Lots of physicians wonder: If I can manage my own investments, why pay an advisor? It's a fair question. If you're comfortable picking index funds and setting up automated contributions, what's left for an advisor to do?

This conversation unpacks the real value of financial planning beyond investments. From student loans and tax decisions to asset protection and estate planning, there's much more to consider than just growing a portfolio. Many assume an advisor's worth is tied to investment management alone, but the real benefits show up in unexpected areas—especially as life and finances become more complex.

We break down when it makes sense to hire an advisor, how to recognize a good one, and whether paying for professional help actually leads to better financial outcomes. Whether you're just getting started or re-evaluating your financial team, this discussion helps bring clarity to an often misunderstood topic.

Looking for help with Disability Insurance, Physician Banking, Student Loan Refinancing, Physician Mortgages, Contract Reviews, and more? Check out our "Best of the Best" sponsors page to find a list of the professionals Chad & Tyler team up with for their clients.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• (0:00 ) Why Pay an Advisor at all?
• (1:20 ) When to hire a financial advisor
• (3:29 ) Flat fee vs. AUM: Key differences
• (7:41 ) What to look for in an advisor
• (14:20 ) Misconceptions about financial advice
• (25:10 ) Spotting red flag advisors
• (34:40 ) Finding the right long-term fit

The best of the best list is a paid sponsorship, but these are professionals/companies that Tyler and Chad collaborate with within their own practices or have been vetted to earn a spot on this list. By supporting our sponsors, it allows Chad & Tyler to dedicate more time to you and the Physician Cents community. If you ever have a question (or not a great experience, which we don't expect!) about a sponsor, please let us know. We call it the "best of the best" for a reason, and we will maintain that standard for our listeners & viewers.

Resources & People Mentioned

• Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Board
• Tyler Olson's Personal Finance Resources List
• National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA)

Connect With Physician Cents

• WealthKeel LLC
• Olson Consulting LLC
• Tyler Olson on Twitter
• Chad Chubb, CFP®, CSLP® on Twitter

Subscribe to Physician Cents

Apple Podcasts

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK