Most people think they are asking financial questions when they come in to meet with an advisor and initiate a conversation, but what we’ve found is they’re often asking something much deeper.

So, welcome to Fi Paladin Financial Talk. I’m your host, Nikki Foley, and today I’m joined by featured advisor, Mr. Matthew Bryant. Matt, glad you’re here today.

Matt: Good to be here. It’s been a while since we did one together.

Nikki: I know. I always love this, and I always have to share that we’re brother and sister. It’s one of the highlights that I get to work with Matt on a daily basis, and when we get to do things like this, it’s the cherry on top.

In this series, we’re on episode number three, breaking down the most common financial questions people ask. Oftentimes, like I foreshadowed, there’s something deeper underlying those questions.

In this episode, we’re going to explore the misconceptions behind those questions, how to reframe them, and get to that deeper truth. Matt, I’m sure you’re excited to dig into that.

But first, let’s talk a little about you. Matt has spent the last 15 years in the financial services industry, serving in multiple roles. He started in a back-office capacity providing client service support, then worked for a portfolio management firm helping advisors with their clients. Today, he’s a financial advisor, and I couldn’t be more proud that we get to work together at Paladin Financial.

You’re a licensed investment advisor, holding your Series 6, 63, and 65, which makes you a fiduciary, correct? And you also have your life and health licenses. We’re big on educating clients—that’s a hallmark of our organization. What else should we add?

Matt: Yeah, I started in back-office and client service roles, and even now as an advisor, we’re still client-first. It doesn’t matter your role—we’re always doing our best for clients. That’s how we’ve built this and how we always will.

I also come from a long line of educators. My parents were teachers, my grandparents were educators—one even helped start a community college. So education has always been important to me. This industry is complex, with a lot of moving parts, so I want people to understand what we’re doing—not just take our word for it.

Nikki: Absolutely. We all see the world through our own lens, and the people side is what motivates me. Meeting people where they are and being a resource—making their lives simpler in an area that may not interest them or may feel overwhelming—is something I’m proud of.

We’re not focused on speed or volume; we focus on real relationships.

Is there anything else you’d add?

Matt: In my previous role, I worked with advisors helping them implement investment strategies for clients, many of whom were near or in retirement. I’ve worked with hundreds of advisors and seen a wide range of markets and client situations.

That experience helped me understand not just the numbers, but the psychology—how people feel about their money and how to help them feel confident and sleep better at night.

Nikki: And it shows. You do a great job taking complex topics and making them simple. We don’t need to overcomplicate this—we bring it back to what matters to each person.

Nikki: So let’s move into today’s topic. What is the number one question or concern you hear from prospective clients?

Matt: Lately, it’s “How do I pull everything together?”

People research individual topics—Social Security, Roth conversions, investments—but they struggle to find a resource that ties everything together. All these decisions are interconnected.

A decision about Social Security or distributions can impact taxes, Medicare premiums, and more. What we try to do is say, “Great job doing the research—now let’s connect the dots.”

Nikki: That resonates. Do you have a specific example?

Matt: Social Security timing is a big one. People are often emotional about when to start. But they rarely consider all the overlapping factors—taxes, Medicare surcharges, income thresholds.

For example, in some states, Social Security is still taxed. Without a plan, you could end up paying more in taxes or higher Medicare premiums. It’s not as simple as “give me my income”—everything is connected.

Nikki: And you don’t know what you don’t know until someone helps connect those dots. Our tax code and Medicare system are complicated, and mistakes can be costly.

Matt: Exactly. And often irreversible. That’s why having someone help pull everything together can be so impactful.

Nikki: What misconceptions do you see?

Matt: Sticking with Social Security—there’s a lot of misinformation. Younger people often assume it won’t exist. Those nearing retirement assume it will, but don’t always consider factors like where they’ll live, whether they’ll work, and how that affects benefits.

There are many variables, and decisions are hard to undo—so planning matters.

Nikki: I’ve noticed you ask a lot of questions to help clients see different perspectives.

Matt: We have to. Your advisor should understand your future, not just your present.

Nikki: Is there a deeper concern behind these questions?

Matt: Absolutely—fear. This is people’s life savings. There’s an emotional attachment and fear of making the wrong decision.

Most people were told to “save and invest,” but not how. Then it becomes overwhelming—what to invest in, how to adjust over time, and how to react to market events.

Without guidance, people may make emotional decisions that undo years of progress.

Nikki: I see a spectrum—analysis paralysis on one end, and rushed decisions on the other.

Matt: Exactly. That’s when you need to pause and get expert guidance.

Nikki: Any other real-world examples?

Matt: The mortgage debate. Many people want to pay it off early, but if you have a low interest rate, investing extra money might be more beneficial long-term.

Some even consider withdrawing from retirement accounts to pay off a low-rate mortgage—which can trigger taxes and may not be the best move.

It’s often emotional, but you need to step back and look at the numbers.

Nikki: That emotional layer shows up everywhere in financial decisions.

Nikki: What should listeners do next? Any “homework”?

Matt: Ask questions—lots of them. Even if they feel basic.

Also, understand your spending. Many people don’t actually know how much they spend, and that can derail a financial plan.

Know what you spend and what you save—that’s foundational.

Nikki: That’s so true. Even after 20 years, I’m still asking questions.

Matt: Same here. And we continue learning. It’s unrealistic to expect someone outside the industry to navigate all this alone.

Nikki: You’ve mentioned something interesting—specialists vs. generalists.

Matt: Specialists tend to seek out experts because they understand the value of expertise. They know they can’t master everything.

The same applies here—working with a financial professional can lead to better outcomes than going it alone.

Nikki: As we wrap up, any final resources?

Matt: Our website has podcasts and webinars. Also, Investopedia is a great resource for understanding financial basics.

And be mindful of where you get your information—seek multiple perspectives.

Nikki: Great advice. The key takeaway today is: it’s okay not to know how everything fits together. This is a complex space, and emotions play a big role.

If you’re considering working with a financial professional, we’ve provided a guide with questions to ask. We also offer 15-minute complimentary consultations.

Visit our website, book a session, or give us a call. And follow us on social media for more content.

Matt, anything else?

Matt: If this sounds like you—someone who understands pieces but not the whole—reach out. These decisions matter, and we want to help you avoid costly mistakes.

Nikki: Thanks, Matt—and thanks for listening. We’ll see you next time.