In this engaging episode of the Tom Dupree Show, local financial advisor Tom Dupree sits down with his son James to discuss Kentucky retirement planning, personalized investment management, and the evolution of investing over the past four decades. This conversation offers valuable insights for both young investors starting their wealth-building journey and pre-retirees seeking direct access to portfolio managers who understand their unique financial goals.

Tom Dupree, founder of Dupree Financial Group, brings decades of experience in fee-based retirement investing, while James provides a millennial perspective on modern investment tools and strategies. Together, they explore the fundamental differences between their personalized investment management approach and mass-market investment firms.

The investment landscape has transformed dramatically since Tom began his career at age 21. Where investors once paid 5% commissions through traditional stockbrokers, today’s platforms like Robinhood have democratized market access. However, this accessibility doesn’t automatically translate to financial success.

Key insights from the discussion:

“The average person has a lot more access to information about financial matters if they’re willing to study it and try to learn about it.” – Tom Dupree

What sets personalized investment management apart from algorithmic or momentum-based strategies? The Duprees emphasize the importance of understanding the companies behind the stocks, not just following market trends.

James discusses his role in booking meetings with companies in their portfolio – a hands-on approach that exemplifies their commitment to fundamental analysis investing:

“We’re directly talking to these companies, doing our own research. Some other companies may not do that and they’ll invest in a stock just because it has momentum… they’re not really looking at the fundamentals of the company.”

While fundamental analysis drives long-term investment decisions, technical analysis helps optimize entry and exit points:

Today’s young adults face unique obstacles to wealth accumulation:

James Dupree’s recommendations for young investors:

“Make rules for yourself. Create a plan. And try to be as consistent as possible with that plan… if you do it over and over again, it’s gonna work out for you.” – James Dupree

The conversation highlights a crucial wealth-building principle: starting early with modest amounts can yield extraordinary results. A simple $50 monthly investment beginning at age 25 can accumulate significantly more than larger contributions starting later in life.

Both Tom and James emphasize that successful investing mirrors other disciplines requiring long-term commitment:

Local financial advisors offer distinct advantages over large national firms:

Tom specifically mentions the unique challenges facing retirees:

The discussion reveals concerning gaps in financial education, particularly among young women. Tom notes that women often express interest in learning about investing but may lack confidence or specific knowledge.

Key observations:

“The largest growing part of the population as far as wealth… is women. They need to understand how to do it. They could be great at it.” – Tom Dupree

While embracing technological tools for research and analysis, the Duprees maintain focus on time-tested investment principles:

The conversation warns against common pitfalls of modern investing:

James expresses his career goal of becoming a fund manager, representing the next generation of personalized investment management professionals. His background combines traditional fundamental analysis education with modern technological tools and millennial perspectives on market dynamics.

Whether you’re a young investor just starting your financial journey or a pre-retiree seeking Kentucky retirement planning guidance, the principles discussed in this episode provide a solid foundation for long-term financial success.

At Dupree Financial Group, we specialize in personalized investment management that combines decades of experience with innovative research techniques. Our local financial advisor approach means you work directly with portfolio managers who understand your unique financial situation and regional economic factors.

Take the Next Step:

Contact Information: Dupree Financial Group

Phone: (859) 233-0400

Website: dupreefinancial.com

This episode of the Tom Dupree Show was brought to you by Dupree Financial Group, where we make your money work for you. Subscribe to our podcast for weekly insights on retirement planning, investment strategies, and wealth building techniques tailored for Kentucky investors.

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In this episode of the Tom Dupree Show, Kentucky retirement planning Registered Investment Advisor Tom Dupree draws unexpected parallels between William Faulkner’s masterpiece “The Sound and the Fury” and modern investment principles. Broadcasting from downtown Lexington, Tom demonstrates how classic literature offers profound insights into human behavior – the very foundation of successful financial planning and investment management.

Tom revisits Faulkner’s 1929 classic, originally read during his college years, and discovers new layers of meaning that directly apply to investment behavior and financial decision-making. The Compson family’s decline serves as a powerful metaphor for how poor financial habits and dysfunctional family dynamics can destroy generational wealth.

Key Investment Insights from Literature:

“The investment business is human behavior. You can look at families and most families are what we call dysfunctional in one way or another… Having seen these behaviors for all these years, this story makes so much more sense to me.”

In this episode, Kentucky’s rich musical heritage is discussed, featuring stories about Barbara Mandrell’s impact on Nashville and George Jones’s connection to Rockcastle County. These cultural touchstones highlight the importance of understanding local heritage.

Tom addresses critical Lexington economic concerns that directly affect retirement planning and investment security:

Economic Development Challenges:

Impact on Retirement Planning:

“If you make an income in this town, you’re paying two and a quarter percent to your occupational tax and they still can’t balance the budget.”

Tom’s approach to financial planning emphasizes the importance of observation – a skill honed through decades of studying literature, music, and local culture. This methodology directly benefits clients seeking personalized investment management in Kentucky.

Core Investment Principles:

The discussion highlights how current economic and social changes in Kentucky affect retirement planning strategies for residents aged 50-65:

Key Considerations:

Tom advocates for returning to classic literature and cultural education as tools for better understanding human behavior and market dynamics. This educational philosophy extends to client relationships at Dupree Financial Group.

Educational Benefits for Investors:

“Go back and read some good works of fiction and literature from years ago and see if it doesn’t mean something different to you today. Classics are classics because they’re classics.”

Whether you’re inspired by the literary insights or concerned about local economic challenges, now is the time to take control of your financial future. Schedule a complimentary portfolio review to discover how personalized investment management can help you navigate uncertain times.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Contact Dupree Financial Group: Phone: (859) 233-0400 Email: [email protected]

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Episode Air Date: July 19, 2025

Are you approaching retirement with a portfolio you don’t truly understand? In this week’s Financial Hour, Kentucky retirement planning experts Tom Dupree and Mike Johnson reveal why knowing what you own could be the difference between a secure retirement and financial uncertainty.

Retirement as we know it is changing dramatically. As Tom explains, “Retirement, as it’s defined today, really didn’t come about until the 1930s to 1970s.” With people living longer and facing late career job losses, the traditional retirement model no longer works for many Americans.

Unlike large firms that assign you to an “investment counselor,” Dupree Financial Group provides direct access to portfolio managers who understand your unique situation. As Tom emphasizes:

“When we’re looking at a company, we’re not owning it because it’s a large growth stock. We’re owning it because we like the company. It’s got characteristics, the cash flow of the investment.”

Many pre-retirees don’t realize their “conservative” investments have become riskier due to recent Morningstar style box reclassifications. Mike Johnson explains how supposedly stable large blend funds now carry higher volatility:

“Large blend funds have become more like a growth fund. Value funds have become more like a blend fund, which means you actually have higher volatility.”

This means your retirement portfolio may be taking on more risk than you realize.

The mechanics of mutual funds work against long-term retirement investors. When you own individual stocks through separate account management:

As Tom notes: “Your money is always your money, and there are no penalties to get it back.”

The numbers are only half the retirement equation. Tom shares insights about clients who were financially prepared but emotionally unprepared for retirement:

“They hadn’t been planning for the emotional part of it. They looked at it like it was an engineering problem. But it wasn’t. It’s a human being problem.”

Don’t retire with a portfolio you don’t understand. At Dupree Financial Group, we provide complimentary portfolio reviews to help you understand exactly what you own and whether it aligns with your retirement goals.

Ready to take control of your retirement planning?

Schedule Your Free Consultation | Call (859) 233-0400

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Are you facing unexpected financial challenges or wondering how recent health policy changes might affect your investment portfolio? In this episode of The Tom Dupree Show, Kentucky financial advisor Tom Dupree combines decades of investment experience with biblical wisdom to help Christian investors through market uncertainty. From discussing the spiritual aspects of financial suffering to analyzing RFK’s health policies and their market implications, this episode offers unique insights for conservative-minded investors aged 50 and above.

Tom opens with a reading from 2 Corinthians, exploring how biblical principles apply to financial uncertainty and investment challenges. Drawing from his 47 years in the investment business, he explains how unexpected market events can serve as opportunities for growth and deeper faith.

“What differentiates pain from suffering is not knowing when it’s gonna end… If the markets didn’t get messed up from time to time, prices would never get to where they become attractive enough to buy.”

The devastating Texas floods serve as a stark reminder of the importance of comprehensive financial planning and emergency preparedness. Tom discusses how unexpected disasters can impact investment portfolios and retirement plans.

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s appointment as head of Health and Human Services and the potential market implications of his health policy reforms.

“If the only good thing that came out of the Trump administration was what Bobby Kennedy is doing in the area of food and drugs and health, it would be worth it 10 times over.”

Tom addresses how political divisions can cloud sound investment judgment, using examples of how partisan thinking affects financial decision-making.

Drawing from nearly five decades of experience, Tom shares his investment philosophy centered on research, long-term relationships, and putting clients first.

“We do all our own research, and we keep our clients informed and educated about where their money is going and why.”

The episode includes insights about the Kennedy family’s Honey Fitz yacht restoration, connecting historical wealth management principles to modern conservative values.

Tom’s analysis of food industry regulations and health policies provides valuable insights for investors concerned about sector-specific risks.

Based on the episode discussion, here are the key action items for investors aged 50 and above:

If you’re concerned about how regulatory changes, market volatility, or unexpected events might affect your retirement plans, it’s time for a professional portfolio review. At Dupree Financial Group, we combine 47 years of investment experience with conservative values and biblical principles to help Kentucky families build lasting wealth.

Schedule Your Complimentary Portfolio Analysis Today

Don’t let uncertainty derail your retirement dreams. Our team provides personalized investment strategies designed for investors aged 50 and above who value conservative, research-based approaches to wealth management.

📞 Call us at (859) 233-0400 🌐 Schedule online at dupreefinancial.com

#FinancialPlanningKentucky #ChristianInvesting #ConservativeInvestor #RetirementPlanningKY #BiblicalWealth #KentuckyFinancialAdvisor #InvestmentWisdom #TomDupreeShow #FinancialSuffering #RFKHealthPolicy

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Please consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Episode Length: Approximately 45 minutes Host: Tom Dupree Jr., Dupree Financial Group Published: July 12, 2025 Location: Kentucky

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Are you a pre-retiree in Lexington, KY, approaching retirement while markets sit at historic highs? In this episode of The Financial Hour, Lexington-based financial advisors Tom Dupree and Mike Johnson break down critical retirement planning strategies for pre-retirees navigating today’s investment landscape. Learn why simple “set it and forget it” approaches may not be enough and discover personalized investment management insights for protecting and growing your retirement wealth.

With markets reaching unprecedented levels in July 2025, many pre-retirees are questioning their investment strategies. As Tom Dupree explains in the episode:

“The market is effectively as high as it’s ever been… we’re sitting here in the middle of July when it used to be most of the market participants were gone on summer vacation.”

The traditional “sell in May and go away” market strategy no longer applies in today’s 24/7 trading environment. For pre-retirees, this means:

Many pre-retirees rely heavily on S&P 500 funds in their 401(k) plans without understanding the underlying components. The episode reveals a critical shift happening in 2025:

“When you look at the magnificent seven stocks, specifically from their all time high to where they are now, when you look at ’em as a group, it’s basically been a nothing burger.”

Key Portfolio Insights for Pre-Retirees:

One of the most important decisions pre-retirees face is how to handle pension distributions. The show provides essential guidance:

“Always do the analysis… If you have a fully funded pension that has the right to do a lump sum rollover. Always do the analysis before anybody talks you into annuitizing it.”

