Broker Check

Blog

What’s on our mind? You can read about it in our blog. Whether it’s ideas from the industry or emerging trends, you can read about it here. And once in a while, we may throw in a movie review or some other surprise. So keep checking in. We’re glad to have you reading along.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

You ever open a junk drawer and think… “why do I even have this?” Now imagine that’s your finances. Old 401(k)s. Random accounts. Stuff you forgot existed. It’s not that it’s wrong…it’s just unorganized.

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Everyone wants the big win… but real success comes from showing up every single day. Stay consistent and trust your process. #financialstrategy #makeitcount #talkaboutittuesday #financialfreedom #financialplanning

Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Today’s a little more personal than usual. It’s my son’s 9th birthday, a day full of joy but also a bittersweet time, as yesterday marked 12 years since my father passed.

Tuesday, March 24, 2026

28 years in the business and still evolving. Sneak peek at something new… website dropping next month! Excited to share fresh ideas and guidance for your financial planning soon. Stay tuned!

Tuesday, March 17, 2026

This week we went from the mid-80s to nearly 30 degrees colder in less than 48 hours. At the same time, gas prices are ticking up and the markets have pulled back.

Show All

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

//

Tuesday, March 3, 2026

With everything happening in the Middle East and the U.S. attack on Iran, it’s completely normal to feel concerned about people first, and about portfolios second.

Tuesday, February 24, 2026

Talk About It Tuesday- Birthday Cake and Taxes Who likes birthday cake? But here’s the real question… are you cutting it the most efficient way? When it comes to money, the way you “slice” it matters.

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Sunday morning tax check-in and it reminded me of something important. If you haven’t already, you may still be able to make an IRA contribution for last year. #dawkinsfinancial #talkaboutittuesday #financialconfidence

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

We can meet whenever it’s convenient for you, and we also have an office in Virginia Beach. If you’re not in the area, I’m happy to connect via Zoom. Looking forward to speaking soon! Have a great day!

Tuesday, February 3, 2026

Everyone talks about holistic or comprehensive financial planning but what does that actually mean for you? At Dawkins Financial, it means starting with the big picture and then dialing in on what truly matters to you and your family.

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

It may be freezing outside, but your financial future doesn’t have to be. If you’ve set New Year’s resolutions or financial goals for 2026, let’s talk. Step into a warm office, grab some coffee or tea, and start planning for the year.

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

This is how Dawkins Financial stays motivated! #dawkinsfinancial #talkaboutittuesday #financialplanning #hamptonroads

Tuesday, December 23, 2025

//

Tuesday, December 2, 2025

I’m spending the day with like-minded advisors at our semiannual meeting. Sharing strategies, learning new techniques, and finding better ways to serve our clients. No one has all the answers, but together we can create stronger outcomes.

Tuesday, November 25, 2025

New Year’s resolutions usually fade fast…so why wait? Mine’s simple: drink more water (because apparently coffee doesn’t count). What’s one thing you could work on right now…not next January? Drop it in the comments

Tuesday, November 18, 2025

Start with an amount you can maintain, and as your situation improves, increase it strategically. Small, steady contributions compound into real results over time. If you want help building a contribution plan that fits your life and goals.

Tuesday, November 11, 2025

With so many of our friends, family, and neighbors affected by the government shutdown, financial stress is real. There are strategic ways to access savings and retirement funds so you can protect your future while covering today’s needs.

Tuesday, November 4, 2025

Just got back from the mountains with family…because family over finances every time. But today is Election Day, and your voice matters. No matter who you support, be part of the community and help shape our future.

Tuesday, October 28, 2025

You’ve heard the term “holistic planning” but what does it mean for your finances? Lets break down how investment, tax, and estate strategies work together to build long-term financial Security.

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

I’m redesigning DawkinsFinancial.com after 3–4 years of serving clients online, and I want your honest feedback.

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Sharpening my expertise through ongoing state-approved continuing education in insurance, investments, and long-term care because my clients deserve guidance that’s current, accurate, and trusted.

Tuesday, October 7, 2025

At Dawkins Financial, I’m always looking for ways to better serve my clients. My short-term professional goal is to earn the brand new Tax Planning Certified Professional designation by the end of the year.

