FAQs

Who is your typical client?
My typical client is an anesthesiologist or pain management physician from 35 – 45 years old and is very busy with some combination of: clinical duties, research, business ownership, consulting, family responsibilities, travel, et al. They want to build wealth and want a long-term partner and trusted advisor in that journey.
Why is your practice niche SO specific?

My wife is an anesthesia attending. As I became familiar with unique considerations surrounding career, finances, practice models, threats/opportunities, and opportunities for self employment, I found that anesthesiologists, as well as pain management physicians (of whom 70% are anesthesiology boarded) have a number of special considerations that, if you understand them, can result in significantly improved financial outcomes.

I'm not in anesthesiology/pain - will you work with me?
I sometimes make exceptions on this point for referrals from current clients or their families. However, the clients that benefit the MOST from my niche expertise are clients in the niche. I’m happy to give you honest feedback about if I think I’m the BEST advisor for you. If I’m not the best fit I will connect you with another trusted advisor resource, so you’ll be in good hands either way.
Are you a fiduciary?
I am a fiduciary. This is the highest threshold of ethical duty and obligation to represent the best interest of clients at all times. I have signed a fiduciary oath as a member of the XY Planning Network, and this fiduciary responsibility is a core value of our business.
What are your qualifications to provide financial advice?

In addition to my professional experience, I hold the CFP(r) designation, which is the widely-recognized industry standard for excellence in financial planning.  I also hold the ChFC designation, which is an additional advanced financial planning designation, and the RICP designation, which pertains to providing guidance for the retirement transition and retirement income strategies.  Each of these designations require annual continuing education.

Also:

– I’m married to a doctor (physician spouses, I understand your plight!).

– I’ve done over a hundred (and adding more quickly!) student loan analyses.

– I go to many industry conferences for pain and anesthesia (ASRA, ASIPP, ASA, etc.) so I’m up-to-date on challenges faced by physicians operating in those specialties.

– I’ve spent a handful of years with investment manager due diligence as an important part of my job description.

Do you have any partners in providing me advice?
I have relationships with a number of professionals in taxes, estate planning, insurance, student loan payback, etc. so that I can access highly technical analysis when needed, or provide referrals for other services (taxes, estate documents, etc.) if necessary. My clients receive access to my network of professionals, enabling them to tap into a deep body of knowledge whenever necessary.
Do I really need to hire an advisor?

Study after study after study after study has shown that it is very difficult for people to avoid the myriad investment and financial pitfalls which await them.  From managing behavioral tendencies to accessing technical expertise to understanding appropriate strategies to integrate, there are many benefits to having an advisor.  Statistically speaking, you would be better off by hiring (a good) one rather than trying to manage things on your own.

However, only you can decide the answer to this question, as it’s highly personal.  If you’re a DIYer (and they DO exist) I’m glad to help you evaluate if that’s the case.  I’m only interested in clients who will be a good fit for my practice, so I’ll gladly help you think through what means of handling your finances might be most appropriate for your situation.

But… can’t I just google the answers to my questions?
In a word…yes, you could. If you know the questions to ask, can recognize the right answer to your question when you see it, and implement it in the appropriate manner in your situation, in a period of time that doesn’t drive you crazy, then you could be a candidate for DIY financial help. This is surprisingly uncommon, though — being able to find the answers to facts, and being able to put together strategies and draw conclusions from those facts, are quite different things. But I’m happy to help you decide if this is the best course of action for you.
Who is not a good fit as a client?
Anyone who is looking for the following:

  • Market timing investment strategies
  • Stock picking or “hot stock tips”
  • Hedge funds
  • A quick and easy way to get rich
Do I have to come into your office?

It’s generally more convenient for my clients to meet via video conference, as they’re scattered all across America. If you’re local to Portland, I’m glad to meet in person if you prefer.

Do I have to pay for the first meeting?
No. The initial consultation is free. After that initial meeting, you are guaranteed to have at least some direction and food for thought as a result, as we together work to identify your most significant planning needs. After the first meeting I’ll gladly discuss in detail the timing of payment based on requested services, and answer any other questions you may have.
How do you get paid?
My clients pay me directly for my services on a monthly or quarterly basis. If I manage your investment accounts and you have enough assets for me to bill them directly, I can do this for you. I receive no other kickbacks, referral fees, product commissions, or any other monetary compensation from any of my business partners. This is what it means to be “fee-only”, and this is why there are minimal conflicts of interest for me and my clients.
Set Up An Intro Call
See Our Services