The Stacking Benjamins Show

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

Feeling stuck in your financial plan—or maybe just in life in general? Whether it’s your money, career, or day-to-day habits, a little innovation can go a long way. Today, we’re breaking down how to rethink and restructure your approach to financial planning and work-life balance using lessons from Microsoft (yes, the Xbox folks). Dean Carignan and JoAnn Garbin insights on how to build a system for innovation—because the best financial plans (and lives) aren’t built by accident. Meanwhile, a woman was scammed out of her savings, and a major financial company had to pay a fine—even though they didn’t actually rip her off. What happened? And what does it mean for how we protect our own money? We’ll break it all down. Elsewhere in the episode, we discuss why trusted contact forms are crucial for safeguarding elderly relatives’ finances, how OG wants you to rethink your daily money habits, and why the Xbox case study holds lessons for designing a better financial plan. Plus, Doug has thoughts on podcast innovation, trivia, and—because it wouldn’t be a proper basement gathering without it—a hot take or two. What’s Inside Today’s Episode: A Woman Gets Scammed, But Who Pays the Price? A big financial firm faces a fine—without actually doing anything wrong. The Xbox Case Study: What Microsoft’s innovation strategy can teach you about structuring your financial future. Financial Planning Innovations: Why thinking like an engineer (or a game developer) might help you build a better plan. Rethinking Your Everyday Financial Habits: OG’s take on how small changes lead to big results. Trusted Contact Forms & Safeguarding Elderly Relatives: A simple but powerful tool to prevent financial disasters. Charitable Giving Strategies: How to give smarter, not just more. Doug’s Trivia Time: A deep dive into financial (and podcast) innovation—because why not? Building a Network in Retirement: Why relationships matter just as much as money when designing your post-work life. Key Takeaways from the Episode: You can’t just wing it with your finances. Microsoft doesn’t build Xbox consoles on a whim—your financial future needs the same level of structured innovation. Don’t assume big financial firms will protect you. A major company had to pay up even though they weren’t the scammers—learn how to protect yourself before something happens. Small financial tweaks can make a massive difference. Just like product innovations, incremental changes in your money habits can lead to big wins over time. Retirement isn’t just about the money. You need a network, a purpose, and a strategy—or you’ll find yourself wealthier but bored out of your mind. Tune in now to learn how to bring structured innovation into your finances, career, and life! FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/the-importance-of-innovation-1645 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

Love is in the air—and so are overpriced flowers, extravagant dinners, and some serious credit card regrets. In today’s episode, we tackle the financial pressure of Valentine’s Day and show you how to keep the romance alive without setting your wallet on fire. Joining us are financial pros Jesse Cramer, Sarah Catherine Gutierrez, and Len Penzo, who help us break down: The shocking reality of Valentine's Day spending – Who’s dropping the most cash, and is it really worth it? Avoiding post-holiday financial heartbreak – Strategies to celebrate without swiping yourself into debt. Creative alternatives to overpriced traditions – Ditch the $200 steak dinner and try these fun, budget-friendly ideas instead. The cost of love – From babysitting fees to restaurant markups, where is your money really going? Romantic gestures that don’t break the bank – Because a handwritten note might just score you more points than a last-minute gas station bouquet. The key to financial harmony in relationships – Talking money before someone drops a fortune on a gift they think you’ll love (but don’t). Listener tips and budget-friendly adventures – Stackers share their best ideas for a Valentine’s Day that’s memorable and affordable. Plus, we’ve got trivia, technical mishaps (because what’s love without a little chaos?), and some surprise financial wisdom that might just save your next date night. Stack your love life and your Benjamins—tune in now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Just when you thought Wall Street had run out of ways to package up risky investments and slap a shiny label on them—here we go again. Today, Joe and OG break down yet another overcomplicated, high-fee, and completely unnecessary financial product. Whether it’s preying on investor