Category: Financial Advisor
Financial Planning Unveiled: What You Need to Know for a Secure Future

Financial Planning Unveiled: What You Need to Know for a Secure Future

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What exactly do financial planners do? 

Explore valuable insights into retirement planning with Dennis O’Keefe, a seasoned, certified financial planner with over 30 years of experience. Whether you’ve been retired for years or on the verge of retirement, or are wondering how to plan for your someday retirement, this podcast is your go-to guide.

Tune in as Dennis covers:

  • The essence of a true financial planner vs. the common misconceptions [00:02:00]
  • The five pillars of financial planning: retirement, investments, income taxes, estate planning, and asset protection [00:15:00]
  • Real stories and the nuanced financial planning process that starts with a friendly chat and evolves into a customized strategy [00:30:00]
  • How staying proactive with adjustments and engaging in the OODA loop helps keep your financial plan relevant [01:25:00]
  • And more

Connect with Dennis O’Keefe: 

All content presented is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any third party, or as a solicitation or offer to sell securities or provide investment, tax, legal, or consulting services, and should not be acted upon without obtaining specific advice from a qualified professional. 

We believe the information presented to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to its accuracy or completeness. All examples are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. Any opinions or statements by third parties are their own and may not be representative of the experience of others or indicative of future investment performance or success. No compensation has been exchanged for any testimonials, endorsements, and/or recognitions.
Financial Wellness: Your First Meeting with an Advisor

Financial Wellness: Your First Meeting with an Advisor

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When it comes to financial planning, the first meeting is about more than just crunching numbers—it’s about understanding your full financial picture, addressing your concerns, and setting a foundation for informed decision-making. 

Join CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, Dennis O’Keefe walks you through what happens in that initial conversation and how he and his team have designed it to be a comfortable, collaborative experience.

Whether you’re preparing for retirement, evaluating your investments, or simply seeking guidance, this episode will give you a clear understanding of what to expect in your first meeting with a financial advisor—and how it can set the stage for a secure financial future.

Dennis discusses: 

  • The stress of initial financial meetings vs. doctor visits [00:05:00]
  • How personal history shapes our interactions with professionals [00:10:00]
  • Importance of building trust and privacy in financial consultations [00:20:00]
  • Comprehensive financial assessments tailored to individual needs [00:35:00]
  • An engaging explanation of why client comfort is key to long-term success [00:45:00]
  • And more

Connect with Dennis O’Keefe: 

All content presented is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any third party, or as a solicitation or offer to sell securities or provide investment, tax, legal, or consulting services, and should not be acted upon without obtaining specific advice from a qualified professional. 

We believe the information presented to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to its accuracy or completeness. All examples are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. Any opinions or statements by third parties are their own and may not be representative of the experience of others or indicative of future investment performance or success. No compensation has been exchanged for any testimonials, endorsements, and/or recognitions.
The Pros and Cons of Automated Investment Services

The Pros and Cons of Automated Investment Services

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Are you overwhelmed by investment management ads promising to handle your money easily? What’s the deal, and are they worth it?

Dennis O’Keefe dives into the world of automated investment management and the critical differences between computer and personal touch in retirement planning. With over 30 years of financial planning experience, Dennis shares invaluable insights into automated investment services, how they work, the pros and cons, and whether they truly offer the expertise and personalization you need.

If you’re questioning whether a target date fund is the best choice for your long-term financial goals, this episode is for you! Tune in for a better understanding of how these funds operate and whether they align with your financial future.

Highlights include:

  • The ins and outs of investment management services
  • The potential pitfalls of relying solely on automation
  • Why personalized advice and relationships matter 
  • Personal tales that underscore the value of a tailored approach
  • And more

Connect with Dennis O’Keefe: 

All content presented is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any third party, or as a solicitation or offer to sell securities or provide investment, tax, legal, or consulting services, and should not be acted upon without obtaining specific advice from a qualified professional. 

