Afford Anything
Paula Pant | Cumulus Podcast Network
You can afford anything, but not everything. We make daily decisions about how to spend money, time, energy, focus and attention – and ultimately, our life.How do we make smarter decisions? How do we think from first principles?On the surface, Afford Anything seems like a podcast about money and investing.But under the hood, this is a show about how to think critically, recognize our behavioral blind spots, and make smarter choices. We’re into the psychology of money, and we love metacognition: thinking about how to think.In some episodes, we interview world-class experts: professors, researchers, scientists, authors. In other episodes, we answer your questions, talking through decision-making frameworks and mental models.Want to learn more? Download our free book, Escape, at http://affordanything.com/escape. Hosted by Paula Pant.
Episodes
Mentioned books
71 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 1h 10min
The Hidden Psychology Behind Every Financial Decision You Make with Dr. Daniel Crosby
In this discussion, Dr. Daniel Crosby, a behavioral finance expert and bestselling author, delves into how our psychology influences financial decisions. He reveals that money acts as a mirror, reflecting our true values beyond what we state. Dr. Crosby emphasizes that increasing income is more crucial for long-term wealth than mere frugality. He also warns against the dangers of short-term comforts, like panic-selling, which can threaten our financial health. Expect insights into how personality traits shape our spending and investment habits.
24 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 1h 3min
LIVESTREAM: A Former Fed Economist Reveals What's Really Happening, with Karsten Jeske (“Big ERN”)
Karsten Jeske, a former Federal Reserve economist and founder of Early Retirement Now, offers a riveting insider's view on the economy. He shares anecdotes from his time at the Fed and explains the upcoming interest rate cuts despite rising inflation. Jeske reveals how high rates can paradoxically lead to housing inflation, urging listeners to act quickly if considering real estate moves. He also discusses the concept of 'procrastisaving' and highlights the importance of understanding economic indicators in navigating personal finance.
10 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 26min
BONUS: Stagflation, Stocks & Social Security - What’s Next for Your Money? with Rob Berger
Rob Berger, a former lawyer and financial expert known for his insights on personal finance, joins Paula Pant to tackle pressing economic questions. They discuss whether the American Dream is still achievable for Gen Z and if another market crash is looming. Rob offers strategies for investing in an overpriced stock market and assesses the future of Social Security amidst rising inflation. With candid advice on asset allocation and retirement planning, this conversation is packed with practical insights for all ages.
6 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 1h 29min
The Case for Investing in Individual Stocks, with Co-Founder of the Motley Fool, David Gardner
David Gardner, co-founder of The Motley Fool and author of Rule Breaker Investing, dives into individual stock picking and contrarian strategies. He discusses the six defining traits of 'Rule Breaker' stocks, emphasizing the importance of qualitative analysis over just numbers. Listeners will learn why unconventional picks can yield unique opportunities and how skills from stock evaluation can enhance business acumen. Gardner also draws parallels between investing and sports fandom, encouraging a personalized approach to investing that aligns with one's values.
16 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 58min
Q&A: ChatGPT Built Her $1.2M Portfolio … But Should You Trust It?
Cristina discusses her $1.2 million portfolio and explores the role of AI in financial planning. The panel critiques investment strategies, focusing on diversification and asset allocation. They tackle retirement planning for listeners with extensive rental properties and share insights on efficient income management. The conversation includes advice on managing educational savings with 529 plans, emphasizing early contributions and tax benefits. As a fun highlight, they promote a community half marathon event, fostering listener engagement along the way.
16 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 18min
First Friday: Jerome Powell's Remarks at Jackson Hole
August's jobs report reveals a sobering addition of only 22,000 new jobs and a rise in unemployment to 4.3%. Experts dive into the tension between private sector optimism and federal data. The impact of fluctuating mortgage rates on homebuyers and sellers sparks a discussion on market dynamics. Key remarks from Jerome Powell at Jackson Hole highlight a shift in the Fed's approach to inflation and employment, signaling potential interest rate cuts ahead. What do these changes mean for the economy? Tune in to find out!
21 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 49min
Q&A: How to Invest in Your Community (by Finding the Third Option)
Aisha shares transformative advice that reshaped her career, prompting reflections on limiting beliefs in business. Community bonds are discussed as a means to build wealth for underserved populations, raising questions about risks compared to traditional bonds. An anonymous caller explores Employee Stock Ownership Plans as a possible exit strategy for her business, aiming to leave a legacy for her team. The discussion emphasizes the value of community support, entrepreneurship, and innovative investment strategies in fostering change.
45 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 1h 19min
[GREATEST HITS] James Clear: How Small Daily Actions Compound Into Life-Changing Wealth [RERUN]
James Clear, author of 'Atomic Habits', shares groundbreaking insights into habit formation. He breaks down the four-stage cycle of behavior—cue, craving, response, and reward. With practical tips like habit stacking and temptation bundling, Clear illustrates how small daily actions can lead to significant lifestyle changes. He emphasizes focusing on identity rather than just outcomes, encouraging listeners to see themselves as the type of person they want to become. It's a conversation on how minor adjustments in our routines can ultimately transform our lives.
17 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 55min
Q&A: Can You Open an IRA for Someone Else's Kid? (And Should You?)
Explore the challenges of setting up investment accounts for kids, like IRAs and 529 plans, while navigating the complexities of family finances. Discover if TIPS are necessary for inflation protection or if other investments are sufficient. Learn about switching from Roth to Traditional 401(k) contributions and the tax implications of moving to a tax-friendly state in retirement. Gain insights on prioritizing practical financial decisions over optimization and the importance of teaching kids financial literacy.
19 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 1h
How to Talk to Your Parents About Money, with Behavioral Economist Etinosa Agbonlahor
Etinosa Agbonlahor, a behavioral economist and CEO of Decision Alpha, shares insights on the complex dynamics of discussing money with parents. She introduces the concept of 'money scripts'—unconscious beliefs that shape financial behaviors. Agbonlahor emphasizes the importance of empathy, curiosity, and cooperation in these conversations, advocating for open communication about sensitive topics like debt, retirement, and long-term care. Her compelling anecdotes highlight how understanding different money mindsets can transform these discussions, making them more productive and less fraught.
