Not All Financial Advisors Are the Same — Here’s What You Need to Know

Send us Fan MailIf you’re working with a financial advisor — or thinking about hiring one — this episode is for you.In this conversation, I sit down with Kelly Palmer, CFA, CFP®, Founder of The Wealthy Parent, to break down the often confusing world of financial advisors: how they charge, what services they provide, and how to evaluate whether you’re truly getting value for what you’re paying.We unpack the difference between fee-only and fee-based advisors, what it really means to be a fiduciary, and why those distinctions matter more than most people realize. But we also go deeper: you can’t compare advisors by fee alone without understanding what’s included. Investment management only? Financial planning only? Or comprehensive planning plus portfolio management? The scope of services makes a big difference.We also cover:How to research advisors using the SEC and FINRA websitesKey questions to ask about fees, services, and conflicts of interestWhy personality fit may matter just as much as credentialsWhether you’re interviewing advisors for the first time or already have one and aren’t sure how you’re paying — or what else is out there — this episode will help you become a more informed, empowered consumer of financial advice.Because clarity isn’t just for your portfolio. It’s for the people managing it.