Inspired Money

Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen Ready to transform your relationship with money in 2026? "Master Your Money Mindset: Secrets to Financial Freedom" brings together a powerhouse panel from the fields of behavioral finance, financial therapy, and real-world investing. If you've ever felt that your money decisions are driven by emotion—fear, greed, or old family beliefs—this episode peels back the curtain on what's really happening behind the scenes. Whether you're a finance professional, an investor, or simply striving for personal financial stability, this episode provides you with practical systems and fresh insights that can help you sidestep costly mistakes and build lifelong wealth with confidence. The episode dives deep into the psychology of money, equipping you with actionable frameworks you can use today. Meet the Expert Panelists Brian Portnoy, Ph.D., CFA, is the founder of Shaping Wealth, a leading learning platform focused on the psychology of money and human-first financial guidance. A former hedge fund and mutual fund investor, he is the author of several bestselling books, including The Geometry of Wealth, that explore how to build a life of meaning, not just wealth. https://www.shapingwealth.com Saundra Davis MSFP, APFC®, FBS® is a US Navy veteran, financial coach, educator, and consultant, nationally recognized for her expertise in financial coaching, financial therapy, and addressing the racial wealth gap. She is the founder of Sage Financial Solutions (a training organization) and serves as the Director of Financial Planning Programs at Golden Gate University, where she develops and facilitates financial capability programs and coaching certifications to promote equitable access to high-quality financial guidance for all. https://www.sagefinancialsolutions.org Henrik Cronqvist is a leading behavioral finance scholar trained under Nobel Laureate Richard H. Thaler at the University of Chicago, whose research on how psychology shapes financial decision-making has been published in top journals including the American Economic Review, Journal of Political Economy, and Journal of Finance. A former dean and vice dean, he now advises FinTech and EdTech ventures and is building the world's first Behavioral Finance AI Lab, bridging behavioral science, technology, and real-world impact. He is a Professor of Finance at Chapman University in Southern California. https://sites.google.com/site/henrikcronqvist Dr. Kristy Archuleta is a professor in the Financial Planning program at the University of Georgia, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and a Certified Financial Therapist™, specializing in the intersection of money, relationships, and well-being. A co-founder of the Financial Therapy Association and editor of leading academic journals, she is an award-winning researcher and co-author of Psychology in Practice: Financial Planning Essentials, bringing cutting-edge financial therapy insights to practitioners and the public alike. https://www.fcs.uga.edu Key Highlights 1. Self-Awareness is the Foundation of Financial Success Saundra Davis emphasizes that building systems and practicing self-compassion is more effective than relying on willpower alone. She notes, "We will not abuse ourselves into better financial behaviors," urging listeners to develop routines that regulate emotional triggers and cultivate deep compassion for themselves. 2. Automation Beats Emotion-Driven Decisions As Brian Portnoy points out, "Sometimes the best way to make a decision is to not make it at all." Delegating key financial decisions to automated systems—like retirement savings—removes guesswork and helps investors outsmart the biases that so often lead to costly mistakes. 3. Money Beliefs Are Shaped by Family and Community Systems Kristy Archuleta discusses how early experiences and family dynamics unconsciously drive our financial decisions. Becoming aware of these scripts—and compassionately rewriting them—empowers us to change lifelong patterns. 4. Technology Is a Double-Edged Sword for Modern Investors Henrik Cronqvist warns that while automation and account structure can help, technology also amplifies action bias and the temptation to gamble. "It's probably the most difficult time to stay rational," he observes, stressing the need for systems that shield us from emotional and herd-driven behaviors. Call-to-Action One thing to do this week. Think about one financial decision on your mind right now, big or small. Take two minutes and write down what emotion is attached to it, what story you're telling yourself about that decision, and one rule or pause you could add so future you doesn't have to rely on gut instinct alone. That short reflection can completely change how you make decisions going forward. Find the Inspired Money channel on YouTube or listen to Inspired Money in your favorite podcast player. Andy Wang, Host/Producer of Inspired Money

Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen Retirement is no longer just about stepping away from work. It's an opportunity to redefine purpose, rediscover joy, and design a life aligned with your values. In this episode of Inspired Money, three thought leaders unpack what it means to retire mindfully, covering everything from emotional health, financial habits, to building a portfolio of passions and community ties. Whether you're planning your next chapter, already retired, or simply rethinking your approach to money and fulfillment, this conversation will help you set a new course. Meet the Expert Panelists Vicki Robin is a renowned social innovator, author, and speaker best known for co-authoring the groundbreaking personal finance classic, Your Money or Your Life, which has inspired readers worldwide to rethink their relationship with money and pursue financial independence. An advocate for sustainability and localism, she also authored Blessing the Hands That Feed Us and hosts the podcast series What Could Possibly Go Right?, where she explores emerging solutions for societal challenges. https://vickirobin.com Jordan Grumet, MD, is a hospice doctor, author, and host of the Earn & Invest podcast, blending his expertise in medicine and finance to explore financial independence, wealth building, and living meaningfully. With a deep understanding of both personal finance and end-of-life care, he empowers others to make intentional, regret-free financial decisions. https://www.earnandinvest.com Ellen Langer is a pioneering Harvard psychologist known as the "mother of mindfulness," whose 40+ years of research revolutionized understanding of how mindful awareness (without meditation) shapes health, aging, decision-making, and human potential. She is the author of 13 books, including the bestseller Mindfulness and The Mindful Body, and her award-winning work has earned her Guggenheim, Staats, and Liberty Science Genius honors. https://www.ellenlanger.me Key Highlights Challenging Retirement Stereotypes Jordan Grumet reframes retirement from a period of slowing down to a time of "unlimited choice." He notes, "Instead of working for other people, you get to work for yourself—making decisions about what fills you up, excites you, and connects you to others." The episode explores how retirees can pivot from old assumptions and design lives abundant in purpose and connection. Mindfulness as a Tool for Fulfillment Ellen Langer's research shows that simply noticing new things—being actively present—invigorates both mind and body. "Mindfulness is the very simple process of active noticing," she says, and this practice can turn routine experiences into sources of joy, health, and new passions later in life. Community & Belonging Over Consumption Vicki Robin emphasizes the importance of context and connection: "The activity of creating community is so often approached from a consumer perspective—'I want community'—not the hard work of micro actions that let people know you care." The episode shows that real fulfillment comes from cultivating relationships and community, not just individual pursuits. Emotional Health & Financial Freedom The panelists agree: regrets at life's end aren't about money, they're about missed connections and opportunities for self-fulfillment. Jordan Grumet shares, "Our regrets are that we didn't become a better version of ourselves, and money's only loosely tied to that." The episode offers practical strategies to spend purposefully and let go of financial scarcity to live more fully. Call-to-Action Here's one thing to do this week: Create your own "Portfolio of Passions." Take five minutes and write down three activities that give you energy, three that bring you connection, and three that spark curiosity. Put that list somewhere you'll see it. Then commit to trying just one of those things in the next seven days. Find the Inspired Money channel on YouTube or listen to Inspired Money in your favorite podcast player. Andy Wang, Host/Producer of Inspired Money

Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen Are swirling headlines and sharp market moves making you uneasy about your portfolio? This Inspired Money episode delivers expert insights and actionable strategies for investing in volatile, uncertain markets. Four seasoned investors and strategists share how they interpret risk, deploy defensive tactics, and uncover opportunities where others see chaos. Whether you're a new or experienced investor, this discussion provides clarity, tools, and confidence–especially when markets get stormy. Meet the Expert Panelists Katie Stockton, CMT is the Founder and Managing Partner of Fairlead Strategies and a widely respected technical analyst known for her disciplined, signal-driven approach to market trends. A frequent CNBC contributor and portfolio manager of the Fairlead Tactical Sector ETF (TACK), she brings more than two decades of Wall Street experience advising institutional investors. https://www.fairleadfunds.com Mike Taylor is the Lead Portfolio Manager of the Simplify Health Care ETF (PINK), the first 100% pro bono ETF with all net profits benefiting the Susan G. Komen Foundation. With over two decades of experience managing long/short healthcare equity portfolios at firms like Citadel, Millennium, and Diamondback Capital, Mike is widely recognized for running one of Wall Street's top-performing healthcare hedge funds. https://simplify.us Seth Cogswell is the Managing Partner and Founder of Running Oak Capital, where he co-manages the Efficient Growth strategy using a disciplined, quality-focused investment approach. With experience spanning portfolio management, multi-strategy trading, and an MBA from The Wharton School, he brings a data-driven perspective to navigating market uncertainty. https://www.runningoaketfs.com Gary Brode, Managing Partner at Deep Knowledge Investing, brings over 30 years of securities industry experience to delivering independent, actionable stock ideas and market research for sophisticated investors. His career includes roles at Morgan Stanley, Seneca Capital, Brahman Capital, and John Levin & Co., as well as founding Akita Capital Management and Silver Arrow, reflecting a long track record of successful investing and leadership. https://deepknowledgeinvesting.com Key Highlights: 1. Making Volatility Work for You Katie Stockton shares that "cycles in market sentiment" mean volatility isn't just chaos—it's actionable data. Her use of tools like the VIX and sector rotation models helps investors sidestep emotional reactions and reposition for opportunity, not fear. 2. Defending Your Portfolio with Purpose Mike Taylor discusses how, for the first time in his career, gold has become one of his largest positions. Driven by macro risks like global overspending, he urges investors: "Gold is going to be a hedge for inflation and deflation. It will end up working both ways." 3. The Importance of Quality and Downside Protection Seth Cogswell emphasizes that real risk is not volatility, but permanent loss of capital. His rules-based strategy focuses on high-quality, low-debt companies: "Nothing destroys exponential growth like big drawdowns. Avoiding major losses is our #1 focus." 