In the world of financial planning, impressive credentials and industry certifications are everywhere—but do they guarantee trustworthiness? This eye-opening episode features financial planner Mary Ann Sullivan, who reveals the crucial distinction between credibility and trust that every consumer needs to understand.

The conversation takes a deeper dive into Mary Ann's unique philosophy of empowerment over dependency, challenging the traditional financial services model where clients remain perpetually reliant on their advisors. Instead of creating lifelong customers, Sullivan's approach focuses on teaching clients to become their own CFOs, with her serving as a trusted guide rather than a gatekeeper of financial knowledge.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why credibility and trust are not the same thing, and why fiduciaries must prove both.
• The hidden biases in financial advice and how to “trust but verify.”
• How three days of mentorship changed Mary Ann’s financial future.
• When leadership and safety were compromised in her school principal days.
• How Mary Ann builds trust with her financial planning clients by teaching, not selling.

Ideas Worth Sharing:

• “Trust is really at the core… You can have letters behind your name… but credibility and trust are two different things.” - Mary Ann Sullivan
• “One of my favorite phrases is trust but verify. If it sounds good, it's okay to follow that instinct for a little while, but take a breather from it and verify.” - Mary Ann Sullivan
• “My real goal for my clients is to teach them how to be empowered with their money and to manage their own finances and be their own CFO with me by their side, helping them along.” - Mary Ann Sullivan

Resources:

• 395 Financial Planning - Learn more about Mary Ann’s advice-only financial planning firm.
• Schedule a Free Intro Call with Mary Ann

About Our Guest:

Mary Ann Sullivan is the founder of 395 Financial Planning, an advice-only firm specializing in serving educators and professionals in the motion picture industry. A former teacher and school principal, Mary Ann brings a unique educator’s perspective to financial planning: focused on empowerment, transparency, and trust. She holds the CFP® designation and is passionate about making financial advice accessible for middle-class families.

Connect with Mary Ann:

Website: https://www.395financialplanning.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mammothlakesfi

Follow Anne:

LinkedIn: Anne Claessen

Connect With Us

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