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
Mar 7, 2024 • 56min
I’m Earning Extra from my Side Hustle. But Does This Cramp My Chances at Investing?
Explore how individuals tackle financial dilemmas like balancing side hustles with retirement contributions and navigating tax implications. From maximizing contributions to 401k plans to handling student loan repayments and business deductions, this episode provides valuable insights on building financial discipline and investment strategies for a secure future.
5 snips
Mar 1, 2024 • 23min
Why Bitcoin is Back in the News | First Friday
Exploring the resurgence of Bitcoin in the news, its recent price surge near its all-time high, and the factors driving its comeback. Delving into the value, risks, and demand for Bitcoin investments, including SEC approvals for Bitcoin ETFs. Discussing the risks of owning cryptocurrencies, recent price fluctuations, and the trade-offs between crypto investments and traditional index funds. Examining the potential impact of Capital One's acquisition of Discover on swipe fees, credit card rewards, and the consumer credit card landscape.
8 snips
Feb 28, 2024 • 1h 20min
Inside the Mind of a Supercommunicator, with Charles Duhigg
Learn from Pulitzer Prize-winning author Charles Duhigg about the power of communication in achieving success and happiness. Discover the impact of asking personal questions, dispelling myths about super communicators, effective communication strategies, and the importance of empathy in bridging differences. Explore the significance of forming strong connections for happiness and success.
6 snips
Feb 21, 2024 • 1h 9min
Ask Paula: What to Do with a Six-Figure Windfall?
Discover what to do with a six-figure windfall towards early retirement, navigating 401k fees and investment options. Explore the challenges of funding IVF treatments while maintaining financial stability. Consider the transition from RV living to building an off-grid home and strategic financial planning for long-term goals.
5 snips
Feb 14, 2024 • 1h 3min
Gut Instincts and Big Decisions, with Morgan Housel
Morgan Housel, who made a life-saving decision at age 17, discusses the importance of snap verdicts and understanding constant concepts. He explores irrationality, overlooking good things, and the impact on our futures. Housel shares insights from his latest book on human behavior and the market.
Feb 7, 2024 • 1h 8min
Ask Paula: "Should I Put My Dreams on Hold … and Buy a House Instead?"
Luis's wife's side hustle brings in unexpected income, leading Luis to seek hacks on YouTube. Elizabeth is frustrated with the housing market and considers using her savings for a pottery course. Steve faces a dilemma with borrowing money and selling their house. The episode covers topics such as 529 plans, long-term care savings, prioritizing dreams, and managing risk in financial decisions.
Feb 2, 2024 • 54min
Stocks are Hot. Jobs are Hotter. What’s Next?
The podcast discusses the current state of the economy, including the bull market, low unemployment rates, and decreasing inflation. It also covers topics like real estate drama, increasing insurance costs, and the rising costs of new construction homes. The podcast highlights the massive lawsuit against the National Association of Realtors and the reasons behind the rising cost of car insurance.
Jan 31, 2024 • 1h 23min
How to Start a Business in One Weekend, with Noah Kagan
Noah Kagan, entrepreneur and business strategist, shares valuable insights on starting a business in one weekend. He discusses the power of asking in business, the simplicity of starting a business online, and the importance of testing ideas and embracing failure. Noah also provides guidance on improving asking skills, finding quality candidates quickly, and the challenges of scaling a business. Additionally, he emphasizes the value of hiring elite advisors, finding advisors, setting financial goals, and shares three key takeaways for starting a business.
5 snips
Jan 24, 2024 • 1h 7min
Ask Paula: The Hidden Cost of Student Loan Forgiveness
The podcast covers topics such as the trustworthiness of financial advisors, the hidden cost of student loan forgiveness, considerations for bond investments, and the impact of job satisfaction on various aspects of life.
11 snips
Jan 18, 2024 • 49min
Thriving in a High-Pressure World, with Jennifer Breheny Wallace
Jennifer Breheny Wallace, author of the New York Times Best Seller “Never Enough: When Achievement Culture..." discusses the negative consequences of obsession with success and offers practical solutions to manage it. Topics include finding purpose, the power of connection, pressure to achieve in adolescence, challenges in retirement, and coping mechanisms for good financial health.
