Modern Financial Wellness

Homeownership Myths and Truths: The Real Cost, Benefits, and Emotional Drivers

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0500

Hi everyone, Jim Grace here, host of Modern Financial Wellness. In today’s episode, I sit down with a familiar voice for long-time listeners John Donlon of Gold Coast Mortgage in Beverly, Massachusetts. If you’ve been thinking about buying your first home, debating whether to keep renting, or just curious about how today’s housing market is evolving, this episode is packed with practical wisdom.

The big question we're exploring today is one that’s increasingly top-of-mind for many: Is homeownership still attainable and affordable, or is it drifting out of reach? The idea of owning a home has long been central to the American Dream, but with rising prices and higher interest rates, people are rethinking what’s possible. We dig into how market dynamics including the role of private equity are impacting both buying and renting, the personal decision-making process around homeownership, and strategies for making the financial side of buying work.

5 Key Takeaways

Homeownership Has Always Been Scary But the Challenges Aren’t Entirely New: The financial commitment of a mortgage is daunting and relentless, but history shows that previous generations faced similar pressures, even if the numbers were smaller. The “scariness” isn’t new it’s just that the specifics have changed.
Private Equity Is Changing the Housing Game: Companies like BlackRock and other investment groups have become major players in the rental market, driving up rents and introducing sophisticated pricing algorithms. As a result, both renting and buying are becoming more competitive and expensive.
The Aha Moment Matters More Than the Math: Most people move from renting to owning not just because of financial logic, but due to a psychological or lifestyle “aha” moment. Whether it’s wanting more space, escaping a noisy neighbor, or seeking a better environment for a family, the emotional reasons often outweigh the pure financial calculations.
Don’t Anchor Your Decision Solely to Interest Rates: Waiting for rates to drop or home prices to cool isn’t a foolproof strategy. Both John and I emphasize that timing the market is impossible and even the experts get it wrong. If you’re ready for homeownership for the right reasons, focus on affordability—not speculation.
Affordability Is Personal—and Requires Planning and Sacrifice: What a bank says you can afford and what feels comfortable may differ. Homeownership typically requires sacrifices, whether it’s a tighter budget in the early years or asking loved ones for help with a down payment. Locking in a fixed mortgage shields you from inflation, and building equity makes your home the cornerstone of financial net worth for many.

Homeownership is a journey, not a transaction. It’s about making the right decision for you, at the right time, for the right reasons—and accepting that it will never be perfect. There’s value in getting on the “homeownership train” when your personal clock says it’s time, not just when market conditions might look ideal.

If you want to dig deeper, check out Gold Coast’s Tenants Lounge for more nerdy details on the rent-to-own journey, and be sure to listen to our previous episodes, especially if you want to explore the emotional side of buying a home.

Thanks for joining us for another episode of Modern Financial Wellness. Don’t forget to subscribe to the newsletter at modernfinancialwellness.com, and stay tuned for more insights on making your money work for you!

The Power of Financial Therapy: Understanding Your Relationship with Money with Ashley Quamme

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0500

Hey everyone, it’s Jim Grace, your host, and I’m excited to welcome you back to the Modern Financial Wellness podcast. In today’s episode, we’re doing something a little different—instead of our usual deep dive into a specific financial topic or professional’s life story, we’re making a big announcement: Modern Financial Wellness is officially not just a podcast anymore, but now a flat-fee financial planning firm! It’s a milestone for both me personally and for all of you who want approachable, comprehensive, and emotionally intelligent financial guidance.

Joining me is my friend and longtime collaborator, Ashley Quamme. If you’ve listened to past episodes, you may have heard me introduce Ashley as a financial therapist. Today, I’m thrilled to share that Ashley is stepping into the role of our outsourced Chief Behavioral Officer—an integral new resource in our practice, bringing decades of experience in marriage and family therapy and helping connect emotional and behavioral insights with financial planning.

We started with the exciting news about the firm and transitioned into Ashley’s journey from practicing marriage and family therapy to focusing primarily on financial therapy—an emerging field that's still relatively unknown but critically important. Ashley broke down what financial therapy actually is, how it differs from traditional mental health therapy, and what it means to have a behavioral specialist on your financial team. We also got practical, talking through how couples (including both Ashley and myself) do annual planning “life meetings,” reflecting not just on finances but overall values, family stages, and priorities. We closed out with a discussion about how to approach New Year’s resolutions, or better yet, use temporal landmarks (like the start of the year, birthdays, or school semesters) to set meaningful, realistic goals and intentions for the year ahead.

5 Key Takeaways from This Conversation:

Financial Therapy Bridges the Emotional Gap
Most people aren’t aware that financial therapy exists, but it’s all about understanding why you think, feel, and behave around money the way you do. It’s less about “fixing the numbers,” and more about uncovering mindsets, beliefs, and patterns that shape financial decision-making.
Financial Planning Is NOT Financial Therapy
There is a clear line between what we offer as financial planners and what Ashley would do as a clinical therapist. Our work focuses on understanding and coaching financial behaviors, not treating diagnoses or healing past trauma. Sometimes, recognizing when someone would benefit from clinical support is vital—and Ashley helps triage and connect clients to those resources when needed.
Annual "Life Meetings" Make a Difference
Ashley and her husband, as well as my wife and I, both hold yearly planning sessions to look not just at finances, but at vacations, professional goals, time management, and even the developmental stages of our children. Pen-to-paper planning and revisiting these notes is a powerful tool in clarifying priorities and aligning as a couple or family.
Use Temporal Landmarks to Refresh Goals
New Year’s isn’t the only time for a “fresh start.” Consider using other meaningful dates—birthdays, anniversaries, the start of school, even quarterly reviews—to reflect and refocus on what’s important. This “fresh start psychology” is supported by research and can help create momentum.
Behavioral Support Adds Real Value for Everyday People
Most of our clients are busy, successful, and overwhelmed with life. Simply having a thoughtful, solutions-oriented behavioral resource on the financial team reduces stress, helps identify roadblocks, and increases alignment and progress—often in small but significant ways.

We’ll be welcoming Ashley Quamme back regularly for a new segment where we tackle real-life financial scenarios and explore ways to move forward, together. We haven’t settled on a segment name yet (maybe “Let’s Ask Ashley”?), but stay tuned! Thank you for listening, and remember—whether you’re starting fresh with a plan or just trying to do your best through life’s challenges, we’re here to help with both the technical and behavioral sides of money.

Don’t forget to subscribe wherever you’re listening, and if you’d like to learn more, check out ModernFinancialWellness.com. Happy New Year, and we’ll talk to you soon!

—Jim Grace

Creating a Compassionate Framework for Financial Success as a Couple

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to Modern Financial Wellness! In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest pain points for couples everywhere: how to work as a team around money. Managing finances together isn’t just about budgeting and spreadsheets—it’s about trust, fairness, teamwork, and building a life that supports both partners’ dreams. Today’s conversation dives deep into the emotional and practical sides of money and relationships, with plenty of stories and actionable advice for anyone sharing their financial life with someone else.

I’m joined by the dynamic husband-wife team, Douglas Boneparth and Heather Boneparth of Bona Fide Wealth. Douglas, a nationally recognized financial advisor based in New York City, frequently shares his insights in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and CNBC. Heather, after a decade in law and insurance, now directs business and legal affairs at their firm and writes about money, relationships, and modern family life for outlets like CNBC and The Skimm. They’re also the co-authors of the fantastic new book Money Together, which offers couples a compassionate roadmap for building solid financial foundations as a team.

Episode Overview: In this episode, we talk about:

Why so many couples have the wrong money conversations—and what to focus on instead
The roles of fairness, trust, and teamwork in a healthy financial partnership
Power dynamics, especially when one partner is more financially savvy or earns more
Real stories from Douglas Boneparth and Heather Boneparth's marriage and experience working with couples (including some of my own as a financial planner!)
Compromise, contribution, and redefining roles as careers and family life evolve
Why time is just as valuable as money—and should be part of the financial conversation
How to start better money conversations with your partner, with helpful questions to guide the way

5 Key Takeaways:

Healthy Money Conversations Start With Self-Awareness and Empathy.
Heather and Douglas emphasize that it's crucial to understand your own background and beliefs about money before you can communicate effectively with your partner. Knowing each other’s stories—the “why” behind the numbers—builds empathy and prevents misunderstandings.
Power Dynamics and Confidence Matter.
Often, one partner feels less confident handling finances, especially when the other is a financial expert or higher earner. Heather shares how easy it is for the less-involved partner to lose confidence and why each person still needs ownership and awareness of the family’s finances, regardless of who does the technical work.
Contributions Aren’t Just About Income.
Douglas admits falling into the trap of measuring his household contribution by money earned, but both learned—and model for clients—that taking on the invisible load (managing schedules, carpool, emotional labor, etc.) is equally valuable. Healthy partnerships recognize time and effort as key currencies.
Your Money System Must Evolve With Your Life.
What worked for you as a couple at one stage may not work later. Heather shares her story of shifting from a stable corporate job to joining the family firm and how openly renegotiating roles and responsibilities can save a relationship from resentment as circumstances change.
Regular, Compassionate Conversations Are a Game-Changer.
The value of Money Together is in the questions it prompts, not a one-size-fits-all solution. Start small: discuss values, dreams, and contributions. The book’s questions at the end of each chapter provide a jumping-off point for honest discussions, opening the door to greater fairness, trust, and progress together.

