

Money For the Rest of Us
J. David Stein
A personal finance and investing podcast on money, how it works, how to invest it and how to live without worrying about it. J. David Stein is a former Chief Investment Strategist and money manager. For close to two decades, he has been teaching individuals and institutions how to invest and handle their finances in ways that are simple to understand. More info at moneyfortherestofus.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 8, 2025 • 26min
Beyond Munis — New ETFs for Tax-Efficient Bond Investing
Explore the intriguing world of tax-efficient bond investing! Dive into the benefits of municipal bonds and compare them with new tax-efficient ETFs. Discover how the Alpha Architect BOXX ETF cleverly uses options to achieve tax efficiency. Learn about the FM Compounder Aggregate ETF and its unique strategy to sidestep distributions. David discusses the risks involved with new ETFs and reveals how their approaches can complement an investment portfolio focused on yield. Don't miss insights on the evolving ETF landscape!

Sep 24, 2025 • 6min
Money for the Rest of Us Update
David shares exciting updates, including a members-only livestream discussing key forces shaping the next decade. He explains the pause in regular content to prepare a monthly investment strategy report. Recent platforms for free content are highlighted, along with new video shorts on investment topics. David reflects on community engagement, the writing process for his second book, and improvements for the Insider's Guide newsletter. Regular episodes will return in October, as he expresses gratitude for listener support.

6 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 26min
Resilient Wealth in an Era of Infinite Money
Explore the intriguing relationship between money supply and inflation, highlighting the effects of quantitative easing on wealth inequality. Discover the surprising benefits of deflation and how unorthodox policies, like Nixon's approach in the '70s, have shaped our financial landscape. Learn about demurrage currency and its implications for wealth management, alongside practical tips for building resilience in a world awash in money. This discussion decodes the complexities of modern monetary policy and everyday financial strategies.

7 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 23min
Forests, Fakes, and the Fight for the Real
Explore the intriguing balance between the physical and digital economy, from salmon sightings on Vancouver Island to the dynamics of timber investing. Discover how leisure time is spent between real-life experiences and digital distractions. Delve into the ethics of AI-generated advertising and why live events hold significant value in a world increasingly dominated by artificiality. Reflect on the importance of authenticity and genuine connections as we navigate this evolving landscape.

Aug 27, 2025 • 25min
Why Central Banking Is So Hard and Why Fed Independence Matters
Central bankers navigate a complex landscape with incomplete information and competing goals. The podcast discusses the importance of Federal Reserve independence and its implications for markets and inflation. Listeners learn about the recent insights from Fed Chair Powell and the impact of presidential critiques on monetary policy. It also tackles challenges in determining the right interest rates, emphasizing their significance for economic stability and growth. The episode draws parallels to international examples, showcasing the risks of undermining trust in central banking.

13 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 21min
How To Invest During a Bubble
Exploring the dynamics of market bubbles, the discussion uncovers the characteristics that maintain inflated valuations, particularly in tech stocks influenced by AI. Strategies for smart investing during this precarious time are shared, emphasizing caution and diversity in portfolios. The podcast highlights the current overhype in the U.S. stock market and the potential for opportunities within AI investments, all while acknowledging the risks of small-cap stocks in an escalating bubble environment.

27 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 25min
Six Principles for Thriving Under Uncertainty and How Big Tech Is Doing the Opposite
Discover practical principles for thriving amidst uncertainty, focusing on decision-making and risk management. The discussion highlights how Big Tech's massive push into AI data centers contrasts with strategies for resilience. Personal privacy is tackled, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding data in an era of rapid technological change. The podcast also examines the environmental challenges of these data centers and how software development is evolving to be more cost-effective and sustainable.

Aug 6, 2025 • 39min
Why Most Hedge Funds Fail but This One Didn’t with Dave Thomas
Dave Thomas, CIO and Founder of Atalan Capital Partners, shares his journey from a small town to Wall Street success. He discusses why most hedge funds fail, emphasizing the importance of stability and unique investment strategies. Key topics include the necessity for passion and resilience in hedge fund careers and the impact of AI on employment dynamics. Additionally, Dave connects his love for music to personal growth, revealing how diverse interests can enrich one’s professional life.

30 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 38min
How To Better Navigate Money, Risk, Time, and Uncertainty with Carl Richards
Carl Richards, a renowned illustrator and financial philosopher, shares his insights on navigating the complexities of money and risk. He emphasizes the power of attention in enhancing experiences and discussions around finances. Richards redefines risk, highlighting the shift from probabilities to understanding systemic consequences. He underscores the importance of taking micro-actions and engaging in honest financial conversations. The discussion also explores rethinking money as a representation of energy and community, encouraging a mindful approach to financial decisions.

Jul 23, 2025 • 20min
Should Private Assets, Gold, and Crypto Be Investment Options in 401k and other Defined Contribution Plans?
A recent executive order could transform retirement investing by allowing private equity, crypto, and gold in 401(k) plans. The push for alternative assets is on the rise, but it brings risks for everyday investors. The podcast discusses the hurdles facing private equity in today's market and the illiquidity crisis complicating retirement planning. It also emphasizes the critical need for financial literacy and thoughtful evaluation of self-directed options for those considering these complex asset classes.