Kelly Financial: Saturday, October 11, 2025

Episode Transcript

Speaker 1 (00:12):
It is coming to us, So.

Speaker 2 (00:20):
Ladies and gentlemen welcome to Safe Money Strategies on WRKO.
I'm William Kelly and it's an honor to carry on
a family legacy rooted in real world values and practical advice.
Kelly Financial was founded in two thousand and three by
my parents, my late father Bill Kelly and my mother
Kelly Kelly and Braintree and Burlington, Massachusetts. Just two years later,

(00:41):
Dad launched Safe Money Strategies on WRKO as a no
nonsense callin radio show focused on common sense planning and
protecting wealth. Over the past two decades, Dad became a
pillar in New England finance, an engineer, turn entrepreneur, author
and philanthropist who believed in giving back and walking the talk.
Since z thousand and five, our show has remained a

(01:01):
Saturday morning staple, offering insight and empowerment. Here at Kelly Financial,
we help steward over seven hundred million dollars across our
affiliated business, including more than five hundred million dollars managed
by our sec registered investment advisory, where fiduciary care and
our family first philosophy guides us on safe money strategies.

(01:21):
You'll hear candid conversations with the team, my mother, Kelly, myself,
advisors Charlie Gable, Mike Ducett, Greg Workman, Greg Murray, my
sister Mary Madeline, and Tom Schlager. We live by two rules,
never quit and carry on, and we're here to help
you do the same when it comes to your money.
Stick around, take notes and join the conversation. To learn

(01:43):
more or get our free guides or schedule consultation, visit
Kelly Financial dot org or call us at eighty eight
eight eight hundred one eight eight one. This is Safe
Money Strategies. Next up Forever Young with Kelly Kelly and
myself William Kelly Junior.

Speaker 3 (02:02):
Safe Money Strategies with William Kelly and Kelly Kelly eight
eight hundred eighteen eighty one.

Speaker 4 (02:15):
Each week on Safe Money Strategies, we take a moment
to step back from the headlines and have a real conversation,
the kind you might have around the kitchen table. This
is a part of the show we call Forever Young
is where I sit down with my son, William Kelly Junior,
and we talk about life, what's going on in the world,

(02:35):
in our family, and what really matters most when you're
planning for the future, sometimes as light, sometimes as thoughtful,
but as always real.

Speaker 5 (02:44):
Good morning, William, How are you?

Speaker 1 (02:47):
I'm fine, Mom, how are you?

Speaker 5 (02:49):
I'm doing great?

Speaker 1 (02:50):
Good.

Speaker 5 (02:51):
So it's another Saturday upon us.

Speaker 1 (02:53):
It's crazy to say that.

Speaker 2 (02:55):
I can't believe that we had Melly over for a
whole weekend and this dog.

Speaker 1 (03:01):
Ladies and gentlemen, I don't know.

Speaker 2 (03:03):
If you like cute dogs, but if you're looking to
get a cute dog, get a cockapoo, because this dog
is like a little heavenly baby angel.

Speaker 1 (03:10):
She's so cute. I know.

Speaker 4 (03:12):
It was our first time babysitting her without Mary Madeline.

Speaker 2 (03:15):
Yes, I honestly, I am having withdrawals right now. I
miss that dog so much. The animals miss the dog,
believe it or not, Ladies and gentlemen, our cat Marshall,
who was exclusive to Georgia only. He only likes Georgia.
Other dogs he's very weary of. He was weary of
Melly at first, but not intimidated by her. He wouldn't
run away, he'd you know, kind of swat her a

(03:36):
couple of times. But then all of a sudden, the
day before she leaves, Marshall starts playing They start wrestling
because Marshall likes to wrestle with Georgia, our Karen Terrier dog,
and they're very physical, and Marshall is just you know,
he's a good sport and I couldn't believe it. They
finally started playing and you know, I think they realized

(03:58):
that they're siblings. And I think Marry Madaline has done
a fine job.

Speaker 4 (04:03):
She's on a good schedule, she is and I feel
like we stuck with it.

Speaker 2 (04:07):
Yeah, I think this is proof that maybe Murray Madaline
can be responsible. Yeah, maybe she can handle responsibility. So
I'm and I think that, you know, being a financial
advisor as she is, I think that's very important skills
to develop in this field. So I'm very proud of
Mary Madaline for taking this accountability. I know, having a
puppy is a big deal and jokes aside. I am

(04:30):
very proud of Marray Madeline. She's raised a really fine
dog already.

Speaker 5 (04:33):
She's one of the most responsible people I know.

Speaker 1 (04:36):
Probably. Yeah, it's a good way.

Speaker 2 (04:37):
She's a she always is by the book, always by
She super detailed. But you know, I mean we all
slip up, and I think Mary Madaline just kind of
was stumbling along in This dog brought her stability, you
know what I mean?

Speaker 4 (04:52):
Oh William, you are you bust her chops every step
of the way.

Speaker 2 (04:58):
If I did not, I think, Ladies, that would be weird.
I think it is your job exactly. It would be
strange if I was just like, I love my sister,
she's perfect.

Speaker 1 (05:07):
That's weird. That's weird.

Speaker 2 (05:09):
Of course, behind her back, I would compliment her, right,
but to her face, I could never do that.

Speaker 1 (05:14):
Are you kidding me?

Speaker 2 (05:15):
I mean, unless we're having a serious one to one,
But I mean, you got to keep her humble. It's
my job, you.

Speaker 5 (05:21):
Know what I mean.

Speaker 4 (05:22):
Mary Madlin is not with us at this moment, but
she will be listening.

Speaker 2 (05:27):
That's true. So this is a sibling battle. Ladies and Joan,
just ignore it, don't worry about it. So besides Mellie
being the best dog on planet Earth and just really
assimilating with the family super well, I got to meet
Mary Madaline's boyfriend, Frank.

Speaker 5 (05:44):
But Frank, he is a I don't know if he's
a biochemist.

Speaker 2 (05:48):
Biochemist very interesting, like extremely cerebral, very interesting job, hard worker.

Speaker 1 (05:56):
He himself is very cerebral.

Speaker 2 (05:58):
He doesn't know it all, and I hope you'd be
in it all because he's getting his PhD. And he
just loves science. He knows it so well like the
back of his hand. So if you have any kind
of chemistry question, he's the guy to ask.

Speaker 1 (06:12):
So I like this guy already, and you know, I
meet him.

Speaker 2 (06:15):
He comes over to the house a couple of weeks back,
brings all of his dogs, and him and my sister
go to their high school reunion together.

Speaker 1 (06:25):
And after that it split up and went.

Speaker 5 (06:28):
I can't believe they met at the abbey.

Speaker 1 (06:30):
Right, They knew each other at the abbey.

Speaker 5 (06:32):
They were kind of years ago.