Warning Signs to Watch:

Unlike large investment firms that use one-size-fits-all approaches, the episode emphasizes the importance of personalized financial planning for pre-retirees in Kentucky. This addresses a critical gap in the market where many investors receive generic advice that doesn’t account for their unique circumstances.

“Anybody that gives you cookie cutter investment, retirement investment advice, they’re not getting to know your situation.”

Key Differences in Personalized Wealth Management:

For Lexington area pre-retirees, understanding your investment strategy reduces anxiety and improves decision-making:

“People get the most afraid about stuff they don’t understand. They’re scared of what, of things they can’t see and cannot understand.”

Benefits of Working with Financial Professionals:

The discussion of historical technology adoption provides valuable context for pre-retirees:

Automobile Industry Parallels (1900-1940):

Modern Technology Examples:

As you approach retirement, remember that successful wealth management requires more than hoping market trends continue. The episode reinforces a crucial point:

“A dollar amount in and of itself isn’t the end game. It’s the use of the dollars… what it can produce in terms of income, because you got bills to pay every month.”

Your retirement planning should focus on:

Don’t let market uncertainty derail your retirement plans. Whether you’ve been listening for years or this is your first episode, now is the time to take action with local financial advisors who understand your unique needs.

Schedule your complimentary portfolio review today:

Unlike mass-market investment firms, Dupree Financial Group provides personalized investment management with direct access to decision-makers. Learn exactly what you own in your portfolio and how it aligns with your retirement timeline.

“If you don’t know what you own, you need to and we can help.”

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Are you one of the millions of Americans unknowingly putting your retirement at risk with target date funds? In this episode of The Tom Dupree Show, financial advisors Tom Dupree Jr. and Mike Johnson expose the hidden dangers lurking in your 401K plan and reveal why your 401K planning strategy needs immediate attention.

If you’re approaching retirement or have already retired, this episode could help save your financial future. Tom breaks down recent Vanguard data showing that over 80% of 401 (k) participants are using target-date funds – and why this trend should concern every serious retirement saver.

Target-date funds have become the default choice for millions of workers, but as Tom explains, “The market is your advisor” when you choose these seemingly safe investments. This autopilot approach to retirement savings removes all customization and personal attention from your financial strategy.

Tom and Mike reveal several critical issues with target-date funds that could derail your retirement:

“Target date funds are not about you, the investor. They’re about the plan sponsor covering their, you know what? That’s what they’re about.” – Tom Dupree Jr.

The episode delves into how target-date funds performed during 2022’s market turmoil. For investors with 2023 target dates, the supposedly conservative 70% bond allocation got “smacked” when interest rates rose dramatically.

“This was supposed to be conservative, right? But the target date fund has no concept of what’s going on.” – Tom Dupree Jr.

One of the most overlooked aspects of 401K planning involves abandoned 401K accounts from previous employers. Tom and Mike discuss how job-hopping, while often beneficial for salary increases, can leave valuable retirement funds stranded.

“Probably over half of the business that we get… we’re not taking business away from other broker dealers as much as we are taking business from existing retirement plans where the person probably doesn’t even have an advisor.” – Tom Dupree Jr.

For those aged 59½ and older, Tom reveals a powerful strategy: the 401K rollover through in-service distributions. This approach allows you to:

At Dupree Financial Group, the philosophy differs dramatically from target date fund assumptions. Instead of planning to liquidate principal in retirement, Tom advocates for:

“We believe that you have to have a robust but nimble investment plan that goes on after you retire… you’re not really gonna tweak or change that much. You’re probably just gonna set it up to where it pays out a distribution.” – Tom Dupree Jr.

The episode explores concerning volatility trends affecting retirement planning:

Don’t let your retirement savings operate on autopilot. Whether you have an abandoned 401K from a previous employer or want to explore 401K rollover options, professional guidance can make the difference between financial security and uncertainty in retirement.

Ready to take control of your retirement planning?

Additional Resources:

The Tom Dupree Show is brought to you by Dupree Financial Group, where we make your money work for you. Tom Dupree Jr. founded Dupree Financial Group on the principle that creating long-term relationships with people, not just their money, is the key to successful wealth management.