We believe the information presented to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to its accuracy or completeness. All examples are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. Any opinions or statements by third parties are their own and may not be representative of the experience of others or indicative of future investment performance or success. No compensation has been exchanged for any testimonials, endorsements, and/or recognitions.
Estate Planning Mistakes That Could Cost You Everything

Estate Planning Mistakes That Could Cost You Everything

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Estate planning is one of those things we all know we should do, yet most of us keep pushing it off—just like changing the furnace filter (which, by the way, can have disastrous consequences if ignored). But failing to plan your estate properly can leave your loved ones with unexpected legal and financial nightmares. 

Join Dennis as he breaks down why having a will is essential, common estate planning mistakes, and a surprising history lesson on how modern wills came to be.

Top takeaways include:

  • The importance and function of wills in estate planning [00:01:23]
  • Common mistakes people make with estate planning [00:06:45]
  • A historical journey beginning with the Magna Carta to understand current practices [00:14:50]
  • The American perspective on individual rights in estate planning [00:24:30]
  • Practical advice for managing your estate and why you shouldn’t DIY your will [00:37:15]
  • And more

Connect with Dennis O’Keefe: 

All content presented is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any third party, or as a solicitation or offer to sell securities or provide investment, tax, legal, or consulting services, and should not be acted upon without obtaining specific advice from a qualified professional. 

We believe the information presented to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to its accuracy or completeness. All examples are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. Any opinions or statements by third parties are their own and may not be representative of the experience of others or indicative of future investment performance or success. No compensation has been exchanged for any testimonials, endorsements, and/or recognitions.
Managing Healthcare Costs During Retirement

Managing Healthcare Costs During Retirement

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What’s the real cost of retirement health insurance?

Dennis O’Keefe explores the often-overlooked costs of health insurance in retirement, a critical expense many fail to account for when planning their financial future. With over 30 years of experience as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, he provides invaluable guidance tailored to telecom industry employees preparing for retirement.

Gain insight to help you plan for retirement as this episode covers: 

  • The true impact of health insurance costs post-employment
  • The reality of employer-covered retiree health benefits and potential pitfalls
  • COBRA and its financial implications for retirees
  • Navigating state health insurance exchanges post-Obamacare
  • Medicare basics and why customizing supplemental plans is crucial
  • The cost-effectiveness of vision and dental insurance
  • And more

Connect with Dennis O’Keefe: 

 

All content presented is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any third party, or as a solicitation or offer to sell securities or provide investment, tax, legal, or consulting services, and should not be acted upon without obtaining specific advice from a qualified professional. 

We believe the information presented to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to its accuracy or completeness. All examples are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. Any opinions or statements by third parties are their own and may not be representative of the experience of others or indicative of future investment performance or success. No compensation has been exchanged for any testimonials, endorsements, and/or recognitions.
How to Keep Your New Year’s Financial Resolutions

How to Keep Your New Year’s Financial Resolutions

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Are you ready to make small changes that could impact your financial future?

Dennis O’Keefe explores the power of simple adjustments in retirement savings tailored for telecom employees facing retirement or career changes. We all know how fleeting resolutions can be, but what if a few small shifts could enhance your financial well-being? 

Join Dennis as he shares insights, personal stories, and practical steps like:

  • Understanding and managing your financial statements
  • Tax-saving strategies for investment accounts
  • Increasing your 401k contributions incrementally
  • The importance of maintaining an emergency fund
  • And more

Connect with Dennis O’Keefe: 

All content presented is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any third party, or as a solicitation or offer to sell securities or provide investment, tax, legal, or consulting services, and should not be acted upon without obtaining specific advice from a qualified professional. 

We believe the information presented to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to its accuracy or completeness. All examples are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. Any opinions or statements by third parties are their own and may not be representative of the experience of others or indicative of future investment performance or success. No compensation has been exchanged for any testimonials, endorsements, and/or recognitions.
Supercharge Your Retirement Savings!

Supercharge Your Retirement Savings!

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With over 30 years of expertise as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ for telecom employees, Dennis offers insights into maximizing your 401k contributions and why starting early is crucial.

He explores the power of compound interest, sharing an example of three hypothetical savers, demonstrating that starting contributions early—even with lower amounts—leads to significantly higher retirement savings. He also discusses the changes brought by the Secure Act 2.0 and strategies for smart saving, at every stage of life. 

Download now, and please share this episode with someone who could benefit from Dennis’ wisdom—whether they’re 25 or 65!

Key highlights include:

  • The new 401k catch-up provisions under the Secure Act 2.0 
  • A telecom example of the magic of investing early
  • The power of compound interest on long-term savings 
  • Insights into spending control near retirement and its significance 
  • Strategies for maximizing the benefits of 529 plans for future generations
  • And more

Previous Episodes of Interest:

Connect with Dennis O’Keefe: 

All content presented is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any third party, or as a solicitation or offer to sell securities or provide investment, tax, legal, or consulting services, and should not be acted upon without obtaining specific advice from a qualified professional. 

We believe the information presented to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to its accuracy or completeness. All examples are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. Any opinions or statements by third parties are their own and may not be representative of the experience of others or indicative of future investment performance or success. No compensation has been exchanged for any testimonials, endorsements, and/or recognitions.
How To Empower Your Children With Money Skills

How To Empower Your Children With Money Skills

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Teaching financial responsibility to children helps set the stage for financial independence as young adults.

Join host Dennis O’Keefe as he explores the impact of teaching financial lessons to children. Using personal anecdotes and insightful stories, Dennis highlights how you can help shape your child’s understanding of finances.

Top takeaways include: 

  • The importance of letting young children experience financial consequences 
  • Creative ways for tweens to earn and learn about money responsibly 
  • Why parents should let adult children face financial challenges independently 
  • Saving strategies that could enhance your investments
  • And more

Connect with Dennis O’Keefe: 

All content presented is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any third party, or as a solicitation or offer to sell securities or provide investment, tax, legal, or consulting services, and should not be acted upon without obtaining specific advice from a qualified professional. 

We believe the information presented to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to its accuracy or completeness. All examples are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. Any opinions or statements by third parties are their own and may not be representative of the experience of others or indicative of future investment performance or success. No compensation has been exchanged for any testimonials, endorsements, and/or recognitions.
7 Tax Myths

7 Tax Myths

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With over 30 years as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ specializing in telecom retirement, Dennis combines humor and clarity to debunk common tax myths. Through engaging stories, he offers fresh perspectives on complex topics like billionaire taxes, corporate levies, and home capital gains, making it easier for listeners to grasp the realities behind these often misunderstood financial issues.

This episode sets the record straight on:

  • Tax contributions from billionaires
  • The impact corporate tax has on consumers
  • Why interest and dividends are taxed differently
  • Mortgage interest deductions and why they are often misunderstood
  • And more

Connect with Dennis O’Keefe: 

All content presented is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any third party, or as a solicitation or offer to sell securities or provide investment, tax, legal, or consulting services, and should not be acted upon without obtaining specific advice from a qualified professional. 

We believe the information presented to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to its accuracy or completeness. All examples are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. Any opinions or statements by third parties are their own and may not be representative of the experience of others or indicative of future investment performance or success. No compensation has been exchanged for any testimonials, endorsements, and/or recognitions.
The Importance of Specialization

The Importance of Specialization

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While most people seek specialists for healthcare, many still rely on general advice for their finances. Just like you’d consult an expert for a second opinion or diagnosis, your financial health deserves the same level of specialized care and attention.

In this installment of Your Telecom Retirement, Dennis O’Keefe highlights the vital role of specialization in fields like finance, taxes, legal matters, and retirement planning. He explains that while general practitioners and DIY tools can be helpful for basic needs, they often fall short in handling complex situations. 

Don’t sell yourself short. When the stakes are high, invest in expert advice. 

Highlights from today’s episode include:

  • Specialization in finance is essential for addressing unique complexities
  • A specialized CPA can offer tailored advice for intricate financial scenarios
  • For critical matters like estate planning, seek help from a specialized attorney 
  • Specialists provide deeper expertise compared to general practitioners in complex situations
  • And more!

Connect with Dennis O’Keefe: 

All content presented is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any third party, or as a solicitation or offer to sell securities or provide investment, tax, legal, or consulting services, and should not be acted upon without obtaining specific advice from a qualified professional. 

We believe the information presented to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to its accuracy or completeness. All examples are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. Any opinions or statements by third parties are their own and may not be representative of the experience of others or indicative of future investment performance or success. No compensation has been exchanged for any testimonials, endorsements, and/or recognitions.