The Clark Howard Podcast

10 Essential Duties of a Real Fiduciary Financial Advisor (It’s Not Just Investing)

If you think a financial advisor’s only job is to pick stocks, you’re missing out on the most valuable services a true fiduciary provides. In this episode, Wes Moss breaks down the ten essential roles a fee-only advisor should play. Whether you are engineering a retirement cash flow or navigating the emotional rollercoaster of market volatility, learn why a real fiduciary is your "personal CFO" for every major life decision, not just your investment portfolio.Mentioned on the show:


What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One?


Best Financial Advisors in 2026 - Clark Howard


How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor - Clark Howard

Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the May 19, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask

We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!

Learn more about Wes: 


BOOKS BY WES MOSS  


Wes Moss, CFP® 

Wes Moss - Clark.com

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Recent financial statistics reveal something highly disturbing: The average American saves just 4% of their pay. Saving just four cents of every dollar earned is inadequate to provide long-term security and leaves the majority of the country living on the edge of a financial cliff. If you find yourself stuck in this cycle, it is time to embrace the "penny-at-a-time" strategy.  Also, the upcoming Memorial Day weekend brings massive sales events at furniture stores. The industry is flat on its back due to a frozen housing market, with many retailers in acute financial distress. If you’re in the market for furniture, know how to play the pay game strategically to avoid getting burned.

Average Saving Doesn’t Cut It: Segment 1

Ask Clark: Segment 2

Warning: Furniture Sales: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

4 simple ways to start saving

Save Money Archives - Clark Howard


Simple Trick To Pay Down Credit Card Debt Quicker - Clark Howard


What Brokerage Do You Recommend for First-Time Investors or Kids?


4 Types of Term Life Insurance Companies Explained - Clark Howard


Why You Need To Check Your Credit Report Today - Clark Howard 

NYTimes: America’s Furniture Stores Struggle to Survive a Frozen Housing Market

5 Things to Know About New Settlement That Could Change Credit Card Rewards

SIM Card Swapping: The Dangerous Cell Phone Scam Everyone Needs To Know About

This Simple iPhone Update Stops Dangerous Spyware From Stealing Your Data


What Is a Passkey and How Do Passkeys Work? 

Clark.com resources:

Episode transcripts


Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark

Clark.com daily money newsletter


Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

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Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.   Also, a knock on your door from a roofer claiming they’ve spotted hail damage via drone might feel like a lucky break, but it’s often a trap. While the idea of getting a "free new roof" is tempting, filing small or questionable claims is an abuse the industry no longer tolerates. Clark’s home insurance philosophy is an essential must-know to protect your wallet.


Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2

Hail Damage Claims: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:


10 Ways To Save on Prescription Drugs - Clark Howard

Why You Should Consider Security Cameras (Without the Monthly Subscription)


6 Cheap DIY Home Security Systems - Clark Howard


Why Study Abroad Can Lead To Higher Starting Salaries For U.S. Graduates - Forbes


Clark Howard: Habitat for Humanity  / Habitat

Rethinking Homeowners Insurance: The Catastrophe-Only Rule


When Should You File a Claim on Your Homeowners Insurance?


Homeowners Insurance Archives - Clark Howard 


Where Should You Keep Your Cash Reserve? - Clark Howard

Scam Alert: New ‘Party Invite’ Message Can Empty Your Bank Account

Clark.com resources:

Episode transcripts


Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark

Clark.com daily money newsletter


Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While Congress has made it easier than ever to access 401(k) funds through hardship withdrawals, this can be a dangerous trap for your future self. Losing out on decades of compounded interest has long-term consequences. Before you hit retirement savings to cover a financial bump, use the Team Clark 401(k) Loan Calculator to see the true cost of that withdrawal – it might just convince you to find another way to bridge the gap.  Also, Clark breaks down how Amazon has partnered with vehicle brands in new markets, offering another option for more streamlined car buying. Know how to bypass the gimmicks and games to get a fair price on your next vehicle.

401(k) Loans: Segment 1

Ask Clark: Segment 2

The Car Buying Process: Segment 3

Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

Is a 401(k) Loan a Good Idea? Almost Never - Clark Howard


401(k) Loan Calculator (Clark.com)


Clark Howard's Special Rule for Refinancing Your Mortgage

Why Clark Says You Should ‘Ignore’ Paze as Trendy New Payment Option


Why You Should Never Store Your Payment Information Online


Top 7 Ways To Shop Safely Online - Clark Howard

Why Amazon and Costco May Be The Best Ways to Buy Your Next Car


The Best Car-Buying Services - Clark Howard


Report: 4 Used Electric Vehicles Under $25,000 - Clark Howard


What Mileage Should I Target on a Used Electric Vehicle?


CR - Used Hybrids & EVs Ratings 

SIXT+ | Your Car Subscription


Should You Ever Lease a Car? - Clark Howard 

Clark.com resources:

Episode transcripts


Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark

Clark.com daily money newsletter


Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark Howard & Wes Moss: Your Top Money Questions Answered!

In this special episode, Clark Howard and Wes Moss join forces to answer real-world money questions from people just like you. No jargon, no fluff – just actionable advice to help you reach your goals faster.

Mentioned on the show:


Roth 401k Calculator - Clark Howard


Roth vs. Traditional 401(k): What's the Difference? - Clark Howard

Why Clark Howard Is Obsessed With Roth for Retirement Savings


Backdoor Roth IRA: How High Earners Can Still Contribute

All this and more on the May 12, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask

We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!

Learn more about Wes: 


BOOKS BY WES MOSS  


Wes Moss, CFP® 

Wes Moss - Clark.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices