The Stacking Benjamins Show

Is good debt a myth? Should we all chase FIRE? The basement panel weighs in. In today’s Financial Concepts Friday roundtable, Joe brings the basement crew together for a lively “In or Out” debate on some of the most polarizing personal finance topics out there. Are we in or out on the idea of “good debt”? Do budgets really matter when you’re just starting out? Should you talk about money with your friends and family… or is that still taboo? Joining Joe are three financial thinkers who aren’t afraid to stir the pot: Paula Pant from Afford Anything Jesse Cramer from The Personal Finance for Long Term Investors Show OG from our own basement think tank (and planning headquarters) Together, they dig into: Whether any debt can actually be considered good If living without a budget is a fast track to financial regret—or freedom The upside (and awkwardness) of open money conversations How FIRE goals like retiring by 35 sound… and feel, once you really unpack them Plus, Mom’s neighbor Doug drops by with a trivia challenge that’ll have you laughing (and maybe yelling at your speaker). And of course, we wrap up with reflections that’ll leave you both entertained and a little bit wiser. So grab a LaCroix from the mini fridge and join us in the basement—this one’s packed with laughs, insights, and hot takes on cold, hard cash. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/personal-finance-most-controversial-questions-1665 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.StackingBenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever been told to buy the biggest house you can afford... to “motivate yourself”? Or to skip insurance because “nothing bad will happen”? Yeah—us too. And we’ve got some thoughts. In this episode, Joe, OG, and Doug break down the Top 5 Worst Financial Tips they’ve ever heard—and more importantly, why taking them seriously could leave your finances in a flaming dumpster behind your dreams. From personal debt confessions to debates about extreme couponing, bad budgeting ideas, and the wild world of TikTok money myths, this episode is your roadmap to not falling for advice that sounds smart but… absolutely isn’t. In this episode: Why “buying big” won’t necessarily inspire you—it might just bankrupt you Skipping insurance to save money? We’ll show you how that plan ends Should couples really share just one checkbook? We investigate The great emergency fund vs. credit card debate When DIY everything turns into Why Did I Try? How the satire in The Joneses movie is secretly more real than you think Listener Q&A: Impact investing, private debt financing, and what it means to be an accredited investor Plus, a surprise TikTok moment, OG's thoughts on calendars, Doug’s history of April Fools’ disasters, and much more You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and by the end, you’ll be a whole lot more confident dodging bad advice in the wild. 🎧 Tune in and stack smarter by skipping the “advice” that could sink your stack. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/our-top-five-money-saving-solutions-1664 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is financial literacy missing from your life like that sock you swear went in the dryer? Tiffany Aliche, AKA The Budgetnista, is here to help you find it—minus the lint. She shares her journey to financial wholeness and takes us behind the scenes of her brand-new PBS special. Meanwhile, Joe and OG break down why financial education starts with community (not overpriced guru courses), why ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ is the financial equivalent of eating fast food in your car—feels great now, but you’ll regret it later—and how even a trip to Texarkana can teach you a thing or two about money. Plus, a story involving World War II espionage that somehow made its way into the mix. Here’s what’s on tap this week: Kicking off Monday with a solid dose of grumpiness (and a passionate store-brand rant). Hanging with The Budgetnista—Tiffany Aliche takes us behind the scenes. Why financial literacy isn’t just about numbers—it’s about community. The sneaky financial traps that might be eating your wallet alive. Tiffany’s PBS special—how she tackled stage fright and delivered a knockout show. Headlines that made us go “Wait, WHAT?!”—including Klarna and DoorDash teaming up. ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’—why it’s like borrowing money from Future You (and Future You is not happy about it). Mortgage strategies, financial independence, and the art of dodging debt. Could you survive a week on cash only? One of us is trying (and maybe crying). Food waste: it’s not just bad for the planet—it’s silently draining your bank account. Upcoming meetups, tax tips, and basement-style money wisdom you can actually use. And if you stick around long enough, well… who knows what else might show up? FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/budgetnista-financial-literacy-1663 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever fallen for an investment that seemed like a sure thing... until it wasn’t? You’re not alone. Today, we shine a light on some of the worst investment advice out there—and help you steer clear of it. Joining Joe at the roundtable are: Paula Pant from Afford Anything Jesse Cramer from Personal Finance for Long-Term Investors And Don McDonald, financial pro and former astronaut (not really, but just go with it) from Talking Real