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
30 snips
Dec 27, 2024 • 1h 21min
Dr. Cal Newport: A No-Pressure Plan for Next Year's Resolutions [GREATEST HITS WEEK]
Cal Newport, a Georgetown computer science professor and author, dives into the transformative concept of slow productivity, inspired by greats like Marie Curie. He argues that true productivity isn’t about doing more, but about doing fewer tasks better at a natural pace. Newport discusses the importance of quality over quantity, the benefits of taking breaks, and how this approach can reduce stress while enhancing creativity. He challenges the obsession with busyness in modern work culture, offering insights for a more fulfilling and effective year ahead.
15 snips
Dec 26, 2024 • 1h 1min
Your Rich BFF, Vivian Tu: Wall Street's Dirty Little Secrets [GREATEST HITS WEEK]
Vivian Tu, a former Wall Street trader and creator of "Your Rich BFF," breaks down what really goes on behind closed doors in high finance. She shares quirky tales from her Wall Street days, like a colleague showing up with a duffel full of cash. Vivian discusses the stark contrast between her frugal upbringing and the extravagant habits of the wealthy. She emphasizes the importance of financial literacy, emergency funds, and viewing debt as a tool rather than a burden, all while equipping listeners with insights to navigate their own financial journeys.
17 snips
Dec 25, 2024 • 1h 23min
Noah Kagan: 48 Hours to Entrepreneurship — Your Million Dollar Weekend [GREATEST HITS WEEK]
In this engaging discussion, Noah Kagan, a serial entrepreneur and former Facebook employee #30, shares his journey from a billion-dollar setback to entrepreneurial success. He reveals how to start a business in just a weekend, emphasizing the power of asking for help and taking action. Kagan discusses overcoming fears, engaging customers, and learning from failures. He also highlights the importance of self-awareness in entrepreneurship and shares practical strategies, including selling before launching and the significance of networking to validate ideas.
14 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 1h 22min
Charles Duhigg: How to Have Smarter Conversations [GREATEST HITS WEEK]
Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author known for "The Power of Habit," dives into the art of communication. He explores how effective communication leads to happiness and success, emphasizing emotional connectivity and authentic dialogue. Duhigg shares strategies for becoming a 'super communicator' and highlights the power of empathy in bridging divides. He discusses the impact of different conversation styles and the importance of meaningful connections, whether in personal relationships or professional negotiations. Get ready to elevate your communication skills!
16 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 1h 4min
Morgan Housel: How to Trend-Proof Your Portfolio and Think Beyond Fads [GREATEST HITS WEEK]
Morgan Housel, a New York Times bestselling author known for his work on the psychology of money, shares a life-changing decision he made at 17 that serves as a powerful lesson in risk evaluation. He discusses how snap decisions shape our lives, emphasizing that humans aren’t always rational in their choices. Housel also explores the pitfalls of relying on economic predictions and the contrasts between perception and reality in economic conditions. Throughout, he encourages listeners to consider the gradual nature of gains and the importance of empathy in decision-making.
13 snips
Dec 20, 2024 • 1h 20min
Q&A: Why Smart Investors Are Questioning VTSAX and Chill
Listeners dive into the debate around the VTSAX investment strategy and explore the merits of sophisticated alternatives. Tips on navigating Roth IRA contributions offer clarity amidst tax complexity. The power of personalized reading material for high school finance libraries sparks intriguing book recommendations. The conversation wraps up with insights on backdoor Roth IRAs, emphasizing automation and strategic investing. Dive into the world of personal finance literature as the hosts champion foundational knowledge for younger generations.
13 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 1h 2min
Lessons from High-Stakes Decisions, with Polina Marinova Pompliano
Polina Marinova Pompliano, a former Fortune Magazine reporter and author of "Hidden Genius," explores how high-performers handle uncertainty. She shares a gripping story about astronaut Chris Hadfield going blind during a spacewalk and the vital role of mental clarity in crises. Discussing trust as consistency over time, she highlights Charlie Munger's approach to beliefs, emphasizing understanding opposing viewpoints. Polina also covers the importance of reframing challenges, diversifying income, and honing negotiation skills to build resilience in high-stakes situations.
11 snips
Dec 13, 2024 • 1h 20min
Q&A: Breaking Up with Total Market Funds After 10 Years
Listeners dive into the complexities of investment diversification, exploring how to handle single fund portfolios and tax implications. Personal stories about managing inheritances spark discussions on prioritizing financial goals amidst loss. The importance of balancing competing aspirations like buying a home and saving for retirement is highlighted, along with practical strategies for achieving these goals. With a blend of humor and insight, the conversation demystifies financial planning and encourages listeners to take control of their money.
31 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 1h 44min
Codie Sanchez: From Wall Street to Washing Machines
Codie Sanchez, Founder and CEO of Contrarian Thinking, shares her journey from the finance grind to entrepreneurial freedom by acquiring laundromats. She reveals eye-opening stats on the decline of business ownership in America and discusses how accessible Main Street businesses can be for aspiring owners. Codie breaks down unique financing options and introduces her RICH framework for finding the perfect business fit. With a focus on cash-flowing enterprises, she challenges conventional success definitions, promoting profitability over prestige.
5 snips
Dec 7, 2024 • 52min
The Real Story Behind These New Tariffs
Explore the latest shifts in the job market, where unexpected job growth clashes with a rising unemployment rate. Discover how new trade proposals and tariffs could impact your wallet and job prospects across various industries. Understand the economic consequences of these tariffs, including the challenges faced by agriculture and technology sectors. The international response offers insights into global trade dynamics and national security. Get practical tips to navigate these changes and make informed financial decisions.
