Ep11: 15 Questions Every Physician Should Ask Before Hiring a Financial Advisor

Think all financial advisors are working in your best interest? Think again.

In this solo episode, James Nutter pulls back the curtain on the financial industry and empowers physicians to take the driver’s seat. Whether you’re hiring your first advisor or reevaluating your current team, this episode is your guide to spotting red flags, understanding credentials (like what “fiduciary” really means), and asking the questions most doctors never think to ask—until it’s too late.

You’ve worked too hard to be a target for commission-driven sales tactics. Learn what licenses actually matter, why the term “fiduciary” is non-negotiable, and how to protect yourself from the financial equivalent of a bad diagnosis.

This is the kind of transparency every physician deserves—especially in their first 10 years out of training.

Top 5 Key Takeaways:

1. Ask the Fiduciary Question First
   If they’re not legally required to act in your best interest, they’re not the advisor for you.
2. Understand How They’re Paid
   Commissions, AUM, flat fee—know the compensation model and what’s really incentivizing them.
   Credentials & Licensing Matter
   Anyone can sell insurance after 30 days of study. Ask about CFPs, Series 66, and what that actually enables them to do.
3. Niche Experience Is a Must
   If they don’t understand your schedule, specialty, and student loans, they won’t understand your money.
4. Trust Your Gut
   If something feels off in the first five minutes, don’t wait an hour to make a decision. Walk away.

Resources & Next Steps:

• Download the PSLF Hacks Checklist
• Join the waitlist for a  free financial wellness session with James
• Get access to exclusive physician financial tools at www.imwealth.com
• 1% of IM Wealth’s revenue is dedicated to providing scholarship funds to medical students. Learn more about the Meaningful Journeys Scholarship and how you can join the fight here.
• Learn more about the impact IM Wealth is making in the lives of physicians here.
• Gain FREE immediate access to all of IM Wealth’s exclusive physician financial wellness resources here.

About the Show:

This isn’t just another finance podcast—it’s a movement. We’re challenging the status quo, cutting through the noise, and giving physicians real strategies to take control of their money and their future. 

Because true wealth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about freedom.

Find and follow the show on YouTube. 

About James Nutter:

James Nutter is on a mission to help physicians reclaim their financial power. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges doctors face, he provides real-world strategies that cut through the noise and lead to lasting financial freedom.

Follow James 

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A Physician’s Guide to Wealth Podcast — Brought to you by IM Wealth: Helping physicians take control of their money so they can live a purposeful life.

For more resources, visit IMWealth.com.

Advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, a Registered Investment Adviser.