What the Air Force Taught Me About Being a Financial Advisor

Before I joined Foster Group, I served 24 years as a Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape (SERE) Specialist in the United States Air Force. It might seem like quite the career transition from Airman to Financial Planner. However, the two paths have more in common than one might expect.

Google Maps Reminded Me I’m Not a Robot

At Foster Group, we believe technology is an incredible asset when it comes to planning and portfolio construction. We also believe that human beings are not robots and determining what to do with your money requires more than an advanced algorithm – as great and helpful as these are.

Earth-Bound Aces Strive for More Than Financial Flyover

Recently, I attended the Kansas City Air Show and witnessed the precision acrobatics of the Navy’s Blue Angels, a team of six intensely trained pilots performing incredible high-flying stunts. Foster Group financial advisors are not known for performing at 10,000 feet, but we are catalysts for positive life change and, unlike static aircraft displays at a two-day event, we will continue our work tomorrow, next week, next month, and next year.

The Stories We Tell Ourselves

We live in a world where many people disagree on almost everything. It is easy to get caught up in our own heads, our own fears, or our own biases.

Asking the Right Question

As a paramedic, my dad built a career out of caring for people, and in virtually every instance, did so by starting with one simple question: "What hurts?" For over 30 years now at Foster Group, we've been asking the same question. 

When It’s Time to Call in a Pro

Hiring a pro is never a cut and dried decision but when it’s necessary, I’ve found that I gain time, peace of mind, and often better results than what I could have achieved on my own. While I’m still a DYI’er at heart, I have learned to recognize when it’s time to call in a pro!

Who Really Needs a Financial Advisor?

The truth is, I donÆt think everyone needs a financial advisor. In my limited time in the industry, here are some of the reasons I think working with a financial advisor might be a good idea.

CFP or ChFC, What’s the Difference?

Knowing the educational scope of a specific designation will help you feel comfortable that the financial advisor you are working with has the knowledge and experience to help you pursue your goals.