Asking for a Friend: How do I know if this financial advisor is giving me advice…or just trying to sell me something?

Asking for a Friend: How do I know if this financial advisor is giving me advice…or just trying to sell me something?

When hiring a financial advisor, one of the most important details is how they get paid. An advisor's compensation model can influence not only the type of advice you receive, but whether that advice truly serves your best interests or is swayed by other incentives. Learn the key differences between fee-only, fee-based, and commission-based advisors, and the questions you should ask before hiring anyone.

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What Does the Financial Planning Process Actually Look Like?
Behind the Scenes of Financial Planning Korinne Sugasawara Behind the Scenes of Financial Planning Korinne Sugasawara

What Does the Financial Planning Process Actually Look Like?

What happens when you work with a financial planner? Spoiler: it’s not just spreadsheets and retirement projections. At Kite and Compass, financial planning is a collaborative, values-based process designed to support LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent folks navigating real-life complexity. Here’s how it works, step by step.

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Why Did I Quit A Stable Government Job?

Why Did I Quit A Stable Government Job?

I’m queer, neurodivergent, and a woman of color. For years, I thought I was too sensitive, too blunt, too complicated. But over time, I realized existing spaces weren’t built with people like me in mind.

That’s part of why I created Kite & Compass: a financial planning practice where queer, trans, neurodiverse, poly, kinky, and otherwise “different” folks could bring their full selves and be met with clarity, respect, and warmth.

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