Tuesday, September 30, 2025

I’m here in Chicago for a national symposium on annuities and insurance. While these strategies aren’t the right fit for every situation, I want to be ready when they are the right solution for a client.

Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Not every account has to be about long-term retirement and sometimes a smaller “fun account” can be a great way to learn, explore, and even enjoy investing with friends. As long as your future is secured with a solid foundation.

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Today’s Talk About It Tuesday is all about flexibility! Whether you’re here in Hampton Roads or across the country, we can build a strong financial relationship…virtually or face-to-face.

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

If something happened to you tomorrow, would your loved ones be financially secure? If there’s any hesitation in your answer, it’s time for us to talk. Life insurance doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

Have you worked multiple jobs and left your 401(k)s or employer-sponsored retirement plans behind? You’re not alone. Many people have one, two, even three accounts sitting unmanaged.

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

While we can’t stop time or the IRS, we can plan for what’s inevitable. Let’s talk estate planning, protecting your assets, and making smart moves today that lead to better outcomes tomorrow. Let’s push the odds in your favor.

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Just got back from San Diego after an incredible national conference with LPL Financial. Spending time with some of the top advisors and experts in estate planning, tax planning, insurance, and investments.

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

What do you want to hear about next? Drop your questions or topics in the comments. Whether it’s budgeting, investing, saving, or something totally out of the box. I’ll do the research if I don’t already know it.

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

Nobody loves going to the doctor…myself included. But just like our physical health shifts over time, so does our financial health. At 50, I’ve realized I can’t assume things will run smoothly without regular check-ins.

Tuesday, July 29, 2025

If all your assets are reacting the same way, you’re missing the mark. As a Certified Financial Planner™ at Dawkins Financial, I help you create a personalized strategy that balances risk and reward.

Tuesday, July 22, 2025

The #1 question I get when it comes to financial planning: “How much does it cost?”

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

You work 2,000 hours a year. How many of those are spent planning your financial future?

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Great chili doesn’t need constant stirring — and neither does a well-built investment plan.

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

In 1989, Alan Dawkins earned the rank of Eagle Scout at just 14 years old — a proud moment built on the motto: Be Prepared.

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

As Virginians, we know all about unpredictable weather—sun one day, snow the next. You adjust your wardrobe to handle it. But have you adjusted your investment portfolio the same way?

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

No suit today, just the truth. Whether I’m in a blazer or my favorite Arsenal jersey, the focus is you. Financial planning doesn’t have to feel stiff or complicated. It starts with a real conversation about your goals and concerns.

Tuesday, June 3, 2025

No finance talk today — Alan Dawkins is officially 50! That’s half a century of wisdom, dad jokes, and forgetting why he walked into rooms. He’s keeping it real: if someone says they feel 25 at 50, their back will say otherwise.

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

I’m happy to announce 72 years of financial planning—thank you for all your trust and support! Okay okay… I’m just pre-recording a Talk About It Tuesday. I still only have 27 years in the business...

Tuesday, May 20, 2025

This Talk About It Tuesday is a special one— I’m proud to celebrate 27 years of helping clients reach their financial goals. To those who’ve been with me since the beginning: thank you for your trust and partnership.

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

Talk About It Tuesday- Meet Your Investment Superhero

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

You’re great at your job because you’ve put in the time and expertise—so have I. With nearly 27 years as a Certified Financial Planner, I’m here to bring clarity, experience, and yes, a little extra icing on the cake to your retirement.

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

We spend so much time chasing small savings—cheaper gas, discounts at the grocery store, or shaving a few bucks off our phone bill. But what about your big money moves? Your retirement plan, life insurance, investments, estate planning.

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Talk About It Tuesday- Tax Season’s Over… Now What? Let’s Plan Smarter for Next Year! April 15 is behind us—hopefully you filed and maybe even got a refund! But this is the perfect time to review your tax forms and financial statements.

Tuesday, April 15, 2025

Market volatility got you stressed? Don’t make emotional decisions that could hurt your long-term goals. Let’s sit down and take a real look at your risk. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment #InvestSmart

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Estate planning isn’t the most exciting topic, but it’s one of the most important. Do you have your financial affairs in order? Are your life insurance policies, investments, and bank accounts easily accessible to your loved ones?

