We Know Your Dirty Little Secret: CFP Ray Godleski on Smart Planning, Diversification, and Retirement Confidence

In this insightful episode of the Freedom and Prosperity Podcast, host Desi Arnaz sits down with Ray Godleski, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and founder of Southeast Wealth Partners, to talk about what it really takes to build lasting financial security and peace of mind.

Ray shares how a disappointing personal experience with a financial advisor in his 20s became the catalyst for his career — inspiring him to become the kind of advisor he wished he had. With more than a decade of experience, Ray now helps individuals and families create thoughtful, diversified financial plans that adapt as life changes.

This conversation dives deep into financial planning beyond just stocks and mutual funds, highlighting the importance of diversification across asset classes, proactive communication, and having multiple “buckets” of money to draw from in retirement.

Key takeaways from this episode include:

• What a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) actually does — and why it matters.
  
• Why many people feel frustrated or forgotten by their financial advisors.
  
• The importance of proactive, high-touch financial guidance.
  
• Why true diversification means more than owning multiple stocks.
  
• How to position money across taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts.
  
• The role of real estate and private investments in a balanced financial plan.
  
• How tax planning, estate planning, and insurance fit into long-term prosperity.
  
• Common mistakes people make as they approach retirement.
  
• Why having a plan matters even more when you’re within five years of retiring.
  
• How major life changes — income growth, business sales, divorce, or loss — signal the need for professional guidance.
  
  

Desi also shares his own story of financial devastation during the Great Recession and the resilience required to rebuild later in life — making this episode both practical and deeply relatable.

Whether you’re early in your career, at your peak earning years, or nearing retirement, this episode will challenge the way you think about money and show you how thoughtful planning can protect your future.

Guest Info:

Ray Godleski, CFP®
Founder & Financial Advisor — Southeast Wealth Partners

📧 Email: info@sewealthpartners.com
🌐 Website: www.southeastwealthpartners.com
📞 Phone: 770-415-5925

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