In this episode of Canadian Investing in the US, Glen Sutherland interviews Russ Morgan, founder of Wealth Without Wall Street, who shares his journey from financial advisor to advocating for financial independence through passive income. After the 2008 financial crisis exposed flaws in traditional investing advice, Russ shifted his focus to helping individuals take control of their financial future. He emphasizes that true financial freedom comes from building passive income that exceeds monthly expenses, rather than relying on traditional markets or advisors who may not actively manage individual portfolios. The conversation centers on the importance of understanding your “investor DNA” — aligning investment strategies with your personality, strengths, and preferences. Russ explains that many people fail to invest because of fear, confusion, or lack of clarity, and encourages listeners to simplify their approach by identifying their goals, access to capital, and preferred level of involvement. He introduces practical frameworks, such as measuring progress toward financial freedom and leveraging resources like time, relationships, or expertise to get started. Ultimately, he stresses that success comes from taking action, building systems, and consistently evaluating opportunities that align with your personal investment style.