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In this episode of The Tom Dupree Show, financial advisor and host Tom Dupree delivers incisive political commentary while weaving in essential financial wisdom for investors. Broadcasting from Dupree Financial Group, Tom explores how federal holidays impact economic productivity, discusses the importance of historical literacy in investment decision-making, and shares biblical insights that inform his investment philosophy.

Tom Dupree examines the economic consequences of expanding federal holidays, specifically analyzing the recent establishment of Juneteenth as a federal holiday. As a seasoned financial advisor, Dupree calculates the productivity costs:

“When you really get down to it, you know, maybe 200, 180 to 200 days of real productivity in a year, and now you just took one away. So what does that really cost the economy? Billions.”

Dupree emphasizes how understanding history informs better financial decisions, drawing parallels between political movements and market cycles. His commentary on “No Kings Day” reflects deeper concerns about historical understanding that affect investor confidence.

Drawing from Ezekiel 26, Tom connects biblical prophecy about the ancient city of Tyre to modern investment principles, particularly regarding pride and arrogance in financial markets.

“Pride and arrogance, it always it, there’s an old saying, pride go with before a fall.”

Tom uses scenes from the 1985 comedy “Fletch” to illustrate points about research and investigation skills essential for financial advisors and investors alike.

Dupree Financial Group’s approach to investment management focuses on dividends and interest over speculative gains, particularly relevant during market volatility.

Ready to make your money work for you? Tom Dupree and his team at Dupree Financial Group offer comprehensive retirement planning services designed to build long-term wealth through strategic investment management.

Call us today at (859) 233-0400 or visit dupreefinancial.com to schedule your consultation directly from our homepage.

Our experienced team provides:

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The energy sector has been dramatically undervalued by the market, creating compelling opportunities for retirement investors seeking dividend income and portfolio diversification. With AI energy demand skyrocketing and traditional underinvestment in the sector, energy stocks for retirement portfolios deserve serious consideration.

Key Quote for Audiogram: “Oil and energy companies only make up about 3% of the indexes, right? They’re highly underinvested in, and the creep of society has been to ostracize and hate on energy companies.”

The energy sector represents only 3% of the S&P 500, yet it provides essential infrastructure for the global economy. This disconnect has created significant undervaluation opportunities for savvy retirement investors.

Major oil companies like Chevron and Exxon have maintained disciplined capital allocation while competitors like BP and Shell initially capitulated to environmental pressures, only to recently pivot back to core oil and gas operations.

Highlighted Quote: “You have a sector that’s been underinvested in both from a production standpoint and from just a capital standpoint, the market ignoring it.”

Artificial intelligence is creating unprecedented electricity demand through data centers that operate 24/7. This represents a massive tailwind for energy companies that retirement investors should understand.

The AI boom requires substantial power infrastructure, positioning energy companies to benefit from this long-term growth trend that extends far beyond typical commodity cycles.

Leading companies like EOG have transformed their business models to focus only on drilling prospects that can produce 25-30% return on invested capital. This shift from “wildcatter” mentality to methodical, real estate developer-like discipline creates more predictable returns for retirement investors.

Key Investment Principles:

Energy companies provide essential dividends for retirement income strategies. Unlike growth stocks that rely on capital appreciation, mature energy companies generate substantial cash flows that translate into reliable dividend payments.

Audiogram Quote: “We’re looking at creating a paycheck for you. It’s real simple. We don’t have to make it any more complicated than what it is. We’re trying to invest in things that will throw off enough money for you to pay your bills with.”

The fundamental reality is that oil demand continues to grow globally, regardless of political rhetoric. Shell Oil projects that upstream investment of around $600 billion annually will be required for decades due to natural field depletion rates.

Critical Insight: “The rate of depletion of oil and gas fields is two to three times the potential future annual declines in demand.”

Pipeline companies represent a different investment opportunity than exploration and production companies. These businesses transport oil and gas with regulated, utility-like characteristics that provide steady cash flows ideal for retirement portfolios.

Companies in this space benefit from economies of scale and logistical expertise, which create competitive moats that are often undervalued by the market.

Successful retirement investing requires understanding the psychology of major life transitions. Energy stocks can provide the stability and income that helps retirees maintain their desired lifestyle without excessive portfolio volatility.

Wisdom for Retirees: “Finding that level of contentment, and that’s really a lifelong pursuit, but it’s, you know, as you’re moving into retirement, what actually gives you pleasure? What is your contentment?”

Building wealth and maintaining it through retirement requires developing disciplined investment habits. Energy stocks often represent classic value opportunities that require patience and understanding rather than following market trends.

Dupree Financial Group maintains higher energy exposure than the S&P 500 because of the sector’s value characteristics and income generation potential. This strategy has benefited clients seeking retirement income.

One of the biggest risks for retirement investors is owning investments they don’t understand. Energy companies like Verizon, AT&T, and BP are businesses that investors can comprehend and relate to in their daily lives.

Portfolio Philosophy: “Some clients never really dig deep in their portfolio ’cause they don’t think they’re gonna understand it anyway. And one of the things they can learn with us is that you can understand where your money is invested.”

For more insights on retirement investing strategies, consider consulting with Dupree Financial Group. We can help structure energy allocations appropriate for your retirement timeline and income needs.

Ready to explore how energy stocks might fit in your retirement portfolio? Understanding your investments is crucial for long-term success.

Contact Dupree Financial Group:

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In this episode of The Financial Hour, Registered Investment Advisor Tom Dupree reveals how dividend investing for retirement income can outpace inflation and provide steady cash flow for retirees. Discover why dividend growth stocks have historically delivered superior returns while generating the reliable income stream that retirement portfolios desperately need in today’s economic climate.

From 1979 through December 31st, 2024, dividends grew at a compound annual growth rate of 5.77% versus the inflation rate of 3.13%. This critical data point demonstrates why dividend investing strategies form the foundation of successful retirement income planning.

The current bond market presents unique opportunities for retirement investors. With real inflation where it is right now and where even the 10-year government bond is, you have about a 2.1% spread real return on a 10-year government bond. This represents approximately double the long-term historical average, creating tactical opportunities for income-focused portfolios.

Despite powering the entire economy, energy stocks represent only 3.12% of the S&P 500 weighting compared to technology’s 33%. “How well does technology run without energy? You can’t do all that stuff without fossil fuel energy. And you’re telling me that the market has devalued energy to the point where it only represents 3% of the entire S&P 500.”

For retirement income investing, focus on companies with:

“What’s dynamic is the portfolio, the process that is applied to the investment approach, and the consistency of communication with our clients. It’s this whole process that is the end result.”

Successful retirement income strategies require both:

Recent geopolitical events have created opportunities in energy investing. “Oil was $61 a barrel, got down to 59. Today it sits at around 72 and changed based on this overnight attack that Israel did.” While short-term volatility creates trading opportunities, the long-term fundamentals support strategic energy allocation in retirement portfolios.

“The link between tariffs and inflation is overrated. The specific items that are subject to tariffs might rise in price, but that means there’s less money left over to buy other goods and services, which reduces those prices. Tariffs shuffle the deck chairs on the inflation ship, not how high or low the ship sits in the water.”

Ready to build a dividend-focused retirement income strategy? Contact Dupree Financial Group to discover how their proven investment process can help you generate consistent income while preserving wealth for the long term. Visit dupreefinancial.com or call (859) 233-0400 to schedule your consultation.

#DividendInvesting #RetirementIncome #FinancialPlanning #DividendStocks #RetirementPlanning #PassiveIncome #WealthBuilding #InvestmentStrategy #FinancialFreedom #RetirementSecurity

The Financial Hour of the Tom Dupree Show is brought to you by Dupree Financial Group, where we make your money work for you. This content is for educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment advice.

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