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Beneficiary designations and why they deserve more thought than they often get. Not all $300,000 assets are the same—while life insurance typically passes tax-free, a traditional IRA comes with tax implications that could impact your heirs.

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

March Madness got your bracket busted? Don’t let the same happen to your financial future! Let’s build a game plan that actually lasts. #DawkinsFinancial #MarchMadness #RetirementPlanning

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Talk About it Tuesday- Market Volatility Creates Opportunity – Here’s How Market volatility can be an opportunity! Now may be a great time to consider Roth conversions or reevaluate your retirement contributions. Let’s plan strategically.

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

Tax season is here—whether we like it or not! While you’ve got all your financial documents in one place, now is the perfect time to sit down with a financial advisor and see how we can strengthen your financial future.

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

The market can go up, down, or stay flat—but are you ready for all three scenarios? Alan breaks it down and invites you to plan for whatever comes next. Don’t leave your financial future to chance—let’s sit down and create a strategy.

Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Can you confidently answer these five retirement questions? If not, it's time to take control of your financial future. At Dawkins Financial, we help you get the clarity you need to retire with confidence.

Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Are you worried about the upcoming snowstorm? Maybe a child missing school, a spouse commuting to work, or the power going out? If you’re concerned about how they’ll manage for a few days, shouldn’t you also plan for their future.

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

At Dawkins Financial, we’re more than just investments and insurance—we’re here to connect you with the right people to help with your goals. Whether it’s home projects, moving, or family planning.

Tuesday, February 4, 2025

Half the time of the Super Bowl could change your financial future! 🏈💰 Set aside an hour, and let’s build your game plan. Schedule your session today! #superbowl #finanical

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Life is full of major milestones, and each one can have a significant impact on your financial future. 💼💡

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

It’s Talk About It Tuesday, and today’s message is short and sweet! Sometimes, the best financial advice is knowing when to keep it simple. No complicated tips today—just a reminder that we’ll be back next week with more insights.

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Let’s break down an important financial misconception: “More dollar signs = better.” While bigger returns may sound appealing, they often come with greater risks—and not everyone is comfortable with that.

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

New year, new goals! Whether you're cutting back on coffee, drinking more water, or finding time for your favorite book, resolutions can be tough to stick to. That's where I come in. Let me help simplify your finances.

Tuesday, December 31, 2024

Life Insurance: Beyond the Hype! Don’t fall for the flashy ads promising millions in coverage for just a few dollars. Let’s talk about what really protects you and your family. Together, we’ll find the right plan for you and your family.

Tuesday, December 24, 2024

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and peaceful holiday season. From all of us at Dawkins Financial, happy holidays!

Tuesday, December 17, 2024

The weather’s getting colder, and it’s the perfect time to cozy up and get your financial plans in order. Come on in, let’s meet in my conference room, and map out your path to financial security. Don’t wait—let’s make it happen!

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Has the market truly turned the corner, or are we just in a temporary upswing? The truth is, no one knows for certain what’s next. While the market has performed well recently, it’s always wise to plan for what lies ahead.

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

Most employer-sponsored plans are left to wander the financial highways without a guide. I can take the wheel while you’re still employed.

Tuesday, November 26, 2024

How often do you just wake up, walk out of the house in your night clothes? Rain, snow, 90 degrees, or 30 degrees—would you step out unprepared? I’m guessing the answer is never.

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Ever been scared to set a goal because you might fail? Same here! But guess what? Goals are what push us to go further.

Friday, November 15, 2024

Are you prepared for your financial future? Let’s take the right steps to secure it together. Don’t wait—let’s get started today!

Tuesday, November 12, 2024

📊 Ever wonder about the “What Ifs” in your financial future? As a Certified Financial Planner, I’m here to help answer those pressing questions, like: • What if I retire at a certain age? • What if I need long-term care coverage?

Tuesday, November 5, 2024

📅 November is National Long-Term Care Awareness Month! 🩺💰 Planning for future health care needs is crucial, and LTC insurance can protect your assets, ensure quality care, and ease the burden on loved ones. 🌟

Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Elections, specific political parties and your preferred results historically have little bearing on the market.