fears, promising market-proof returns, or just outright nonsense, we’ll help you spot the warning signs before you end up with a portfolio full of regret. But that’s not all. A viral TikTok tip about hiring your family members for tax benefits has been making the rounds, so we’ll dive into whether this is actually a genius tax strategy or just another case of the internet handing out half-baked financial advice. Plus, a listener asks about breaking into financial planning, and we lay out what it really takes—beyond the certifications and credentials (spoiler: sales skills matter). And Doug brings us a trivia question about one of the greatest art heists in history, proving that sometimes the best investment is knowing how to disappear with the Mona Lisa. Also: Joe saw ‘Wicked’ and has thoughts—mostly about how much better Wonka was. What’s Inside Today’s Episode: The Latest Wall Street Gimmick: A financial product you definitely don’t need. Understanding Risky Investments: How to tell if an ETF, structured note, or annuity is actually worth your time. Hiring Family for Tax Benefits: A TikTok tax hack that might actually work—if you follow the rules. Trivia Time with Doug: One of the most famous art heists in history. Breaking Into Financial Planning: What it takes to switch careers and make it in the industry. Community Feedback & Upcoming Episodes: A sneak peek at what’s coming next (including our Valentine’s Day special). Episode Highlights: What’s in a Name? The ridiculous branding that makes bad investment products sound good. Bitcoin Meets Structured Protection: The ETF that no one asked for but someone, somewhere, will buy. Hiring Your Kids for Tax Savings: A loophole with some very real fine print. How to Become a Financial Planner: Beyond certifications—why understanding people (and sales) matters. Doug’s Trivia: If you could steal any piece of art, what would it be? Asking for a friend. Joe’s ‘Wicked’ Review: Spoiler: Wonka was better. Huge Resource Mentioned in This Episode: Want to learn more about structured investments? (Just kidding, you really don’t.) Tune in now and learn how to dodge the latest Wall Street nonsense while making smarter money moves. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/new-crypto-etfs-1643 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

Swipe right on financial stability or get ghosted by your savings? While Joe's mom yells upstairs about who left the empty milk carton in the fridge (seriously, who does that?), we’re diving into the messy, complicated, and sometimes hilarious world of your relationship with money. Are you in a stable, long-term commitment with your finances, or are you stuck in a toxic on-again, off-again affair with impulse spending? Special guest Shannah Game, certified financial planner and author of Unraveling Your Relationship with Money, joins us to decode the emotional baggage we bring to our bank accounts. Meanwhile, Doug swears he’s figured out how to “game” the stock market using AI—spoiler alert: it involves a Magic 8-Ball. We also tackle some questionable dating preferences (because who doesn’t want to know if their financial habits make them swipeable?) and unpack the latest market shake-ups. In this episode: 🏈 Super Bowl takeaways and why Doug insists commercials count as “investing research” 💰 Your financial habits might just be the biggest red flag in your dating life 🎙️ Shannah Game on money, mindset, and making smarter choices 💔 Rollercoaster relationships—with your wallet and beyond 🧐 Money manifestos: How to rewrite your financial story (without Mom intervening) 🤖 AI's impact on investing, and why OG isn't buying it (literally) 📈 How to keep your portfolio from ghosting you 🤯 Hidden track: Doug’s latest deep dive into bizarre facts—this time, dinosaur vomit Will your money habits lead to a lifetime of wealth—or will your wallet break up with you via text? Tune in and find out! FULL SHOW NOTES: https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/relationship-with-money-financial-habits-sb1642 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 automating your finances the key to effortless money management, or a one-way ticket to financial autopilot disaster? Paula Pant, Jesse Cramer, and Doc G join us to navigate the fine line between automation genius and accidental money mayhem. Done right, automation saves you time and stress. Done wrong? You might be funding a forgotten gym membership for the next five years. 😬 What’s Inside This Episode? 💰 The Power of Automation – How strategic automation can make your financial life simpler, more efficient, and stress-free. 🤖 What to Automate & What to Keep Manual – Should you set bills to auto-pay, or will that lead to mysterious charges on your credit card? 📊 High-Tech Money Tools: Are They Worth It? – Todoist, Notion, and other techy automation tricks—are they game-changers or just digital clutter? 💡 Personal Automation Hacks – How the panel automates their finances like pros (without losing control of their money). 🎭 The Dark Side of Automation – Horror stories of overdraft surprises, vanishing paychecks, and auto-pay regret. 📢 Stacker Debate: Should You Automate Everything? – The great automation showdown—when automation helps and when it hurts. ✨ Special Bonus: The Worst Things to Automate – Some things should NEVER be on autopilot. Find out what financial automation fails made our list. Takeaways for Smart Stackers: ✅ Automation = Freedom (When Used Wisely). The right balance saves you time while keeping you in control. ✅ Auto-pay is great—until it isn’t. Track subscriptions and bills so you don’t end up paying for things you don’t use. ✅ Manual check-ins keep you financially sharp. Even with automation, you need to review your money regularly. ✅ Tech tools can help—but they’re not magic. The best system is the one you actually use. 🎧 Hit play now and rethink your approach to automation before it outsmarts you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What do scammers, fancy doors, and Twinkies have in common? Turns out, more than you think! Today, Joe, OG, and Doug take you on a wild ride through financial scams, fraud prevention, tax implications of dual residency, and... the surprising link between door quality and financial stability. (Yeah, we didn’t see that one coming either.) What’s Inside This Episode? 🕵️‍♂️ Scams, Scams Everywhere! – From identity fraud to the trendy new "deed theft" scam, learn how to protect yourself before a scammer claims your house faster than you can say "that wasn't in the budget." 💳 Fraud-Proofing Your Finances – Why setting up credit monitoring, checking your bills, and paying attention to sketchy emails can save you thousands in headaches. 🚪 The TikTok Minute: What Do Soft Close Doors Say About Your Wealth? – Is your financial future written in the way your doors shut? Find out why door noises might reveal more about your bank balance than your credit score. 🧾 State Taxes & Dual Residency: The Sneaky Costs of Living in Two Places – Thinking about snowbirding to Florida or keeping a backup home in another state? We break down what you NEED to know before state tax authorities come knocking. 🤖 Password Security & The Quantum Computing Takeover – Is the future of passwords doomed? What you should be doing now to keep your Twinkies—and your bank accounts—safe. 🍕 Pizza Cutting Controversy & Nostalgic Minivan Stories – Because what’s a Stacking Adventures episode without a little debate, a little reminiscing, and a whole lot of questionable opinions on pizza slicing? 🍰 Twinkies Trivia: A Deep-Dive into the Snack That Never Dies – Have scientists unlocked the secret of Twinkie immortality? More importantly, should Twinkies be considered part of a solid financial plan? (Spoiler: probably not, but let’s discuss.) 📢 Stacker Questions & Community Fun – Helping a listener navigate dual residency tax headaches + a special meetup announcement! Takeaways for Smart Stackers: ✅ If it sounds too good to be true, it’s a scam. Seriously. Trust your gut, not the email from "Prince Jeff of Nigeria." ✅ Your finances need monitoring, just like your snack stash. Set up credit alerts and check your accounts weekly to avoid surprises. ✅ Moving states for tax savings? Do the math first. Dual residency isn’t always the loophole people think it is. ✅ Twinkies may last forever, but financial security requires maintenance. A solid money plan beats a stockpile of snacks (but only slightly). 🎧 Hit play now for a mix of financial wisdom, scam-prevention tips, and just the right amount of Twinkie-fueled fun! 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

Retirement planning isn’t about waiting until 65—it’s about setting yourself up for a life you love starting right now! Today, Certified Financial Planner Benjamin Brant joins us to challenge traditional retirement thinking. What We Cover: ✅ Retirement planning starts now, not later – Why waiting to plan is the biggest mistake you can make. ✅ Dream big, but expect some ‘bad data’ – How testing financial plans (and life plans!) helps you refine your future. ✅ Why trust beats performance in financial planning – A new study shows that your advisor’s returns matter less than their integrity. ✅ The Monte Carlo simulation debate – What this financial tool actually tells you (and what it doesn’t). ✅ Childhood dreams, stand-up comedy, and time travel? – How revisiting past joys can shape a meaningful retirement. ✅ Choosing the right financial advisor – The #1 factor to look for before handing over your portfolio. Key Takeaways: 💡 Retirement isn’t a number—it’s a mindset. The earlier you start thinking about what brings you joy, the better. 💡 Financial planning isn’t perfect science. Bad data, trial-and-error, and adjusting your plan over time? Totally normal. 💡 Trust is your biggest investment. A good financial advisor isn’t just about returns—they’re about guidance you can rely on. Grab your favorite drink (coffee, bourbon—you choose!) and let’s stack some wisdom for your future self. 🎧 Hit play now and start building your best retirement today! FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/find-your-fulfillment-in-retirement-Benjamin-Brandt-1639 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 dreamt of quitting your job early and sipping piña coladas on a beach? Before you tell your boss what to do with that job and start booking your one-way ticket to paradise, today’s roundtable might make you think twice. Join Jesse Cramer from The Best Interest, Paula Pant from Afford Anything, and our own OG as they break down the case against early retirement. The gang’s here to challenge the “quit work, retire early” dream and explore whether it’s really as awesome as it sounds—or if there are a few catches you haven’t considered. The conversation gets into the nitty-gritty of why early retirement might not be the smooth ride some people think it is. From the psychological toll of too much free time to the unexpected financial hurdles, our panelists share the real stories behind the headlines. What’s the balance between financial freedom and a fulfilling life? Can you really retire early without regret, or does the cost of quitting work too soon outweigh the benefits? And don’t forget about Doug’s wicked trivia challenge! FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/the-case-against-early-retirement-1638 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 you’re better off building your own target date fund instead of relying on a one-size-fits-all option? We’re diving into whether crafting your own investment mix is worth the effort, potentially saving you fees and giving you more control over your portfolio. But even the pros get it wrong sometimes—just ask Vanguard. We’re covering the major settlement they’re facing over misleading statements about taxes and target date funds, proving that even the big guys make costly mistakes. Meanwhile, a listener asks a great question about balancing tax optimization with financial flexibility—because what good is a perfectly tax-efficient plan if it ties your hands when you need cash? Plus, Doug takes us back to the origins of the gasoline-driven automobile, and there’s even an unexpected run-in with a Supreme Court justice (because why not?). And of course, we’ve got a TikTok moment that’ll have you questioning life choices and a few financial misconceptions that might just make you rethink your approach to money. What’s Inside Today’s Episode: Vanguard’s Costly Mistake: The settlement every investor should know about. Understanding Mutual Fund Taxes: How taxes sneak up on your investments. DIY Target Date Funds: Pros, cons, and when to consider building your own. Trivia Time with Doug: The surprising story behind the gasoline-driven car. The TikTok Minute: Financial advice that may (or may not) be worth your time. Financial Flexibility vs. Tax Optimization: Finding the balance in your strategy. Community Announcements & Meetups: Where to find us next. Episode Highlights: Vanguard’s Legal Trouble: What happened, and what it means for investors. Mutual Fund Taxation: Avoiding unexpected tax bills. Should You Build Your Own Target Date Fund? We break down the numbers. Listener Q&A: How to stay tax-efficient while keeping access to your cash. Doug’s Trivia: Who REALLY built the first gasoline-powered car? An Unexpected Supreme Court Encounter: Because that’s just how things go around here. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Learn more about Vanguard’s target date fund settlement in our show notes: https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/vanguard-target-retirement-trouble-1637 Read up on mutual fund tax strategies and more by signing up for our 201 newsletter! https://stackingbenjamins.com/201 Tune in now and get the insights you need to build a smarter investment strategy—without falling into costly traps. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What’s really standing between you and your financial goals? In today’s mentor, Jessica Moorhouse—financial counselor, podcast host, and author of Everything But Money—joins Joe to dive into the mental and emotional side of managing money. Jessica shares her journey with therapy, how relationships shape our financial habits, and the role of self-talk in creating a healthier money mindset. Whether you’re feeling stuck or just want a fresh perspective, this interview offers practical tools to help you take control of your financial future. In our headline segment, we explore the concept of a “no-buy” list—a clever strategy one woman used to pay off $34,000 in debt. Learn how gamifying financial goals can make saving more manageable—and even fun! Whether it’s cutting back on unnecessary spending or finding creative ways to save, this segment will inspire you to rethink how you approach your financial challenges. Here’s what we cover today: Saluting our troops—and wondering why Doug still doesn’t have a Navy Federal mug Meet Jessica Moorhouse: Financial counselor, podcast host, and author of Everything But Money Unlocking the connection between your money mindset and financial success with Jessica How Jessica’s personal journey and therapy shaped her healthier money mindset Unpacking how emotions and relationships impact financial habits Understanding rational vs. irrational guilt—and how it affects your money decisions Recognizing irrational guilt and why it’s critical to tackle it Celebrating financial wins and overcoming the fear that holds you back Jessica’s book Everything But Money—and why it’s a must-read for anyone improving their financial mindset Sneak peek: What’s next on the More Money Podcast with Jessica Moorhouse Doug’s historical trivia: Financial lessons from the past Gamifying financial goals: Make saving and investing fun and rewarding Real-life success stories: The No Buy Challenge and how it helped pay off $34,000 in debt Join our community: Upcoming meetups and ways to get involved Final thoughts and takeaways: Simple actions you can start today to improve your financial mindset FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/changing-your-money-self-talk-jessica-moorhouse-1636 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

Do financial boogeymen haunt your dreams? You’re not alone. Today, we’re diving into the worries that keep even the most seasoned finance nerds up at night. From concerns about index fund concentration to the fear of market manipulation and obsession with asset allocation, this episode tackles it all with insight and a healthy dose of perspective. Joining Joe and OG in the basement is an all-star panel: Paula Pant from Afford Anything, Jesse Cramer from Best Interest, and Dr. Jordan Grumet from Earn and Invest. Together, they’ll share strategies to conquer financial fears by staying calm, focusing on the big picture, and sticking to sound investment principles. And don’t miss the kickoff of the year-long Stacking Benjamins Trivia Challenge! It’s packed with brain-busting questions, lively debates, and, yes, the occasional cat butt reference (because it’s still the basement, after all). What’s Inside Today’s Episode: Meet the Contributors: Paula, Jesse, and Dr. Grumet join the crew. Index Fund Concentration: Are index funds too risky? The panel weighs in. Addressing Financial Fears: From market scams to fraud and manipulation, here’s how to keep your cool. Trivia Challenge Kickoff: A brand-new Stacking Benjamins tradition begins. Market Efficiency and Insider Trading: Can you really beat the market? Asset Allocation Obsession: Why overthinking your portfolio can be your worst enemy. Upcoming Episodes: What’s next on the Stacking Benjamins calendar? Highlights from the Episode: Index Fund Concentration: The crew discusses whether having too much of the market in a few big players is a recipe for disaster. Financial Fears: Practical advice for keeping anxiety at bay when market volatility hits. Market Scams and Frauds: How to spot them and protect yourself. Trivia Time: A heated debate over billionaire counts, complete with unforgettable banter. Asset Allocation: Tips for avoiding paralysis by analysis and focusing on long-term strategies. Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Learn more from Paula Pant at Afford Anything. Explore Jesse Cramer’s insights at Best Interest. Dive into Dr. Jordan Grumet’s conversations at Earn and Invest. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/financial-worries-and-what-to-do-about-it-1635 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.StackingBenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Tune in now and learn how to leave your financial fears in the dust while keeping your money goals on track. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feeling like the stock market is a high-stakes game of pinball lately? Not sure how to steady your hand when it comes to retirement accounts? In this episode, we tackle the rollercoaster of market volatility with actionable strategies to keep your retirement plans on track. Learn how to create an Investment Policy Statement, whether a Roth IRA still deserves a spot in your portfolio, and smart ways to withdraw from retirement funds without triggering costly mistakes. Plus, discover why trying to time the market is like predicting the weather with a Magic 8-Ball. Doug shares a tale involving a Chinese couple and some financial advice that’s worth sticking around for. Whether you’re building financial independence or refining your retirement strategy, this episode has you covered. What We Cover Today: Market Rollercoaster Madness: Stock, Bitcoin, and why patience pays off. Creating an Investment Policy Statement: Stay calm and strategy on. Listener Q&A: Chris from Georgia asks about retirement withdrawals. Roth IRA Reboot: Is it still a go-to for your portfolio? Financial Headlines: Why tuning out the noise can save your sanity. Trivia Time with Doug: A historical nugget tied to financial wisdom. Highlights from the Episode: Market Volatility Analysis: Stocks and Bitcoin – what’s up, what’s down, and what you should do about it. Listener Question: Tapping retirement accounts – the dos, don’ts, and what-ifs. Investment Philosophy: Why having a policy statement is the ultimate stress reliever. TikTok Minute: A social media take that’ll have you rethinking the advice you see online. New Year’s Resolutions: Money nicknames, quirky goals, and strategies for staying on track. Closing Remarks: Key takeaways to help guide your financial decisions. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Sign up for our Free Weekly Newsletter for insights, tips, and resources: https://stackingbenjamins.com/201 Join us at our Upcoming Meetups to connect and learn more: https://stackingbenjamins.com/meetup. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/stock-market-volatility-beginning-of-2025-1634 Tune in now and take the first step toward turning market madness into financial confidence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feeling overwhelmed by debt or unsure how to navigate the fast-paced world of financial advice online? We’ve got you covered! This episode features Debt Relief Advocate Natalia Brown from National Debt Relief, who shares practical tips to climb out of financial trouble and steer clear of predatory practices. But that’s not all—we dive into the Wild West of TikTok crypto advice, where nearly 70% of content is misleading enough to derail your financial plans. Joe and OG break it all down with their trademark insight, helping you sort fact from fiction in the world of digital finance. Here’s what you’ll learn: Tackling Debt: Natalia Brown’s strategies for overcoming financial stress and avoiding common traps. Crypto Caution: Why TikTok might not be the best place for your financial advice (and what to watch out for). Credit vs. Stability: The difference between obsessing over credit scores and focusing on long-term financial health. Digital Disclaimers: How transparency (or lack thereof) online can impact your wallet. And of course, no episode is complete without Doug’s trivia to keep things lively and unpredictable. Whether you’re tackling debt, dabbling in crypto, or just trying to stay informed, this episode will leave you with actionable advice and a fresh perspective on navigating today’s financial challenges. Tune in and take the first step toward a more confident financial future! FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/how-to-eliminate-debt-once-and-for-all-natalia-brown-1633 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

Ready to ring in the new year with a twist? On this episode of Stacking Benjamins, we consult the one and only Magic 8-Ball to make our bold predictions for 2025. Will the stock market be riding high, or is it headed for a tumble? What’s next for Bitcoin, and can Taylor Swift’s love life predict the future? Join Joe, OG, Len Penzo, and Mindy Jensen as they tap into the 8-Ball’s mystical power (or maybe just have a laugh trying) to forecast the year ahead. But before we get too caught up in the crystal ball, we take a look back at last year’s predictions. The 8-Ball hit some big marks, like predicting Nvidia’s rise, but it also missed a few. Along the way, Mindy shares her early (and hilarious) experience with Berkshire Hathaway, sparking a fun conversation about investing wisdom. And of course, Len brings his signature humor, diving into everything from crypto to drones to the wild world of Taylor Swift fandom. If you’re in the mood for financial insights, pop culture predictions, and a whole lot of fun, this episode is for you. Whether the Magic 8-Ball is on the money or way off the mark, you won’t want to miss our 2025 forecast. Grab your popcorn, sit back, and join us for an episode packed with surprises! FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/magic-8-ball-2024-recap-2025-predictions-1632 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

Can you save too much? Spoiler alert: absolutely. On today’s episode, Joe, OG, and Neighbor Doug tackle a financial pitfall many Stackers don’t think about—oversaving. Yes, socking away cash for the future is important, but at what cost? People often work extra hours, miss family dinners, skip vacations, and end up with regret instead of memories. The real tragedy? You can’t deposit lost time back into your bank account. We’ll share stories of people who saved so much they missed out on the life they were saving for, and we’ll dive into strategies to strike a better balance. From stress-testing your financial plan to understanding your personal inflation rate, we’ve got the tools to help you live for today and plan for tomorrow. And of course, we’ve got Doug’s trivia, a TikTok minute that might make you laugh out loud, and plenty of basement banter to keep things light. What’s Inside This Episode Opening: Joe, OG, and Doug kick things off with a mix of jokes, announcements, and OG’s latest attempt to seem cooler than he is. The Real Cost of Oversaving: Stories of people who worked too hard, saved too much, and missed the moments that really mattered. How to Avoid Regret: Strategies to prioritize both your financial goals and your quality of life. Taking Breaks to Save Your Sanity: Burnout isn’t just bad for your mental health—it’s bad for your wallet too. The TikTok Minute: Doug’s take on energy conservation (or as he calls it, “saving money with style”). Trivia Time: Doug’s question of the day—proof that you never stop learning in the basement. Listener Question: How do you plan for retirement when inflation keeps messing with the math? Joe and OG break it down. Stress-Testing Your Financial Plan: Find the cracks now, so your future self doesn’t have to. Amazon Purchases vs. Amazon Stock: A fun exercise that might make you rethink those impulse buys—or laugh at them, at least. Wrapping Up: Final thoughts, laughs, and a classic basement sendoff. Don’t Miss Why the “save everything” mentality can lead to serious regret—and how to avoid it. A hilarious dinner story involving Joe’s nephews and a lesson in why you never leave Doug in charge of the menu. A nod to Hell or High Water—because what’s a day in the basement without a classic callback? Join the Fun Ever feel like you’re missing out because you’re too focused on saving? Share your story with us, and let’s talk about finding that perfect balance. And don’t forget to tune in on Friday for more laughs, lessons, and, of course, Doug’s dubious wisdom. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/are-you-saving-too-much-for-retirement-1631 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 like life’s demands have you tied up in knots while your financial future seems like a moving target? Time to take charge! Today in the basement, Anthony O'Neill pulls up a chair and shows you how to claim the head seat at your own table. He breaks down the power of having a personal vision, making intentional decisions that align with your goals, and being a stellar steward of your time and opportunities. But that’s not all—we’re looking ahead with some of the biggest names in tech. What do Bill Gates, Sam Altman, and other visionaries think 2025 will bring? (Spoiler alert: AI isn’t just for sci-fi anymore.) We’ll chat about how these changes will impact your work life and share some practical steps to stay ahead. And because life isn’t just about finances, the crew wraps things up with their latest binge-worthy TV and movie picks. It’s time to stack your entertainment queue as high as your Benjamins. What’s Inside This Episode 🎙️ Texarkana Vibes: A chilly morning, winter woes, and Doug’s favorite Mickey Mouse mug. 🌟 Anthony O’Neill’s Vision: Practical tips to align your financial and personal goals. 🛠️ Stewardship 101: Why managing your opportunities well is a game-changer. 🤖 2025 Tech Predictions: How AI might reshape your work life and what to do now to stay ahead. 