Behavior Gap Radio

Carl Richards, a Certified Financial Planner and New York Times columnist, delves into the societal obsession with money. He discusses how this preoccupation can transform money from a useful tool into an ultimate goal. Carl emphasizes the importance of shifting focus from financial concerns to pursuing passion and making an impact. He advocates for valuing personal fulfillment and connections over monetary gains, inspiring listeners to rethink their relationship with wealth.

Carl Richards, a financial expert and New York Times columnist, dives into the quest for meaning in our lives. He examines our tendency as 'meaning-making machines' to seek purpose through enduring elements like relationships, versus fleeting achievements. Money is discussed as a tool for creating meaning, urging listeners to align their financial choices with their true values. Richards poses a thought-provoking question: Where do you find your sense of meaning?

Are you using outdated "maps" in your life? What familiar systems are you clinging to? Do you have the courage to create new paths? Today, Carl explores the idea of navigating life with outdated or inaccurate "maps"—the frameworks we rely on but may no longer serve us. He highlights our tendency to cling to familiar systems, even when they're flawed, and challenges listeners to recognize when it's time to create new paths. Using the analogy of baking cookies with salt instead of sugar, Carl emphasizes the importance of letting go of what doesn't work and drawing new maps.

What does 'enough' truly mean? The discussion navigates the subjective nature of this concept, revealing how personal circumstances shape our definitions. The host encourages listeners to resist comparing themselves to others and highlights the pitfalls of seeking external validation. Instead, it’s about embracing your own version of sufficiency, even amidst societal pressures. Are you ready to redefine your sense of enough?

Have you ever wondered what it takes to truly change your relationship with money? Carl suggests that the key is to stop trying so hard. Instead of forcing yourself to change, he advocates for focusing on simple awareness. By merely noticing your spending habits without judgment, you open the door to natural, stress-free behavior changes. After trying this approach for 30 days, what changes did you notice? Let Carl know by emailing him at hello@behaviorgap.com!Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

How do you define enough in your life? Carl explores the concept of "having enough" on today's episode of Behavior Gap Radio. He shares a conversation where someone defines it as having enough money so they no longer have to think about it. He reflects on how many people continue to focus on money even when they have plenty and questions whether this focus is a distraction from what truly matters. What would it mean for you to have enough? Carl suggests that when money is no longer the central focus, it can be a tool that operates in the background, allowing more attention to be given to the things that truly matter.Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Reflecting on his travels, the host shares the transformative power of exploring historic streets in Barcelona. He highlights how awe-inspiring architecture evokes feelings of humility and connection to culture. Personal anecdotes reveal the profound impact of adventure on perspective. The discussion encourages listeners to reflect on the value of their own experiences, challenging the notion of comfort in our daily lives. Ultimately, it's a celebration of the rich emotions that come from embracing the unknown.

Carl shares his riveting journey traveling through Spain with his daughter. He contrasts the serene beauty of the Pyrenees with the chaotic streets of Barcelona. Navigating unfamiliar terrain leads to humorous mishaps and valuable lessons in embracing discomfort. He reflects on how such challenges fuel personal growth and transform perspectives. Carl highlights the enriching power of travel, reminding us that stepping outside our comfort zone can illuminate new paths in life.

In this episode, Carl reflects on the idea of unconventional investment advice, sharing a personal story that defies traditional financial wisdom. He recounts how, despite his initial reservations, he followed the advice of a respected community leader to move his family to New Zealand—a decision that turned out to be one of the most valuable experiences of his life. Carl highlights how some of the best investment advice may not fit conventional definitions but can yield extraordinary returns in terms of personal growth and fulfillment. He invites listeners to broaden their thinking about what constitutes truly valuable advice!

Carl recently discussed unconventional investment advice in a Behavior Gap Radio episode, drawing inspiration from a Wendell Berry quote about knowing where the rarest wildflowers are. He contrasts this with the disconnected advice often seen in mainstream financial media, which tends to ignore the broader impacts of investments, like those in companies selling unhealthy products. Carl is fascinated by the idea of "connected" investment advice, which values investments in time, money, energy, and attention. What’s the best investment advice you’ve ever received? How does it align with your values? If you think about your return on life, happiness, and connection, what advice stands out? Carl invites listeners to share their thoughts and experiences by emailing him at hello@behaviorgap.com.Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/