Why do LGBTQ+ folks need “money talk” that feels different? Because trust changes everything. In Ep. 1, Jerry and Grace McLen, CFP® unpack how to pick the right advisor, the first steps when you’re overwhelmed, and the estate-planning basics queer and unmarried couples can’t skip. Budget leaks, fee transparency, and judgment-free planning—this is your gentle nudge to start.

Content note / disclaimer

Educational only—no personalized financial, legal, or tax advice. Talk to licensed pros about your specific situation.

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Season 1

Jerry kicks off Pink Money with guest Certified Financial Planner™  Grace McLen, digging into why advice “from a gay perspective” is really about comfort, trust, and judgment-free guidance. They cover how to find (and vet) a financial pro, the first steps when you feel overwhelmed, why budgets fail, estate-planning musts for queer and unmarried couples, and how to turn vague goals into a practical plan.

Key takeaways

  • Fit > labels. Money is money, but you’ll open up—and get better advice—when you feel safe and seen.

  • Ask the awkward questions. “How are you paid?” “Are you licensed?” “What will this cost?” If you get attitude, move on.

  • Start small, start now. Track every expense for 2 weeks; you’ll spot leaks (usually eating out + car costs).

  • Goals first, numbers second. Clarify what you want (retire, kill debt, buy a home), then map cash flow to match priorities.

  • Update your safety net. Wills, powers of attorney, beneficiaries—especially crucial for LGBTQ+ or unmarried partners.

  • Advice isn’t just for the rich (or the broke). It’s for anyone who wants a roadmap and accountability.

Chapter markers (approx.)

  • 00:39 — Why “money from a gay perspective” matters: safety & comfort

  • 03:32 — Meet Grace and her approach (warm, non-intimidating, practical)

  • 06:04 — Where to start when you feel behind

  • 07:27 — The #1 mistake: no budget (hello, leak-y spending)

  • 08:44 — Priorities vs. habits: eating out, cars, and trade-offs

  • 10:59 — First 60 days with an advisor: baby steps & check-ins

  • 12:38 — If money is tight (job loss, pandemic): options & resources

  • 13:30 — How advisors get paid: fees, commissions, and conflicts

  • 16:27 — Being honest (and finding a judgment-free pro)

  • 17:38 — Estate planning musts for LGBTQ+ / unmarried couples

  • 20:19 — Keep docs current; powers of attorney can “expire” in practice

  • 22:29 — Organization = kindness to your future self

  • 24:12 — Beware half-tips from TV/YouTube; get guidance that fits you

  • 27:19 — The 2-week money diary (your quick win)

  • 29:19 — How to find & vet a local advisor (referrals + BrokerCheck)

  • 32:45 — Don’t fear asking costs up front

  • 33:46 — Wrap & next steps

Action steps (for listeners)

  1. Money diary: track every spend for 14 days (notes app works).

  2. List goals: top 3 (and rough timelines).

  3. Quick estate check: confirm beneficiaries; if unmarried, add POA/advanced directive.

  4. Advisor shortlist: ask friends for recs; verify on FINRA BrokerCheck; interview 2–3 and ask how they’re paid.