About Us
Why Choose Us
Creating a plan with you in mind.
26 Years of Financial Experience
Professional Fiduciary
Process Driven Practice
Ken Fickling
President, Senior Financial Advisor

I love helping people change their lives.
Ken spent 2 years in Europe with the US Army before studying Economics at College of Charleston. During his college tenure, he was the College of Charleston’s top-ranked chess player and was the Chess Club President. Ken was recalled to Active Duty 3 times during college years. He finished his service as a Military Intelligence Analyst at the rank of Sergeant with 8 years of Active Duty and Reserve time. Ken has worked in the Investment Banking Industry for 26 years. He has worked as a Financial Advisor for Merrill Lynch, UBS, Wells Fargo and now as an Independent Financial Advisor through LPL Financial. He and his wife, Jee Youn, make their home in West Ashley. Their 17-year-old son, Grant, plays club soccer for James Island Youth Soccer Club and Varsity Soccer for West Ashley High School.
Ken’s family supports Wildlife Conservation causes, Veteran’s issues, and Children’s charities. **
Kaitlyn Karsten
Client Service Associate

Kaitlyn was born and raised in Grand Rapids, MI. After 29 years in the cold, she moved to Charleston, SC, which was a lifelong dream. She was formerly a Certified Child Life Specialist and worked in a pediatric hospital located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. There, she supported children and their families through complex medical experiences. In the emergency department, she provided emotional support, procedural preparation, and coping interventions to help reduce anxiety and promote positive healthcare experiences during illness, injuries, and medical procedures. In the pediatric Hematology/Oncology clinic, she provided education and preparation for procedures, facilitating therapeutic play and emotional expression, and helping patients and their families navigate the psychosocial challenges associated with diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care.
These experiences strengthened her ability to build meaningful relationships, communicate with empathy, and guide families through important life decisions. She brings this compassion, enthusiasm, and knowledge to the financial industry, working as a Client Service Associate at Charleston Retirement Planning. In her free time, she enjoys going to the beach, spending time with her puppy, Pepper, painting with acrylics and watercolors, and trying all of the delicious restaurants Charleston has to offer.
Sean Ludwick
Financial Advisor
I am passionate about helping people pursue their financial goals.
Originally from Dawsonville, Georgia, Sean was stationed at Joint Base Charleston in 2019 and chose to make the Lowcountry his home. He served seven years in the United States Air Force, including four years on active duty and three years in the Reserve. While serving as a reservist, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Finance from The Citadel. During his time at The Citadel, Sean was actively involved in the Student Veteran Association, serving on the Fundraising Committee and later as Vice President. Sean lives in Summerville with his girlfriend, Catherine, and their eight-year-old greyhound, Wendy. He continues his pursuit of education by pursuing a Master of Science in Finance through the University of Oklahoma’s online program. Outside of work, Sean enjoys fishing, attending the symphony, supporting Catherine at her art shows, and following college football. Sean and Catherine support veteran mental health awareness causes and MUSC PAWS (Patient Animal Wellness Service).
Ethan Cobb
Financial Advisor In Training

I love building close relationships and making a meaningful impact on people's lives.
Ethan grew up in Matthews, North Carolina, but Charleston has always felt like a second home. A graduate of Trinity College(CT), Ethan earned his B.A. in Political Science with a focus in Economics, sharpening the analytical thinking he brings to every client conversation. A four-year lacrosse player at Trinity, he learned that lasting success comes from discipline, preparation, and showing up fully committed. Now in his first year as an Advisor in Training at Charleston Retirement Planning, Ethan is finishing up his license to become a fully registered advisor as he learns under Ken's guidance. Outside the office, Ethan volunteers as a lacrosse coach at Bishop England High School, investing in student-athletes on and off the field, and gives back to Charleston youth through Kids on Point. A proud South Carolina Gamecocks fan, he also values time with his family and staying connected to the community he calls home.
**The charitable entities and/or fundraising opportunities described herein are not endorsed by or affiliated with LPL Financial or its affiliates. Our philanthropic interests are personal to us and are not reviewed, sponsored or approved by LPL.
*Registered Administrative Assistant through LPL Financial member FINRA/SIPC.
Let's Talk About Your Goals.
Our Mission Is to Replace Your Financial Anxiety with Relaxed Confidence. Let’s talk and see how we can help you.