4. Fundamental Discipline and Hedging for the Future Gary Brode underlines the importance of sticking to your thesis and balancing optimism with protection. He avoids government bonds, preferring assets like Bitcoin and gold: "I want to own hard things that are difficult to replicate...and protect against emerging inflation risks." Call-to-Action Here's one thing to do this week: write down one rule you will follow the next time the market pulls back. It could be an allocation target, a rebalancing trigger, or even a simple statement like, 'I won't sell on fear.' Put it on paper. Your future self will thank you the next time emotions start running high. Find the Inspired Money channel on YouTube or listen to Inspired Money in your favorite podcast player. Andy Wang, Host/Producer of Inspired Money

Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen Life's big transitions—marriage, career shifts, supporting family, divorce, or reinventing life purpose—inevitably test both our emotions and our finances. This episode of Inspired Money explores practical strategies and real-world wisdom for navigating these pivotal moments. Whether you're planning for an uncertain future or actively rebuilding after change, this conversation with a panel of renowned experts offers actionable advice, hard-won insights, and plenty of encouragement. Don't miss this masterclass on making smarter money moves through any transition. Meet the Expert Panelists Dr. Preston D. Cherry is a financial psychologist, CFP®, and author of Wealth in the Key of Life, known for helping individuals align their money with their values through his Life Money Balance® philosophy. As Founder of Concurrent Financial Planning and Director of the Financial Planning Program at UW–Green Bay, he blends financial expertise with emotional insight to guide people confidently through major life and wealth transitions. https://www.concurrentfp.com Mariko Gordon, CFA, CFP® is the CEO of Uzume LLC, where she provides financial planning and consulting services to individuals and families. She previously founded and built Daruma Capital Management into a $2.5 billion firm with a distinctive, non-traditional approach to investing. With over 30 years of experience as a small-cap stock picker, she now helps clients navigate personal finance, entrepreneurship, and life transitions, drawing from her deep expertise in business, investing, and her multicultural heritage. https://marikogordon.com https://www.uzumellc.com Jackie Cummings Koski is a CFP® professional, Accredited Financial Counselor, and award-winning financial educator who achieved F.I.R.E. in her 40s after overcoming poverty, divorce, and single motherhood. She is the author of F.I.R.E. for Dummies and co-host of the "Catching Up to FI" podcast, using her expertise to help people build financial literacy and pursue financial independence at any life stage. https://www.finomenalwoman.com Jacqueline "JaQ" Campbell is Founder and CEO of Alexander Legacy Private Wealth, where she leverages decades of experience—rising from a high school intern at Comerica's Private Bank to leading a $1.8 billion investment team at Chase Wealth Management—to guide clients and mentor the next generation of advisors. Passionate about community impact, diversity, and inclusion, she serves on multiple boards while embodying her philosophy as a mother, innovator, and philanthropist. https://www.alprivatewealth.com This episode is sponsored by Seeking Alpha — get their best Black Friday deal of the year now through December 10, 2025. Visit www.inspiredmoney.fm/alpha for the best discounts of the year. Key Highlights 1. Communication & Transparency are Essential in Relationships Preston D. Cherry and Jackie Cummings Koski stress that honest, ongoing conversations about money, before and during life transitions, are non-negotiable. Building shared financial goals, scheduling regular money meetings, and understanding differences in financial background ("money genealogy") help partners maintain unity and autonomy. "If you agree that the household is the mission, you can better understand each other's paths," emphasizes Preston D. Cherry. 2. Preparing for a Career Pivot Means More Than the Numbers Mariko Gordon explains that major changes like launching a business demand both runway and emotional readiness. She highlights the importance of clarity around your cash flow, having a contingency plan, and not feeling like a failure if you need to pause or pivot, "sometimes you don't have to commit financial scorched earth devastation." Jacqueline "JaQ" Campbell adds that curating a personal board of directors and mentors is just as critical as financial systems. 3. Multi-Generational Support Requires Boundaries and Education For those "sandwiched" between supporting children and aging parents, Jacqueline "JaQ" Campbell and Jackie Cummings Koski agree that prioritizing your own retirement and empowering others through financial literacy are keys to sustainable support. Rather than being an ATM, strive to be your parents' and children's CFO: educate, plan, and let loved ones learn through their own financial decisions. 4. Navigating Solo Transitions: Give Yourself Grace Loss and divorce are as much emotional events as financial ones. Jackie Cummings Koski and Jacqueline "JaQ" Campbell underline the necessity of seeking support, taking time to process grief, and acting strategically, updating financial documents, gathering your advisory team, and setting new goals. Preston D. Cherry shares, "Allow yourself the space to heal… you don't need permission to take it for yourself." Call-to-Action Pick one transition, current or upcoming, and write down the single next financial action that would bring you more stability. This week, take that first step, whether it's organizing documents, reviewing beneficiaries, or scheduling a money conversation. Progress starts with one action! Find the Inspired Money channel on YouTube or listen to Inspired Money in your favorite podcast player. Andy Wang, Host/Producer of Inspired Money

Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen Are you intrigued by the intersection of passion and profit in wine collecting? This Inspired Money episode, hosted by Andy Wang, brings together top minds from wine auctions, investment platforms, and market experts for an eye-opening look at how wine has become a bona fide asset class. Whether you're a seasoned collector, investor, or simply wine-curious, this discussion unpacks strategies to maximize both enjoyment and value. Episodes like this are packed with insights that demystify the fine wine market, reveal what really drives price appreciation, and share hard-earned advice on avoiding costly mistakes. Meet the Expert Panelists Nick Pegna is the Global Head of Wine & Spirits at Sotheby's, bringing over 30 years of international experience in building and leading fine wine businesses across Europe and Asia. Formerly a senior executive at Berry Bros. & Rudd, where he helped shape global markets and co-led Hong Kong's successful campaign to abolish wine duties, Pegna now oversees Sotheby's record-setting global auction and retail operations. https://www.sothebys.com Callum Woodcock is the Founder and CEO of WineFi, a London-based investment platform that combines institutional-grade analytics with expert curation to make fine wine investing more transparent and accessible. A former J.P. Morgan asset manager with degrees from the University of Bristol and the University of Cambridge, he's leading WineFi's mission to position fine wine as a data-driven, tax-efficient, and inflation-resilient asset class. https://www.winefi.co Amanda McCrossin is a sommelier, media personality, and creator of @sommvivant, where her wine-focused content reaches over 450,000 followers across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Formerly the Wine Director at PRESS Restaurant in Napa Valley—the world's largest collection of Napa Valley wines—she's now a leading voice in wine education and storytelling, hosting the Wine Access Unfiltered podcast and appearing regularly at major global wine events. https://www.amandamccrossin.com https://www.sommvivant.me Robbie Stevens is the Head of Broking at Live-ex, the global exchange for fine wine, market data, and insight. On a daily basis he deals with the largest fine wine buyers and sellers globally, offering them data-driven intelligence and opportunities to trade. With over a decade at Liv-ex and experience across global wine markets, as well as regularly sharing his experience on the international stage, speaking at conferences such as Vinexpo and the National Association of Wine Retailers, he combines deep knowledge of the fine wine market with strong industry perspective. https://www.liv-ex.com Unfortunately, Dustin Wilson wasn't able to join this episode, but you can catch him in "The Art of Wine Pairing: Elevating Retirement Gastronomy with Fine Wines" from April 2025. Dustin Wilson is a Master Sommelier, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Verve Wine, a modern retail and hospitality brand with locations in New York, San Francisco, and Chicago. Known for his role in the SOMM film series, Wilson has also launched Après Cru, a firm supporting the growth of visionary restaurant concepts. https://ny.vervewine.com Key Highlights 1. Disciplined Bidding at Auctions Nick Pegna reveals why preparation and strategy, including setting a maximum bid and understanding total costs, safeguard buyers against emotional overspending: "The most careful and frequent buyers at auction have a strategy. They've planned what they're looking to bid on...across multiple auctions." 2. Secondary Market Liquidity Drives Investment Value Callum Woodcock emphasizes the importance of focusing on wines with proven resale liquidity, not just brand prestige or critics' scores. Data-driven models and decades of market transaction history are now key to "blue chip" wine selection. 3. Storytelling Fuels Scarcity and Demand Amanda McCrossin illustrates how narrative and personal connection make certain bottles iconic and drive up their market value, citing Napa's Screaming Eagle as a prime example. "Scarcity is really only informed by storytelling...what has made Napa Valley so successful is the storytelling element." 4. Transparency and Technology Are Raising the Bar Robbie Stevens shares Liv-ex's role in fostering trust: from vetting merchants, digitizing provenance, to benchmarking prices. The expansion of data access and seller management tools allows collectors to track market movements and optimize timing for liquidation. Call-to-Action Take a look at one item in your own collection, wine, art, or even another collectible, and think about it like an investor. What makes it valuable? How would you verify its authenticity, track its performance, and decide the right time to sell? Just doing that exercise will give you a new lens for appreciating your investments, and maybe even inspire your next move. Find the Inspired Money channel on YouTube or listen to Inspired Money in your favorite podcast player. Andy Wang, Host/Producer of Inspired Money