Speaker 2 (06:33):
Yeah, and then all of a sudden, ten years later
here there together. Life is a funny, funny how things
come around. I never know, you really don't, You really don't. Anyways,
I have to drop Melly off, and Frank gives me
a text. He sends me a text and he says, William,
would you be interested in going to Lifetime Fitness with me?

Speaker 6 (06:51):
Now?

Speaker 2 (06:51):
Lifetime Fitness ladies and gentlemen. I don't know if you've been,
but it is this luxury fitness place.

Speaker 1 (06:56):
It is, as he.

Speaker 2 (06:57):
Described it, the Disney world of gyms and I'm so excited.
And as you know, ladies and gentlemen, I'm a powerlifter.
I'm a registered powerlifter, and I still actively train, and
so my weekends are very important. Recovery is very important.
So I'm thinking, okay, we could play some pickleball. They

(07:18):
have a giant pick a ball course. We play pickle ball.
They have a hydro massage chair, and I don't know
how to explain it, so I'll do the best that
I can't.

Speaker 5 (07:28):
How does it compare to our massage chair.

Speaker 2 (07:32):
They're both good in their own way, Yeah, but this
hydro massage chair is a little different. So it's like
you sit on it's kind of like think of it
like a waterbed, right, So you sit on a chair
and you feel a jet stream. The jet stream is
blocked by the like I would assume there's probably some
plastic or fabric, and so it's like you're getting hit

(07:53):
with a jet stream all throughout under your body. You're
obviously not getting hit with it, like you're not getting wet.

Speaker 5 (08:01):
Would I like it?

Speaker 2 (08:02):
You probably would. It feels really good. It's like super
warm water. You feel the pressure of the jet stream
hitting against the fabric whatever that that that material is.

Speaker 1 (08:12):
It's very comfortable.

Speaker 2 (08:14):
Obviously they layer it with cushion and stuff like that,
but it's it's a little hard.

Speaker 1 (08:18):
To explain, you know, over the air.

Speaker 2 (08:20):
Be a lot easier if I could kind of reach
through the radio and show you guys a photo on Google.

Speaker 1 (08:25):
But look up a hydro massage chair.

Speaker 2 (08:27):
Very very interesting because for example, a normal massage chair
has a roller in there and you feel it through
the fabric. Yes, same thing, but it sprays water.

Speaker 1 (08:38):
Okay, does that make sense.

Speaker 2 (08:39):
Yes, So it's a jet stream and you feel it
and it's really warm, comfortable water, and it just you
feel so relaxed.

Speaker 1 (08:45):
It was really awesome.

Speaker 2 (08:47):
So that long were for nine minutes, and so because
you know people are waiting in line because it's so comfortable.

Speaker 5 (08:54):
Oh they are.

Speaker 1 (08:55):
And then I did that vibration table. We used to
have one in brain treat by the way, ladies and gentlemen.

Speaker 2 (09:00):
Father bought one, and it's those things that you stand
on and you turn on the motor and you vibrate
and I guess it helps your recovery. But that was
just out of this world. Out of this world. Man
Mary Madaline found a really nice guy.

Speaker 1 (09:14):
I have to say.

Speaker 2 (09:16):
And I'm sure you guys are very interested in the
in the Kelly family gossip, so I'll let you guys.

Speaker 1 (09:22):
In a little bit of the secret here.

Speaker 5 (09:23):
Coming straight from Williams, this is true.

Speaker 1 (09:26):
He's pasted the brother test.

Speaker 5 (09:28):
Wow.

Speaker 1 (09:29):
I have to.

Speaker 2 (09:29):
Say, I can't believe this, but I think he has
what it takes to annoy Mary Madaline to a degree
that I used to do. And that's not something that
you can just do, ladies and gentlemen. It takes research,
psychological understanding of.

Speaker 1 (09:45):
Mary Madaline's mind. You have to be thorough.

Speaker 2 (09:48):
Okay, if you want to annoy my sister, if you
want to not just annoy, but prank.

Speaker 7 (09:53):
Marry Madaline, it's just you got to get her. So, Frank,
I think he has a sense of humor us and
that is such an important credential. And he just gets.

Speaker 2 (10:04):
Murray Madeline and he is so he's just such an
enjoyable guy to be around. You know, I'm really proud
of both of them. I'm really proud of him and
what he's doing. And I'm so happy that he's just
treating Murray Madaline so well.

Speaker 1 (10:17):
And you know, I don't have to annoy her anymore.

Speaker 2 (10:20):
It's a little sad because you know, Frank is doing
all this work for me, and I just you know,
I'm gonna miss it when.

Speaker 5 (10:25):
I have a feeling he does not annoy her that much.

Speaker 1 (10:28):
All right, Well, someone's got to try.

Speaker 2 (10:30):
Murray Madeline can't live a life without being a little annoyed,
you know. But I'll give you a good example, ladies
and gentlemen, and then I'll wrap it up. I said
to Mom, Frank does pranks on Murray Madaline. You know,
he'll do little things to kind of mess with her,
but then he'll do a really good thing to offset it.
So Murray Madaline was on a trip and she comes
home and before she arrives, Frank opens all the cabinet

(10:54):
doors in her entire apartment.

Speaker 1 (10:57):
But he does the dishes.

Speaker 2 (10:59):
And then when Frank and I were hanging out and
we were at Marray Madaline's apartment to return Melly to
to Marray Madaline's apartment, we drank all of her SODA's
and we're eating her food and Mary Madaline's drink soda.
Who's day, Oh Mary Madaline. Well it was like a
probiotic soda. Okay, sorry, let me it's it's crazy. What

(11:20):
what they sell now? A probiotic healthy soda And yeah, no,
so Frank and I were drinking it harmlessly. We drank one.
It was the last one. Mary Madaline wanted it. She
was saving it. She was just heartbroken that we did it.
So Frank goes to the store buy four more for
her same flavor.

Speaker 1 (11:39):
So Mary Madaline's a trooper. She puts up with it,
you know. She uh, but it's if you're going to
be Mary Madaline. And I mean, I guess.

Speaker 2 (11:47):
I guess it's my fault because I got born into
this world and I just couldn't help but mess with her.

Speaker 1 (11:51):
I can't help it. It's like William, I think there's
a gene in me that causes me to do it.

Speaker 2 (11:57):
But God answered my prayers and gave her a great
guy who will also do that for her, so she'll
never escape her for the rest of her life. So God,
thank you very much.

Speaker 4 (12:07):
Well, that was nice of you to drive Melly, and
then for Frank two to help do all of this
book before her flight.

Speaker 2 (12:15):
It was so Frank, really, he's an upstanding guy. Melly
is a great passenger. Yeah, Melle is just great for everything.
So yeah, I know we're all going to hang out
together pretty soon, so I'm excited for that.