Resources & Where to Find More:

Pick up a copy of Money Together—print, digital, or Audible!
Subscribe to their newsletter at thejointaccount.com
Learn more about their advisory work at bonafidewealth.com
Follow
Heather Boneparth
on social media @AverageJoelle

Thanks again for joining us—if today’s episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend. Here’s to more open, compassionate money conversations with your partner!

The Human Side of Retirement and How to Truly Thrive in Your Next Chapter with Dan Haylett

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Hey everyone, welcome back to Modern Financial Wellness! I’m Jim Grace, your host, and I’m excited for this week’s episode, where we’re diving deep into the human side of retirement. Retirement is a huge milestone, but as many are beginning to realize, it’s about so much more than just making the numbers work. Today, we’ll unpack the emotional, psychological, and deeply personal challenges—and opportunities—that this major transition brings.

My guest this episode is Dan Haylett, retirement coach, financial planner, keynote speaker, creator of the “Humans vs Retirement” platform, and now an author! Dan’s work stands out for exploring not just the math behind retirement, but the untold human journey at its core. His new book, The Retirement You Didn’t See Coming: A Guide to the Human Side of Retirement Nobody Warns You About, inspired this conversation—and I can’t recommend it enough.

In our discussion, Dan shares what inspired him to write his book, why the traditional “retirement is the goal” narrative misses the point, and how true fulfillment comes from addressing five essential pillars beyond the financial. We debunk common retirement myths, highlight the complexity of the emotional transition, and talk practical strategies so you (or your loved ones) can truly thrive in this next chapter—not just survive.

5 Key Takeaways

Retirement is a Human Issue, Not Just a Math Problem
Numbers and financial security are important, but they don’t guarantee happiness, safety, or meaning in retirement. Most real challenges—and opportunities—are personal, emotional, and deeply human.
The Big Myths Need Busting
Most of us carry ingrained narratives that “retirement is the goal” or that “the numbers will make us feel safe.” In reality, many arrive with enough money but feel lost, anxious, or directionless.
Expect an Emotional Rollercoaster
Retirement is not a straight line. There’s a reinvention curve, including excitement, shock, doubt, and ultimately, flourishing—if you’re open to doing the human work. Everyone will experience ups and downs, and that’s normal.
The Five Pillars to Thriving: Purpose, Identity, Relationships, Structure, Well-being
Don’t wait until you retire to think about these. Start now! Reflect, do the exercises, talk with loved ones, and intentionally reinvent these pillars to create a meaningful and joyful life.
Retirement is a Team Sport—Communication Matters
Especially for couples, talk early and openly about your individual and shared visions for this chapter. Expectations, purpose, timelines, and how you’ll spend your days may differ—address these before you leap.

If you want to move beyond the spreadsheets and bulletproof your sense of meaning in retirement, I highly recommend Dan Haylett’s new book, The Retirement You Didn’t See Coming. It’s practical, readable, and packed with exercises to help you design the life you want.

Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe and check out Dan’s book, podcast, and newsletter—the links are in the show description.

Until next time—here’s to your financial and human wellness!

Ending the Year Strong: Practical Advice for Stress-Free Holiday Planning

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to Modern Financial Wellness! In this episode, we dive into a topic that resonates with so many of us—how to navigate the overwhelming demands of the fall season and maintain productivity (and sanity!) as we approach the holidays and the end of the year. If you’ve ever felt a wave of anxiety triggered by the sight of Christmas decorations in October or the reminder that “Q4” is flying by, you’re not alone.

To help us work through these feelings and get practical strategies for this time of year, I was thrilled to welcome back Sarah Reiff-Hekking, founder of True Focus Coaching. Sarah’s expertise in time management, productivity, and coaching for busy professionals is a perfect fit for the “fall freakout” that so many of us experience.

We started the conversation with a real-life example—my own mini-panic at seeing Christmas decorations in a store before Halloween—and explored what triggers this seasonal overwhelm. Sarah broke down the unique pressures of fall, from shifting routines as kids go back to school, to the barrage of holidays and year-end work deadlines, and the added layer of economic and political uncertainty.

Together, we discussed how to bring ourselves back to the present moment, clarify what’s truly important, and create space for both productivity and meaningful connection. We touched on saying “no,” managing competing demands and external expectations, and setting up flexible routines so the holidays don’t just become one giant stress-fest.

Sarah shared actionable strategies—from mindful breathing to practical time blocking—to help listeners stay grounded, focused, and resilient. We wrapped up with advice on tuning out the social media “noise” and focusing on real, personal priorities.

Key Takeaways

Name the “Fall Freakout” and Normalize It
The sense of stress and overwhelm in October and November isn’t just you—it’s a confluence of shifting routines, holiday expectations, and mounting year-end pressure. Acknowledging this helps us respond intentionally rather than reactively.
Return to the Present Moment
When anxiety kicks in, the first step is to physically bring yourself back—to notice your breath, your feet on the ground, and where you are right now. Mindful grounding calms your nervous system and helps you regain focus.
Clarify What’s Meaningful and Important
Get clear on your most meaningful goals, both professionally and personally. If everything feels important, dig deeper and ask yourself: “Why do I care about this?” Prioritize your top 2-3 “big rocks” and let the rest go. Remember, not everything makes your cut.
Be Strategic About What You Say Yes (and No) To
You can’t (and shouldn’t!) do it all. Proactively decide how many commitments you’ll take on each week, leave room for spontaneity if you value it, and practice pausing before you say yes. Planning to delay a task isn’t procrastination if it’s intentional and fits your bigger plan.
Manage Your Environment and External Influences
Social media and retail environments can trigger “shoulds” and inject noisy expectations. Turn down the external pressure and lean into what’s genuinely important for you and your family. Don’t let comparison steal your joy—or your time.

If this episode resonated with you and you’re feeling ready for support, check out Sarah Reiff-Hekking at truefocuscoaching.com and connect with her on LinkedIn. She offers free strategy sessions designed to help you map your next steps and find clarity in your own life—no cost, just real advice.

Thanks for listening to Modern Financial Wellness. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe and share it with friends who might be experiencing their own ‘fall freakout’—let’s get through the holidays with more calm, connection, and clarity!

Financial Secrets in Relationships: Understanding Infidelity and Its Impact on Love and Money

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to Modern Financial Wellness! I’m your host, Jim Grace, and I’m excited to share today’s episode—a deep dive into one of the most complex and sometimes overlooked aspects of couples and money: financial infidelity. If you’ve ever wondered what counts as a financial secret, how keeping money habits under wraps can impact a relationship, or how big the gap is between you and your partner’s approach to hidden spending, you won’t want to miss this episode.

Our guest today is a returning favorite, Dr. Jenny Olson, marketing professor at Indiana University's Kelley School of Business. If you caught our last conversation, you’ll remember her research on the benefits of merging finances and the factors that help couples create financial harmony. This time, she’s back to unpack her latest study, “Financial Infidelity Asymmetry Predicts Couples’ Financial and Relationship Well-Being,” and the results might surprise you.

5 Key Takeaways from the Episode

Financial Infidelity Is More Than Just Hiding Purchases
Dr. Jenny Olson defines financial infidelity as intentionally doing something with money you know your partner wouldn’t approve of, and hiding it. It’s not about every little purchase, but the concealment of actions you expect would cause conflict.
Asymmetry Predicts Relationship Health
The greater the gap between partners’ tendencies toward financial infidelity, the worse off the couple is—leading to less money, lower financial well-being, and decreased relationship satisfaction. Aligning values and habits is more important than just being thrifty.
Differences Aren’t Always Destructive—Unless They’re Secretive
Partners can have very different approaches to money (tightwad vs. spendthrift, saver vs. spender), but when these differences are out in the open, couples can thrive. The problem comes when one or both partners start hiding financial behavior.
Transparency and Planned Conversations Are Crucial
Touch base with your partner regularly about money—don’t just spring it on them when tensions are high. Scheduling money talks and setting clear parameters for what needs to be discussed helps keep communication healthy and nonjudgmental.
Joint Mindset Beats Scorekeeping
Healthy couples focus on “how can we work together?” instead of “who spent more?” Moving away from tit-for-tat or exchange norms toward a communal approach—“we’re on the same team”—makes it easier to address challenges and prevent financial secrets.

Resources Mentioned

Dr.Jenny Olson’s website: http://www.jennyginolson.com/
“Tightwads and Spendthrifts” by Scott Rick
“Money Together” by the Boneparths

Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode or you’re navigating finance in your own relationship, share it with your partner or anyone who might benefit. And remember, nothing you hear on the podcast is a substitute for personal financial advice—always consult your own advisors!

Catch us next time for more on financial wellness, or check out Dr. Jenny Olson’s research for more insights.

Managing Money with ADHD: Executive Function Strategies for Financial Health

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to Modern Financial Wellness, the podcast dedicated to helping you cultivate a healthier, more empowered relationship with your money. I’m Jim Grace, your host, and today’s episode is an essential listen for anyone interested in understanding how our minds – specifically, our executive functioning skills and neurodiverse traits like ADHD – affect our day-to-day financial behaviors and overall financial well-being.

If you’ve ever struggled with procrastination, felt overwhelmed managing your finances, or found it hard to translate long-term goals into short-term action, you’re in the right place. Whether or not you have a formal ADHD diagnosis, today’s discussion is full of insights and practical tips you can apply immediately to your financial life.

5 Key Takeaways

1. Executive Functioning Skills Are Essential for Financial Health Even if you don’t have ADHD, understanding executive functions like organizing, prioritizing, working memory, cognitive flexibility, and goal setting is crucial. These skills help us clarify our financial goals, adapt to challenges, and make thoughtful decisions amidst life's distractions.

2. Procrastination Is Emotional, Not Just Logistical Laurel highlighted that procrastination is often rooted in emotional management rather than pure time management. By pausing to identify what's holding you back emotionally – fear, anxiety, perfectionism – you can better address procrastination in your financial life.

3. The ERAS Framework Provides a Practical Path Forward Laurel introduced the ERAS model (Expectation, Reality, Adjust, Start), which helps you process emotional reactions and create actionable steps. Whether you’re feeling stuck by financial comparisons or overwhelmed by vague goals, working through ERAS builds clarity and momentum.

4. Social Value and Emotional Responses Influence Financial Choices ADHD and executive functioning challenges can make us especially sensitive to social dynamics, like people-pleasing and comparison. Recognizing how social acceptance or rejection influences your financial habits can help you redirect your energy towards more meaningful, self-affirming goals.

5. Start Small, Focus on Behavior, and Build Agency Big changes begin with small steps. Focusing on one concrete behavior at a time – and understanding why it matters to you – lays a foundation for lasting financial wellness. Agency and clarity, not just freedom or abundance, are at the heart of true financial well-being.

Additional Resources

Throughout the show, Laurel and I referenced a host of fantastic resources for further learning, including:

Books:
Seven and a Half Lessons About the Brain by Lisa Feldman Barrett
How Emotions Are Made by Lisa Feldman Barrett
Emotional Agility by Susan David
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Experts:
Tim Pichel (procrastination research)
Mark Brackett (Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence)
Daniel Pink (decision-making and behavior change)
Ethan Kross (Chatter, Shift)

You can find links to all these resources (and more) on modernfinancialwellness.com, both on the episode post and the dedicated resources tab.

Breaking Generational Money Habits: Matt Morizio on Values, Giving, and Financial Clarity

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Welcome to another episode of Modern Financial Wellness! I’m your host, Jim Grace, and I couldn’t be more excited about this conversation. In this episode, I sat down with Matt Morizio, founder of Reconstructing Wealth—a financial advisor with a distinctive focus not just on dollars and cents, but on truly reconstructing our relationships with money.

5 Key Takeaways from This Episode:

Your Relationship with Money Is Inherited—But Not Irrevocable: Matt’s story highlights how our earliest experiences shape how we think, feel, and act around money. But with awareness and intention, we can “break the chains” and start a new narrative for future generations.
Scarcity Versus Abundance Mindset: Growing up with financial fear can drive lifelong habits of hoarding and scarcity. Learning to see money as a tool, rather than an object of fear or idolization, is crucial—and sometimes, that transformation comes from acts of generosity, not just earning more.
Giving Is a Game Changer: Matt’s practice of disciplined, intentional giving—even when finances were tight—was the catalyst that rewired his emotional relationship with money. Through giving, he moved out of fear and into a more abundant, peaceful mindset.
Emotional Intelligence Is as Important as Technical Knowledge in Financial Planning: Clients rarely come to an advisor for “money mindset work.” Yet, guiding clients to reflect on their values, money stories, and priorities often has a bigger impact than any stock pick or tax strategy. Sometimes, permission and empathetic guidance are what people need most.
Live Your Values, Not Just Your Numbers: The best financial plan is one that supports a meaningful life—not just a big bank account. Matt’s approach is about marrying technical planning with what matters most to each individual: family, purpose, generosity, or unique life goals.

Mentioned Resources & How to Connect:

Matt’s Free Video Course: DM Matt on Instagram @mattmorizio for a free link.
Books:
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
Happy Pocket Full of Money by David Cameron Gikandi
Website: reconstructingwealth.com (check out the unique generosity tracker!)
Follow the Podcast: ModernFinancialWellness.com

This episode is perfect for anyone curious about the deep-rooted stories we all carry about money and how to break out of default patterns to live a life of purpose, impact, and freedom.

If you enjoyed this conversation or want to dig deeper, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and check out our growing library of resources. Thank you for listening—and remember, financial wellness is about so much more than the numbers!

Navigating Widowhood: Practical and Emotional Tools for Financial Well-being

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to another episode of Modern Financial Wellness. I’m your host, Jim Grace, and today, we’re exploring an incredibly important, nuanced topic—how grief and loss, particularly widowhood, impact financial well-being. This is a subject that’s both deeply personal and highly relevant to anyone supporting loved ones through life’s most challenging transitions.

Joining me for this powerful conversation is Paula Harris, co-founder of WH Cornerstone Investments. Paula brings a remarkable, holistic approach to financial planning, blending her human resources background, four decades of experience in the industry, and an unwavering commitment to guiding midlife widowed women. Paula describes herself as a “dream architect,” an accomplished cheese maker and yogi, a TEDx speaker, and the author of Rise Up: A Widow’s Journal and Rise Up: Grief Journal. Her practice, deeply rooted in “curveball life planning,” is all about helping clients—especially widows—find financial peace and personal strength after loss.

5 Key Takeaways

Grief is a Transition, Not a Transaction: Widowhood is not a box to check or a list to complete. It radically alters a person’s life, and society’s urge to “move on” too quickly can be hurtful. Recognize that your client, friend, or family member is fundamentally changed and needs time, space, and support.
Meet People Where They Are—Emotionally and Financially: Paula emphasizes the importance of tuning into where someone is on their grief journey, whether they’re overwhelmed and can’t face paperwork, or eager to take action to feel in control. There’s no “right” way to grieve—advisors and supporters need to be flexible and compassionate.
Immediate Financial Needs Come First (“Financial Triage”): In the initial aftermath of loss, focus on what’s urgent—paying for funerals, accessing cash, stopping predatory sales pitches. Delay major financial decisions when possible and give people time before making permanent changes.
Support, Community, and Connection Are Essential: Isolation worsens grief. Paula highlights organizations like Modern Widows Club and Wings for Widows that offer connection and resources. Even simple community events, handwritten notes, or encouragement to join widow support groups can have a profound impact.
Review and Update Financial Documents and Beneficiaries Quickly: Getting estate plans, insurance beneficiaries, and account titles updated is critical after a loss. Outdated or incorrect paperwork can have devastating, irreversible effects. Be proactive and encourage widows (and widowers) to seek trustworthy, fiduciary advice—especially as some financial “professionals” may have hidden agendas.

Resources and Further Reading

WH Cornerstone Investments – Widow’s Resource Page
Modern Widows Club
Wings for Widows (pro bono financial mentorship)
Rise Up: A Widow’s Journal and Rise Up: Grief Journal by Paula Harris
TEDx Talk: “Low Tech Love – The Power of the Handwritten Note” by Paula Harris

Financial well-being, especially after loss, isn’t just about having enough money. It’s about creating the freedom, support, and opportunities to rebuild your life—and knowing you’re not alone on that path. I hope these insights and resources help you support your clients, friends, or loved ones with even more compassion and actionable guidance.

If you found this conversation helpful, please share, subscribe, and check out our full archive at modernfinancialwellness.com—and remember to take care of yourself and those around you.

Until next time,

Jim Grace

Couples and Money: Exploring Breadwinning, Bean Counting, and Shared Financial Stress

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to Modern Financial Wellness! I’m your host, Jim Grace. In today’s episode, I’m joined by a returning favorite: Dr. Christine Hargrove (she/her). If you’ve listened before, you might remember her as Christine Hargrove during our previous conversation on couples, money, and ADHD. I’m thrilled to welcome her back as Dr. Hargrove, and even more excited that, to this day, her previous appearance is our most-downloaded and most-shared episode ever.

Today, we're tapping into her latest research about a topic that comes up in so many of our households, relationships, and financial lives: division of financial responsibilities between partners and the stress it brings. Specifically, we’re discussing her new study, “Breadwinning and Bean Counting: Exploring Perceived Couple Financial Stress Allocation in a Clinical Sample.” If you live with a partner, you’ll want to hear this.

5 Key Takeaways

“Bean Counting” Carries the Heaviest Stress Load. In couples, the partner who manages the day-to-day finances of the “bean counter” typically feels a larger share of the couple’s overall financial stress. Unlike the breadwinner role, which is less associated with this shared stress, the bean counter’s close, constant engagement with the household money leads to a stronger sense of responsibility and, often, anxiety.
Perceptions of Financial Stress Matter as Much as Reality. Whether or not the numbers reflect a perfect 50/50 split, financial stress is based largely on what each partner perceives. If the bean counter feels like the split is 70/30 in their direction but the breadwinner thinks it’s 50/50, that disconnect is fertile ground for resentment, poor communication, or conflict.
Clarity and Communication Are Essential and Often Missing. Many couples default into roles without ever truly defining them. Sitting down to intentionally name who does what, what each role entails, and what could go wrong if things slip up is a critical first step to ensuring satisfaction and avoiding feelings of being taken for granted.
Transparency is a Powerful Antidote to Stress and Resentment. One of the quickest routes to reducing couple financial stress is simple: shared transparency over the numbers, roles, and goals. Many clients immediately feel relief when they can see the whole picture sometimes even before making any “fixes.” Avoid judgment, start with awareness, and let solutions flow from honest data.
Gender Roles and Power Dynamics Can Compound Stress Especially for Women. Christine’s research and clinical experience repeatedly show that women who are the primary “bean counters” often feel especially stuck, stressed, and underappreciated, particularly when they don’t have equal power over big decisions. Couples need to acknowledge these dynamics, avoid defaulting into traditional patterns, and have real conversations about fairness, workload, and what everyone actually wants.

Resources Mentioned

The Love and Money Center at the University of Georgia (outreach, clinical services, and research on couples and money)
Financial Therapy Association (directory for professionals and resources)
Ramit Sethi’s “Money for Couples” (practical frameworks for couples with joint, separate, or hybrid finances)
Monarch Money app, and other budgeting tools for transparency and shared financial visibility

I want to give a big thank you to Dr. Christine Hargrove for sharing her insights, research, and wisdom with us once again. If this conversation resonated with you or you want to learn more, check out modernfinancialwellness.com for resources, links, and info on how to reach Christine and the Love and Money Center.

If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe. Thanks for tuning in and as always, here’s to making money a healthier, happier part of your life and relationships.

Breaking Money Myths: Practical Financial Wellness for Individuals, Couples, and Communities

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 01:45:00 -0500

Hello everyone, Jim Grace here, host of Modern Financial Wellness. I’m excited to share the latest episode, which dives deep into the real story behind financial wellness, the power of education, and how changing your money mindset can truly transform lives and workplaces.

In this episode, we go beyond the nuts and bolts of budgeting and saving. Today’s conversation centers on financial literacy as the critical foundation for achieving true financial well-being from breaking out of generational cycles and learning practical strategies, to transforming workplace cultures and empowering underserved communities. The heart of our discussion: how understanding our relationship with money and empowering others to do the same can change trajectories for individuals, families, and businesses alike.

Joining me is Irma Neal, an incredible leader and changemaker. Irma is the founder of Onyx Rising, a change management and financial literacy firm specializing in DEI and leadership development. As a former deputy mayor of Indianapolis and director of human services, plus a certified financial coach and author of “Chaos Insights to Lead through the Storm,” Irma brings decades of wisdom and personal experience to the table. Her own journey from growing up in poverty to becoming a financial educator and advocate truly inspires.

5 Key Takeaways

1. Your Money Mindset Starts Early but It Can Change.

Irma’s childhood experiences living in poverty and watching her parents’ approach to credit set early patterns, but her determination and curiosity led her to seek a different path. She began saving her lunch money as a teen and carried those habits throughout her life.

2. Money Conversations Are Relationship Conversations.

Irma and her late husband navigated the classic saver/spender dynamic, highlighting how important it is to talk openly and honestly about money with your partner ideally before tying the knot. Communication, compromise, and transparency are crucial.

3. Employer-Sponsored Financial Education is Life-Changing.

A company-paid session with a certified financial advisor at IBM was a game changer for Irma. That experience built loyalty and gave her the tools to grow true wealth over time, not just save. Employers have a pivotal role here combining benefits with real education can transform lives and improve retention.

4. Mindset Before Mechanics: Changing Financial Trajectories.

Onyx Rising’s programs start by helping participants envision the life they want and break down money myths, especially those reinforced by culture and social media. Tailoring education to where a person is in their journey, rather than a “one size fits all” approach, is critical for real, lasting change.

5. Financial Well-being Equals Freedom and Security.

To Irma, true financial well-being is about freedom to travel, to experience life, and to weather unexpected challenges (like the car that literally crashed into her house!). Preparation allows us not just to survive, but to thrive even through the storms life throws our way.

If you’re an employee, check out the resources your company might already offer and be proactive about using them. Employers, consider integrating financial wellness programming to benefit both your people and your business.

For more from Irma and Onyx Rising, including mindset quizzes and employer guides, head to onyx2rise.com. If you enjoyed our conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone on their financial wellness journey. Thanks for tuning in. I look forward to seeing you next time!

When to Seek Help: Signs Your Loved One Might Need Senior Care Coordination

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 01:45:00 -0500

Welcome to another episode of Modern Financial Wellness! I’m your host, Jim Grace. In this episode, we tackle an essential but often overlooked part of financial wellness—how we support our loved ones (and ourselves) as we age. Whether you’re part of the sandwich generation juggling kids and aging parents, or you’re planning ahead for your own well-being, today’s conversation is for you.

To guide us through the complexities of aging and care planning, I’m joined by Jennifer Mahoney, head of Live Well Care Management (formerly AZA Care Management). With over three decades of experience in Greater Boston, Jennifer and her team of healthcare professionals help families navigate the maze of senior care, advocate for loved ones, and coordinate personalized plans for happier, more connected aging.

Key Takeaways:

Start the Conversation Before a Crisis: Most families reach out to care managers after a fall, hospitalization, or urgent diagnosis. But proactive planning, like Jennifer’s “Peace of Mind Program,” establishes a relationship and understanding long before emergencies arise—saving stress and improving outcomes.
Care Managers Aren’t Just for Healthcare: Live Well’s team handles everything from medical advocacy and managing appointments to arranging social outings and digital connections. Quality of life for seniors goes beyond medicine—it’s about relationships and daily joy.
Delegating Care Coordination is an Investment in Relationships: Caring for a parent or spouse often brings stress, time pressures, and even guilt. Hiring a care manager doesn’t mean you’re neglecting your responsibility—it frees you up to be more present as a spouse, son, or daughter and creates a healthier dynamic for everyone involved.
There’s Help (and Funding) Beyond Private Pay: Jennifer highlights lesser-known Medicare Advantage benefits, VA programs, and local resources like senior centers and councils on aging. A seasoned care manager navigates these options, ensuring families don’t miss out on valuable support.
Handle Resistance with Empathy and Communication: If a loved one is reluctant to accept help, frame the conversation around your need for support—“I need someone local to help me help you.” And remember, care managers can advocate for the senior’s true needs, even when family expectations don’t align.

