Afford Anything

Rachel Rodgers, Founder and CEO of Hello7, transformed her life from $330,000 in debt to multimillionaire by focusing on income growth rather than expense cuts. She shares her journey of launching a successful virtual law practice during the recession, revealing practical strategies for scaling a business. Rodgers emphasizes the importance of understanding company dynamics when negotiating raises and encourages a mindset of being an asset in any role. Her insights on teaching financial responsibility to the next generation provide a fresh perspective on fostering independence.

Grant Sabatier, a serial entrepreneur and author, dives into his unexpected journey of opening Clintonville Books without prior retail experience. He discusses the four essential stages of entrepreneurship, from experimenting with ideas to sustainable growth. Sabatier highlights the role of technology in streamlining processes, warns against rapid scaling, and emphasizes community engagement. Listeners will appreciate his insights on authentically connecting with customers and the importance of building a supportive network as they navigate their own entrepreneurial paths.

Explore the intriguing theme of existential threats, from the Y2K bug to climate change, and how past fears influence today's mindset. Delve into human psychology's response to market fluctuations and the importance of embracing uncertainty for growth. Unravel the complexities of credit scores, debunking myths and offering practical tips for effective management. Enjoy a humorous take on financial decisions while discovering real estate investment strategies focused on cash flow and smart debt management.

Sebastien Page, Chief Investment Officer at T. Rowe Price and author of The Psychology of Leadership, shares transformative insights after a near-fatal infection. He challenges conventional goal-setting, revealing how it often leads to 'goal-induced blindness.' Page highlights that true happiness stems from meaningful relationships rather than financial success. Drawing from research, he emphasizes the complex link between money and well-being, advocating for a shift in focus from ambition to fulfillment. His journey underscores the importance of balance in life and relationships for lasting joy.

Eva seeks guidance on making a smooth financial transition into retirement without jeopardizing her funds. The conversation dives into mastering retirement withdrawal strategies and the significance of pre-retirement planning. Listeners learn about key concepts like the sequence of returns risk and the importance of asset allocation. The hosts introduce innovative models, including a four-bucket strategy for rebalancing investments, all while stressing the psychological aspects of managing finances to enhance life experiences.

Robert Rosenkrantz, a billionaire investor and philanthropist, shares his journey from financial struggle to wealth, drawing on his experiences with stoic philosophy. He discusses the critical importance of negotiation, revealing how a bold risk led to his first big win. Rosenkrantz emphasizes emotional control and rational thinking in decision-making, exploring the challenges of investing and risk management. He also advocates for lifelong creativity and the enduring relevance of stoicism in both business and personal life, offering insights for future success.

A worried baby boomer wonders if today's financial landscape overwhelms younger generations. Renting might be more financially sensible than buying, sparking a fascinating debate. The pitfalls of relying on social media for financial advice are exposed, emphasizing the need for critical thinking. Strategies for navigating market volatility are shared, including a unique 'barbell allocation' approach. The episode also dives into how social media algorithms shape our financial choices, urging listeners to think independently.

Suzanne O’Brien, a hospice and oncology nurse, sheds light on the often-overlooked financial realities of dying in America. She reveals how costs of long-term care can decimate savings, sharing a shocking story about a couple with $5 million facing devastating expenses. Suzanne highlights alternative, affordable end-of-life options like home wakes and water cremation. She emphasizes the importance of having wills and proactive planning to alleviate stress for loved ones, while also touching on the emotional aspects of dying.

A caller grapples with the pressure to return to the office after enjoying remote work. Another seeks to balance investments while moving abroad for good. Discussions highlight navigating digital nomadism, the evolving job market, and the importance of clear life goals. Insights include strategies for securing remote positions and managing finances as an expat. The conversation also touches on citizenship pathways and personal fulfillment in new environments, all packed with practical advice for today's adventurous lifestyles.

Join guest Joe Saul-Sehy, a former financial advisor, as he dives into the unexpected impacts of April's unprecedented tariffs on the economy. Discover how consumer confidence is plummeting despite strong job growth and why many Americans are fearing a rise in unemployment. Hear about the trade deficit skyrocketing from preemptive buying sprees and the dramatic reactions in bond markets, including record spikes in Treasury yields. Get insights on navigating market volatility and what these changes may mean for small businesses and investors.