Financial Advisor Fees Explained: Commissions, AUM, Flat-Fee

Financial Advisor Fees Explained: Commissions, AUM, Flat-Fee

In this episode, I break down the three most common ways financial advisors get paid: commissions, AUM fees, and flat fees. Learn why compensation structures matter, where conflicts can show up, and why the “best” fee model is rarely as simple as the internet makes it sound. But more importantly, I explain what actually matters when choosing someone to trust with your financial life.

The Real Cost of Upgrading Your Lifestyle Too Fast

In this episode, I talk about why emergency medicine doctors face a unique financial challenge after training, why “can I afford it?” is the wrong question to ask, and how to think about spending in a way that protects your future flexibility. We cover intentional spending, avoiding overcommitment, and how to create a lifestyle that gets better without trapping you into needing maximum income forever.

1099 vs. W-2 Income for Doctors (Pros and Cons)

In this episode, I walk through the pros and cons of 1099 income for doctors, including retirement planning opportunities, solo 401(k)s, tax considerations, malpractice insurance, health insurance, and how to properly compare a 1099 offer to a traditional W-2 role. If you’re considering consulting income, moonlighting, or a transition away from a W-2 job, this episode should help you think through the decision more clearly.

Money Anxiety in Residency (Even When You’re Doing Well)

Today, I’m sitting down with Dylan and Cambra, a couple navigating residency life, a growing family, and the constant tension between saving for the future and actually enjoying life right now. They’re doing a lot right. They’re saving, investing, tracking their spending, and making intentional decisions. But like a lot of people in training, it still doesn’t feel like enough. For Cambra: 35:38

New Intern Money Series: Estate Planning (Part 8)

In this episode, I walk through why having a will & power of attorney in place matters, even if you’re just starting out and don’t feel like you have much to protect. We also talk about how to get this done quickly and affordably, so it doesn’t sit on your to-do list forever. It’s not complicated, but it is important.