What Makes a Good Financial Plan

Think the American Dream is slipping out of reach? Think again. In this episode of The Stacking Benjamins Show, Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, and Neighbor Doug tackle one of the biggest financial questions of our time: how much does it really cost to live the life you want — and is it still possible? Spoiler alert: it is, but it takes more than a paycheck and a Pinterest board. We break down fresh research from Investopedia, the rising price tag of everything from healthcare to college, and how smart planning (and a little basement wisdom) can keep your dreams from turning into financial nightmares.

But this isn’t just another numbers game. Along the way, the gang shares stories from the road — including Joe’s brush with baseball’s most entertaining team — and digs into the strategies that can help you fight inflation, outsmart rising costs, and make compounding interest your best friend. Plus, we tackle big listener questions, from how to choose the right financial advisor to the best ways to set young adults up for success in a tougher economic landscape.

And because life isn’t all spreadsheets and savings goals, we round things out with some binge-worthy TV and movie picks for when you’re off the clock. It’s part money masterclass, part basement hangout — and all about helping you take real steps toward your version of the American Dream.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why the “American Dream” isn’t dead — but why it may look different today.

• The real costs behind homeownership, healthcare, education, and retirement (and how to plan for them).

• Strategies for budgeting, saving early, and building systems that make your money work harder.

• How to vet a financial advisor and what red flags to watch out for.

• Smart ways to guide young adults toward financial independence.

• The power of compounding interest and how to use it to your advantage.

  
  

  Questions to Consider (and Discuss with Fellow Stackers)

• What does the “American Dream” mean to you — and has that definition changed over time?

• Which costs (housing, healthcare, college, etc.) feel most overwhelming right now, and how are you tackling them?

• What’s one piece of financial advice you’d give to someone just starting their journey?

  
  

  FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/the-rising-cost-of-the-american-dream-1741

  Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201

  Enjoy!

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