Afford Anything

Former NASA astronaut Mike Massimino shares his journey from a childhood dream of becoming an astronaut to overcoming obstacles like failing exams, re-training his eyesight, and learning to swim to join NASA's astronaut candidate program. Topics include bodily functions in space, the importance of teamwork and taking risks, rebuilding trust after a tragic incident, and overcoming misconceptions about success.

Charlie Munger, an influential investor and author who taught Warren Buffet how to invest, is the focus of this podcast. The podcast pays homage to Munger's life and impact, his partnership with Warren Buffett, and their investing approach. It also discusses contradictory Fed remarks on interest rates and the housing market in Las Vegas and Detroit. The podcast explores the consequences of the Credit Card Competition Act and offers tax updates and a gloomy S&P 500 forecast.

Tiffany Aliche shares her experience of surviving a $35,000 credit card scam, job loss, and foreclosure. She talks about overcoming financial shame and achieving a sense of financial wholeness. The podcast also covers topics such as reframing financial setbacks, learning new skills for side hustles and businesses, and foundational pieces of personal finance.

Sarah, with $8,000 medical bill, debates whether to pay it off immediately or keep the money for other goals. Strategies for dealing with spam calls from real estate investors are discussed. The chapter also introduces Monarch Money, a personal finance app. Retirement saving options for an independent consultant are covered along with maximizing retirement savings with both W-2 and 1099 income. The double standards faced by women in the personal finance industry are explored, as well as approaches to fighting against wrong.

Harvard Professor Arthur Brooks, a former musical prodigy turned professor, discusses topics such as the formula for happiness, managing emotions, the continuous journey of happiness, the drive for progress, and the importance of genuine connections and real friends.

In this podcast, Paula and Joe discuss various financial scenarios and give advice on managing windfalls, paying off mortgages, and investing. They also cover topics such as life insurance, budgeting apps, retirement planning, purchasing a second home, hiring with Indeed, meal delivery services, and finding the right home for a widow near the beach.

The podcast discusses the disconnect between the pessimistic sentiment and robust economic data. Topics include potential elimination of credit card rewards, the shutdown of the budgeting app Mint, the student loan repayment debacle, and a landmark court ruling against the National Association of Realtors. They explore the impact of interest rates on the housing market and lowering real estate commissions.

Lindy wants to better use her $300,000 equity without buying more real estate. Katie is concerned about redlining as she considers becoming a landlord. Claudia, from Germany, lacks knowledge about US real estate but wants to buy an apartment in Manhattan. The hosts tackle these questions and discuss options for utilizing home equity, the pros and cons of Section 8, the importance of local involvement, and advice on buying property abroad.

Bryan Kuderna, a certified financial planner, shares a framework for setting priorities in money management. They discuss the importance of economic literacy and financial considerations for retirement and college planning. They also highlight the significance of respecting money and the role of compromise and ego in financial decision-making.

Paula and Joe analyze if using a HELOC to pay off a 401k loan is a good financial move. They discuss rent-to-own agreements and the impact of FEMA redrawing flood zone maps. They also explore lease options and lease purchases in real estate. The hosts share information about Every Plate meal kits and upcoming events.