Big Words, Fancy Charts, and Confusion
Have you ever sat across the table from a financial professional, nodding politely, while secretly feeling lost? You’re not alone.
Estate planning attorney Chris Erblich knows that real expertise doesn’t hide behind jargon. As he told us on The Wealth and Purpose Podcast, “If you can’t explain it to me in a way I understand, that’s on you.”
The truth is, complexity is often unnecessary. Great advisors can make complicated things simple, and that’s who you want on your team.
The Problem with Playing General Contractor
Chris painted a vivid picture of families acting as the “general contractor” for their finances, calling the CPA, the lawyer, the investment advisor, and coordinating details between people who rarely talk to each other.
This DIY approach doesn’t just eat up your time; it risks costly mistakes. When professionals aren’t working as an integrated team, things fall through the cracks. Titles may not match estate plans. Taxes may get overlooked. And the burden falls on you.
Instead, Chris recommends assembling an integrated team where each person knows what the others are doing, like a finely tuned orchestra. This ensures your family’s financial life is harmonized, not chaotic.
Caring Counts More Than You Think
Beyond technical skill and honesty, Chris argues that the most critical quality in any advisor is genuine care.
“Do you matter to them?” he asked on the show. “Or are they just talking about themselves?”
The right team listens to you, remembers the details of your life, and shapes their advice around your unique story. It’s a level of trust that can’t be faked.
Bringing Wealth and Purpose Together
Ultimately, managing wealth isn’t just about money; it’s about protecting relationships, values, and legacy.
Families should have open conversations, hold family meetings, and educate the next generation. Chris shared a touching story of his daughter stressing over renters’ insurance, proving even bright, educated adults need guidance.
Wealth planning should make life simpler, not more complicated. If your advisors can’t explain things plainly or don’t truly care about you as a person, it’s time to rethink who’s on your team.
👉 Begin your conversation today at TFO Wealth Partners