If you’re preparing for aging—your own or a loved one’s—the key is to plan ahead. Have the conversations early, reach out to care management, and don’t go it alone. Everyone will be better off for it.

Be sure to subscribe to Modern Financial Wellness for more conversations that help you and your family thrive—financially, emotionally, and beyond!

Navigating Couples and Money: Building Conscious Financial Partnerships with Christine Moriarty

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 12:38:00 -0500

Welcome to Modern Financial Wellness! I’m your host, Jim Grace, and today I was thrilled to sit down with Christine Moriarty, CFP®, a seasoned financial planner, author, and keynote speaker, whose area of expertise is navigating money conversations for couples. With over 30 years in the industry, Christine has helped countless couples and individuals bring more peace and understanding to their financial lives.

This episode is all about one of the most challenging—and rewarding—aspects of financial wellness: how couples can manage money together. Whether you’re newly dating, about to move in, getting married, or decades into your partnership, Christine and I discussed the dynamics that play out when two people try to merge not just their finances, but also their upbringing, values, and money habits.

Christine brings a wealth of experience to this conversation. She’s spent decades coaching couples, teaching workshops, and writing about what it means to create “money peace.” Her perspective is informed not only by her professional background but also by her personal journey—observing healthy financial habits modeled by her parents and learning through her own marriage what works and what doesn’t. She is the author of Creating Your Money Peace and runs the site moneypeace.com.

Key Takeaways

Money Talks Need to Start Early (and Often): The best time for couples to begin talking openly about money is before moving in together or making big commitments. Start by sharing your financial backgrounds—how you grew up, your first money memories—before diving into the numbers.
Appreciate, Don’t Judge, Your Differences: We all bring different values, habits, and anxieties around money to a relationship, often absorbed from our families. Rather than viewing differences as obstacles, see them as opportunities for deeper understanding.
Systems Must Be Fluid: What “worked” for a couple for years can suddenly cause stress when life changes—think retirement, a new baby, or job changes. Regularly revisit your money systems, budgets, and roles so you can adapt together.
It’s About Conscious Choices, Not Perfection: The goal isn’t to avoid all disagreements or to create a perfect budget. It’s to make conscious, intentional decisions together, understanding the “why” behind your money priorities.
Regular Money Dates Change Everything: Inspired by Victoria Felton Collins’ Couples and Money, Christine encourages “money dates”—structured, time-limited conversations about finances. These create a safe space for ongoing, manageable discussions instead of high-stakes arguments.

Money is never just about numbers—it’s about communication, values, and being willing to learn about yourself and your partner. It takes patience, baby steps, and sometimes help from professionals or good resources. I am grateful to Christine for sharing her hard-won wisdom and practical advice. If you want more on this topic, check out the resources above, and as always, feel free to reach out via modernfinancialwellness.com. And remember—give yourself some grace as you tackle money together!

Thanks for listening. Until next time, stay well!

Facing Housing Anxiety: Smart Tips for Renters Ready to Buy Their First Home

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 01:45:00 -0500

Welcome back to Modern Financial Wellness! In today’s episode, I tackle one of the most pressing and emotionally charged questions in personal finance: Should you rent, or should you strive for homeownership? Rising interest rates, surging home prices, and shifting economic forces have made the decision more complicated than ever. With headlines declaring the “death of the American Dream,” many are left wondering—is owning a home still possible, or even the right choice?

To dig into this topic, I’m joined by repeat guest John Donlon of Gold Coast Mortgage in Beverly, Massachusetts. John brings decades of experience working on the front lines with home buyers, and his practical, thoughtful approach to the renting versus owning debate makes him an invaluable resource for anyone pondering a move.

John and I dove into the emotional, financial, and economic realities facing would-be homeowners and renters today. We discussed the deep-seated fears associated with taking on a mortgage, including the relentless nature of those monthly payments and how life’s unpredictability can make homeownership intimidating. John provided perspective on why these concerns aren’t new but have evolved—especially with the entrance of private equity firms and institutional investors who are reshaping the rental landscape.

We also examined how renting can offer flexibility but is now often managed by detached corporations rather than local landlords, leading to higher rents and less personal interaction. John and I shared stories from our own lives and those of our clients—illustrating the “aha moments” that drive people to take the leap into homeownership (or decide to wait), and how those moments are often driven more by lifestyle and family needs than strictly by finances.

Much of the conversation focused on how to know when you’re really ready for homeownership, the risks of rushing in for the wrong reasons, the myths about timing the housing market, and why waiting for the “perfect” rate or price can backfire. John explained the truth behind mortgage rates, the critical mistake of trying to time the market, the importance of affordability, and the long-term wealth-building aspects of owning a home—even in challenging environments.

5 Key Takeaways

Homeownership Is a Serious, Long-Term Commitment—But It’s Always Been Scary: Taking on a mortgage is intimidating and a huge responsibility. That fear is nothing new; our parents and grandparents felt the same anxiety in their own time, even if their numbers were smaller. The perceived threat is less about the numbers and more about the relentless nature of the obligation.
The Rental Game Has Changed—And It’s Not Always in Your Favor: The rise of private equity and corporate ownership in the rental market means tenants are often dealing with faceless algorithms, not caring landlords. Rents are determined by market-maximizing algorithms rather than people, making it harder for renters and contributing to the rising cost of both renting and buying.
The “Aha Moment” Should Drive the Decision More Than Math Alone: Most people don’t jump into ownership solely for financial reasons. The decision to buy is often triggered by changes in lifestyle—like needing space for family or wanting more stability—rather than doing a simple rent vs. buy calculation. Running toward ownership only for a perceived tax break or “cheap” mortgage rate can lead to regret.
Don’t Try to Time the Market—Your Personal Readiness Matters More: Waiting for the “right” interest rate or a drop in home prices rarely works out. None of us (not even the experts!) can reliably predict mortgage rates or housing prices. Instead, focus on your personal “clock”—your needs, career, and readiness. Honor your own timing rather than market speculation.
Homeownership Remains the Leading Path to Long-Term Wealth—If You’re Ready: Despite short-term fears, the equity and inflation protection provided by a fixed mortgage means that those who make the leap often end up far ahead. Homeowners are as much as 4,300% wealthier than lifelong renters, largely due to building equity over decades. If you can afford it for the right reasons, it’s still one of the safest investments in your future.

If you’re weighing the rent-versus-own decision, know your “why,” honor your personal timing and readiness, and don’t stress over short-term market fluctuations. Seek good advice, run the numbers, but make sure the lifestyle and emotional reasons align before making the leap.

To dig deeper, check out John’s Tenants Lounge at goldcoastmortgage.com/tenants-lounge for a treasure trove of resources on navigating the path from renting to owning.

And if you’re enjoying Modern Financial Wellness, sign up for our newsletter at modernfinancialwellness.com for more candid conversations on money, life, and balance.

Financial Wellness in College Planning: Timelines, Expectations, and Emotional Traps

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 01:30:00 -0500

Hey everyone and welcome back to another episode of Modern Financial Wellness. This week, we're diving deep into one of the biggest and most stressful financial decisions families face: planning and paying for college. I’m thrilled to be joined by Jack Wang, a seasoned college financial aid advisor and host of the Smart College Buyer podcast. Jack brings a wealth of experience helping families navigate the complexities of the college process and is a constant source of practical, level-headed advice in an area often clouded by emotion and misinformation.

Jack Wang is not just an expert in all things college finance—he’s a trusted guide for families caught in the whirlwind of applications, campus visits, financial aid forms, and difficult tradeoffs. He’s the host of the Smart College Buyer podcast and a regular contributor to national publications, known for his ability to break down the “nuts and bolts” of college planning while never losing sight of the emotional side of the process.

This episode peels back the layers on college funding, exploring not just the technical strategies (though we get into plenty of those), but also the mindset and family dynamics that make this such a unique challenge. Jack and I tackled questions like: When should families start planning? How much does the “name” of a college matter? What steps can parents take to ensure both their child’s happiness and their own financial wellbeing? Throughout, we returned to the concept of “buying college” as an investment in a student’s future—and how to make sure it’s the right one.

Key Takeaways:

Start Early—Earlier Than You Think: Planning for college really begins freshman year of high school, not junior year. The financial aid “base year”—the time colleges review financial info—actually starts spring of the sophomore year, so early family conversations and financial maneuvers make a big difference.
“Fit” Matters WAY More Than “Fame”: Chasing a big-name school for the prestige alone is a recipe for misery (and potentially wasted money). Students should prioritize campuses where they genuinely feel comfortable and can see themselves thriving—otherwise, costly transfers and “leakage” of time and money are likely.
College Naming Doesn’t Guarantee Success: All the latest research shows that, aside from a few very narrow career tracks, the name on the college diploma doesn’t impact long-term career or financial outcomes. What matters is what students do at college—internships, research opportunities, networking, and “taking full advantage” of what’s available to them.
"Mental Accounting" Can Hurt Your Real-World Flexibility: Saving exclusively in a 529 plan may sound smart, but being too rigid about saving in one “silo” can limit your options later. Use multiple savings vehicles if possible, keep your eye on the big financial picture (retirement, emergencies, other kids), and aim for flexibility.
Get Clear and Honest About Goals: Most couples don’t agree on what “paying for college” really means, or why it matters to them. Digging into your “why” (is it about ego, tradition, a sense of fairness?) and having open conversations—between parents, and with your kids—leads to healthier decisions, less stress, and increased alignment.

Jack brought a much-needed combination of technical know-how and heart to the conversation. As we wrapped up, we agreed that while numbers matter, the real anchor in college planning is values. The better you know your own “why” and your child’s, the better decisions you’ll make—not just for the next four years, but for the future you’re all building together.

If you’re starting this journey or feel overwhelmed by where to begin, I truly hope this episode provides both reassurance and actionable steps.

Find the CodeSignal University Ranking Report here: https://codesignal.com/resource/codesignal-university-ranking-report-2024/

Connect with Jack Wang:

Thanks for joining us! For more tips, be sure to follow Modern Financial Wellness, and as always, consult your own advisors before making major financial decisions.

The Truth About Fiduciary Advice and How to Find It Easily

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 01:45:00 -0500

Welcome back to Modern Financial Wellness! I'm Jim Grace, and in this episode, I’m thrilled to have a very special guest—Michael Scarpati, the CEO of Retire Us. Retire Us is a game-changing financial advice platform that blends human relationships and technology to help individuals achieve financial freedom with less friction and more clarity.

We kick off by examining the major barriers people face when looking for financial advice, from the lack of access to affordable fiduciary guidance to the confusion caused by an industry built on investment-first relationships. Michael helps us untangle the different types of advisors—benefits-based, product-based, and the elusive systems-based advisor—and explains why most people never get to work with an independent fiduciary unless they already have significant investable assets.

Michael also outlines Retire Us’s unique process—from their free online financial assessment to their affordable monthly subscriptions that give anyone access to a full team of professionals: a CFP, an independent fiduciary, and a dedicated wealth concierge.

Key Takeaways

1. Know What a Fiduciary Is—and Why It Matters:

Only 10–15% of financial professionals are legally held to act in your best interest. The rest may not have to—meaning it’s crucial to ask anyone you work with whether they’re a true fiduciary, and more importantly, if they’re independent fiduciaries with access to the whole marketplace.

2. Not All Financial Advisors—or Advice—Are Created Equal:

There are three primary types of advisors: benefits-based (usually tied to your employer), product-based (selling investments or insurance), and systems-based (true planners building holistic frameworks for your money). Most people never move beyond the first two, missing out on the systems-based approach that drives real financial progress.

3. Financial Planning Should Start with Goals and Systems, NOT Just Products:

Most Americans piece together products and workplace benefits without a system to hold it all accountable. Michael likens this to baking a cake without a recipe—possible, but messy and inconsistent. True success comes from building intentional systems first, then filling them with the right tools and products.

4. Accessibility Is Changing, But You Need to Know Where to Look:

Traditionally, high-quality, independent financial planning was reserved for those with $250,000 or more in investable assets. Platforms like Retire Us are changing that—with subscription models as low as $60/month, allowing regular people to get personalized, fiduciary advice and ongoing support from professionals who act in their best interest.

5. Peace of Mind—and Real Progress—Comes from Financial Awareness:

According to Michael, financial well-being is ultimately about peace. If something feels “off” with your money, it probably is. Start by getting clear on your real goals and what’s causing your stress or anxiety. Use tools (like Retire Us’s free financial assessment) and work with advisors who will help you identify and fix those blind spots, creating a holistic sense of control and confidence.

Financial planning doesn’t have to be intimidating or inaccessible, and you deserve advice that is truly in your best interest—without asset minimums or high barriers to entry. Whether you’re just getting started or want to level up your systems, there are more options than ever for high-quality, human financial guidance.

Huge thanks again to Michael Scarpati for joining us and sharing his mission with Retire Us. For more details, check out their free financial checkpoint at www.retire.us and follow their upcoming content on financial consciousness.

If this episode resonated, please like, subscribe, and share with someone you think could benefit. And as always, while I hope you find these conversations helpful, remember: nothing discussed here should be taken as personal financial advice—do your own research and consult your advisors when making decisions.

See you next time on Modern Financial Wellness!

From Korean Orphanage to Millionaire: Sun Yong Kim-Manzolini on Overcoming Adversity and Building Wealth

Thu, 22 May 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to Modern Financial Wellness! I’m your host, Jim Grace. On today’s episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Sun Yong Kim-Manzolini—a truly remarkable entrepreneur, author, and self-made millionaire. Her story is nothing short of extraordinary, taking us from her beginnings in a Korean orphanage, unable to walk, to building an amazing life of freedom, abundance, and purpose in the United States. If you’re looking for proof that adversity can be transformed into opportunity—and that transformation starts with mindset—you do not want to miss this episode.

We unpacked Sun Yong’s powerful journey from her traumatic start in life, through her experience of adoption and assimilation into a new culture, to her years working a “dream job” that nevertheless left her financially stressed. Sun Yong candidly recounted how she broke free of the “broken system” of living paycheck to paycheck, why she pivoted into investing and options trading, and what it took for her to become a self-made millionaire. We also explored her mindset shifts, her approach to facing and overcoming fears, and her commitment to helping others reclaim their own power—both financially and personally.

Other highlights included practical steps she took in her financial journey, the importance of goal-setting, her perspective on money as a tool rather than a source of happiness, and her advice for anyone looking to take control of their financial future.

5 Key Takeaways:

Your Past Does Not Define Your Future Sun Yong’s story is a real testament to the fact that regardless of your origin or circumstances, you can transform your life. Her journey from adversity to success is fuelled by her refusal to let her past hold her back.
Mindset Is Everything From learning to walk or speak English to mastering new financial skills, Sun Yong emphasizes the importance of discipline, resilience, and proactive thinking. She highlights how crucial it is to take action despite fear or uncertainty.
Financial Freedom Means Choices—Not Just Money For Sun Yong, true financial independence means having options: being able to take a vacation, spend time with family, help loved ones, and contribute to causes she cares about. Money is a tool for creating a richer and more meaningful life, not the end goal itself.
Take Small, Consistent Steps Whether it was learning to walk, test-driving her dream convertible without yet having the money, or breaking financial goals into manageable targets, Sun Yong continually illustrates the power of breaking big dreams into actionable steps.
Surround Yourself with Learning and Opportunity Sun Yong credits much of her growth to seeking out communities and resources—real estate seminars, trading groups, and mentorships—that taught her new skills. She reminds listeners that to create change, you have to go where opportunities are and put in the work to learn.

Sun Yong’s journey is a masterclass in perseverance, gratitude, and intentional living. If you’re feeling stuck in your finances or in your mindset, her story will inspire you to take that first step—no matter how small—toward your own version of financial well-being.

Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review, and be sure to check out Sun Yong’s incredible resources if you want to learn more about developing your financial power and freedom.

ADHD, Executive Function, and Money: Practical Strategies for Financial Wellness with Laurel Black

Thu, 08 May 2025 01:15:00 -0500

Welcome to another episode of Modern Financial Wellness! I’m your host, Jim Grace. On this show, we explore what it means to truly thrive financially—not just in terms of dollars and cents, but in terms of how we relate to money emotionally and practically. In today’s episode, we’re diving into an important and often misunderstood topic: how ADHD and executive functioning challenges can affect our financial lives. Whether you have a diagnosis or just sometimes feel overwhelmed by to-do lists and money decisions, this conversation offers insight and practical strategies for everyone.

Joining me is an expert in the field, Laurel Black. Laurel is the Director of Executive Function Coaching at ResearchILD and works as an ADHD and executive function coach with adults at Brightmind Coaching. Laurel brings a wealth of experience working with both students and adults navigating the challenges of executive function and ADHD in their day-to-day lives.

We opened with a high-level discussion of what neurodiversity and ADHD actually mean, including how people relate to these diagnoses as part of their identity. Laurel explained that neurodivergence is an umbrella term covering a range of ways people’s brains work differently, and she inspired us to approach these differences with curiosity and respect.

We then drilled down into the core aspects of executive functioning, how ADHD acts as a "disorder of goal-oriented behavior," and why managing financial tasks can be uniquely difficult for those struggling with executive function. Laurel shared how the dopamine system influences motivation and focus, how impulsivity and social needs can shape financial habits, and why people with ADHD might experience everything from shopping sprees to a flood of anxiety when paying bills.

We also explored the emotional side of executive functioning and money: the cycle of procrastination, rejection sensitivity, and the heavy weight of social comparison. Laurel shared her own Eris framework—a practical tool for untangling expectations, reality, and emotions—so listeners can start taking manageable steps forward, no matter where they are.

We wrapped up with actionable insights and recommendations for listeners, from books to check out to strategies for carving out clarity and agency in financial decision-making.

5 Key Takeaways:

Executive Functioning Isn’t Just for Those with ADHD: ADHD often makes executive functioning weaknesses more noticeable, but stress, anxiety, and busy lives can drain anyone’s “self-control gas tank.” Good executive function skills—like organizing, prioritizing, and flexibility—benefit everyone, especially when handling finances.
Motivation and Attention Are Tied to Biology and Emotion: People with ADHD often seek novelty and social connection for dopamine hits, making it tough to prioritize long-term financial goals over short-term rewards or distractions. The impulsivity and emotional intensity can impact spending, saving, and follow-through.
Procrastination Is About Emotion—Not Time Management: According to Laurel and research she cites, procrastination usually masks emotional avoidance—like fear of failure, rejection, or not meeting expectations—rather than simple laziness or bad time management. Recognizing and naming these emotions is the first step to moving forward.
Try the ERAS Framework to Move Past Overwhelm: Laurel’s ERAS model (Expectation, Reality, Adjust, Start) helps break down moments of emotional overwhelm—financial or otherwise—into manageable chunks: clarify expectations, check reality, make adjustments, and take just one next step.
Clarity and Agency Are the Cornerstones of Financial Wellbeing: Laurel emphasizes that financial wellness isn’t about having unlimited resources, but about knowing your reality, setting realistic expectations, making intentional adjustments, and taking small steps that build agency and control. Social support and self-compassion play a huge role, too.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode or found it helpful, please consider subscribing and sharing with someone who might benefit. Until next time, remember: give yourself some space, focus on what you can control, and take that next small step.

Awakened Investing: Merging Mindfulness, Spirituality, and Wealth Management with Tim "Jai" Baker

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 12:11:00 -0500

Welcome back to Modern Financial Wellness! I'm your host, Jim Grace, and on today’s episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Tim "Jai" Baker—wealth advisor, founder of Luminess Wealth, and author of “The Awakened Investor.” We explored not only the technical side of what makes up true wealth, but also dove deep into the intersection of finance, mindfulness, and personal transformation.

Tim brings a truly holistic perspective to the financial world. With nearly four decades of experience as a wealth advisor, he’s founded multiple firms, including Luminess Wealth, and has recently authored “The Awakened Investor.” Tim’s journey—from a career on Wall Street, through personal tragedy, to deep spiritual exploration and founding a new kind of wealth management firm—shapes his philosophy that wealth isn’t just about money, but encompasses our well-being in multiple dimensions.

This conversation is much more than a discussion about money or traditional financial planning. Tim shared his unique story of transformation, including how meditation began to shape his life, especially after the tragic loss of his daughter. We discussed why financial success doesn’t always lead to life satisfaction, the pitfalls of mainstream financial services (including the crucial distinction between “fiduciary” and “suitability” standards), and the importance of addressing one’s mindset and inherited beliefs around money.

We also explored how the most effective wealth management considers a client’s entire well-being—drawing from Blue Zone research on longevity, examining family money scripts, and integrating mindfulness, health, and life satisfaction into financial planning. If you’re curious about the intersection of spirituality and personal finance, or want to understand why your financial journey is so entwined with your mindset and life story, this episode is for you.

5 Key Takeaways

Wealth is Holistic, Not Just Dollars and Cents: Tim emphasizes that true wealth is much broader than just financial assets—it includes health, relationships, environment, and personal fulfillment. This echoes the original etymology of "wealth," which referred to prosperity, well-being, and health, not just currency.
Know Thyself: Mindset is Everything: Our deepest beliefs and attitudes about money are often formed in early childhood, and can drive financial decisions unconsciously for decades. Becoming aware of—and consciously reshaping—our money scripts and mindset is essential for both financial and personal progress.
Not All Advisors Are Created Equal: The Importance of Fiduciary Duty: Tim explains the difference between “fee-only fiduciary” advisors and those who operate under the less stringent “suitability” standard. Only about 10% of advisors are true fiduciaries, committed to putting the client’s interests first.
The Power of Daily Practice (and Teamwork): Just as true personal or spiritual development requires daily effort (think of Tiger Woods’ golf training, or regular meditation), financial growth needs consistent practice, regular reviews, and a cohesive team dedicated to your wellbeing—not just isolated experts.
Transformation is a Journey, Not a Destination: Tim’s own experience—from Wall Street to spiritual retreats in India—underscores that awakening (whether financially or personally) is continual work. Setbacks and triggers are natural, and the goal isn’t perfection, but ongoing growth and alignment between our values, goals, and resources.

Resources & Next Steps

If today’s conversation resonated with you, I highly recommend picking up Tim’s book, “The Awakened Investor” (available on Amazon in all formats, including audio). Visit luminouswealth.com to explore Tim’s work, and while you're there, take the Human Archetype Assessment to better understand your own money beliefs and patterns.

Thanks again for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, share with friends, and stay tuned for more conversations at the intersection of money and meaning.

Take care,

Jim

Inheriting Wealth? How to Tackle the Money Mindset & Emotional Rollercoaster

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 02:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to Modern Financial Wellness. I’m Jim Grace, CFP®, your host, and today I had the pleasure of speaking with Melissa Hoyer, a certified financial planner and certified coach from The Wealth Conservancy in Boulder, Colorado. We're talking about the complex and often personal dynamics surrounding inherited wealth. Melissa brings an interesting combination of financial planning expertise and a deep understanding of the emotional aspects of inheriting wealth, making her insights invaluable for anyone navigating this challenging situation. In this episode, we explored the experiences of people who suddenly come into wealth, often as a result of an inheritance. This can be an overwhelming experience, compounded by the loss of a loved one. Melissa shared her unique approach to coaching, combining it with her financial planning skills to help clients understand and integrate their new financial realities into a meaningful life. Melissa explained the stages of inheritance, starting with 'innocence' where inheritors are often unaware of what they own, followed by 'denial' where some might try to ignore the reality of their new circumstances. She emphasized the importance of shifting these mindsets and crafting a path towards 'integrated authority,' a stage where inheritors fully grasp their financial situation and personal values. Here are five key takeaways from our conversation:

Coaching and Financial Planning Go Hand-in-Hand: Melissa uses coaching to help her clients explore their beliefs, mindsets, and values around money before making major financial decisions. This helps clients navigate their financial journeys more confidently and authentically.
Take Time to Understand Your Situation: Inheriting wealth is an emotional and complex process. Melissa highlighted the importance of not making any major, permanent decisions too soon. Allow yourself a decision-free period to process the change.
The Importance of Working with a Fiduciary: Melissa stresses the importance of choosing advisers who are fiduciaries—professionals legally obligated to act in their client’s best interest—to help navigate the complexities of inherited wealth.
Shift Your Perspective: Transforming your mindset from 'I don’t deserve this' to a more empowering view can drastically change how you handle inheritance. Embracing self-love and understanding your own worth are critical steps in this process.
Engage in Self-Discovery Before Inheritance: If possible, begin exploring your values and preferences before actually receiving an inheritance. This preparation can make a significant difference when you do have to handle it.

As always, be sure to check out the Wealth Conservancy and Melissa’s work. Don’t forget to visit our website at modernfinancialwellness.com for more resources and to connect with us. Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll catch you next time! [embed]https://youtu.be/1BEGxIKLcwM[/embed] Make sure to check out some of the great recommendations that Melissa provided and follow her content below: READ + LISTEN + LEARN:

Raising Financially Fit Kids by Joline Godfrey

FIND MELISSA @:

LinkedIn
The Wealth Conservancy, Inc.
Way Into Wealth: Melissa's coaching program for easing into affluence.

