I like the way the adviser couches his recommendations. One can see that some thought has gone into them.

Not that the other financial adviser con men who provide advice to FF have NOT been thoughtful. They may just be less capable of expressing themselves in words.

I just like Mr. Sears' approach. He avoids the criticism of not addressing the discrepancies in the monthly spending by suggesting that this couple rethink it. It is more likely that this couple's expenses are equivalent to its income. While some elements of the monthly budget shown must be true other parts are wishful thinking. These two either do not know what they spend on food or all they eat is porridge.

FF could raise its credibility by vetting the information of people seeking advice, making sure there are no obvious errors.