Tuesday, October 22, 2024

Just like cooking, financial planning takes the right ingredients and a good recipe. While anyone can try it, a Certified Financial Planner®️ is like a seasoned chef who knows how to bring out the best flavors in your financial future.

Tuesday, October 15, 2024

Welcome back to another episode of Talk About It Tuesday! This week we’re diving into fresh and insightful topics that matter in the financial world. As we strive to grow our community and provide valuable content, we want to hear from YOU!

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

A Certified Financial Planner™ can EDUCATE with a personally tailored overview, detailing the elements of your financial planning, SIMPLIFY the process of evaluating and organizing your assets, in addition to providing a PLAN to guide....

Tuesday, October 1, 2024

Dawkins Financial is excited to announce the birthday of TAIT! https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, September 24, 2024

Sometimes even certain outfits can prove to be humbling and a reminder to think of your loved ones.

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

Just watch this video. :) It will make more sense than a description!

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Years in the industry, nor age of the advisor will outpace the importance of the advisor’s willingness to adapt to changes in financial planning environment. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

Unfortunately, summer is behind us, but we have a great opportunity for a strong end to the year. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, August 27, 2024

San Diego was beautiful and incredibly motivating, but the greatest takeaway was the knowledge gained to help improve the guidance I provide my clients! https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, August 20, 2024

Am I a Fiduciary? And why you should care. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, August 13, 2024

Creating a financial plan doesn't have to scary. Let's take 3 easy steps and we will be well on our way to a road map to achieve your goals. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

I know everyone is busy but your financial future is worth some time on your calendar. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, July 30, 2024

If you are charitably inclined there may be a more efficient way to make required minimum distributions. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Greater access may equal improved solutions for clients. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, July 16, 2024

Let's discuss the 2 year window that might affect your investment decisions. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Invest based on a consistent and predictable pattern. Not best case scenario. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, July 2, 2024

There are few easy and quick steps to take to ensure your assets are received by those you intend.

Tuesday, June 25, 2024

With just a few clicks, you can end your procrastination. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, June 18, 2024

This may be one of the most important things I can share with you. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, June 11, 2024

With a little bit of effort, time and guidance, we can reach our goals. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, June 4, 2024

The steps to starting with Dawkins Financial couldn't be easier. Take a few minutes of your time and before you know it we can coordinate your financial future. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

A late start is definitely better than no start. When it comes to financial planning I can't tell you the perfect time to start. But I can tell you when its too late. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

I've got questions. Hopefully you have answers. The first 5 that are the quickest with their keyboard will win a sweet Dawkins Financial Nalgene water bottle. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

I know that your financial junk drawer in a mess. I can easily help organize your financial picture. Let me know when you are ready to get started.

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

At any given point there are many risks that can affect the stock market. An important exercise is to determine which, if any of those risks can be addressed. Let's start that conversation.

Tuesday, April 30, 2024

Tax season may not always be fun, but with proper planning the tax season doesn't have to be scary. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, April 23, 2024

Tell me your goal or let's devise a goal; now my competitiveness can start. Let's GO! https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

Working with a Certified Financial Planner™ with multiple licenses may help you from becoming a nail and being hit on the head. dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

Tuesday, April 2, 2024

"Do you even lift Bro?" Actually my question relates to your investments and how to evaluate performance. Understanding your "bench" is important and I can help! dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Most clients have unique measures of financial success, but I have one that I doubt will miss the mark. Let me know what you think! https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

I have ideas for topics, but I would rather address a subject that is important to you or others like you! Please let me know some topics in the comments! dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Cars, Phones, Pets, or even Travel. There is one that you may be missing.

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

I'm gonna talk about it, even though you don't wanna Talk About it this Tuesday.

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Some of the best financial planning occurs decades before retirement. Fine tuning that planning may occur at the doorstep of retirement. Regardless of where you are in your career, the guidance of a Certified Financial Planner™.

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Let's sit down and think outside of the box and discuss your goals and financial concerns. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

Milestones matter. These significant events in your life also represent an opportunity for a Certified Financial Planner™ to help with planning you may not have considered. Help is only a phone call or click away.

