Building Bridges, Not Walls

Ever felt lost in the world of tech? Like a tiny sailboat in a vast, swirling ocean of iPhones, computers, and Wi-Fi passwords? Imagine a 75-year-old woman, someone who never really “got” Technology, suddenly setting up her brand new computer and connecting it to the internet… all by herself! No grandkids, no tech support, no manuals with tiny print. Just her voice, and the calm, helpful guidance of ChatGPT. Sounds impossible, right? But it happened. And it's happening more and more as AI tools become easier to use and more intuitive.

Look, I get it. You see AI popping up everywhere, and you might be thinking, “What's the big deal? Is this stuff even safe?” Those are good questions. And honestly, the power of AI can be a little mind-blowing, even for someone like me who eats, sleeps, and breathes this stuff. (Seriously, I'm coming up with new uses for AI every single day!)

But here's the thing: AI isn't about replacing us. It's about helping us. It's about giving us the tools to live richer, more fulfilling lives. And that's especially true when it comes to planning for Retirement.

So, let's talk about your concerns. Let's talk about privacy, data Security, and how AI can actually work for you, not against you.

Why Baby Boomers Distrust AI: Understanding the Concerns

In a recent poll, more than 80% of Baby Boomers shared a concern that their data is being accessed without their permission, and 71% reported never knowingly using AI tools. Yet, the truth is, AI is already integrated into everyday life from search engines to smart home assistants. It’s quietly shaping the information we see and the answers we receive.

But let’s pause for a moment: What if this isn’t just about the fear of data breaches or invisible decisions? What if part of the discomfort stems from how we’re used to finding answers?

For years, we've relied on Google searches, sifting through endless links and articles to find solutions. But now, with AI, the process has changed. Instead of digging through feeds and trying to piece things together ourselves, we can ask directly and get an immediate, contextual response.

This hit home for me during a trip to Spain to visit my dad. Anytime I asked a question about flights, restaurants, or the latest news, he would say, “Ask Meta.” It wasn’t just a suggestion, it was his new default. AI had become his companion for answers, cutting through the noise of online searches.

At first, I was stunned. When did we become so dependent on technology for guidance? But then I realized something important: My dad wasn’t passive, he was empowered. He knew that asking the right questions would get him faster, more useful answers. After all I was building a company using this advanced technology and

This shift isn’t about losing independence, it’s about redefining it. Baby Boomers grew up being resourceful, learning to troubleshoot and problem-solve. AI can amplify that resourcefulness by giving quicker, clearer paths to the answers you need.

The key isn’t to fear the immediacy of AI but to understand its power: It’s not here to make you dependent, it’s here to help you ask better questions and get meaningful answers without wasting hours sifting through irrelevant information.

So, the next time you have a financial, Travel, or Lifestyle question, try asking AI. It’s not about blind trust, it’s about staying curious and embracing a smarter way to get answers.

Data Privacy: Who’s Holding the Keys to Your Information?

The biggest concern I hear from retirees is, “Where is my data going?” And honestly, it’s a valid fear. Every time you log into social media, book a trip, or even track your fitness, data is collected. It’s not just AI—it’s the entire digital world.

Here’s how we ensure it stays protected:

1. Transparency: We show you what’s being collected and why.

2. Security: We use advanced encryption so your data is protected at every step.

3. Control: You choose what information to share—and you can withdraw it at any time.

Your financial journey should feel as secure as the lock on your front door.

Addressing Fears: The Unknown Doesn’t Have to Be Scary

Fear of the unknown often fuels Anxiety. Many wonder, “Will AI replace the human connection I value in my Retirement Planning?”

Here’s the truth: AI isn’t here to replace your financial advisor or take over your decisions. It’s a tool that enhances your planning process—helping you see the bigger picture while giving you answers in real-time.

I’ve been a financial advisor for over 20 years, and I’ve seen firsthand how much more meaningful meetings become when clients feel prepared. AI can help by showing you different life scenarios:

• What happens if you retire earlier?

• How will an unexpected medical expense affect your savings?

Instead of guesswork, you get clear, personalized answers—no jargon, no overwhelm.

A Personal Story: Recording Your Own Future

In my early years as an advisor, recording client meetings was unheard of. We took notes by hand, it was time-consuming, but it felt personal and transparent.

