Can I set up a Roth IRA without going through a financial planner/broker and if so, how?

Very easily. Assuming you have selected a mutual fund company you are interested in opening a Roth IRA account, simply call and ask for their Roth IRA application kit. You can get any major investment magazine (Money, Kiplingers, Mutual Fund Magazine, etc.) to get suggestions about performance of various mutual fund companies. Call the fund's "800" no. and ask questions regarding management fees, loads (costs up front or when you cash out), and other fees associated with each fund. But there will be no brokerage or financial planner fees or percentages when you open up the account directly with the mutual fund company.