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

With everything going on in your life and the financial markets, it may help to sit down to discuss if you are on the right path. https://www.dawkinsfinancial.com/schedule-an-appointment

Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Not everyone is excited about this deadline, but we all need to be informed!

Tuesday, January 23, 2024

The odds are good that your favorite is a company that I am able to offer you, as your Certified Financial Planner™.

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

Good news is that the annual contribution limits have gone up. Now lets sit down and determine how a Traditional or Roth IRA may fit into your portfolio.

Tuesday, January 9, 2024

Do you know which is which?

Tuesday, January 2, 2024

Happy New Year from Dawkins Financial to you and your family!

Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Merry Christmas from Dawkins Financial to you and your family!

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Congratulations on the new purchase! But now you'll receive countless , mailers regarding mortgage protection. What is it and do you need it?

Tuesday, December 12, 2023

Tis the Season for memories, not debt. Responsible credit card use can make the holidays that much merrier!

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Long Term Care presents the largest challenge for most of my clients. If it doesn't effect them personally, inevitably a loved one has received or needed Long Term Care. Let's talk about the uncomfortable topic.

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

What are the costs associated with working with Dawkins Financial? Spoiler alert....YOU get to decide how I am compensated.

Tuesday, November 21, 2023

Meet Dawkins Financial at Gather in Newport News' Tech Center.

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Let's discuss life changing events and how they may shape or change your family's life insurance needs. Types of coverage, the duration and the face amount of your life insurance needs will inevitably change over time.

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

Target Date Funds are an effective way to address risk over time, however I believe his is room for improvement.

Tuesday, October 31, 2023

Tuesday, October 24, 2023

How does the Bermuda Triangle threaten your financial planning? Let’s discuss…

Tuesday, October 17, 2023

The more your financial advisor can “see”, the better the potential outcomes.

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

When is the ideal time to invest? The answer probably isn't surprising!

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

The answer is yes. The answer is also no. Are you surprised there isn't a universal answer? Lets discuss the scenarios.

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Working with a Certified Financial Planner™️ can be easier and more convenient than you realize.

Tuesday, September 19, 2023

There are more things to consider when designating beneficiaries than people realize. There are many factors to consider with the help of a CFP® to ensure your exact wishes are achieved. Lets discuss a few.

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

Considerations when determining if you need a Financial Advisor.

Tuesday, August 8, 2023

If you've heard CEOs mention "A.I." multiple times during second-quarter conference calls, you're not imagining it. There have been an astounding 1,072 mentions of A.I. (and counting) so far.1 Some believe that A.I. has the potential...

Tuesday, April 12, 2022

Over the last few months, interest rates for mortgages and other investments have risen exponentially at a faster rate than we have seen in a long time. Here is the reason why.

Friday, December 17, 2021

As the end of 2021 approaches and celebrations all over Hampton Roads are being planned for New Years, there’s another big season approaching that most people do not look forward to: tax season. When January 1 hits you will...

Monday, November 29, 2021

The year 2021 has brought a lot of changes to the world – some positive, and some with potentially worrying consequences. One topic heavy on everyone’s mind is inflation, which has risen in some areas at an exponential...

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

I have an exciting announcement - I am now a Retirement Income Certified Professional in Newport News! Watch the video below to see what this means and how it will help me serve you better as you plan for your retirement in Hampton...

Wednesday, October 20, 2021

It’s hard enough to make a choice about your car – red or blue? Honda or Toyota? Brand new or used? – before you even consider the financing, but that is an integral piece of the equation you cannot ignore. Some...

Wednesday, October 13, 2021

As a financial advisor, I work with clients to create goals around their retirement portfolios and investments. Making a retirement plan can seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance and experience, we can craft a solution...

Wednesday, January 20, 2021

Here's why Dawkins Financial of Newport News is both under my name (Alan Dawkins) and a company name (LPL Financial), or another name (Colonial River Wealth Management) in the Richmond area. Add onto that the recent acquisition of...

Wednesday, January 13, 2021

Welcome to Dawkins Financial, a Certified Financial Planner in Newport News, Virginia. Here's what my business is about.

Wednesday, January 13, 2021

What are the differences between Wall Street and Main Street, and why should that matter for your investments?This is not a one-dimensional answer: just because the market is doing well does NOT mean your investments will prosper. This...