John and Barbara thought the hardest part was behind them after John’s stroke and rehab stay. But when he came home, the challenges — and the bills — only grew. Doctor visits, therapy sessions, medications, and unexpected cognitive decline turned into an exhausting routine that pushed Barbara to her breaking point.

This episode uncovers what Medicare Part B really means for retirees:

• How 20% coinsurance on every visit, test, and therapy session adds up with no out-of-pocket maximum
• Why bringing John home wasn’t the relief Barbara hoped for
• The $8,000/month shock when John returned to the nursing home
• How tapping into John’s IRA set off a financial domino effect — higher taxes, doubled Medicare premiums through IRMAA, and even reduced Social Security checks

John and Barbara’s story reveals how one health crisis can ripple through every corner of retirement — from healthcare to taxes to income security.

Listen now to understand how Part B works, and why planning ahead is critical.

If you’d like a copy of my eBook, The top 10 Medicare mistakes and how to avoid them, go to http://echofc.com/mistakes

Episode 2: The Medicare Piece — Part A: The Hospital Piece (and How It Really Handles Long-Term Care)

Most retirees assume Medicare Part A will take care of their hospital bills and rehab costs. But as John and Barbara’s story reveals, the fine print can turn a health crisis into a financial crisis.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why an “observation stay” isn’t the same as an inpatient admission
• The 3-day rule for skilled nursing coverage — and why so many families miss it
• What Medicare really pays for in rehab, and when the bills shift to you
• The real 2025 costs: deductibles, daily copays, and the point where coverage ends

Medicare Part A is essential, but it isn’t a blank check. This episode will give you the clarity you need to protect yourself and your family.

If you’d like a copy of my eBook.
The top 10 Medicare mistakes and how to avoid them, go to http://echofc.com/mistakes

Medicare is one of the most misunderstood parts of retirement planning. In this kickoff episode of The Medicare Piece, Charisse Hurst, CIMP, CDP, LTCCP, breaks down the truth about what Medicare really pays for—and just as importantly, what it doesn’t.

You’ll learn:

• The real differences between Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D
• Common misconceptions that cost retirees thousands
• What Medicare actually covers for hospital stays, doctor visits, prescriptions, and skilled nursing care
• Why long-term care isn’t included—and how to prepare before a crisis hits

Whether you’re approaching 65, already enrolled, or helping a loved one navigate the system, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and practical steps to avoid costly surprises.

👉Plus, download your free guide “10 Medicare Mistakes That Could Cost You Thousands” at http://echofc.com/mistakes

Charisse Hurst exposes the hidden toll caregiving takes on families — long before the money runs out. Learn how the emotional, physical, and career costs of caregiving can spiral — and what financially smart families are doing now to stay in control. If you want to learn mor about us, visit us at echofc.com

Charisse walks you through how long-term care can quietly erase a retirement — and what proactive families are doing now to prepare. You'll hear real financial examples and a fresh way to think about protecting your retirement accounts. You can find us at echofc.com

In this kickoff episode, Charisse shares real stories of families financially blindsided by dementia and introduces the idea of taking action while you're still healthy. You'll learn what hybrid LTC annuities are and why they're becoming the go-to plan for families with a history of Alzheimer's.

When care is needed and no plan is in place, someone you love will step in — not because they’re ready, but because they love you.

But that often means emotional burnout, financial sacrifice, and strained relationships.

In this episode, Charisse Hurst, founder of Echo Consulting, shares powerful real-life stories about families navigating dementia care — and how with the right planning, you can protect your loved one’s future and your family's peace of mind.

Learn why it's so important to create a plan now — and how you can help your loved ones stay connected to you, not become overwhelmed by caregiving.

🎁 Plus, download your free guide: Outsmarting the Cost of Long-Term Care at www.echofc.com/outsmart

You don’t have to navigate this journey alone — we’re here to help you stay calm, connected, and in control.

Hospice care isn’t just for the final days — especially for dementia.

In this powerful episode, Charisse explains what hospice really means under Medicare rules, how to know when it's time, and why hospice can be a support for months — not just days.

Families deserve compassionate care without fear — this episode will give you the answers.

🎁 Access your free dementia care guide: www.echofc.com/outsmart

Home health aides can bring vital support to dementia families — but navigating when and how to bring in help can be confusing.

This week, Charisse shares what home health aides really do, how Medicare coverage works, what questions to ask agencies, and signs it's time to bring in extra help.

🎁 Download your free guide to dementia care planning here: www.echofc.com/outsmart

Adult daycare programs can be a powerful tool for families caring for a loved one with dementia — but many families don't know they exist.

 In this episode, Charisse breaks down what adult daycare really offers, how to know when it's time to explore one, what to expect, and what Medicare may or may not cover.

🎁 Don’t forget to grab your free dementia care planning guide: www.echofc.com/outsmart