Frederick Conti

I help small business owners & pre-retirees navigate complex financial decisions with clarity and confidence. My goal is to provide comprehensive, personalized guidance that empowers clients to make smart choices around taxes, retirement, investments, charitable giving, estate planning, and business transitions. My approach is fee-only and education-driven. Clients can work with me through a transparent subscription-based planning model or, when appropriate, traditional investment management. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions—my work is tailored to each client’s income, assets, and life goals. I specialize in helping clients who are in major financial transitions, such as preparing for retirement within 10 years, selling a business, or managing complex taxable accounts. I also work with high-income DIY investors and first-generation wealth builders who want objective advice without the conflicts of interest that come with traditional asset management. What sets me apart is my ability to combine technical expertise with behavioral insight. I help clients uncover the underlying habits and beliefs that may be holding them back, then design strategies to optimize lifetime taxes, plan charitable giving, implement Roth conversion strategies, and build comprehensive estate plans from scratch. I enjoy working with clients who value clarity, long-term planning, and a collaborative partnership. My goal is not to sell products but to provide actionable guidance that gives clients confidence in their financial decisions today and peace of mind for the future. Whether you are a solopreneur, business owner, educator, or high-earning professional, I tailor my services to meet your unique needs and help you achieve financial goals on your terms.

At Always Ready Financial Planning, our mission is to serve those who’ve served—empowering Senior Military Officers, Veterans, and their families to confidently navigate the transition from military to civilian life. Founded by Coast Guard veteran Joseph Brown, our firm is built on 25 years of service, guided by the motto Semper Paratus—“Always Ready.” We understand that financial transitions are deeply personal, especially after a career of selfless service. Inspired by stories of fellow officers facing retirement uncertainty—including homelessness and hardship—Joseph became a Certified Financial Planner® and Military Qualified Financial Planner® to make a difference where it matters most. Our values shape everything we do: • Service Above Self – Your mission becomes ours. • Preparedness as a Promise – We plan ahead, so you’re never caught off guard. • Family First – We align your finances with what matters most. • Focus on What Matters – Tune out the noise, take control of your future. • Money as a Tool, Not a Goal – Let your values lead your financial decisions. We provide comprehensive, values-driven financial planning tailored to your unique journey—whether that means maximizing military benefits, preparing for retirement, or building a lasting legacy. Our process begins with a no-pressure consultation and continues with personalized support every step of the way. Our vision is simple: to be the trusted financial partner for military families transitioning to their next chapter—providing clarity, purpose, and peace of mind, one plan at a time.

Jaden Stefanski is a Financial Consultant at Fidelity Investments, a position held since 2024. Prior to this role, Jaden advanced through several positions within Fidelity Investments, including Workplace Planning Consultant III, II, and I, as well as Workplace Planning Associate, demonstrating a progressive career within the firm since 2022. In his role, Jaden focuses on collaborating with clients to understand their unique financial needs and goals, developing personalized strategies aimed at pursuing lifetime financial objectives. He holds insurance licenses in Arkansas and California, supporting his professional capacity to serve clients in these states. Outside of his professional work, Jaden enjoys boating, fishing, golf, and skiing.

Robert Guiry is a Planning Consultant with a background in coaching and education, which he integrates into his work with clients. He focuses on educating clients about their options and partnering with them to efficiently work towards their financial goals. Robert aims to build long-lasting, professional relationships that help clients feel confident in their financial plans. His professional experience includes serving as Vice President of Investments at David Lerner Associates from 2021 to 2023, and as a Life Insurance Advisor at Charter Oak Financial from 2019 to 2021. These roles have contributed to his expertise in investment and insurance planning. Outside of his professional work, Robert has interests in the beach, comedy, food, football, movies, and theater.

Christopher Holloway is a Senior Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. In his role, he focuses on helping clients develop personalized financial plans that address individual goals such as funding education, planning for retirement, and managing long-term family objectives. He aims to provide clarity and transparency in wealth planning and investment management. Christopher holds a Bachelor's Degree from Salve Regina University and has earned professional designations including Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC) and Personal Investment Advisor (PIA). His expertise encompasses portfolio advisory and senior financial advisory responsibilities. He is actively involved in his community and professional organizations, serving on advisory boards such as Catholic Charities of SE CT and Junior Achievement of CT, as well as youth sports boards including East Lyme Babe Ruth Baseball and Old Lyme Little League Baseball. Christopher also contributes as a manager and coach in youth baseball and soccer and volunteers with organizations such as the Salvation Army and the Lyman Allyn Museum.

Santino Funaro is a Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, based in the Mystic, Connecticut office. He began his tenure with Merrill Lynch in 2022, bringing four years of experience in the financial services industry from East Greenwich, Rhode Island. Santino specializes in working with families and businesses to develop tailored financial plans that focus on retirement planning, college education planning, and family wealth management strategies. He collaborates closely with clients' accountants, other advisors, and attorneys to coordinate comprehensive financial planning. Santino holds a Bachelor's Degree from Roger Williams University and is a member of professional organizations including Beta Alpha Psi and Beta Gamma Sigma. He also holds the designations of CERTIFIED PLAN FIDUCIARY ADVISOR (CPFA) and Personal Investment Advisor (PIA). Outside of his professional work, Santino enjoys an active and healthy lifestyle, engaging in activities such as basketball, boxing, hiking, and interior decorating. He values spending time with his family and has interests that include music, traveling, watching movies, and writing.