College planning rarely works the way most parents remember it. In this episode, Dennis O’Keefe shares a personal and eye-opening look at today’s college financial aid system after recently guiding his son through the process. What’s changed over the years may surprise you. How applications are submitted, and how aggressively colleges are offering aid… More …
Everyone talks about index funds. Do they actually know what they are? Dennis O’Keefe cuts through the jargon and explains what an index really is, why the S&P 500 represents 85% of all US market wealth, and how an index fund lets you own a piece of it without the guesswork. He also covers the …
Most people confuse asset allocation with diversification, but they are two very different things. In this episode of YSR Shorts, Dennis O’Keefe explains how asset allocation works, where it came from, and why it is one of the most powerful tools in long-term investing. Dennis traces the concept back to Roger Gibson’s groundbreaking 1989 research, …
Many people think they understand Social Security, until conflicting answers and uncertainty create confusion. What’s actually true about how benefits work, and what should you expect in the years ahead? In this episode, Dennis O’Keefe breaks down how Social Security really works and clears up common misconceptions. He explains how benefits are calculated, why the …
What does it mean to be a fiduciary? In this episode of YSR Shorts, Dennis O’Keefe explains the fiduciary standard and why it matters in financial services. He discusses disclosure, compensation structures, and why fiduciary status should be part of your evaluation, not the only factor. Dennis also shares real-world examples that highlight the importance …
Should you pay someone to manage your money? In this episode, Dennis O’Keefe explains the behavioral side of investing. He shares why emotional reactions during market volatility can hurt long-term results and how professional management can help create separation and discipline. Dennis also compares corporate management firms and boutique advisory relationships, outlining the pros and …
You may not realize how much of your personal information is visible every single day. From store apps to credit reports, small exposures can quietly add up over time. In this episode of Your Successful Retirement, Dennis O’Keefe explores a topic that affects every retiree and pre-retiree, even if they don’t realize it: how visible …
What does CFP actually mean? In this episode of YSR Shorts, Dennis O’Keefe breaks down the Certified Financial Planner designation and what it requires. From accredited coursework in retirement, taxes, estate planning, and investments to years of experience and a comprehensive exam, Dennis explains what goes into earning and maintaining the CFP mark. He also …
What does comprehensive financial planning actually mean? In this episode, Dennis O’Keefe walks through the real financial planning process. He explains how retirement, investments, taxes, estate planning, and asset protection must work together. Dennis also shares why a plan should be actionable, collaborative, and constantly reviewed, rather than a document that sits on a shelf. …
Tax season is here, and most people approach it tactically rather than strategically. Are you simply gathering documents and hoping for the best, or are you proactively managing your tax situation year-round? In this episode, Dennis O’Keefe shares his approach to strategic tax planning and why understanding your tax situation matters beyond just filing returns. …