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
10 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 1h
Q&A: Two Weeks Until My Tenants Move In And I Have Nowhere to Go
A real estate crisis unfolds as Todd faces last-minute hurdles before closing on a new home, with just two weeks until his tenants move in. The discussion delves into the emotional and practical challenges of maintaining integrity in real estate transactions. Another listener ponders whether to sell a valuable Bay Area rental or leverage equity. Humor weaves through serious financial topics, highlighting the unpredictability of property investing. The hosts also share strategies for thriving amidst inflation and the importance of smart negotiations.
67 snips
Jan 31, 2025 • 1h 12min
The Hidden Cost of Playing It Safe With Money, with Dr. Margie Warrell
Dr. Margie Warrell, a Fortune 500 leadership advisor and courage expert, dives into the concept of the 'courage gap'—the space between our current life and our potential. She shares a poignant story about her daughter's realization in Hollywood and discusses how fear often blocks personal and financial growth. Dr. Warrell outlines five steps to bridge this gap, emphasizing the importance of focusing on long-term goals, rewriting personal narratives, and embracing discomfort to foster courage and achieve meaningful aspirations.
10 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 59min
Q&A: The Efficient Frontier Was Perfect Until HR Got Involved
Explore the challenges of optimizing 401k investments with limited fund options and learn how to enhance your portfolio performance. Discover the differences between value and growth investing using Amazon as a case study. Delve into the importance of tracking your net worth and managing investment risks, along with practical strategies for asset allocation. The discussion emphasizes the need for regular financial reviews and how tracking both finances and health metrics can lead to greater awareness and accountability for better long-term outcomes.
88 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 1h 21min
The World's Richest People Are Weird by Design, with William Green
William Green, a seasoned author and interviewer of renowned investors, shares fascinating insights from his 25 years of conversations with financial legends. He reveals that the world’s richest individuals often embrace unconventional thinking, with stories of mavericks like Templeton making bold, contrarian bets in crisis. Green emphasizes self-awareness, emotional management, and living below means as keys to success. He also explores the philosophical aspects of wealth, suggesting that true richness lies in contentment and playing to one’s strengths.
9 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 1h 15min
Q&A: The Roth Decision at Every Income Level (And Why It Matters Now!)
Discover the complexities of Roth IRAs and their tax benefits for high earners. Dive into the advantages of solo 401(k) contributions and the importance of adopting a hybrid strategy. Learn about navigating Roth conversions, the significance of trustworthy financial advisors, and how to maximize tax flexibility. Hear insights on cryptocurrency and global investment opportunities, exploring both speculative assets and emerging markets. The hosts also discuss the long-term benefits of Roth accounts for everyone, stressing intentional financial decisions for a brighter future.
12 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 1h 27min
The Hidden Psychology of Financial Pressure, with Dr. Sunita Sah
Dr. Sunita Sah, a tenured professor at Cornell University and expert in organizational psychology, examines the intriguing psychology behind why we often comply with authority figures, even when it feels wrong. Delving into personal experiences, she highlights the hidden pressures in financial advice and the struggle between ethical decisions and societal expectations. Sah emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and encourages listeners to build assertiveness in their decision-making, especially under pressure, to promote healthier financial choices.
Jan 14, 2025 • 54min
Q&A: Wait, Are We All Wrong About Zero APR Strategies?
A caller questions the safety of relying on zero percent APR credit cards for large purchases, contemplating the hidden risks. Another listener grapples with the confusion between Roth and traditional retirement accounts, seeking clarity on their tax implications. Additionally, a couple looking to enhance their careers considers significant pay cuts and student debt, weighing fulfillment against financial stability. This lively discussion blends personal anecdotes with practical financial strategies to guide listeners toward smarter decision-making.
21 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 1h 18min
Your Last Thoughts Won't Be About Money, with Dr. Jordan Grumet
Dr. Jordan Grumet, a hospice doctor shaped by personal loss, shares profound insights from his experiences with patients nearing the end of life. He reveals that on their deathbeds, people rarely regret money but often wish they had pursued their passions. Grumet discusses 'Big P Purpose' versus 'little p purpose,' advocating for finding joy in daily activities. He introduces concepts like the Joy of Addition, Art of Subtraction, and Substitution, urging listeners to prioritize relationships and meaningful experiences over material wealth.
22 snips
Jan 7, 2025 • 1h 12min
Q&A: When Your Crypto Bet Pays Off TOO Well
An anonymous caller grapples with the challenge of rebalancing her crypto investments after they skyrocket, raising questions about risk versus reward. Another listener contemplates investing half of her down payment for a future home purchase, seeking a balance between liquidity and growth. Additionally, a caller with $1 million in cash wrestles with falling interest rates, aiming to optimize her funds while preparing for an uncertain buying timeline. The hosts provide insightful strategies for navigating these financial dilemmas.
17 snips
Jan 3, 2025 • 1h 8min
The Compound Effect of 52 Tiny Financial Changes
Discover how tiny financial tweaks can lead to massive improvements, inspired by the British cycling team's remarkable success. Learn about a year-long roadmap featuring 52 manageable changes, with each quarter focusing on essential habits, cost-optimization, and systematic improvements. Embrace strategies like tracking expenses, creating a guilt-free spending fund, and planning for the unexpected. Gain insights into financial tools that enhance management and education, while celebrating incremental progress towards better financial health.
