

The Stacking Benjamins Show
StackingBenjamins.com | Cumulus Podcast Network
Named the Best Personal Finance Podcast by Bankrate.com and Kiplinger, The Stacking Benjamins Show features a light and friendly tone. Hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and OG aim to make financial literacy fun for all as they sit around the card table in Joe's Mom's half-finished basement and talk with experts about personal finance, saving, investing, and important money trends. As Fast Company once wrote, the Stacking Benjamins podcast "strikes a great balance of fun and functional." So join Joe and OG every Monday, Wednesday and Friday as they read your letters, discuss major headlines, and throw in some trivia and laughs for free.
Episodes
Mentioned books

7 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 21min
A Sandwich Guide to Navigating Inflation (plus how to plug 401k "leakage") SB1717
Len Penzo, an award-winning personal finance expert, joins the hosts to explore the quirky intersection of inflation and sandwiches through his Annual Sandwich Survey. They discuss surprising shifts in sandwich prices and how to keep enjoying affordable lunches despite rising costs. The conversation then shifts to troubling trends in 401(k) hardship withdrawals, offering valuable insights on how to secure retirement savings. Plus, Stacker community member Christine shares essential tips for reducing college expenses—definitely worth a listen!

7 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 1h 6min
What Would YOU Do With $50,000? (SB1716)
Join Paula Pant, founder of Afford Anything and a savvy real estate investor, along with Jesse Cramer, founder of The Best Interest, as they dive into the capital conundrum of what to do with a sudden $50,000. They emphasize starting with mindset and goals before addressing high-interest debt, investing, or splurging. The conversation reveals common pitfalls in managing windfalls and tackles the 401(k) match dilemma. Expect playful banter mixed with valuable insights on navigating unexpected financial blessings.

14 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 1h 24min
How to Make Better Decisions Using Math (with Ted Dintersmith) SB1715
Ted Dintersmith, an economist and education reformer known for his advocacy in math education and the documentary 'Most Likely to Succeed,' brings a fresh perspective on how math can transform decision-making. He argues that being roughly right is more useful than being precisely wrong, encouraging practical approaches to consumer math in everyday life. Dintersmith shares an eye-opening story about how a challenging exam impacted a young student’s confidence, emphasizing the need for math education that fosters curiosity and real-world applications.

20 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 50min
How to Turn 2025's New Tax Rules Into Big Savings (SB1714)
Big tax changes are on the horizon for 2025, offering savvy savers ways to maximize their cash! Discover why some tax credits might be a better deal than deductions. Learn how to make above-the-line moves for valuable savings without itemizing. Fans of charitable giving and auto loans will see new benefits. Families will appreciate expanded child credits and dependent care accounts. Plus, find out about 401(k) catch-up rules for those over 50 to supercharge retirement savings. Tune in for practical tips that could add thousands to your bottom line!

16 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 1h 1min
Climbing the Wealth Ladder: Conquering Retirement Fears (with Mark Trautman) SB1713
Mark Trautman, financial literacy advocate and host of Mark's Money Mind, joins Paula Pant, personal finance expert, and Jesse Cramer, financial planner, to tackle retirement fears. They explore how losing identity can be scarier than running out of money and share strategies to overcome procrastination. The panel emphasizes the importance of income diversification, the psychological aspects of retirement planning, and real stories about transitions. They also discuss healthcare planning, ensuring both financial and emotional well-being in retirement.

22 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 1h 18min
Understanding Your Financial Roadmap (with Nick Maggiulli) SB1712
This episode features Nick Maggiulli, Chief Operating Officer at Ritholtz Wealth Management and author of Of Dollars and Data. He shares insights from his book, The Wealth Ladder, discussing financial priorities from emergency funds to generational wealth. Nick emphasizes that increasing income is often more crucial than frugality. He talks about wealth plateaus, the trap of goal obsession, and the importance of understanding opportunity costs. Practical strategies for navigating wealth levels offer fresh perspectives on financial growth and fulfillment.

22 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 1h 8min
How to Climb the Wealth Ladder (SB1711)
Ever wondered how to tailor financial advice to your net worth? This conversation breaks down the wealth ladder, offering insights for every stage—from $10K to $10 million. Discover why following generic tips can hinder your progress and learn when a Roth IRA conversion truly benefits you. The hosts mix humor with valuable lessons on diversification, risk management, and the pitfalls of impatience in wealth building. Plus, enjoy community stories of triumph and nostalgic trivia celebrating Robin Williams, keeping the tone light and engaging.

21 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 1h 9min
How To Waste Your Life (or hopefully, not) SB1710
Join hospice doctor Jordan Grumet, also known as Doc G, and financial guru Paula Pant as they dive into the essence of living a purposeful life. They discuss the detrimental effects of hustle culture and the importance of taking action now. From strategies to overcome indecision to the surprising link between choices and regret, these experts share valuable insights on goal setting and productivity. Their humorous and relatable banter makes exploring life's time-wasters both entertaining and enlightening.

16 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 1h 18min
Create Goals that Stick (with Ret. Lt. Cdr. Gary MacDermid)
Retired Lieutenant Commander Gary MacDermid, a business coach with a military background, shares his insights on goal-setting with unyielding discipline. He emphasizes the importance of defining SMART goals to avoid burnout from borrowed aspirations. The conversation covers techniques for sustainable habit formation and developing multiple income streams. Additionally, they tackle the often-overlooked topic of long-term care insurance, discussing when it’s necessary and how to evaluate your options. Packed with actionable advice, this chat helps you take charge of your goals and financial future.

16 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 1h 18min
Mid-Year Financial Reset: Key Takeaways from the First Half of 2025 (SB1708)
Reflect on your financial trajectory as the year unfolds. Discover insights on risk management from successful entrepreneurs and the importance of intentional spending. Understand the flawed connection between money and happiness, and explore how your community can enhance your financial well-being. Dive into joyful retirement planning and the significance of setting realistic milestones. Embrace a proactive mindset as you reassess your goals, making this your moment to recalibrate without the guilt.


