Trading Lesson Plans for Retirement Plans — Q&A with ValuTeachers’ Lynn Denney

Lynn Denney at this year's Kickoff Meeting In Savannah, GA

Q: After 29 years in the classroom, what led you to make a change?

A: I was getting ready to retire, and my financial agent asked, "What are you gonna do?" When he suggested I come work for ValuTeachers, I thought he was just making small talk! 

But that summer, I came along to one of their meetings, and something just clicked. I texted my daughter that day: "I'm gonna do this. I just feel it." Within months of retiring in May 2023, I had my license and was building my business.

Q: How does your teaching background help in your current role?

A: When I tell clients, "I was one of you," it resonates. I know their time constraints and how frustrating it is when meetings get rescheduled because something pops up at school. 

And I understand our state retirement system from the inside. I'm not a typical retirement planner.  I’m a client as well.  

Q: How do you work with clients?

A: I remember being signed up for financial products by agents I never saw again. So many of my clients say, "I think I have signed up for something, but I don't know who it's with or who my agent is." 

I put all my clients in my phone, so I recognize them immediately when they call.  They're surprised when I answer, "Hey there” with their name, so I like to remind them, "I told you—you can reach me anytime." That little extra personal touch matters.

Q: What's the most rewarding part of this second career?

A: I still get to visit my schools! In one school, I work with the entire second-grade team—the grade I taught for 18 years. It's wonderful seeing how they're teaching the standards now - without the stress of being there every day. Plus, as a single mom with a child in college, the flexible schedule is invaluable.

Q: What’s changed for you, and where do you want to go next? 

A: I'm making up that 40% gap from my teacher retirement system pension, and I've more than doubled my business since that first year. Initially, I just wanted something new that would supplement my income, but now I'm focused on continuing to build my business and help more people.

Lynn Denny serves educators and school employees in Bartow County, Rome City, and Carrollton County, Georgia.