Each quarter Vanderbilt Financial Group features an Advisor in the Vanderbilt family who exhibits the VFG values of Gratitude, Respect, Innovation, Teamwork, and Trust on a consistent basis. These values impact their work with clients and VFG staff and ultimately push for excellence in their business practices that are unparalleled and incredibly unique. Beyond high-level producers, these Financial Professionals offer sage advice and best practices for boosting your business on your terms according to your values.
Can you please give us a little information on your background, and why you chose to embark on a career in the financial services industry?
My Army Sergeant, whom I worked for, and I were having a conversation about what career I should choose once I decided not to continue in the Army to full retirement. "Ken, you should go into the Life Insurance business with your story. That business needs honest, caring people." You see when I was only 11 years old, my dad died unexpectedly, leaving us with only $10,000 of life insurance. My mom, a registered nurse, made a tremendous sacrifice for us. She went from working her regular job 9-5 Monday through Friday to also working at a hospital on Saturdays and Sundays, working 12-hour shifts until all of us moved out. I think I became a financial advisor as a kid; I understood the value of money at a very young age.
What would you say are the areas your practice specializes in?
I specialize in estate and retirement planning. Back in 2016, I gave a breakout session for the Financial West Group on incorporating Social Security into retirement planning at our National Conference. Then, in 2017, I was asked to be the keynote speaker due to the overwhelming requests from my peers from the 2016 session. Note: When giving presentations on Social Security, I inform the audience that making just one mistake with filing may cost them over $100,000 in lost benefits. My mother made a mistake regarding the widow's benefits, which cost her over $120,000, and she was following advice from a letter she received from Social Security.
If you could go back in time and offer a piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
My career journey started with John Hancock, and it took me about three years to gain independence. It took a few more years to earn my Series 6 and Series 7 licenses and to become an Investment Advisor Representative. If I could advise my younger self, I would stress the importance of starting as an independent representative. This choice puts you in control of your career path and empowers you to obtain the necessary licenses to provide valuable services to people.
What was your reasoning behind partnering with Vanderbilt?
The last firm I traded with decided to treat Fixed Index Annuities as a security. Even though that is a minor part of my business, I did not agree with them on this. Vanderbilt treats them as a fixed product.
Also, the support I get when dealing with Vanderbilt is fantastic. I love Quick Assist, and the support from the staff is the best I have ever had.
What has your experience been with Vanderbilt?
Vanderbilt is the fourth securities firm I have been with, dating back to 1994. The support I receive from Vanderbilt is exceptional, making me feel valued and important. When I call the firm and leave a voice message, I get a ticket sent to my email, which is truly unique.
Vanderbilt's services go beyond the norm. For instance, they offer staff remote control of my computer, a feature I have not encountered elsewhere. This unique service further demonstrates Vanderbilt's innovative approach to client support.
What is your favorite holiday & why?
Christmas is followed closely by Thanksgiving. Celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ coming into the world and getting and receiving gifts is great. Giving brings more joy than receiving because what we receive from giving is a true blessing.
What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of work?
A few years back, I retired from coaching youth wrestling. Teaching boys and girls this sport that I love gave me great joy. My main hobby today is smoking cigars with friends.
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