitting and dog walking for extra cash...2025-04-2404 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin HurstShould You Own Gold or Silver?"Should I own gold or silver?" It's a question that comes up often in financial planning conversations. But the real issue goes deeper- it's about portfolio diversification and ensuring every asset you own serves a clear, strategic purpose.Whether you’re holding metals, stocks, or any other asset class, this episode is a timely reminder that investment decisions should be rooted in knowledge, not assumptions.Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:🪙 Gold and silver can be useful, but know why you own them🧠 Don’t rely on stat...2025-04-1703 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin HurstTwo HUGE Hidden Expenses in Your PortfolioAre you unknowingly losing thousands of dollars in hidden retirement expenses? In this episode of The Happy Retirement Show, Colin Hurst and Victor Gray reveal the top two overlooked costs that can eat away at your savings: investment fees and taxes.Many retirees focus on rates of return, but fail to realize how much they’re paying in hidden brokerage fees, charges, and taxes—all of which directly reduce their income. Colin and Victor discuss how to identify these hidden costs, why you should question what your financial advisor isn’t telling you, and simple steps you can ta...2025-04-1003 minThe Happy Retirement Show with Victor Gray and Colin HurstMoney Conversations Couples Need to Be HavingWhat does it take to have a happy retirement? For couples, finances can be a major thorn in your side, but proper communication can help eliminate many of those money problems. In this first episode of The Happy Retirement Podcast, Colin Hurst and Victor Gray dive into the key money questions that couples need to be asking each other.From spending vs. saving battles between people with different financial habits to managing expectations and priorities, we’ll break down how to align your behaviors with your goals. We’ll also discuss how unexpected expenses—like pet costs, family...2025-03-3117 min
The Financial AdvocatePlanning Across The SpectrumAndrew Komarow, MSFS AEP® AIF® CAP® CASL® CFP® CHFC® CHSNC®CLU® FSCP® REBC® RHU® RICP® Founder and President Andrew has been with us since the beginning and is the creator of Planning Across the Spectrum. Andrew is an advocate throughout Connecticut and throughout New England for Autism awareness as well as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and co-founder of Talcott Financial Group in Farmington, CT. Andrew received his autism diagnosis late in life which answered a lot of questions about struggles he experienced growing up and as a young adult. Having had this experience...2019-01-3121 min