Keith Lamb: Retirement Planning in Park City, Utah

How does Keith Lamb approach retirement planning?

My planning process is much like my Jeep. First comes the Journey: I sit down with each client, listen to where they are today, and discuss where they want to go. Next, I help them Evaluate income gaps, expenses, and what is or is not working in their current plan. Then I Educate, walking through the available options so clients understand each step and why it is being considered. Finally, I help them Protect what matters by considering appropriate planning tools and strategies for the obstacles that may arise along the way.

What has Jeeping taught Keith about guiding clients through financial decisions?

In recent years, I have taken up Jeeping, taking my Jeep to large piles of rocks and climbing over them. Often a rock is bigger than the Jeep and the climb seems almost straight up. I learned a lesson from my son the first time I let him drive. He was terrified. As I guided him through the obstacle, he kept saying, “The Jeep knows what to do, the Jeep knows what to do.”

I realized that my work as a financial advisor has similarities to talking my son over a very large rock. When we began Jeeping, we partnered with Jeepers who had years of experience and then added upgraded equipment to our Jeep. Those experienced Jeepers showed us the best line to take while climbing to help us avoid danger. The upgraded equipment gave the Jeep stability and strength for unforeseen obstacles. With that experience and equipment, I came to appreciate why my son felt that the Jeep knew what to do.

Planning for retirement, figuring out how to sell the family farm, or preparing for succession in a business can feel as daunting as driving over a house-sized rock. Drawing on my more than 30 years of experience, I help clients understand the planning tools available to pursue their financial goals. My son's refrain becomes a personal expression of that relationship: “Keith knows what to do, Keith knows what to do.” It reflects my emphasis on preparation and guidance, rather than a guarantee of financial outcomes.

What ethical principle guides Keith's work?

Always do what is right for the client.

What should clients consider when choosing a financial advisor?

I believe hiring a financial advisor is an important decision, much like choosing a doctor or a car mechanic. An honest relationship with clear communication is essential for everyone involved to work toward the best outcome for a client's financial future. I listen to clients' needs and move at their pace as they pursue their goals.

I am not a suit-and-tie kind of professional. If that formality is important to a prospective client, I recognize that I may not be the right fit. When meeting clients, I will most likely be wearing Levi's and arriving in my Jeep. I like to keep things real: what clients see is what they get. My commitment is to speak directly and honestly about our work together.

How does Keith stay current with industry developments?

I attend bi weekly training. Stay current on continuing education. Attend bi annually industry seminars.

How does Keith look beyond the numbers in financial planning?

The numbers are only part of the story. It's the feelings and emotions behind the numbers that are important. Understanding the what and why behind the numbers is what leads to financial security.

How does Keith help clients understand their options?

Articles, websites, YouTube videos are usually biased and only provide the information the creator is trying to convey, for their intended purposes. I give real world examples, based on real experiences with real clients.

What are Keith's long-term goals for his client relationships?

My client's ask me when will I retire, and if I do, who will manage their portfolio. My response is "what would I retire from?" I set my own schedule. I can work from anywhere in the world. I love what I do. My goal is to grow old with my clients and watch them attain their financial success.