Afford Anything

Dive into the complexities of financial stability as listeners question their retirement readiness with varying net worths, including a $2.2 million portfolio. Explore the subjective nature of wealth and the impact of home equity on net worth calculations. Discover the emotional aspects of saving for retirement and the importance of personalized, strategic planning. The conversation also delves into selecting the right financial advisor to navigate these uncertainties, ensuring listeners feel empowered on their financial journeys.

Dr. Karsten Jeske, an economist and early retiree from Wall Street, offers insightful perspectives on today's economic challenges. He breaks down how recent Fed decisions could impact personal finances and critiques traditional views on inflation and unemployment. Drawing on his experiences, Karsten emphasizes the importance of consistent investing and safe withdrawal rates in retirement planning. He also warns against modern monetary theory's pitfalls by referencing historical hyperinflation, all while making complex economic ideas accessible to listeners.

A couple with a $2 million net worth at 40 grapples with their investment strategy as they consider diversification beyond a one-fund portfolio. Negotiation tips emerge for individuals in union jobs, addressing the challenges of collective bargaining. One caller grapples with overseas properties amid rampant inflation and fears of losing significant investments. The discussion emphasizes adjusting portfolios, mastering everyday negotiation, and understanding personal financial thresholds to navigate these complex financial landscapes.

Explore the recent half-point interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve and its impacts on mortgages and savings. Discover how economic indicators like the dot plot and R-star influence future economic predictions. Unpack surprising bipartisan proposals regarding housing and taxation as the election approaches. Analyze the latest jobs report and the complexities of the labor market. Emphasize the importance of critical thinking in political discussions and the need for effective policies beyond party lines.

Get ready for a deep dive into early retirement strategies! A 30-year-old's impressive savings spark conversations about the math of making work optional. The hosts weigh the pros and cons of single-family versus multi-family homes, exploring creative housing solutions. Listeners learn about the importance of planning by decade while avoiding pitfalls like being 'house poor.' With valuable insights on investing in VTSAX and tips for choosing a financial advisor, this discussion is packed with actionable advice for future financial freedom!

Discover the fascinating world of financial psychology and how it shapes your money decisions. Dive into the three money mindsets: anxious, obsessed, and avoidant, and how they affect your relationship with wealth. Explore the myths surrounding financial success, revealing why mere savings don’t equate to being 'good with money.' Learn to navigate the obstacles of imposter syndrome and understand the balance between time and money. Ultimately, rethink how your beliefs about finances can lead to empowerment or limitation.

Learn how to tackle tough negotiation tactics like the infamous 'take it or leave it' offer, illustrated by a software developer's real-life success story. Discover strategies to handle psychological games from clients, and navigate the classic 'good cop, bad cop' routine. Cut through information overload with the FILTER acronym, and master the art of asking for raises while showcasing your true value. Equip yourself with actionable tips to confidently counter aggressive tactics and ensure better financial outcomes.

Katie Gatti Tassin, host of Money with Katie, takes a deep dive into the intriguing concept of money dysmorphia—where individuals feel financially inadequate despite having solid bank accounts. She highlights how social and traditional media fuel this anxiety, distorting our understanding of 'normal.' Sharing her own experience with guilt over buying a Porsche, Katie emphasizes the conflict within financial communities. The discussion also touches on pandemic shifts in priorities and the need for balance, encouraging a healthier relationship with money.

Katie Gatti Tassin, host of MorningBrew’s Money with Katie, is a retirement savings expert who dives into the crucial decision between Traditional and Roth 401(k)s. She discusses the complexities of future tax rates and how they impact retirement planning, emphasizing strategies for different income levels. The conversation also touches on Social Security's uncertain future and the unique challenges faced by small business owners. Tassin offers insightful recommendations for optimizing retirement savings while managing taxes effectively.

Stanford psychology professor Jamil Zaki dives into the fascinating world of empathy and its vital role in our professional and personal connections. He argues that empathy is not just an innate trait but a skill that can be cultivated, discussing practical strategies to enhance it in our lives. Zaki examines how digital tools and technologies, including AI and virtual reality, influence empathy today. He also explores how tribalism and broader identities can shape our willingness to connect, making a compelling case for empathy as a driver of business success.