Speaker 4 (12:28):
So good good. Do keep us on your dial. We've
got a lot of great content coming your way. Mike
dust and Greg Workman will break down the federal reserves
upcoming October meeting, what RAKE cuts could mean for inflation,
the job market, and your portfolio. As we head into
year end, Mary, Madeline Kelly and Greg Murray, we'll discuss

(12:50):
one of the biggest challenges facing today's retirees, how to
make your money last a lifetime and strategies to protect
against outliving your savings. I'll be back with William and
we'll be covering two separate topics, how to get your
finances ready for a year end with an October checkup,
and how parents and grandparents can start those powerful family

(13:14):
conversations about money and values. And of course we'll close
the hour with some wit and wisdom from the late
Bill Kelly. His words continue to inspire and guide us.
That's a wrap for forever, Young Thank you for listening,
and William, thank you for joining me.

Speaker 5 (13:31):
We'll be back with more content. I love you, Honey, I.

Speaker 2 (13:34):
Love you Soper.

Speaker 8 (13:42):
Okay, my friends, let me tell you about Kelly Financial Services.
What would you do if your boss called you in
tomorrow and said you're done, sayonara, no more paycheck. For
many Americans in their fifties and sixties, that's not a hypothetical. Layoffs,
buy outs, early retirements. They're happening every single day, and

(14:04):
if you're not prepared, it can be devastating. That's why
Kelly Financial created the ten step Layoff Survival Guide. It's simple, clear,
and practical. It shows you how to figure out your
living expenses, evaluate a severance package, protect healthcare coverage, and
make smart choices about social security and retirement accounts. So

(14:26):
if you are someone you care about is facing a
layoff or even considering early retirement, you don't have to
go through it alone. Call Kelly Financial right now eight
eight eight eight hundred eighteen eighty one eight eight eight
eight hundred eighteen eighty one, get your free copy today
or email Kelly at Kellyfinancial dot.

Speaker 9 (14:47):
Org Kelly at Kelly Financial dot org.

Speaker 10 (14:54):
Welcome back to Safe Money Strategies, the show that helps
you make informed financial decisions and plan wisely for the future.
I'm Mike Ducett, Chief operating officer at Kelly financial services
here with my co host Greg Workman.

Speaker 11 (15:07):
Hello, I'm Greg Workman, investment advisor at Kelly Financial.

Speaker 1 (15:11):
We are glad you could join us today, Mike.

Speaker 11 (15:14):
The big headline this week is the Federal Reserve's upcoming
policy meeting on October twenty eighth and twenty ninth. Many
people think FED meetings are just for the economists, but
their decisions ripple through everyone's finances, from mortgages and credit cards,
to business loans and even our retirement accounts.

Speaker 10 (15:33):
Absolutely, Greg changes to the Federal Funds rate affect borrowing
costs from millions of Americans. When the FED raises rates,
loans get more expensive. When they cut rates, borrowing becomes cheaper,
encouraging spending and hiring. But the timing and size of
the changes make a huge difference, which is why this
October meeting is so closely watched.

Speaker 11 (15:53):
And let's not forget the Fed's dual mandate keep inflation
low and employment high.

Speaker 1 (15:59):
Right now, those two.

Speaker 11 (16:00):
Goals are intention Inflation remains above the Fed's two percent target,
while the labor market is certainly showing some signs of
slowing down. That makes the upcoming decisions even more critical.

Speaker 9 (16:14):
In these rate decisions affect more than just borrowing.

Speaker 10 (16:17):
They influence savings, investment returns, and business growth. Lower rates
can make mortgages more affordable and encourage businesses to invest
and hire. At the same time, lower rates can reduce
yields on CDs, savings accounts, and other fixed income instruments.

Speaker 11 (16:33):
Exactly for investors and retirees, understanding the Fed's moves and
the reasoning behind them is critical. Over the next segments
will break down the fed's recent history, labor market trends, inflation,
global considerations, and practical strategies you can use to protect
your portfolio and take advantage of opportunities.

Speaker 9 (16:55):
So stay with us.

Speaker 10 (16:56):
By the end of this show, you'll have a clear
picture of the FED path, what it could mean for
your finances, and actionable steps to consider before year end.

Speaker 1 (17:05):
Greg.

Speaker 10 (17:05):
Before we dive deeper into the upcoming FED meeting, let's
give our listeners some context. The FED has a long
history of adjusting rates to manage the economy, and understanding
that history can help explain why markets react the way
they do.

Speaker 1 (17:18):
Absolutely, Mike.

Speaker 11 (17:19):
If we go back just a few years, Inflation started
spiking in twenty twenty two, reaching over eight percent one
of the fastest increases that we've seen in decades. To
counteract that, the FED implemented a series of aggressive rate hikes,
eleven of them between March twenty twenty two and mid

(17:41):
twenty twenty three, raising the Federal funds rate from near
zero to above five percent.

Speaker 10 (17:47):
Those moves helped cool inflation, but they also had a
direct impact on everyday Americans. Mortgage rates climbed above seven percent,
credit card interest surged in small businesses faced higher borrow costs.

Speaker 11 (18:00):
Exactly, you can see why the Fed's actions have such
a ripple effect. When rates rise too quickly, the cost
of debt can become a burden. On the other hand,
if rates stay too low for too long, inflation can spiral.
The FED is constantly balancing those forces.

Speaker 10 (18:20):
In twenty twenty four, the FED paused its rate hikes
as inflation cooled to roughly three to four percent. That
pause gave the economy a chance to stabilize, but by
twenty twenty five, inflation pressures returned due to tariffs, energy costs,
and supply chain issues, prompting the FED to make its
first rate cut since twenty twenty two, a quarter point

(18:43):
reduction last month. Lowering rates to a four to four
point two five percent range.

Speaker 11 (18:48):
Markets reacted quickly. Investors immediately began pricing in another potential
rate cut in October, with futures indicating a possible three
point seventy five to or percent range. But it's important
for our listeners to understand that these numbers are not
just speculation. They reflect real economic signals, including jobs, wages,

(19:12):
consumer spending, and.

Speaker 1 (19:14):
Inflation trends exactly.

Speaker 10 (19:16):
For example, when rates were at their peak in twenty
twenty three, a three hundred thousand mortgage could cost a
home owner roughly five hundred dollars per month than it
would at today's rates. That's money that could otherwise be spent, saved,
or invested.

Speaker 11 (19:30):
And small businesses felt it too. Higher rates meant higher
interest on equipment loans or lines of credit, which sometimes
forced delays on hiring or expansion. This is why watching
FED policy is not just for the economists. It directly
affects families and businesses.

Speaker 10 (19:49):
Looking forward to the October meeting, the fedwial wig whether
to continue cutting rates to stimulate the economy or hold
steady to ensure inflation doesn't creep back up. It's a
delicate balancing act in history shows that even small changes
can have significant effects.

Speaker 9 (20:04):
Greg.

Speaker 10 (20:04):
One of the biggest influences on the fed's decision making
right now is the labor market, and the data is
showing some signs of slowing.

Speaker 1 (20:12):
That's right, Mike.

Speaker 11 (20:13):
In June twenty twenty five, the US lost jobs for
the first time in over four years, and by August
only twenty two thousand jobs were added. To put that
in perspective, over the past decade, we've typically seen one
hundred and fifty thousand to two hundred thousand jobs added monthly.

Speaker 10 (20:32):
Unemployment has edged up to four point four percent, and
wage growth has slowed to three percent year over year,
which is below what's needed to keep pace with inflation.
That combination slower hiring and moderate wage growth creates a
rail drag on consumer spending exactly.

Speaker 11 (20:49):
Consumer spending drives seventy percent of the US economy, so
even small slowdowns can ripple throughout the markets. Certain sectors
like retail, manufacturing, and parts of technology have already begun
freezing hiring or cutting staff.

Speaker 9 (21:05):
For the FED, this is a key signal.

Speaker 10 (21:07):
A slower labor market suggests that the economy may need
support through lower interest rates to stimulate hiring and spending.

Speaker 11 (21:15):
On the other hand, the FED must balance this against inflation.
If rates are cut too aggressively, borrowing becomes cheaper, which
can reignite price pressures, particularly in housing and consumer goods.

Speaker 9 (21:29):
Let's give a practical example.

Speaker 10 (21:30):
A small business planning to expand may hesitate to higher
additional staff if they anticipate higher borrowing costs. A rate
cut can lower interest on a business line of credit,
making the expansion feasible. Conversely, families may refinance a mortgage,
freeing up cash to spend in the local economy.

Speaker 1 (21:48):
It's a delicate balancing act.

Speaker 11 (21:50):
The FED is trying to keep unemployment low without triggering inflation,
while real people and businesses feel the effects every day.
That's why the Labor Market Report sports are closely watched
by investors, policymakers, and financial advisors alike, and.

Speaker 10 (22:05):
For our listeners, Understanding these trends can help guide decisions
on timely purchases, refinancing loans, or adjusting investment allocations. Greg
and I need to take a quick break, but we'll
be back soon to continue our conversation, so stay tuned.

Speaker 3 (22:23):
Kelly Financial Services eight eight eight eight hundred eighteen eighty one.

Speaker 4 (22:28):
I'm Kelly Kelly from Kelly Financial. Is your financial advisor
a fiduciary? In other words, are they legally required to
act in your best interest? My complimentary book, Retire Your Fear,
Plan Your Future, explains what a fiduciary is and will
help you understand if an advisor is really putting you first.
For the book, call eight eight eight eight hundred eighteen

(22:51):
eighty one or email Kelly at Kellyfinancial dot org.

Speaker 5 (22:55):
We're Kelly Financial. Come retire with us.

Speaker 3 (22:59):
The money with Kelly Financial Advisors Greg Murray and Mary
Madeline Kelly.

Speaker 1 (23:06):
Hello.

Speaker 12 (23:06):
This is Greg Murray, Senior vice president and Chief Compliance
Officer at Kelly Financial Services. Joining me today is Mary
Madeline Kelly, one of our wealth advisors. How are you
doing today?

Speaker 11 (23:15):
Hi?

Speaker 3 (23:15):
Greg?

Speaker 13 (23:16):
I am doing great. A recent girls trip to Florida
was the pickup I needed as we entered into a
new season.

Speaker 12 (23:22):
It's always a fun time escaping the cooler weather and
season change to keep someone going for a little bit longer,
which is a good segue into our topic for today,
Outliving your Money.

Speaker 13 (23:31):
I'm glad we're talking about this topic because it's something
a lot of retirees don't think about enough longevity risk,
in other words, the risk of outliving your money if
you live to age ninety five or even longer.

Speaker 1 (23:42):
That's right.

Speaker 12 (23:43):
When people picture retirement, they might be thinking about a
ten or fifteen year stretch. But with advances in medicine
and healthier lifestyles, many people are living twenty five or
even thirty years after they stop working. That's wonderful news,
but it also increases financial challenges exactly.

Speaker 13 (23:58):
Here's the way I like to put it. You can't
plan for retirement as if it's a long vacation. You
have to plan as if it's another third of your life,
and that means making sure your money stretches.

Speaker 12 (24:08):
So let's break down why longevity risk matters. If you
retire at sixty five and live until ninety five, that's
thirty years of expenses. Think about what changes in thirty years.
Prices go up, healthcare needs increase, and unexpected cost pop pop.
Without planning, even a healthy retirement nest, THAG can start
to look smaller than you'd like.

Speaker 13 (24:25):
And it's not just about the money you spend on
fun things like travel. The biggest wildcard is healthcare. There
are estimates that a sixty five year old couple retiring
today may need close to three hundred thousand dollars just
for medical expenses in retirement, and that doesn't even include
long term care.

Speaker 12 (24:41):
That's a huge number. So how do we plan for
longevity risk? The first step is identifying what income sources
you know you'll have, things like Social Security, pensions, or
rental income. Then compare that to your actual expenses. If
there's a gap, that's where we need to strategize.

Speaker 13 (24:56):
One approach is to create guaranteed income streams. That might
mean annuities that provide lifetime payments or other tools that
make sure you have a retirement paycheck coming in no
matter how long you live. That way, you're not relying
only on market performance.

Speaker 12 (25:11):
And another strategy is being thoughtful about when to take
Social Security. If you wait until age seventy, your monthly
benefit could be thirty percent higher than if you take
it at sixty two. That bigger check can make a
huge difference if you live into your nineties.

Speaker 13 (25:23):
That's a great point. Another part of planning is how
you withdraw from your savings. Without a plan, people sometimes
take too much too early and then struggle later. Setting
a withdrawal strategy, whether that's the four percent guideline or
a more personalized plan, can help keep your money working
for you.

Speaker 9 (25:40):
And don't forget about inflation.

Speaker 12 (25:42):
Over thirty years, the cost of everyday items doubles or
even triples. A gallon of milk, a tank of gas,
your utility bill, those things will not stay the same.
That's why even in retirement, you still need some growth
investment to keep pace with rising prices.

Speaker 13 (25:55):
A balanced portfolio is key. It's not about going all
in on stocks or sitting in time in cash. It's
about finding that mix of growth, income, and safety that
matches your lifestyle and risk tolerance.

Speaker 12 (26:06):
And I think mindset plays a role too. We often
tell clients don't plan to just get to retirement, plan
to thrive through retirement. If you plan as if you'll
live to ninety five or beyond, you're covering all your bases.
Even if you don't make it that far, you're still
financially secure exactly.

Speaker 13 (26:21):
And let's be honest, running out of money is one
of the biggest fears people have, But with the right plan,
you can reduce that fear. You can know that no
matter how long you live you'll be okay.

Speaker 12 (26:31):
So here's the takeaway for our listeners today. Longevity is
a blessing, but it requires preparation. Build a plan that
includes guaranteed income, thought full draw strategies and investments that
grow with inflation.

Speaker 13 (26:41):
And don't wait until you're already retired to figure it out.
The earlier you start planning, the more options you have
to make your money last well said.

Speaker 12 (26:49):
So, if you're wondering whether you're a retirement plan could
last age ninety five or beyond, that's a great reason
to come sit down with us. We'll look at your income,
your savings, and your goals and help you build a
strategy to give you confidence in your future.

Speaker 13 (27:00):
Because at the end of the day, retirement isn't just
about stopping work. It's about living well for however long
you're blessed with precisely, Oh day, Mary Madeline. It was
a pleasure and I look forward to chatting with you
next week.

Speaker 9 (27:11):
Thanks Greg, I have a great reci your weekend.

Speaker 3 (27:13):
To get in touch with Greg Murray or Mary Madeline
Kelly or any member of the Kelly Financial team called
eight at eight eight hundred eighteen eighty one. Safe Money
Strategies with William Kelly and Kelly Kelly call the team
on eight eight, eight hundred, eighteen eighty one, Take.

Speaker 4 (27:36):
Care, Welcome back to save money Strategies. I'm Kelly Kelly
here with my son William Kelly, foll us here, pumpkins
on porches, football in full swing, the leaves beginning to change,
and you know, William. October is one of those months

(27:58):
where life seems to shift gears. The summer pace is gone,
the holiday rush has not hit yet and is the
perfect time to stop and ask am I on track
before the year ends?

Speaker 2 (28:11):
That's exactly right, mom. October is really like a recent month.
It's the start of the last quarter of the year
and it gives people the breathing room to check in
without the distraction of the holidays. By the time November
rolls around, life gets busy with Thanksgiving and family gatherings.
December it's holiday parties and year end everything. So October
is really the time to take a clear look and

(28:32):
ask am I where I want to be financially?

Speaker 4 (28:35):
And that's so important. At Kelley Financial, our team helps
clients with these checkups every single year. It's a chance
to see what's been accomplished and what still needs to
be done before the calendar flips. And what people always
tell us is how much peace of mind they feel
after going through this kind of review.

Speaker 2 (28:56):
Right, because it's not just about numbers on a page.
It's knowing that you're not head into the holidays with uncertainty.
I think people want to enjoy time with their families,
not sit at the dinner table worrying if they forgot
something critical about the retirement accounts or taxes exactly.

Speaker 4 (29:11):
And let's talk about some of the practical things that
make this season important. First, contributions, Many people start the
year with a goal for their retirement accounts, maybe it
was maxing out a four oh one K or making
steady contributions to an IRA. October is a great time
to check in and ask am I own pace or

(29:35):
do I need to make some adjustments before December thirty.

Speaker 2 (29:38):
First, and for retirees, the focus shifts require minimum distributions
are one of those things you can't ignore. Advisors help
clients pace those throughout the year, But for anyone who
hasn't checked at October is a reminder you don't want
to be dealing with that right in the middle of
the holiday season.

Speaker 5 (29:56):
And then there's tax planning.

Speaker 4 (29:57):
October gives you enough runway to think about whether there
are charitable gifts you'd like to make this year, or
whether there are other opportunities to manage taxes in a
thoughtful way. It's not about rushing, It's about having space
to make good decisions.

Speaker 2 (30:15):
Another big October item is healthcare. Medicare open enrollment begins
this month, and that's one of those things where options
change a year to year. The plan that fits your
needs last year might not look like the best one
this year. It's a good time to look at those
choices before the deadline sneaks.

Speaker 4 (30:30):
Up, and William, you touched on something earlier that I
think is worth emphasizing. Peace of mind this season is
about more than checklist. It's about knowing that when the
holidays come, you can actually enjoy them. You can sit
with your family at Thanksgiving dinner, watch a holiday movie,

(30:51):
or celebrate with friends without that nagging feeling that something
important was left undone.

Speaker 2 (30:58):
And I think that's what people really want, Mom. They
don't want to be up at night in December worrying
if they're ready. They want to feel organized, and October
is when that's possible.

Speaker 4 (31:07):
Yes, October really is that golden window after the busyness
of summer, but before the rush of the holidays. It's
a chance to pause, to look at where you are
and to make sure your financial life is aligned with
your goals.

Speaker 2 (31:23):
And for our listeners, if you're sitting there thinking, I
don't know if I've done my checkup this year, let
this be your son. Ask yourself. Have I contributed what
I planned? Have I thought about withdrawals or taxes? Have
I looked at my healthcare options? Even just asking those
questions now can give you a clear sense of direction.

Speaker 4 (31:40):
And if you don't have all the answers, that's okay.
That's what our advisors are here for. They love sitting
down with clients this time of year because it's about
clarity and confidence, and we'd love to help you too.

Speaker 2 (31:55):
If you like to sit down for a complimentary October checkup,
we'd be happy to schedule that for you.

Speaker 1 (32:00):
Just give us a call at eighty eight eight.

Speaker 2 (32:02):
Hundred and one eight eight one or email us at
Kelly at Kelly Financial dot org and our team will
help you set it up.

Speaker 4 (32:08):
October is the month to take action. Don't wait until
year end. Give yourself the gift of peace of mind,
so when the holidays arrive, you can truly be present
with your family, with your friends, and with yourself.

Speaker 2 (32:24):
And coming up after the break, we're going to switch
gears and talk about another topic that's close to our hearts.
How parents and grandparents can start financial conversations with their
kids and grandkids.

Speaker 4 (32:34):
Yes, that's one of my favorites. Stay with us, we'll
be right back.

Speaker 3 (32:43):
Save Money Strategies brought to you by Kelly Financial Services.
Call eight eight eight eight hundred eighteen eighty one or
visit Kellyfinancial dot org.

Speaker 14 (32:53):
Ready to enjoy your golden years without worry. At Kelly Financial,
we know retirement planning can be overwhelming. With more than
twenty two years of experience, our friendly team of advisors
makes it easy and stress free. Trust us to help
you create a secure and enjoyable future. For a free
initial retirement consultation, called eight eight eight eight hundred eighteen

(33:16):
eighty one or email Kelly at Kellyfinancial dot org. We're
Kelly Financial. Come retire with.

Speaker 3 (33:22):
Us Safe money strategies with William Kelly and Kelly Kelly.
Call the team on eight eight eight hundreds eighteen eighty
one year.

Speaker 4 (33:36):
Welcome back to save money Strategies. I'm Kelly Kelly here
with my son William. You know, William, one of the
most rewarding things about our work is when families come
in together, parents, children, sometimes even grandchildren, all sitting around
the same table. That's when the planning really comes to life.