Money. Infinite banking and other shiny traps – What sounds like genius often comes with fine print you’ll wish you’d read. Penny stocks and the illusion of easy money – Spoiler: if it feels like a shortcut, it's probably a detour. Equity-indexed annuities and their slick sales tactics – When someone tells you there’s “no downside,” maybe run. Gut feelings vs. data – The panel weighs in on trusting instincts vs. trusting actual math. Teachers and 403(b) plans – A quick peek behind the curtain at one of the most overlooked problem areas in personal finance. How not to invest – A rundown of red flags and hard-won wisdom from people who’ve seen the worst up close. Meanwhile, Doug brings the trivia thunder with a question about sitcom salaries—and things quickly go from Big Bang to big bucks. Whether you’ve made a misstep or are just trying to avoid one, this episode will help you tune out the noise, spot the nonsense, and build a smarter, more resilient investment plan. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/our-least-favorite-investments-1662 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.StackingBenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wondered how the top financial minds avoid disaster while the rest of us are busy panic-Googling “best investments 2024”? Today, Joe welcomes Barry Ritholtz of Ritholtz Wealth Management down to Mom’s basement for a conversation that flips typical investment advice on its head. It’s not about what to do—it’s about what not to do if you want to grow your money without losing your sanity. Barry shares battle-tested insights from his years in the trenches, covering everything from behavioral finance to market psychology and how to avoid falling for trends that make great headlines but terrible portfolios. Also in this episode: Subscription hacks you didn’t know you needed (and yes, even that one you've been ignoring since 2021). How market history can be your secret weapon—if you actually pay attention to it. Tech innovations in finance and why Barry says they're both exciting and a little terrifying. Productivity gains, AI, and whether the future is a robot that trades ETFs for you while you nap. A peek into Barry’s latest book and the big idea that might shift how you think about investing. Doug creates yet another national holiday—because what the world needs now is Bow Chicka Wow Wow Day. Stacker mailbag time! We’re diving into job loss strategies, building bulletproof emergency funds, and yes, getting into the weeds with buffer ETFs. The never-ending showdown: remote work vs. office life—where do Stackers land? And of course, Doug’s trivia will challenge your financial knowledge and possibly your respect for faux holidays. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just now figuring out what a 401(k) actually does, this episode brings the insight, laughs, and community you’ve come to expect from the basement. 🎧 Tune in and stack smarter—with fewer missteps and a whole lot more fun. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/getting-your-investments-right-with-barry-ritholtz-1661 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What do weddings, wineries, and Whoppers have to do with smart investing? This week, Joe, OG, and Doug kick off the episode with stories from the road—including a surprise credit card confession that somehow involves a Burger King (because of course it does). But then the gang shifts gears and dives into real money talk, breaking down investing wisdom from the legendary Barry Ritholtz. From navigating market cycles to keeping your emotions in check, Barry’s top 10 tips serve up the kind of grounded, no-BS advice your portfolio will thank you for—especially the next time the market gets jumpy or the headlines go haywire. They also tackle what politics really mean for your investments (spoiler: maybe less than you think) and why getting your expectations right could be the most important investment decision you make. Stick around to hear a listener question that hits close to home: How should you invest for an 84-year-old mom? It’s a multigenerational money moment that brings the discussion full circle. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why market cycles matter (and how to avoid getting whiplash) The hidden dangers of investing with your heart instead of your head What Barry Ritholtz says about predicting political impacts on your portfolio How to set realistic return expectations (and why that’s surprisingly freeing) A practical investing strategy for elderly parents—without the jargon Plus: Doug’s trivia takes a nostalgic turn into the wild world of Beanie Babies FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/how-not-to-invest-1660 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wonder why some people crush their financial goals while others keep hitting snooze? Today, we’re talking about the secret sauce behind sticking to a financial plan—and no, it’s not just “wanting it more” (though that helps). Joining Joe in the basement is OG, alongside personal finance expert Jesse Kramer from The Best Interest and CFP Dana Anspach from Sensible Money. Together, they’ll break down why staying financially motivated is harder than it looks—and how to actually keep yourself on track, even when life (or a killer sale on Amazon) tries to derail you. We’ll explore why people resist financial planning (hint: it’s not always laziness), how goal-setting psychology plays into money habits, and why tracking your finances can be as powerful as tracking your fitness. Dana shares the surprising link between logging your retirement balance and saving more, while OG and Jesse tackle the age-old debate: should financial advisors be more like sports agents—pushing, coaching, and sometimes delivering the tough love? Plus, we dig into why writing things down actually works (seriously, it’s science) and how a simple mindset shift can help you finally take action. And of course, what’s a Friday without Doug’s trivia? This week, Doug takes us back to the boxing ring with a question about the legendary Joe Louis—and the sucker punch that is junk fees. ? Our roundtable throws their best guesses into the ring, but who will come out on top? Play along and see if you can take home the trivia belt! This was a great finish to a week of talking motivation and drive! From the seven steps to dynamic drive to sports agent Molly Fletcher on Wednesday and this discussion, it's a well-rounded week that should help you get up and go...even if you think YOUR get up and go got up and went. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/motivation-habits-and-planning-1659 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.StackingBenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever feel like you're stuck in a rut, spinning your wheels, or just running low on motivation? Today, we crack the code on sustaining drive and avoiding complacency with former sports agent Molly Fletcher, who’s worked with some of the biggest names in sports and has been dubbed the female Jerry Maguire. She breaks down the fine line between contentment and coasting, plus shares keys to staying at the top of your game—from managing energy to embracing adversity like a pro. But wait, there’s more! Len Penzo (yes, of LenPenzo dot com fame!) joins us as guest co-host, bringing his usual mix of wisdom, dry wit, and probably a few thoughts on sandwich prices. And if you think motivation is tough, try navigating the world of credit—because while ambition is great, bad credit can still trip you up. From student loan pitfalls to practical credit repair tips, we cover what younger folks (and honestly, all of us) need to know about keeping those numbers in check. In this episode: Molly Fletcher on Peak Performance – Lessons from a top sports agent on how to stay motivated without burning out. Complacency vs. Contentment – Are you stuck or simply satisfied? Molly breaks it down. Managing Energy Like a Pro – Tom Izzo swears by it, and so should you. Credit Crash Course – What happens when student loans go delinquent, and how to fix the damage. The Living Without Credit Debate – Is a debt-free life possible, or just a financial myth? Doug & OG’s Ski Slope Disaster – A story of poor decisions, gravity, and bruised egos (hilarious in retrospect). Len Penzo's Tips for Improving Credit Scores – Because nobody budgets quite like Len. Whether you need a motivation boost, a credit check-up, or just a good laugh at Doug’s expense, this episode has you covered. 🎧 Tune in for wisdom, financial hacks, and some après-ski storytelling you won’t want to miss! FULL SHOW NOTES: https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/find-your-dynamic-drive-molly-fletcher-1658/ Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever start a new financial goal feeling unstoppable, only to lose momentum when life gets in the way? Staying motivated isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter. Today, Joe and OG take a deep dive into Dynamic Drive, the key to keeping your financial momentum going without burnout. We’ll break down the seven essential pillars—mindset, energy, discipline, curiosity, resilience, connection, and confidence—so you’re ready to hit the ground running when we welcome former sports agent Molly Fletcher on Wednesday. 💰 In this episode: Why motivation fizzles out—and how to make it last The seven keys to Dynamic Drive (and how to apply them to your finances) How milestones and energy management keep you on track Tax strategies for selling shares—FIFO, LIFO, or average cost? Which method helps you keep more of your hard-earned Benjamins? What cowboy fencing teaches us about peak performance (yes, that’s a thing) Plus, Doug serves up a sports trivia challenge—because what’s financial motivation without a little fun? 👉 Listen in now and get fired up—without burning out! FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/how-to-create-a-sustainable-drive-1657 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever feel guilty about that $7 airport coffee or the mystery fees that somehow turn your $15 DoorDash order into a $40 financial regret? You’re not alone. This episode, Joe Saul-Sehy is joined by Paula Pant (Afford Anything) and Justin Peters (The Struggle Is Real) to unravel the sneaky ways convenience drains our wallets. In this episode: Airport Food: The Ultimate Financial Heist – Why does a sad turkey sandwich cost more than a steak dinner? We investigate. Concert Tickets & Junk Fees – You found $50 tickets… but somehow the total is now $127? Yep, we’ve been there. The True Cost of Convenience – From Uber Eats to express shipping, when is paying extra worth it—and when are we just being lazy? Trivia Time: Pie Day Special! – Who knew McDonald's pie sales could spark heated debate? Well, now we all do. Wedding Costs Gone Wild – Creative ways to cut costs without making your guests eat ramen. The Ben Franklin Effect & Social Hacks – Want better connections without breaking the bank? Turns out, old Ben had some wisdom on that, too. All this, plus some hilarious personal finance confessions that will make you feel better about your last impulse buy. 