🎥 Entertainment Corner: The gang’s TV and movie picks to keep you entertained. Episode Highlights Winter kicks off with Texarkana shivers, travel plans, and Doug waxing poetic about his mug collection. Anthony O’Neill’s advice: Learn how to take control of your life by building a clear personal vision and aligning your goals with your actions. The importance of stewardship: Make the most of your opportunities and turn them into stepping stones for success. A tech-driven future: Bill Gates, Sam Altman, and other leaders weigh in on AI’s role in shaping the workplace of 2025. Fear and finances: How fear might be holding you back and ways to overcome it. Basement banter: A round-up of the crew’s current TV and movie obsessions. Want More? Anthony O'Neill shares details about his exciting new project, Take Your Seat at the Table, plus some special offers just for you. And of course, Doug treats us to one of his legendary historical anecdotes (did he mention he’s a trivia champ?). Stack Your Listening Queue This episode is packed tighter than Mom’s basement freezer. Whether you're looking for financial wisdom, tech trends, or just some good laughs with the crew, we’ve got you covered. Pull up a chair—there’s always room at the table in the basement. The link to Anthony's book: https://stackingbenjamins.com/takecontrol FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/define-your-purpose-in-life-anthony-oneal-1630 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 a little queasy about your financial plans for 2025? Fear not! Today, Joe steps out of the cozy basement and straight into the bustling chaos of Manhattan to bring you top-tier advice from some of the brightest financial minds. Joined by Paula Pant from Afford Anything, Nick Magiulli, author of the Of Dollars and Data blog, and Doc G from the Earn & Invest Podcast, this powerhouse panel digs into the money missteps you’ll want to dodge in the year ahead. From tackling FOMO in investments to learning why small, consistent changes are your financial BFFs, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you make 2025 a year of smart money moves (and fewer facepalms). What’s Inside: Meet our stellar guests and hear how New York City inspired their financial insights. Discover why chasing the next big investment trend could leave you behind. Learn how an investment policy statement can keep your goals on track. Avoid analysis paralysis when market uncertainty strikes. Uncover strategies to navigate political uncertainty without losing sleep (or cash). Dive into real estate trends, historical data, and staying focused on what you can control. Understand the power of spending on what truly matters to you. Find out why gradual changes beat impulsive overhauls every time. Learn how doubling down on bad decisions is like hitting a pothole and accelerating instead of swerving. Episode Highlights: Meet the Guests: Get to know Paula Pant, Nick Magiulli, and Doc G as they join Joe in the Big Apple for some big-time financial lessons. NYC Moments: Joe shares a peek into his adventures in Manhattan—yes, it’s a jungle out there. Investment FOMO: Why chasing trends could cost you (and how to avoid it). Building an Investment Policy Statement: Your GPS for financial decision-making. Analysis Paralysis: How to keep market fears from freezing your progress. Navigating Political Uncertainty: Keep your portfolio calm, even when headlines aren’t. Spending Smarter: Align your money with what you value most. Gradual Wins: Why slow and steady wins the financial race every time. Bad Decisions: How to recognize when you’re doubling down and when to hit the brakes. 🎧 Ready to make 2025 your best financial year yet? Tune in now to stack smarter, avoid the pitfalls, and get inspired to crush your goals! FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/stacker-money-mistakes-nyc-1629 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

Does finding purpose in life feel overwhelming? What if you didn’t need a “grand” purpose to find meaning? Today, Dr. Jordan Grumet (AKA Doc G) joins us to explore the concept of “little P” purpose—those smaller, everyday moments that bring joy and fulfillment. From Julia Child’s journey to surprising stories of purpose in unexpected places, this episode will inspire you to find meaning right where you are. Here’s what we cover: Little P Purpose: How focusing on smaller, intentional acts can enrich your life. Purpose vs. Meaning: The difference, why it matters, and how it impacts your happiness. Doc G’s Journey: His personal insights on combating purpose anxiety and finding fulfillment. Julia Child and Beyond: Inspiring stories of people who embraced purpose at any stage of life. In headlines, we dive into 2025’s new tax brackets and savings limits—because a purposeful life is even better with a solid financial foundation. And don’t miss Doug’s trivia and some hilarious (and heartwarming) gift stories to round out the episode. Tune in for an uplifting mix of inspiration, financial insights, and a few surprises along the way! FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com 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