Speaker 2 (33:59):
It is mom Honestly, I think that's one of the
most overlooked parts of financial planning. You can have the
accounts in the paperwork, but if the family doesn't understand
the why, then a big piece is missing.

Speaker 5 (34:09):
Exactly.

Speaker 4 (34:10):
It's not just about leaving money, it's about leaving wisdom,
passing down values, lessons and stories. If those conversations aren't happening,
we leave the next generation guessing.

Speaker 1 (34:24):
Here's the thing. I see this all the time with
my own generation.

Speaker 2 (34:28):
A lot of my friends are curious about money, but
they don't always know where to start. They might be
afraid to ask their parents or feel like finances are
too complicated. But when families open the door, those conversations
make a huge difference.

Speaker 5 (34:40):
That's such a good point.

Speaker 4 (34:42):
And William, you've already written a book for Generation Z
and I love that you put down the lessons you
wish every young person could know.

Speaker 2 (34:51):
Yes, and they're simple lessons. How to make a budget,
how to avoid credit card debt.

Speaker 1 (34:56):
Why starting early with investing matters so much.

Speaker 2 (34:58):
These aren't complicated topics, but if no one ever explains them,
young people can feel lost. That's why I think families
play such an important role. It doesn't have to be
a classroom lecture. It can be a parent sharing how
they save, or a grandparent talking about a financial lesson
they learn the hard way.

Speaker 4 (35:14):
And from the retirement side is also about beneficiaries.

Speaker 5 (35:18):
We've seen some families who.

Speaker 4 (35:20):
Did all the paperwork perfectly but never explained anything to
their children, and then when the time came, there was
confusion and sometimes conflict.

Speaker 5 (35:31):
That's why communication is so essential.

Speaker 2 (35:34):
Right and a simple family talk can prevent so much
of that. Even just saying here's what we put in place,
here's why we made these decisions, and here's who you
can call if something happens. It clears away the mystery
and it helps kids and grandkids feel like they're part
of the plan, not just left in the dark.

Speaker 4 (35:50):
It doesn't have to be formal, it doesn't have to
be intimidating. It could be over Sunday dinner or on
a holiday wall. What matters is just starting, and honestly,
holidays can be some of the best times when families
are already together sharing stories. That's when these conversations can

(36:13):
flow naturally. A Thanksgiving dinner or a Christmas gathering may
not seem like the place for financial talks, but sometimes
a simple comment like here's what we've learned or here's
what matters to us can spark a meaningful discussion.

Speaker 2 (36:32):
I like that because with my generation, conversations often happen casually.
We'll talk about student loans or saving for our first
home while hanging out with friends. It doesn't feel formal,
and it makes it easier. The same to be true
for families bringing up money in a way that feels natural,
not forced.

Speaker 4 (36:47):
For me, one of the earliest financial lessons came when
Dad took you to open your first savings account. You
were seven years old, and it wasn't.

Speaker 5 (36:57):
About the amount. It was about vixbyperience.

Speaker 4 (37:01):
Watching the numbers grow, even just a little, gave you
a sense of empowerment.

Speaker 2 (37:07):
Exactly, and that memory stuck with me. It made me
feel like this is something I can manage. That's the
power of a simple lesson. It doesn't fade.

Speaker 4 (37:15):
And that's why your dad, Bill Kelly believes so strongly
in teaching financial discipline. Early he used to say that
money is a tool, and like any tool, you have
to learn how to handle it. He believed in responsibility,
but he also believed in generosity, using money wisely but
also for the good. Those lessons are a part of

(37:37):
the legacy he left and their lessons worth passing down.

Speaker 2 (37:42):
And that's really the heart of it. These conversations aren't
just about dollars and cents. They're about values. When kids
and grandkids hear stories, whether it's about saving, giving, or
even mistakes that were made, it shapes how they see
money for the rest of their lives.

Speaker 4 (37:55):
And for our dear listeners, I want to say this,
you don't have to have every answer, you don't have
to be the expert in every financial detail.

Speaker 5 (38:06):
That's what advisors are here for.

Speaker 4 (38:08):
But you can start the conversation and starting is the
most important step.

Speaker 2 (38:14):
And if you'd like to support, we'd love to help.
At Kelly Financial. Our fiduciary advisors are here as a
resource for you and your family. Whether it's questions about retirement,
planning for the future, or just beginning that dialogue with
your children.

Speaker 1 (38:27):
We can guide you.

Speaker 4 (38:28):
And if you've been thinking I really should talk to
my children about this, let this be your nudge.

Speaker 5 (38:35):
Don't wait, start now.

Speaker 1 (38:37):
Schedule conversation.

Speaker 2 (38:39):
Just give us a call at eighty to eight eight
hundred and eighty one or email us at Kelly at
Kelly Financial dot org.

Speaker 1 (38:44):
We'd be happy to help you take the first step.

Speaker 5 (38:47):
Stay with us.

Speaker 4 (38:48):
We've got more financial content coming your way on safe
money strategies.

Speaker 3 (38:56):
Safe money Strategies brought to you by Kelly Final Services.
Call eight eight eight eight hundred eighteen eighty one. Oh
visit Kelly Financial dot hogy.

Speaker 1 (39:08):
It's the coooner Man.

Speaker 8 (39:10):
I've got something truly special for you. Join me on Wednesday,
October fifteenth from four to six pm for a live
event at the iHeart Boston Studios in Medford with the
incredible team from Kelly Financial Services. We'll be talking about
the things that matter the most, family relationships, today's biggest headlines,
from politics to culture and everything in between. And that's

(39:33):
not all. You'll get a chance to hear about William
Kelly's brand new book, Meet the Kelly Financial Family Tour
the iHeartMedia Studios where the magic of radio comes to life.
There'll be food, drinks, prizes, plenty of unforgettable conversations. Space
is limited, so reserve your spot now called eight eight

(39:53):
eight eight hundred eighteen eighty one. Eight eight eight eight
hundred eighteen eighty one. I can't wait to see you all.
It's all there. Advisory services offered through Kelly Financial Services
and SEC Registered Investment Advisor.

Speaker 9 (40:10):
Welcome back if you just joined us.

Speaker 10 (40:12):
We've been talking about the fed's upcoming meeting, and another
major factor influencing the fed's October decision is inflation. Even
though the FED cut rates in September, inflation hasn't fully cooled,
and that creates a real challenge.

Speaker 1 (40:25):
That's right, Mike.

Speaker 11 (40:26):
The fed's preferred measure, core personal consumption expenditures or PCE,
rows two point nine percent year over year in August
twenty twenty five. It's still running above their target of
two percent, and.

Speaker 9 (40:40):
Every day consumers failed in their wallets.

Speaker 10 (40:42):
Food prices, for example, are up about four percent, housing
costs around six percent, and energy prices continue to fluctuate.
Tariffs on certain imported goods like electronics in clothing at
another layer of upward pressure exactly.

