No Pricks Allowed

No Pricks Allowed


How Much Are You Paying? Ft. Mark Hansen (Ep. 16)

January 23, 2025

Ever wondered how much you’re really paying for financial advice and whether it’s worth it? Dive into this episode as we discuss two key ways advisors get paid and how they shape your financial journey.


In this episode, Aaron Buchner sits down with Mark Hansen, Financial Advisor, Second Comma, to break down the differences between Assets Under Management (AUM) versus Fee-Only planning. They’re not here to proclaim a ‘one size fits all’ solution but to explore how different payment structures can help you meet your goals. Along the way, they share insights on the importance of transparency, the impact of digital transformation on financial planning, and why connecting with the right financial advisor is about much more than just numbers.


Aaron and Mark discuss: 



  • (02:52) Differences between AUM and Fee-Only Models
  • (06:50) Importance of transparency in financial planning
  • (11:19) What you’re actually getting for the money you spending
  • (19:22) Why an advisor’s personality matters
  • (24:52) Should you choose an advisor based on fee structure alone?
  • And more

Connect with Aaron Buchner: 



Connect with Mark Hansen: 



About our Guest: 


Mark Hansen is the founder of Second Comma, a financial advisory firm based in the United States. As a seasoned financial advisor, Mark specializes in guiding individuals and families who are a few decades away from retirement, typically in their 30s and 40s. His expertise lies in helping younger generations who are beginning to see their wealth accumulate, time constraints grow, and financial responsibilities expand.


Mark is passionate about creating personalized strategies that enable his clients to navigate their journey to retirement confidently and on their preferred timelines. With a commitment to clarity and long-term planning, he empowers families to align their financial goals with their life ambitions.