Jeanene Tickner
Jeanene Tickner is a licensed life insurance agent and financial strategist specializing in Indexed Universal Life (IUL) insurance, tax-free wealth management, college funding, and retirement planning. With a strong commitment to helping families and individuals secure their financial future, Jeanene leverages her expertise to create tailored strategies that support long-term wealth building and legacy planning. She is passionate about guiding clients through complex financial decisions with clarity and confidence.
In addition to her work in financial services, Jeanene is an accomplished real estate investor and entrepreneur. She is the owner and president of Whippet Together, Inc., where she manages short-term and mid-term rental properties through platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, and Google via HostAway. Her projects include property renovations, flips, and long-term rental management, allowing clients and investors to benefit from her experience without the burden of day-to-day operations.
Jeanene holds a dual BA in Chemistry and Studio Art from SUNY Binghamton and brings a methodical, analytical approach to both her financial and real estate endeavors. With a dedication to collaborative problem-solving and client-focused service, she has successfully merged her passions for wealth building, property investment, and financial education into a thriving career that empowers others to achieve financial independence and lasting success.
• SUNY Binghamton
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, creativity, and embracing change. After more than twenty years as a chemist at Pfizer, being laid off pushed me to rediscover myself and pursue real estate. Through renovations and flips, I found a creative outlet that blends problem-solving and artistry. Today, I run my own real estate C-Corp, manage a solo 401(k), and hold an insurance license, building my work around passion, purpose, and transformation.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
If I could give one piece of advice to young women entering my industry, it’s this: starting over isn’t failure—it’s an act of courage. Life’s unexpected challenges, whether a layoff, a divorce, or health setbacks, aren’t endings—they’re opportunities for redirection. Embrace them, trust the process, and let them guide you toward what’s next.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
In my field, the biggest challenge is helping clients navigate uncertainty while building trust in the value of insurance. I focus on showing how Universal Life Insurance and Fixed Indexed Annuities provide long-term security beyond Social Security. Balancing client guidance with ongoing licensing and education keeps me growing professionally every day.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are resiliency and perseverance. Life has thrown challenges my way—divorce, maintaining sobriety, and recovering from serious health setbacks—but each obstacle has strengthened my ability to start over and keep moving forward. My work in real estate and insurance reflects this drive, and I’m motivated to inspire others to embrace new chapters and create meaningful, purpose-driven lives.