Speaker 11 (40:55):
Even moderate inflation affects budgets, particularly for families with fixed
in cups. When prices rise faster than wages, purchasing power,
eroads and discretionary spending often gets delayed.

Speaker 9 (41:08):
From the FEDS perspective, they have to weigh the.

Speaker 10 (41:10):
Risk of letting inflation accelerate against the risk of stalling
the economy. Cutting rates too quickly can reignite price pressure,
while moving too slowly could slow hiring and economic growth.

Speaker 11 (41:21):
And let's not forget the timing of economic data the FED.
We'll see the September Consumer Price Index or CPI on
October fifteenth, just two weeks before the meeting. That report
could dramatically influence their decision, especially if prices come in
higher than expected.

Speaker 10 (41:40):
So for our listeners, monitoring these inflation indicators is critical.
They affect not just investment returns, but also practical decisions
like when to refinance a mortgage, delay big purchase, or
just spending habits.

Speaker 11 (41:53):
In short, inflation isn't just an abstract number. It's something
that affects take home pay, investment portfolio, and even the
Fed's next steps. Understanding the trends helps you anticipate changes
and protect your financial position.

Speaker 10 (42:07):
Exactly, and with the FED balancing inflation and employment pressure,
the October meeting promises to be one of the most
closely watched in recent years.

Speaker 11 (42:17):
Right Mike for our listeners, The end of the year
is a critical time for portfolio management. Historically, the fourth
quarter October through December is the strongest period for the
stock market. Since nineteen fifty. The S and P five
hundred has averaged gains of over four percent in the

(42:37):
fourth quarter, rising about eighty percent of the time.

Speaker 10 (42:41):
That's true, Greg, but don't forget October is historically volatile.

Speaker 9 (42:46):
Some of the largest market.

Speaker 10 (42:47):
Swings occur in this month, even though the overall trend
for the quarter is usually upward.

Speaker 11 (42:52):
And then there's the classic Santa Claus rally. Positive returns
often happen in the last trading days of December and
the the first few days of January. Investor psychology, gearin,
portfolio rebalancing, and holiday optimism probably all play a role.

Speaker 10 (43:09):
For Q four twenty twenty five. Several factors will influence performance. First,
the fed's expected rate cuts could boost market confidence and
reduce borrowing costs for businesses and consumers.

Speaker 11 (43:20):
At the same time, inflation has remained sticky above that
two percent FED target that could temper the pace of
rate cuts and keep markets cautious.

Speaker 10 (43:31):
Economic indicators are mixed. On the positive side, consumer spending
remains resilient and tech sector investments, especially in AI, continue
to grow, but signs of a slower labor market and
cautious lower income consumers add uncertainty.

Speaker 11 (43:47):
The US market, particularly large cap tech and all the
AI related stocks, have shown strong resilience throughout twenty twenty five,
driven by impressive earnings growth Diversely, International markets, both developed
and emerging have underperformed, pressured by geopolitical risks and regional

(44:09):
economic issues.

Speaker 10 (44:10):
Policy matters to the twenty twenty four US election resulted
in a red sweep, which is expected to support equities
through pro growth policies, tax cuts, and deregulation. However, concerns
remain about potential inflationary effects from tariffs and international trade tensions.

Speaker 11 (44:28):
Given these factors, here are some practical strategies we urge
clients to focus on quality and growth. High quality companies
with strong earnings and lower debt levels tend to be
more resilient during economic fluctuations and market turbulence. Second, defensive
positioning sectors like consumer staples and dividend paying stocks can

(44:50):
help balance portfolios and reduce volatility. And finally, the third
point bond market caution. Consider shorter duration bonds and higher
qualit credit given uncertainty in both rates and fiscal pressures.

Speaker 10 (45:04):
Let's give a reil world example. A retiree relying on
fixed income may see CD yields decrease with rate cuts.
Adding dividend paying stocks can help maintain income while it's
still keeping risk controlled.

Speaker 11 (45:16):
And for growth investors, the tech sector, especially the AI investments,
could provide opportunities, but remember diversification is key. Balancing high
growth positions with defensive assets protects your portfolio if volatility spikes.

Speaker 9 (45:31):
Finally, year end strategies matter.

Speaker 10 (45:33):
Many investors engage in tax loss harvesting in October and November,
which can influence market momentum, and holiday spending often provides
an additional boost to consumer driven sectors.

Speaker 11 (45:44):
So, to summarize for the fourth quarter in twenty twenty five,
history favors a positive result. Rate cuts may provide additional tailwinds.
Tech and AI continue to drive growth, defensive assets provide stability,
and geopolitical and inflation risks must be monitored.

Speaker 9 (46:02):
That's right for our listeners.

Speaker 10 (46:04):
Understanding these patterns and strategies can help the difference between
reacting to the market and positioning yourself to benefit from
seasonal and economic trends well, Greg, This brings us to
the end of today's show. We've covered a lot the
fed's upcoming October meeting, the history of rate changes, labor
market trends, inflation, global and political factors, and a deep

(46:24):
dive into fourth quarter market history for twenty twenty five.

Speaker 1 (46:28):
Absolutely, Mike.

Speaker 11 (46:28):
For our listeners, the takeaway is that the Fed's decisions
affect much more than just interest rates alone. They impact
borrowing costs, consumer spending, business investment, and ultimately portfolio performance.
Understanding the interplay between these factors can help you make
more informed decisions.

Speaker 10 (46:47):
Finally, remember that investing in financial planning our long term games,
the FED, inflation, geopolitical risks will continue to influence the market.
By keeping your focus on your goals and using strategies
like diversification, defensive positioning, and growth allocation will help you
stay on track.

Speaker 1 (47:04):
That's right, Mike, For anyone listening.

Speaker 11 (47:07):
If you want help reviewing your portfolio or developing a
strategy tailored to your goals, reach out to us today
at Kelly Financial Services. Being proactive today can make a big,
big difference tomorrow.

Speaker 1 (47:20):
With that, I'm Greg Workman.

Speaker 10 (47:22):
And I'm Mike you said, thank you for tuning in
to safe money strategies.

Speaker 8 (47:31):
Joining us now as she always does at this time,
she's the co founder, CEO, president of Kelly Financial Services.
And yes, that is her wonderful name, Kelly, Kelly, Kelly.

Speaker 15 (47:49):
How are you good morning, Jeff, I am good.

Speaker 6 (47:54):
When it comes to retirement, women often face a different journey.
We live longer, we sometimes earn less, and many of
us step out of the workforce to care for family.
That's why it's so important to have a retirement plan
designed with women in mind. We continue to share our
popular and valuable guide Ten Tips to Empower Women Investors

(48:18):
is filled with practical strategies like.

Speaker 15 (48:21):
Keeping money in your own.

