📌 Episode Summary:
In this episode of What Is Wealth Management, we’re tackling one of the most overused—and misunderstood—words in finance: fiduciary. You’ve seen it plastered across websites and pitch decks, often delivered with dramatic weight, as if simply saying the word should make you trust someone.

But here’s the truth: most investors have no idea what it actually means.

We break it down simply. A fiduciary is someone legally required to put your interests ahead of their own. It’s not just a promise—it’s a binding obligation. But the history of this idea? It’s richer than most advisors let on.

We trace the origins from ancient Rome, through English common law, to its modern-day battle in U.S. finance—highlighting how a word born from trust has become a buzzword in boardrooms.

This episode pokes fun at the way some advisors weaponize jargon while reminding listeners why fiduciary responsibility still matters—maybe more than ever.

🔑 Takeaways:

• Why “fiduciary” sounds profound but is often poorly explained
• The Roman and legal roots of the term
• What it actually means for your financial life
• How to ask the right questions to see if your advisor walks the walk