The Higher Standard

What does it take to walk away from a stable career in engineering and build a boutique wealth advisory firm that manages hundreds of millions? In this episode, Chris and Saied sit down with Parsa Vahid, founder of Strand Life, to unpack that exact journey — from cold calls and 100% commission work to becoming the trusted financial strategist for high-net-worth families. Parsa shares how he navigated the pressure of legacy expectations, ditched a career that didn’t fit, and leaned into building a firm that handles everything from investments and tax planning to estate structures designed to protect families from, well… their own kids.➡️ This one goes deep into the real mechanics of building wealth — not just for yourself, but for generations. You’ll hear candid takes on how most advisors fall short, what red flags to watch out for, and why financial literacy gaps don’t magically disappear when you hit seven figures. Whether you're trying to decide when to hire an advisor, how to leave your safe job, or what happens when you leave a windfall to someone wildly unprepared, this episode will make you think — and maybe even rethink your whole plan.💥 Have you left your "honest ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" review? 👕 THS MERCH: http://www.thspod.com🔗 Parsa Vahid's Links:Business WebsiteBusiness InstagramPersonal Instagram⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared on this show is solely for entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal or investment advice or attributed to any company. The views and opinions expressed are personal and not reflective of any entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and listeners are urged to seek professional advice before making any legal or financial decisions. By listening to The Higher Standard podcast you agree to these terms, and the show, its hosts and employees are not liable for any consequences arising from your use of the content.

The Federal Reserve's decision to hold interest rates sparks an exploration of past wartime recessions and economic predictions. The discussion highlights how geopolitical tensions, like those involving Iran, could signal upcoming challenges. With inflation and employment metrics lagging, the hosts humorously contrast military actions with market behaviors. Insights into the Fed's communication strategies reveal a complex interplay between economics and foreign policy. Listeners are left questioning the impact of conflict on consumer confidence and economic stability.

Farshad Dehbozorgi, the "Club-to-Courtroom Closer," transitioned from viral TikTok sensation to a savvy personal injury lawyer. He shares hilarious anecdotes about his unexpected career path, including the grind of content creation and the absurdities of studying for the bar exam. The conversation dives into how roasting his wife online brought him unexpected fame and how he navigated the challenges of merging social media with law. With a mix of humor and heartfelt stories, Farshad captivates with his journey from nightlife to negotiating lawsuits.

The podcast dives into the drama surrounding Jerome Powell, Trump, and Jamie Dimon's economic warnings. Discover the implications of the political theater on monetary policy and brand reputation, with a touch of sarcasm. The hosts tackle the struggling housing market, discussing the stark reality of affordability and the increasing gap between buyers and sellers. They also reflect on the evolving concept of the American dream, where a hefty salary and a therapist seem essential. Expect humor, insights, and hard truths about today's economic challenges!

In this episode of The Higher Standard, Chris welcomes longtime friend and digital strategist Jeff Fargo into the freshly minted Black Crown Studios—and it’s not just a tour, it’s a masterclass in podcasting authenticity. The two chop it up over everything from DIY sound treatment and the obsessive details of studio design to how podcasting unexpectedly hijacked both their lives. But don’t let the good vibes fool you. Jeff comes with receipts—calling out fake engagement, bought followers, and the darker side of podcasting’s growth hacks. If you’ve ever wondered how to spot a real digital presence from a rented Lambo flex, this one’s for you.➡️ But this isn’t just a roast session—it’s a revealing look into the heart of real content creators. Chris and Jeff break down everything from fatherhood and financial freedom to algorithm secrets and viral hits, like Jeff’s 8.3 million–view clip on Vegas strip clubs. You'll hear Jeff drop gems on how to use Social Blade, why brand trust is everything, and why he believes podcast growth is like compound interest. Add in Saied’s silent sniper contributions and a whole lot of witty one-liners, and you’ve got yourself a high-value hangout with two guys who give a damn—and aren’t afraid to say it.💥 Have you left your "honest ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" review? 👕 THS MERCH: http://www.thspod.com🔗 Jeff Fargo's Links:Jeff's InstagramFargo Talks InstagramJeff's TikTokJeff's LinkedInJeff's FacebookFargo Talks X (formerly Twitter)Fargo Talks WebsiteFargo Talks on SpotifyFargo Talks on Apple PodcastsFargo Talks YouTube Channel⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared on this show is solely for entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal or investment advice or attributed to any company. The views and opinions expressed are personal and not reflective of any entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and listeners are urged to seek professional advice before making any legal or financial decisions. By listening to The Higher Standard podcast you agree to these terms, and the show, its hosts and employees are not liable for any consequences arising from your use of the content.

The crew tackles the recent U.S. credit downgrade, revealing how it signals rising debt and chaotic interest rates. With mortgage rates soaring above 7%, they caution listeners about housing affordability, emphasizing that homes are utilities, not investments. Humor blends with hard truths as they discuss why today's market may be the worst for buyers in history. Plus, there's a playful exploration of AI's impact on jobs and a look at how tariffs shape inflation. Their witty banter keeps the financial realities engaging!

What happens when you bring Pejman Ghadimi, the man who turned hacking exotic cars into a six-figure side hustle for thousands, onto The Higher Standard? You get a masterclass in how society has sold us a broken narrative about wealth, success, and “playing it safe.” With Saied riding shotgun at the production desk, Chris pulls back the curtain on Pejman’s wildly polarizing—but undeniably effective—philosophy that challenges everything you thought you knew about finance, personal growth, and chasing your dreams without going broke. From flipping Ferraris for profit to dismantling the myth of the American Dream, nothing was off-limits in this unfiltered conversation.➡️ Pejman takes us on a journey through his evolution—from broke immigrant to corporate banker, and ultimately to building his own empire teaching everyday people how to turn luxury assets like watches and cars into investment vehicles. Along the way, the guys dive deep into why most people are addicted to being told what to do, why external validation is a prison, and why true freedom comes from taking uncomfortable, messy action. This is the episode that will either make you curious enough to level up—or angry enough to stay exactly where you are. Either way, you’ve been warned.💥 Have you left your "honest ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" review? 👕 THS MERCH: http://www.thspod.com🔗 Pejman Ghadimi's Links:Pejman's InstagramPejman's WebsitePejman's BooksExotic Car HacksExotic Car Hacks InstagramExotic Car Hacks YouTubeWatch Trading AcademyWatch Trading Academy InstagramWatch Trading Academy YouTube⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared on this show is solely for entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal or investment advice or attributed to any company. The views and opinions expressed are personal and not reflective of any entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and listeners are urged to seek professional advice before making any legal or financial decisions. By listening to The Higher Standard podcast you agree to these terms, and the show, its hosts and employees are not liable for any consequences arising from your use of the content.

You’ve heard the headlines, but we’re here to break down what they really mean for your wallet. In this episode, Warren Buffett officially announces his retirement as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Jerome Powell leaves rates untouched (again), and America’s GDP takes a nose dive into negative territory. Meanwhile, the media spins, Wall Street panics, and your buddy on Instagram who just discovered ETFs is suddenly an "economic expert." Don’t worry, we’ve got the real story—served fresh, with a side of wit and sarcasm.➡️ But that’s not all. We’re diving into the housing market that still refuses to correct, student loan garnishments that are coming for your paycheck, and why UPS is laying off 20,000 people after parting ways with Amazon. Oh, and AI is officially eating white-collar jobs for breakfast—so there’s that. Grab your favorite overpriced latte, sit back, and let Chris and Saied help you navigate the chaos with facts, jokes, and just enough cynicism to keep it fun. Welcome to The Higher Standard.💥 Have you left your "honest ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" review? 👕 THS MERCH: http://www.thspod.com🔗 Resources:Q1 GDP Goes Negative On Imports Surge (Yahoo! Finance via Instagram)Existing homes sales are at multi-decade low (Nick Gerli via X)Trump administration restarts student loan collections for millions in default after years-long pause (CNBC)UPS to Cut 20,000 Jobs After Amazon Breakup (Wall Street Journal)Warren Buffett is not retiring for good as Berkshire board votes to keep him as chairman (CNBC)⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared on this show is solely for entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal or investment advice or attributed to any company. The views and opinions expressed are personal and not reflective of any entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and listeners are urged to seek professional advice before making any legal or financial decisions. By listening to The Higher Standard podcast you agree to these terms, and the show, its hosts and employees are not liable for any consequences arising from your use of the content.

Welcome to a milestone episode of The Higher Standard — our final recording in the studio that saw it all: hot takes, financial rants, emotional confessions, and at least one broken mic stand. In this sendoff, Chris and Saied wax poetic (and sarcastic) about the evolution of the show, what it took to build the brand from a neon-lit cave to a next-gen recording fortress, and why growth — both personal and professional — sometimes requires saying goodbye to comfort. If these walls could talk, they’d probably file for workers’ comp.➡️ But this isn’t just a trip down memory lane. We tackle the uncomfortable realities of volatility in today’s markets, the rise of AI’s takeover of traditional labor, and how to stay grounded when the ground keeps shifting. It’s a mix of tough love, real talk, and a little nostalgia — delivered in our signature style: punchy, unfiltered, and mildly inappropriate. Buckle up. The future is now, and it’s got better lighting.💥 Have you left your "honest ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" review? 👕 THS MERCH: http://www.thspod.com🔗 Resources:We aren't crying, you're crying...⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared on this show is solely for entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal or investment advice or attributed to any company. The views and opinions expressed are personal and not reflective of any entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and listeners are urged to seek professional advice before making any legal or financial decisions. By listening to The Higher Standard podcast you agree to these terms, and the show, its hosts and employees are not liable for any consequences arising from your use of the content.

In this episode of The Higher Standard, Chris and Saied take a wrecking ball to the myths of modern homeownership—armed with caffeine, sarcasm, and a well-earned chip on their shoulder. From the Fed’s tightrope act to the slow-motion implosion of consumer confidence, they unpack the real estate market’s latest mood swings, including a 5.9% drop in existing home sales and why homebuilder incentives might not be the golden ticket they appear to be. Whether it’s mortgage points, ARMs, or the lock-in effect, the guys explain how debt, equity, and psychology are shaping a volatile new paradigm for aspiring homeowners.➡️ But wait—this isn’t just economic therapy. It’s also gym confessions, cold plunges, burrito-based diet plans, and a hard truth: you’re probably not timing the market better than Warren Buffett. The duo dives into the dangers of being house poor, why your credit score isn’t as accurate as you think, and why buying a home should be more about life fit than market timing. If you’ve ever wondered whether intermittent fasting, lifting routines, and homeownership prep could be discussed in the same breath, buckle up. This is The Higher Standard—where financial literacy meets real-life chaos and a lot of unsolicited fitness advice.💥 Have you left your "honest ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" review? 👕 THS MERCH: http://www.thspod.com🧊 Get 12% off any purchase at Ice Barrel (Excludes chillers)🔗 Resources:March home sales drop to their slowest pace since 2009 (CNBC)⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared on this show is solely for entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal or investment advice or attributed to any company. The views and opinions expressed are personal and not reflective of any entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and listeners are urged to seek professional advice before making any legal or financial decisions. By listening to The Higher Standard podcast you agree to these terms, and the show, its hosts and employees are not liable for any consequences arising from your use of the content.