J.L. Collins' "The Simple Path to Wealth" provides a straightforward, easy-to-understand guide to achieving financial independence. The book emphasizes saving a significant portion of income, avoiding debt, and investing in low-cost index funds. It encourages readers to focus on long-term growth and avoid the complexities of market timing or active trading. The book's simple yet effective principles have resonated with millions of readers, making it a highly popular resource for those seeking financial freedom. It's a timeless guide that empowers readers to take control of their financial future.
This book, written by George S. Clason, uses a series of parables to convey fundamental principles of personal finance and wealth accumulation. Published in 1926, it remains highly relevant today, offering practical advice on saving, investing, budgeting, and financial discipline. The parables are engaging and easy to understand, making complex financial concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Key principles include paying yourself first, living within your means, and making money work for you through wise investments. Despite its historical setting, the book's core lessons are adaptable to modern financial practices and have had a profound impact on countless readers worldwide.
What do cupcakes, frosting, and financial independence have in common? This week in the basement, Stacking Benjamins welcomes legendary personal finance thinker JL Collins, author of The Simple Path to Wealth, to connect the dots between simple investing and sweet, stress-free success.
In a lively conversation with Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, and Mom’s neighbor Doug (who may or may not be launching a frosting-themed protest movement), JL shares timeless wisdom on avoiding complexity, embracing low-cost index investing, and why FU money is more than just a clever phrase—it’s freedom in a bank account.
You’ll hear JL’s take on portfolio allocation, debt’s sneaky impact on your future, and how to survive volatile markets without sacrificing your peace of mind. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a soul-crushing job? JL’s got some perspective you’ll love.
Then, in the second half of the episode, Joe and OG shift gears to answer a listener question from Mike. He’s wondering about the efficient frontier—yes, we’re getting fancy now—and wants to know how to move beyond the Simple Path. Joe walks through the different asset classes he thinks about when crafting a diversified portfolio, while OG shares how to think through asset allocation as your wealth and confidence grow. Whether you’re curious about real estate, international investing, or just how much to hold in bonds, you’ll walk away with a clearer picture of what your portfolio could look like after “graduating” from JL’s foundational advice.
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Why keeping it simple beats chasing trends
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What “FU money” really means—and how to get it
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The truth about withdrawal rates and why they matter
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When debt becomes a dream killer
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Tips for navigating market downturns without panic
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How to find freedom without spending a fortune
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JL’s surprisingly profound parable about a monk, a minister, and money
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Doug’s hot take on the great frosting vs. cake debate
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A deep dive into the efficient frontier and how to set up your asset allocation beyond VTSAX
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Joe Saul-Sehy and OG’s thoughts on portfolio construction for seasoned investors
JL’s insights have inspired millions on the path to financial independence—and now it’s your turn. Tune in, take notes (or don’t, we’ll recap it in the 201), and remember: sometimes the sweetest success starts with doing less.
FULL SHOW NOTES: https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/the-simple-path-to-contentment-with-jl-collins-1685/
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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The Stacking Benjamins Show 