🎧 Tune in, laugh, and learn how to keep more of your Benjamins! FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/places-we-know-were-overpaying-1656 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.StackingBenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Choosing the Best Tax Software for Your Needs Tax season is here—so which software should you trust with your hard-earned Benjamins? Eric Rosenberg from The College Investor joins us to break down the best options, whether you're a side hustler, crypto investor, or just looking for a free filing solution. Will TurboTax take the crown again, or is there a surprise champ? You might be shocked by which software stands out this year. H&R Block’s virtual tax prep – If you want real humans to double-check your numbers, this might be your go-to. Which tax software works best for unique situations – Side gigs, stock trading, crypto investments… different situations call for different solutions. Navigating Tax Day without the stress – Tips to avoid last-minute panic and make sure you’re not leaving money on the table. Crypto scams and meme coins – Because tax season isn’t stressful enough without adding that mess into the mix. Meanwhile, Doug serves up world-famous trivia with a nod to classic children’s books, beloved authors, and sing-song rhymes. Plus, we take a detour into sector betting, market trends, and—of course—movie recommendations. If tax season feels overwhelming, this episode breaks it down, keeps it light, and helps you pick the right software to file with confidence. Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wondered if working for yourself could be the game-changer your finances need? Grant Sabatier thinks so, and today, he’s diving into the realities of entrepreneurship—from smart strategies to potential pitfalls. Where to start if you’re considering entrepreneurship – Not every side hustle is a winner, so how do you know if this path is right for you? The power of systems and constraints – Why guardrails and structure matter more than unlimited freedom. Pricing strategies and finding customers – Because even the best ideas need paying customers. Entrepreneurial misconceptions – Spoiler: It’s not all Ferraris and private jets. Can your wedding be a tax deduction? – We explore the entertaining but highly questionable ways some people try to make this work. Meanwhile, Doug serves up trivia on the highest-grossing console game ever (bet you won’t guess it). And if you stick around long enough, let’s just say there may or may not be a discussion about a comedy movie that turns financial struggles into pure entertainment. But, you know… no promises. If you’ve been toying with the idea of starting your own thing, this episode is packed with insights, real talk, and a few surprises along the way. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/unlock-your-inner-entrepreneur-with-grant-sabatier-1654 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feeling the pressure to constantly tweak your investments? Today, we uncover the surprising benefits of financial inaction with insights from CFP Dana Anspach, Len Penzo, and OG. We dive into the wisdom of sometimes doing nothing—because, as it turns out, sitting on your hands (financially speaking) can be a power move. Why lazy portfolio management might be the smartest strategy you’ll ever adopt (spoiler: it involves less work). The power of downtime—turns out, stepping away from your money might actually make you richer. Why your future self will thank you for setting up auto-pay (hint: fewer late fees, more naps). The sneaky ways peer pressure messes with your finances—and how to keep the Joneses from running your budget. When rebalancing your portfolio is necessary…and when it’s just a fancy way to micromanage yourself. A wildly unexpected insurance claim (because finances are never boring in the basement). Oh, and Doug’s got a trivia question about a particularly controversial activity that was banned—because, apparently, not everything fun is legal. Stick around for weekend plans, final thoughts, and maybe even a surprise or two (because we like to keep you on your toes). This episode originally aired on June 10, 2022. Please disregard any mention of current events. The original show notes can be found here. Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A great financial plan isn’t just about numbers—it’s about creating a roadmap that turns dreams into reality. Today, Joe and OG take a trip down memory lane, reflecting on their favorite parts of building a great financial plan. Whether you're tackling long-term goals, fine-tuning your tax strategy, or simplifying complex decisions, they’ll walk you through the key elements that turn financial chaos into a well-oiled machine. Breaking down big goals into bite-sized wins – Because climbing a financial mountain is easier when you focus on one step at a time. The magic of tax strategies – Why a little planning now can keep more Benjamins in your pocket later. Risk management done right – Avoiding financial pitfalls so your plan stays strong, no matter what life throws your way. The power of simple solutions – Complexity doesn’t always mean better. Sometimes, the best financial strategies are the easiest to execute. The role of a financial guide – Whether you DIY your plan or bring in an expert, knowing when to get guidance is a game-changer. Meanwhile, Doug tackles a ‘Winnie the Pooh’-inspired predicament (honey jars may or may not be involved) and drops some surprising trivia on the massive market value of antidepressant drugs. If you’re ready to streamline your financial life and celebrate your progress along the way, this episode is packed with insights, strategy, and a few unexpected twists. This episode originally aired on January 18, 2023. Please disregard any mention of current events. The original show notes can be found here. Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever felt overwhelmed by buying a car or managing your time? You’re not alone. Today, we tackle both topics with expert insights and a few unexpected surprises along the way. Car buying decoded – Joe sits down with Phil Reed, Senior Consumer Editor at Edmunds, to break down the best strategies for buying new or used cars, leasing vs. buying, and negotiating with dealers like a pro. The ultimate time management playbook – Paula Pant, Dominique Brown, and returning guest Carrie Smith share real-world productivity hacks—whether you're self-employed, working 9-to-5, or just trying to make better use of your day. Avoiding social media missteps at work – The team dives into the do’s and don’ts of posting while employed. Email overload? Phone calls running your life? – Smart strategies to take control of your inbox and stop wasting time on endless calls. Celebrity wealth secrets and entertainment picks – Because financial wisdom can come from surprising places. A roadside hawk encounter?! – An unexpected story that proves you never know what’s coming next. With practical advice, engaging discussions, and a few twists you won’t see coming, this episode packs in everything you need to take control of your finances and your time—without taking life too seriously. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If disaster struck tomorrow, would your financial essentials be ready to grab and go? Today, Joe—along with contributors Paula Pant from Afford Anything, Jesse Cramer from Personal Finance for Long-Term Investors, and our resident expert OG—assemble the ultimate financial go bag. Meanwhile, Doug handles his usual duties as announcer, trivia master, and general chaos instigator. The must-have documents – Passports, Social Security cards, insurance policies... what belongs in your bag, and what can stay in the filing cabinet? Cash vs. digital access – How much should you keep in physical cash? And is gold really a smart emergency asset, or just a really heavy way to slow yourself down? Estate planning and emergency preparedness – The financial moves today that can make a crisis less stressful later. Password managers: genius or a liability? – We debate whether your digital keys should be stored in the cloud, on paper, or tattooed in invisible ink. Trivia showdown: Doug tests the team’s knowledge with a question that (probably) has nothing to do with financial preparedness. Campus co-op stores and Harvard history—why are we talking about this? You’ll find out. If you’ve been meaning to get your financial house in order for emergencies, this episode has everything you need to build your own financial go bag—without overpacking. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/your-financial-go-bag-1650 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.StackingBenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is your insurance setup rock-solid, or are you unknowingly leaving gaps that could cost you big time? Today, we break down the essentials of managing risk in our no-nonsense (but totally entertaining) insurance guide. How much coverage do you really need? We tackle the must-haves and the unnecessary add-ons that might just be draining your wallet. Auto, home, life, and disability insurance—what’s essential and what’s overkill? We walk through the key policies that keep you protected without breaking the bank. Oddball insurance policies—are they worth it? From pet insurance to that ‘just in case’ coverage you saw on late-night TV, we separate the smart buys from the money traps. A TikTok minute that perfectly sums up the difference between dogs and cats. Trust us, you’ll relate. Listener questions: Breaking up with a financial advisor—when it’s time to walk away and how to do it right. Insurance company showdown: Who’s the biggest player in the game, and does size really matter? DIY money moves: How to take over your own investment accounts without making costly mistakes. Stackers, this episode is packed with tips, laughs, and real-world insights to help you protect what matters—without wasting a dime. Don't miss it! Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever feel like your budget is running you instead of the other way around? Today, we’re bringing in Shaun Morgan from The Teacher Money Show and Kristin Wade, budgeting coach at My Budget Coach, to help you flip the script. They’ll share how tracking your expenses is the first (and easiest) step toward financial freedom, why budgeting shouldn’t feel like punishment, and how to make your money work without the guilt. But wait—there’s more! We’re diving into creative ways to gamify saving, some unexpected solutions for real estate dilemmas (hint: selling isn’t your only option), and why sometimes renting out your home might be the smarter move. And of course, we sprinkle in some personal stories, real-life lessons, and a few side tangents that may or may not include baseball, beer trends, and an ode to Steve Jobs. What’s Inside Today’s Episode: Budgeting Basics: How to make your spending work for you. Tracking Expenses 101: The first step toward a stress-free financial plan. Finding the Right Budgeting Tools: What actually works? Gamifying Your Finances: How to make saving and budgeting fun (yes, fun!). Accountability & Motivation: Why most people quit budgeting—and how to stick with it. Turning Real Estate Woes Into Wins: If your house won’t sell, here’s what to do next. Renting vs. Selling: When keeping your home might be the smarter play. Running a Business on a Budget: The hidden costs and how to stay profitable. Community Shoutouts & Listener Feedback: Your wins, your questions, and more. Random Topic: Cancun adventures and off-the-cuff fun. Key Takeaways from the Episode: ✔️ Budgeting doesn’t mean restriction—it means intentional spending. ✔️ Tracking your money is like using a GPS—it keeps you from getting lost. ✔️ Real estate has more options than just “sell or stay put.” Renting could be a game-changer. ✔️ You don’t have to budget alone. The right tools and accountability partners make all the difference. ✔️ Even Cancun has budgeting lessons. (Or at least a few good stories.) Tune in now and take the first step toward mastering your budget—without making it feel like a chore. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/how-to-take-control-of-your-budget-1648 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is it time to break up with international stocks? They’ve been underperforming U.S. markets for years, so should we finally call it quits, or is there still hope for a global comeback? On today’s episode, Joe, OG, Paula Pant, and Jesse Cramer dig into the great international investing debate. Are international funds a lost cause? The panel unpacks why they’ve lagged U.S. stocks and whether diversification still makes sense. Beyond stocks: Exploring other asset classes—private equity, real estate, commodities, and collectibles (because who doesn’t want to invest in Beanie Babies and vintage lunchboxes?). The $3 coin mystery: Yep, that was a thing. And yes, it’s as weird as it sounds. Election results and wooden nickels: The intersection of money, history, and questionable currency choices. Weekend plans and podcast highlights: Because investing is important, but so is having fun. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Stacking Benjamins episode without some friendly debate, expert insights, and the occasional off-the-wall tangent. Tune in for a laid-back but insightful conversation on making smart investment decisions! FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/is-international-investing-dead-1647 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.StackingBenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever experienced the gut-wrenching moment of losing a job—or worried about what you’d do if it happened? Today, we tackle how to prepare, what to do immediately, and the smartest moves to protect your finances if your job ever disappears. From building an emergency fund to making the most of employer benefits, we’ll walk you through the steps to keep your financial house in order when life throws a curveball. But that’s not all. Estate planning gets a shake-up thanks to the new Secure Act 2.0, and we’re diving into what it means for inherited Roth IRAs (hint: the government has new rules, and you’ll want to know them). And because we can’t resist a good detour, we also explore the real cost of horse ownership (spoiler: it’s more than just hay money) and why tide pooling is more financially educational than you’d think. All that, plus trivia, TikTok wisdom (or nonsense), and plenty of lively discussion from the basement crew. What’s Inside Today’s Episode: Job Loss Survival Guide: How to prepare before, during, and after a layoff. Emergency Fund Essentials: Why you need one (and how much is enough). Navigating Employer Benefits: Making the most of what’s available before you leave. Secure Act 2.0 & Estate Planning: The new rules around inherited Roth IRAs. Trivia & The TikTok Minute: Because questionable financial advice is always worth dissecting. Horse Stackers & Expensive Hobbies: Ever wonder what it really costs to own a horse? We break it down. Tide Pooling Adventures: A financial lesson wrapped in sea creatures and crashing waves. Key Takeaways from the Episode: ✔️ Job security is a myth—be ready. Build that emergency fund, update your resume, and keep networking. ✔️ Your employer’s benefits might be your hidden lifeline. Know what’s available before you walk out the door. ✔️ Secure Act 2.0 changes estate planning. If you’re inheriting a Roth IRA, don’t assume the old rules apply. ✔️ Horses aren’t just expensive—they’re financial black holes. But that won’t stop people from trying. ✔️ Tide pooling might be the best investment lesson in disguise. Patience, observation, and avoiding getting pinched—it’s practically a stock market metaphor. Tune in now to make sure you’re financially prepared—whether it’s for job loss, estate planning changes, or just the unexpected expenses of a very expensive hobby. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/spring-cleaning-your-estate-plan-1646 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices