
Two Quants and a Financial Planner
Two Quants and a Financial Planner bridges the worlds of investing and financial planning to help investors achieve their long-term goals. Join Matt Zeigler, Jack Forehand and Justin Carbonneau as they cover a wide range of investing and financial planning topics that impact all of us and discuss how we can apply them in the real world to achieve the best outcomes in our financial lives.
Latest episodes

Nov 25, 2024 • 1h 4min
What the Rise of Passive Investing Means for Your Portfolio | Special Guest: Dave Nadig
In this episode, Jack Forehand and Matt Zeigler dive deep into one of the most debated topics in modern finance with special guest Dave Nadig. This episode explores how passive investing has transformed markets, featuring insights from leading experts including Mike Green, Aswath Damodaran, Rick Ferri, Rob Arnott, and Cliff Asness.
Key discussions:
Why active investing's poor performance led to passive's rise
How index fund flows might affect market dynamics
The difference between stocks in and out of major indices
Whether passive investing could potentially destabilize markets
What this means for individual investors
Whether you're a market professional or retail investor, this conversation offers crucial insights into how passive investing is reshaping financial markets and what it means for your portfolio.
Featured Guests' Clips:
Aswath Damodaran on active management's track record
Mike Green on passive investing mechanics
Rick Ferri with the counterargument
Rob Arnott on index inclusion effects
Cem Karsan on why active may rise again
Cliff Asness offering a balanced perspective
SEE LATEST EPISODES
https://excessreturnspod.com
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT VALIDEA CAPITAL
https://www.valideacapital.com
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SUNPOINTE INVESTMENTS
https://sunpointeinvestments.com/
FOLLOW JACK
Twitter: https://twitter.com/practicalquant
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-forehand-8015094
FOLLOW JUSTIN
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jjcarbonneau
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcarbonneau
FOLLOW MATT
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cultishcreative
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-zeigler-a58a0a60/

Nov 18, 2024 • 57min
The Six Most Controversial Takes from Excess Returns in 2024
The discussion heats up with Aswath Damodaran's bold critique of the Berkshire annual meeting. Cem Karsan presents a mind-bending take, suggesting options are the 'dog,' challenging traditional views. Meb Faber stirs the pot by questioning the value of dividend investing, while fresh research calls into doubt the need for intuitive market explanations. A special guest simplifies options trading complexities, adding more spice to the conversation. Emphasis is placed on enjoying the investing journey, balancing risk with personal satisfaction.

Nov 11, 2024 • 54min
Practical Lessons from Cullen Roche
In this episode, we look at the biggest lessons we have learned from Cullen Roche, one of our most frequent and insightful guests.
We cover:
"All Duration Investing" - Cullen's framework for matching investments to specific time horizons
The Fed as Chuck Norris - Why the threat of Fed action can be more powerful than the action itself
QE vs Fiscal Stimulus - Understanding why QE wasn't inflationary, but COVID stimulus was
International Diversification - Making the case for looking beyond U.S. markets
The Financial System's Plumbing - Breaking down complex topics like Fed operations and bank failures
Automated Fed Policy - Could we remove human judgment from monetary policy?
Saving vs Investing - A fresh perspective on building wealth through human capital
Multi-generational Planning - How having kids changes your investment timeline
Whether you're an investor building a portfolio or someone wanting to understand how the financial system actually works, this conversation delivers clear insights from one of finance's most practical thinkers.
SEE LATEST EPISODES
https://excessreturnspod.com
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT VALIDEA CAPITAL
https://www.valideacapital.com
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SUNPOINTE INVESTMENTS
https://sunpointeinvestments.com/
FOLLOW JACK
Twitter: https://twitter.com/practicalquant
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-forehand-8015094
FOLLOW JUSTIN
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jjcarbonneau
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcarbonneau
FOLLOW MATT
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cultishcreative
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-zeigler-a58a0a60/

Nov 4, 2024 • 53min
Practical Lessons from Tobias Carlisle | Value Investing, Buffett and the Importance of Survival
In this episode, we sit down for a deep dive into lessons from value investor Tobias Carlisle, exploring several key insights from our conversations with him over the years. In this Halloween-themed episode (complete with plenty of Reese's cups), we break down Toby's perspectives on what makes an ideal business, the critical importance of survival in investing, portfolio concentration vs diversification, and whether today's tech giants can maintain their dominance.
We cover how See's Candy exemplifies the theoretical perfect business model, why survival should be every investor's first priority, and the delicate balance between running concentrated portfolios that maximize returns versus diversified ones that investors can actually stick with through tough times. We also dig into the age-old debate of pure value versus quality value investing, with Toby sharing his data-driven insights on which approach truly works best.
We also explore the importance of writing down your investment thesis at the time you make it. As Toby explains, this simple practice helps prevent revisionist history and allows you to learn from both your successes and mistakes.
Throughout the episode, we weave in our own experiences and perspectives while maintaining the conversational, occasionally sugar-fueled style our listeners have come to expect. Whether you're a value investor, a financial planner, or just someone interested in improving your investment process, there are valuable takeaways here for everyone.
Join us for this candid discussion about what really matters in investing, sprinkled with just the right amount of Halloween candy references and questionable lighting setups.
SEE LATEST EPISODES
https://excessreturnspod.com
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT VALIDEA CAPITAL
https://www.valideacapital.com
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SUNPOINTE INVESTMENTS
https://sunpointeinvestments.com/
FOLLOW JACK
Twitter: https://twitter.com/practicalquant
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-forehand-8015094
FOLLOW JUSTIN
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jjcarbonneau
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcarbonneau
FOLLOW MATT
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cultishcreative
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-zeigler-a58a0a60/

Oct 28, 2024 • 48min
Practical Lessons from Meb Faber | Dividends, Trend Following and a Timeless Asset Allocation
In this episode, we dive into our conversations with Meb Faber, analyzing some of his most interesting takes on investing and wealth management. We explore several clips from our interviews where Meb shares perspectives that often challenge conventional wisdom, including his thoughts on dividend investing, trend following, and the Federal Reserve.
We discuss:
- The limitations of dividend-focused investing strategies
- Asset allocation insights from the Talmud
- A different perspective on the Fed's recent performance
- Meb's view on wealth as a means to freedom
- The case for significant trend following allocation in portfolios
- The question Meb would ask Jack Bogle about market valuations
SEE LATEST EPISODES
https://excessreturnspod.com
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT VALIDEA CAPITAL
https://www.valideacapital.com
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SUNPOINTE INVESTMENTS
https://sunpointeinvestments.com/
FOLLOW JACK
Twitter: https://twitter.com/practicalquant
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-forehand-8015094
FOLLOW JUSTIN
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jjcarbonneau
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcarbonneau
FOLLOW MATT
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cultishcreative
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-zeigler-a58a0a60/

Oct 21, 2024 • 58min
Practical Lessons from Rob Arnott
In this episode of Two Quants and a Financial Planner, we dive deep into the insights we've gained from our conversations with investing legend Rob Arnott. We explore Rob's unique perspectives on identifying market bubbles, the challenges facing value investors in today's market, and how the rise of passive investing is reshaping market dynamics.
We break down Rob's thoughts on the power of narratives in investing, challenge common assumptions about interest rates and value/growth performance, and discuss the potential impact of AI on the financial industry. Throughout the episode, we share our own experiences and interpretations, making these complex topics accessible and relevant for investors at all levels.
SEE LATEST EPISODES
https://excessreturnspod.com
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT VALIDEA CAPITAL
https://www.valideacapital.com
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SUNPOINTE INVESTMENTS
https://sunpointeinvestments.com/
FOLLOW JACK
Twitter: https://twitter.com/practicalquant
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-forehand-8015094
FOLLOW JUSTIN
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jjcarbonneau
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcarbonneau
FOLLOW MATT
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cultishcreative
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-zeigler-a58a0a60/

Oct 14, 2024 • 56min
Practical Lessons from Jerry Parker
Jerry Parker, a legendary trader and original Turtle Trader, shares his insights on trend following and investment strategies. He discusses the psychological challenges of adhering to a trading system and how his goals have shifted from growth to preservation over time. Jerry highlights the unique return profiles of trend-following strategies and stresses the importance of allowing winning positions to run. He also reflects on retirement, revealing his plan to keep trading as long as possible while navigating the evolving landscape of investing.

Oct 7, 2024 • 58min
Practical Lessons from Guy Spier
In this episode of Two Quants and a Financial Planner, we dig into the biggest lessons we learned from investing legend Guy Spier. Drawing from our extensive interview with Guy, we explore key insights that can benefit investors at all levels.
We discuss:
- The importance of learning from mistakes early in your career
- Aligning your inner and outer self for authenticity and success
- The power of learning in public and putting yourself out there
- Defining and expanding your circle of competence
- Understanding ergodicity and its implications for investing
- The critical importance of having the right investors on board
- Being kind to yourself as an investor
Throughout the episode, we share personal anecdotes, debate ideas, and break down complex concepts into actionable insights. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this discussion offers valuable perspectives on improving your investment approach and mindset.
We hope you enjoy the discussion.
SEE LATEST EPISODES
https://excessreturnspod.com
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT VALIDEA CAPITAL
https://www.valideacapital.com
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SUNPOINTE INVESTMENTS
https://sunpointeinvestments.com/
FOLLOW JACK
Twitter: https://twitter.com/practicalquant
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-forehand-8015094
FOLLOW JUSTIN
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jjcarbonneau
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcarbonneau
FOLLOW MATT
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cultishcreative
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-zeigler-a58a0a60/

Sep 30, 2024 • 1h 1min
Practical Lessons from Chris Davis
In this episode of Two Quants and a Financial Planner, we dive deep into the investing wisdom of Chris Davis, exploring eight valuable lessons from our interview with this renowned investor.
We break down Chris's insights on behavioral finance, the power of inversion in decision-making, the challenges of holding winning positions, and the pitfalls of blindly imitating successful strategies.
We discuss Chris's unique perspective on sector concentration and risk, his thoughts on the longevity of today's tech giants, and the importance of viewing stocks as businesses rather than just trading vehicles. We also explore Chris's experiences as a board member and what makes an effective corporate board.
We hope you enjoy the discussion.
SEE LATEST EPISODES
https://excessreturnspod.com
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT VALIDEA CAPITAL
https://www.valideacapital.com
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SUNPOINTE INVESTMENTS
https://sunpointeinvestments.com/
FOLLOW JACK
Twitter: https://twitter.com/practicalquant
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-forehand-8015094
FOLLOW JUSTIN
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jjcarbonneau
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcarbonneau
FOLLOW MATT
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cultishcreative
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-zeigler-a58a0a60/

Sep 23, 2024 • 1h 2min
Practical Lessons from Michael Mauboussin
Michael Mauboussin, a respected thinker in finance, shares his invaluable investing insights. The discussion clarifies the differences between investing and speculating, emphasizing long-term value strategies. Mauboussin introduces expectation investing, offering a three-step evaluation method for stock prices. He also delves into the complexities of valuation multiples and the competitive landscape between active and passive investing. Additionally, he sheds light on navigating expected returns with a focus on probabilistic thinking and the relevance of historical data.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.