Speaker 6 (48:22):
Name, paying yourself first, facing financial fears.

Speaker 15 (48:27):
Head on, and planning for your family's future.

Speaker 6 (48:31):
These steps help give you confidence and control.

Speaker 15 (48:34):
Over your financial destiny.

Speaker 5 (48:36):
Your retirement deserves.

Speaker 15 (48:38):
A plan that's as strong and unique as you are.
To request your free copy, Just give us a call
or email us at Kelly at Kellyfinancial dot org. And Jeff,
We're so excited for our vent with you on October fifteenth.
This is getting closer and we cannot wait.

Speaker 1 (48:55):
I'm looking forward to it. We're going to have it
at the iHeart Studio.

Speaker 8 (48:59):
I'm going to be talking about current events, family, obviously,
everything Kelly Financial has done for the Kooner Report. I'm
so looking forward to it, and I believe there are
still a few tickets you can grab if you want
to come. Eight eighty eight eight hundred, eighteen eighty one
eight eight eight eight hundred eighteen eighty one Kelly, have

(49:22):
a wonderful weekend.

Speaker 3 (49:28):
Safe Money Strategies A eight eight hundred one eight eight one.

Speaker 4 (49:35):
This week we hear Bill Kelly share a story about
how one opportunity and the willingness to work for it
changed the direction of his life from hauling trash and
providence to proudly serving his country through the US Air Force.
It's a reminder of the power of perseverance and a
helping hand.

Speaker 5 (49:56):
Here's Bill Kelly.

Speaker 16 (49:59):
My first real job, how about a school, was hauling
trash for a foundation that restored homes built before eighteen
hundred and named, aptly enough, the Restoration Foundation. Generally, the
trash man would be laid off for the winner, so
I figured I would end up collecting unemployment for a while.
I was talking to gramp one day and mentioned that
I was expecting to be unemployed that winner and wasn't

(50:21):
sure where I really wanted to go to school. Graham said, well,
go down to the unemployment office and see Mary Hackett.
There might be something there for you a little better
than unemployment. This was my first political favor because I
had driven for the Democrats for two years since I
had gotten my license. I always worked the phones and
helped out at the polls whenever I could, and my

(50:42):
parents were staunch Irish Catholic Democrats. My mother held tees
and gatherings in her living room. I went down to
the Unemployment office and spoke with Mary Hackett, who said,
there's a program that will send you to electronics school.
Back then, New England Institute of Technology was nowhere nearly
as well formed as it is now. It was just
a small school in Providence. Mary then said, what we're

(51:05):
going to do is pay you eighty dollars a week
while you go to New England Tech, and then when
you're done, we'll place you somewhere for employment. She added,
But if you can find an employer to sponsor you
and a state, they will hire you when you leave
New England Tech, you can have this scholarship. They were
going to pay the tuition and pay me eighty dollars

(51:26):
a week to go to school. I told her that
sounded like a great deal. I went to one of
the electronics firms in Providence and told them what I
wanted to do. They said they would write me a
letter when I graduated, and during the summer I could
come and work for them. But it was a year
round school, so I set everything up. I went to
radio Shack and got some electronics kits, then borrowed books

(51:47):
from the library. I experimented and made all kinds of
devices in my bedroom, really learning about electronic circuitry in
the process. In the middle of the summer, when I
visited New England Tech, they showed me what I would
be doing, so I got a couple of the textbooks
and started studying Early. My bedroom looked like some kind
of laboratory. Then Dad met an air Force recruiter at

(52:09):
a Knights of Columbus meeting. The recruiter said, they're looking
for people who want to learn computer science. They'll teach
you everything you need to know, but you have to
pass an aptitude test. When he told me about it,
I said I wanted to give it a shot. In
speaking with the Air Force recruiter, Sergeant Frye, I mentioned
I had a full scholarship to learn electronics and asked

(52:30):
him if he had anything better. He said, yes, the
F fifteen. That was thirty five years ago and the
plane was brand new. He continued, the F fifteen is
going to be completely computer tested. We'll put you in
school for a year and a half, but you'll have
to sign up for six years. We'll get you at
least an associate's degree out of the deal, and we'll
help you with some other tuition. We need people, so

(52:52):
if you can pass this aptitude test, we'll enroll you
in the school. I told him I hadn't really started
at New England Tech, but had been studying like crazy,
so I would go ahead and take the test. I
scored a ninety eight in electronics. Sergeant fry said, I
think you can get this but are you willing to
take that risk. You'll have to sign up for a

(53:13):
six year stay, but if you do, we'll guarantee you
in advanced technical school in Denver. So I did it.
The scholarship to New England Tech had to be returned. John,
my fellow trash truck driver, was very interested in electronics.
I told him I wasn't going to take the scholarship
and suggested we go to the unemployment office to see
if he could have it. We went and spoke to

(53:34):
missus Hackett. I told her I had been accepted to
a two year school at the Air Force Technical Center
in Denver, and I really wanted to pursue that. Later on,
John got accepted and took my place at New England Tech.
Theoretically I never took the welfare, but I was prepared to.
The Government would have been giving me money while I
was going to school and not working. So I went

(53:56):
to school in Denver and learned how to do the
computerized testing of fifteen aircraft. It was the first of
its type. They sent me all over the world. For
six years. I was constantly in school and made fabulous
money when I got out. That delayed my going back
to college even more. On my first job out of
the Air Force, I was earning well in excess of

(54:18):
one hundred thousand dollars. Incredibly enough, it was totally worth
the struggle. Believe me, Getting that first meeting with Mary
Hackett did me a favor. Anyone can know anyone else
who's six degrees of separation, and that's all you need.
So I had an assisted launch. Then again, I ended
up knowing I had that help and took a further

(54:38):
little jump off the perch to try to better myself.
I knew my baseline was going to be attending New
England Tech and having a job in electronics technology. Knowing
that made me feel a lot better. But I ended
up having a fabulous technical education and a fabulous job.
I traveled the world, helped defend the country, and then
put on my civilian hat again. That journey ended up

(54:59):
being a a great ten year period in my life.
I was single and didn't have my own family then,
but I was not in despair, nor was I asking
the government to take care of my entire life and
do everything for me. I just needed a little bit
of a boost, which I got, and it dramatically changed
my life. At that time, A helping hand often seems
to work better than just giving someone total welfare. It's

(55:21):
that old hand up instead of a hand out. There
was a path to improvement for me, a path that
went onward and upward. I'm sure there's also a way
out for others today. However, I don't think the way
out is by fundamentally transforming our government into a quasi
communist beloadd bureaucracy in which we have to share the
wealth with everyone. We weren't told that anyone was going

(55:44):
to share his or her wealth with us when we
were growing up. We were told, you have to get
a job.

Speaker 3 (55:53):
Nicole Kelly Financial Services eight eight hundred eighteen eighty one