Now, I find it shocking how much has changed. Meetings are recorded automatically, and many clients don’t even realize it’s happening. When did we lose that sense of transparency? This made me wonder: What if clients could record their own experience instead, on their terms, with full visibility and control?

That’s exactly what AI tools can do today. With Grace™, our AI retirement coach, clients aren’t passive participants. Grace® doesn’t just record meetings, it highlights key takeaways, creates summaries you can replay, and ensures everything is documented with complete transparency. You get a clearer picture of your goals and decisions without the Stress of remembering every detail.

It’s not just about technology, it’s about giving you ownership of your retirement journey. With tools like Grace™, you become the driver, not the passenger, in shaping your future.

Demystifying What AI Can Do for Retirement Planning

Let’s break it down: What can AI really do to enhance your retirement planning?

• Personalized Insights: AI analyzes your financial habits and goals to offer strategies tailored to you. No more cookie-cutter plans—it’s all about you.

• Fraud Protection: AI monitors your spending patterns and alerts you if something looks suspicious. It acts as a security system for your savings.

• 24/7 Guidance: Imagine being able to ask, “Can I afford that trip to Italy next year?” and getting a clear, immediate answer—no waiting for a meeting.

Risk vs. Reward: Why It’s Time to Lean In

There’s always risk with something new. But the real risk is doing nothing and missing out on tools that could make your retirement simpler and more secure. AI doesn’t just crunch numbers, it aligns your financial strategies with your life’s priorities.

Without it, you’re left juggling spreadsheets and manual projections. With it, you gain time, Clarity, and confidence.

A Future Built on Trust and Connection

Retirement is more than financial planning, it's about building confidence, security, and peace of mind. As we navigate this evolving era of AI, it’s important to stay informed and proactive.

Here are some steps to address concerns and harness the power of AI responsibly:

1. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to seek clarity on how AI tools work and what data they access.

2. Prioritize Transparency: Use platforms that show you exactly what information is being used and why.

3. Stay Informed: Follow updates about advancements in ethical AI and digital security.

4. Combine Tech with Trusted Advice: Pair AI insights with human guidance to make well-rounded decisions.

5. Control Your Data: Opt for tools that give you the power to manage and withdraw your shared information.

Our goal is to empower 1 million Baby Boomers to embrace AI as a tool for living richer, more connected lives, on their terms. This journey is about using technology to amplify your strengths, not replace them.

If you believe in this mission and want to see a future where retirement planning feels smarter and more secure, let’s take the first step together.

Carla Garcia Carla Garcia

After two decades as a financial advisor, Carla Garcia recognized a fundamental flaw in traditional retirement planning: too often, retirees were financially secure but emotionally unprepared for the transitions ahead. Determined to address this gap, Carla created My Plan Keeper™, the first retirement planning platform to focus on life beyond the numbers.

Carla’s mission was shaped by years of witnessing retirees struggle with the same challenges:
•Unfulfilled Retirements: Too many individuals reached retirement with financial security but without the joy, purpose, or fulfillment they had envisioned.
•Lost Continuity: Job changes and advisor transitions left retirees feeling lost and uncertain, forcing them to start over and re-explain their goals and financial history. This disruption created unnecessary stress during what should have been their most rewarding years.
•Personal Insight: Carla realized she, too, was prioritizing financial independence at the expense of enjoying the present. This realization sparked a profound shift in her perspective and career goals, driving her to create a solution that integrates emotional and financial wellness.

At the heart of My Plan Keeper™ is Grace™, an emotionally intelligent AI assistant designed to help retirees navigate life’s transitions with clarity and confidence. The platform empowers users to create LifePortfolios™ that balance financial security with emotional wellness, meaningful relationships, purpose, health & well-being, leisure, and personal growth.

Carla’s insights extend beyond My Plan Keeper™. She is the author of the book Avoid The Panic: Easy & Proven Strategies for a Resilient Retirement Amid Economic Chaos, offering practical tools to weather uncertainty and build a retirement aligned with personal values. As host of the Retirement Without Numbers™ podcast, Carla combines stories, psychology, and technology to inspire listeners to reimagine retirement as a time of discovery, joy, and purpose.
Her work has been featured in US Reporter, CEO Weekly, Economic Insider, and Yahoo Finance, positioning Carla as a recognized leader in transforming retirement planning.