Today we’d like to introduce you to Alan Rivera.
Hi Alan, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
How did I get here if I studied Philosophy and worked as a journalist for almost 30 years? Well, my curiosity is nearly infinite. After finishing high school, I studied Psychology and Law, but Philosophy was the degree I completed at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru. I then entered the world of journalism, working as a reporter and investigative journalist in both Peru and the U.S., and later became a news anchor for several Univision affiliate stations. Additionally, I hosted a national newscast on HITN for six years and worked as a National Assignment Editor at NBC/Telemundo until 2017, when I successfully published my book “ILEGALES: Truths and Lies in a Country of Immigrants,” which was translated into English in 2019.
My education continued with a certification in Digital Marketing from Cornell University and another in Economics and Public Policy from the University of Oxford, which I completed during the pandemic. After an exciting entrepreneurial journey in Peru, where I managed a medical center serving a vulnerable community, I returned to the U.S. to begin my career as a Financial Professional with New York Life. Later, I joined Experior and partnered with more than 50 leading insurance companies — including F&G, Mutual of Omaha, and National Life — which allowed me to expand my expertise and ultimately establish VivaSure Insurance, my own agency dedicated to helping families and business owners protect and grow their wealth.
Today, my passion for finance is so great that I am currently studying Financial Planning at The American College, which allows me to continue helping more people secure their financial future.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely, my journey has been full of exciting changes, challenges, variations, difficult trials, and great moments. The birth of each of my children was always an explosion of love with my wife Teresa, and watching them grow has been my greatest pride. Perhaps the most difficult moment of my life was when, three weeks after the birth of our youngest daughter, we had to face my wife’s illness, and then her passing, 13 years ago.
Here in the United States, as an immigrant, you’re practically on your own if you don’t have family nearby. I’m not complaining, not at all—I’m just saying that it’s a path you build by yourself. In my case, I had to take care of my three children when the oldest, Belén, was only 16 years old, Nico was 12, and the youngest, Martha Isabella, was just 6. Fortunately, God was always with us along the way, and honestly, I can only say it was hard when I look back, because the journey passed almost without us realizing it.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am passionate about what I do today at Experior. Thanks to my life experiences, I now understand how crucial financial education is, particularly in the areas of wealth protection and planning, and the importance of building a solid “Security Portfolio.” In partnership with Experior, I am currently developing my own agency, which is helping to consolidate my career as a specialist in Financial Security and Wealth Protection — with a particular focus on clients and families with strong financial foundations.
Recently, I published my fourth book — and second solo work — “Create Your Own Bank: The Rockefeller Strategy for Latinos,” where I aim to guide Latino families toward lasting prosperity and financial peace by applying a legendary wealth-building model inspired by the Rockefellers.
However, I am perhaps best known for my book “ILEGALES” and for my frequent participation in news and opinion programs on radio and television. I am often invited to comment on international political events, and although I sometimes jokingly refer to myself as a “commentator,” I see it as something deeper. It’s not just about expressing opinions; it’s about understanding the issues, studying the facts, and offering a well-grounded perspective that helps audiences form a clearer, more informed view of reality.
Plato referred to mere opinions as “doxa,” the most basic form of knowledge derived from sensory perception. He contrasted it with “episteme,” the pursuit of truth and genuine understanding. When I participate in media discussions, my goal is precisely that — to bring episteme into the conversation and move beyond doxa.
I also remain politically active in my home country, Peru, where I hope to one day contribute to meaningful change that allows Peruvians to live in prosperity and peace — what we in my party call “Justice of Bread with Freedom.”
How do you think about happiness?
I consider myself a genuinely happy person, even after facing serious challenges and difficult moments throughout my life. Happiness for me is not a concept — it’s a collection of simple things that keep me grounded. Spending time with my children, enjoying the calm of my home, or watching a good movie always recharges me. Every time I rewatch The Godfather, I discover a new lesson about power, loyalty, or destiny — it never gets old.
I also find joy in discipline and creativity. I love waking up early, going to the gym at 5:30 a.m., doing a cycle class, then lifting weights. It clears my mind and reminds me that structure brings freedom. And when I’m not working, I’m probably in the kitchen — cooking traditional Peruvian dishes that connect me with my roots. Peruvian cuisine is, in my opinion (and many would agree), one of the best in the world — something I’m truly proud of.
My favorite ritual? Making tiramisú. I order it everywhere I go just to compare… but, modesty aside, the best one I’ve ever had is the one I make myself.
Pricing:
- My book can be found in Amazon
Contact Info:
- Website: www.alanriveraprieto.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alanriverafinanzas/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanriveraprieto/
- Other: https://www.newyorklife.com/agent/alanrivera