Shifting Your Identity and Spending Habits in Retirement with Dan Haylett

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 02:30:00 -0500

Welcome to another episode of Modern Financial Wellness, where we dive into the psychology of money to help you feel better about your finances. I'm your host, Jim Grace, CFP®, guiding you through today's discussion on understanding the emotional aspects of financial decisions, especially during retirement.

I am thrilled to have Dan Haylett join us today. Dan is a multifaceted financial planner and the head of growth at TFP Financial Planning in the UK. He's also the mastermind behind "Humans versus Retirement," a podcast and content hub for anyone looking to live a retirement filled with purpose and experience true wealth.

In today's episode, Dan and I explore the crucial transition into retirement and the psychological shift required to go from accumulating wealth to spending it. We dive into Dan's latest white paper, "The Skill of Spending Money in Retirement," and discuss how retirees can overcome the ingrained habit of saving to truly enjoy their retirement.

We highlight how important it is to start planning for the second half of life and how retirees can embrace the opportunities and address the emotional barriers they face. Our conversation also underscores the importance of not just preparing financially for retirement but also considering the mental and emotional preparations needed to spend and enjoy your hard-earned money.

5 Key Takeaways:

The Fragile Decade: Dan emphasizes the importance of the five years leading up to and following retirement, referred to as the fragile decade. This period is critical for transitioning mindset and planning how to spend retirement savings effectively.
Identity Shift: Retirement marks a significant shift in identity. Recognizing and preparing for this change is essential, as it involves moving from a mindset of saving and accumulating to one of spending and enjoying.
The Human Element and Spending Habits: Our conversation highlights the fear many retirees have of running out of money, leading them to underspend. Dan argues for the importance of transitioning from a saving habit to a spending mindset, backed by evidence showing many retirees die with more money than they started with.
Retirement Phases: We discuss the phases of retirement—exploring, nesting, and reflecting—that reflect changes in health, time, and financial needs. Understanding these phases helps retirees spend their money when it can provide the most benefit and joy.
Creating Memories: Dan talks about "memory dividends," which are the lasting emotional returns of spending money on experiences that create memories with loved ones. This concept encourages retirees to use their financial resources to build experiences that enrich their lives.

Thank you for joining us in this episode of Modern Financial Wellness. I hope today's conversation provides you with valuable insights into making the most of your retirement. Please remember to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Until next time, take care.

Just F&%$ing Breathe! w/ Dave Gieselman

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I'm joined by Dave Giesleman, founder of Become Limitless Flow State Mindset Coaching and Limitless Flow Breathwork. Our conversation centers around stress management and how tools like breathwork and achieving a flow state can enhance mental clarity and decision-making, particularly in a financial context. Dave shares insights from his experience transitioning from a high-stress career as a chef to teaching others how to manage stress healthily. He emphasizes the importance of understanding how the body's stress response works and using techniques to calm the mind and body.

We also talk about the different types of breath work, including intervention, daily practice, and long-form breath work sessions, to help manage stress and improve overall well-being. He explains how breathwork can help people recalibrate their physiological responses to stress, improve executive functioning, and access the flow state, where peak performance can be achieved. We also discuss how stress management and financial well-bing are connected, and how you can achieve balance in clarity in all aspects of your life.

You can connect with Dave at: www.become-limitless.com

Key Topics Discussed

The relationship between high performance and high stress
Physiological responses to stress and their impact on the mind and decision-making
Implementation of breath works to manage stress and enter a flow state
Connections between stress management and financial decision-making
Tools such as intervention breath work, daily practice, and extended breath sessions
The importance of achieving clarity in financial and personal life to alleviate stress

Ep: 26 Cashflow Cookbook w/ Author Gordon Stein

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I welcome Gordan Stein, author of "Cash Flow Cookbook: $2,000,000 of Financial Freedom in 60 Easy Recipes." Gordon shares his unique journey from a career in tech to becoming an author and speaker focused on personal finance. Our conversation centers around practical ways to improve cash flow without significant sacrifices. Gordon discusses how small changes in everyday expenses can accumulate into substantial savings over time, emphasizing the importance of mindset in achieving financial freedom.

Gordon also provides actionable steps to start a journey towards financial wellness. He suggests examining fixed monthly bills first and then moving on to discretionary spending. He also shares some of his favorite tips from the book, such as improving credit scores and being mindful of healthcare costs.

To find out more or connect with Gordon, visit: https://cashflowcookbook.com

Key Topics Discussed:

The concept and origin of the Cash Flow Cookbook
Importance of understanding and improving cash flow
Strategies for reducing fixed monthly expenses
Practical tips for discretionary spending
Importance of mindset in financial planning
Real-life examples of cost-saving measures
Broader aspects of well-being, including health and creativity
Upcoming Cash Flow Cookbook course

EP: 025 How To Be a “Modern Husband” w/ Brian Page

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I welcome Brian Page to discuss the interconnectedness of financial management and home management. Highlighting the importance of delegation to reduce stress and improve happiness, Brian shares his journey about using meal delivery services and budgeting with his kids. He talks about intentional communication with his wife, utilizing tools like Tiller and shared calendars for efficient household and financial coordination. The conversation also covers evolving gender roles, advocating for shared responsibilities at home to match changing workforce dynamics. Brian’s initiative, Modern Husbands, offers resources to help couples manage finances and home life as a team, underlining the value of systemized task delegation to alleviate mental load and promote well-being.

The episode also explores the significance of consistent financial communication among couples. Brian touches upon financial practices within relationships, addressing differences in spending habits and the concept of financial translucency. We also discuss the disparity between social perceptions and financial realities and the necessity of focusing on individual household needs.

To find out more and connect with Brian, visit: https://www.modernhusbands.com/

Key Topics Discussed:

The overlap between money and home management
Setting up regular financial and household management meetings with spouse
Delegating tasks to reduce mental load
The Fair Play system and task ownership
The impact of changing gender roles in marriage
The importance of understanding long-term financial implications
Combining finances for marital happiness

EP: 024 - Reprogramming Your Subconscious Mind With Jen Reid and Julie Costa

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I welcome back Jen Reid, but I also talk to Julie Costa to talk about their unique and reciprocal professional relationship that has profoundly influenced their personal and client journeys.

Jen shares her path to recognizing and overcoming subconscious blocks through Julie's Anchored program, while Julie, in turn, became Jen's client, showcasing the value of mutual learning. We discuss their fascinating techniques like subconscious reprogramming, hypnosis, and NLP (neuro-linguistic programming) to dig deeper into people's issues around money.

Julie talks about helping people transform their financial anxieties into empowering beliefs. Learn how consistent habits, visualization, and practical financial planning can lead to true financial wellness. Plus, Julie and Jen share actionable insights on integrating these practices into everyday life for sustained positive change.

To learn more about Jen, visit: https://www.baseplanning.co/
And to learn more about Julie, visit: https://www.juliemcosta.com/

Key Topics Discussed:

Subconscious influences on financial behavior
NLP techniques and hypnosis for reprogramming beliefs
Demonstration of the "Swish pattern" exercise
Continuous management of subconscious feelings in finance
The role of repeated visualization and positive affirmations
Combining subconscious programming with practical financial planning
Habits and consistency in financial behaviors
Personal anecdotes about overcoming limiting beliefs
Importance of content-free moments for better decision-making
Recommendations for resources on hypnosis and subconscious reprogramming

EP: 023 Flourishing Longevity With Jonathan Ainsley

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Modern Financial Wellness, I talk to Jonathan Ainsley to explore the concept of flourishing longevity and how it relates to rethinking retirement. We talk about the importance of planning for not just financial stability but also personal well-being and purpose as people age. With people living longer, Jonathan challenges traditional retirement stereotypes and discusses a more dynamic vision that encompasses meaningful activities, health, mindset, and community involvement.

Jonathan has spent many years in the financial services industry in practice management and helped advisors help their clients plan for aging longer. Along the way, he realized that most advisors and planners weren't working with clients on their plans for longevity and developed his own platform to help people change their mindset around retirement and aging and go into their later years with intention.

Jonathan also talks about the four main pillars of flourishing longevity: finance, mindset, health, and purpose. By addressing these pillars, individuals can enhance their quality of life and find fulfillment beyond their professional careers. We also discuss studies on aging and how mindset and lifestyle choices significantly impact overall health.

To find out more and connect with Jonathan, visit: https://longevityplanning.me/

Key Topics Discussed:

Common perceptions and misconceptions about retirement.
People living longer and questioning their potential achievements in later years.
The four pillars of flourishing longevity: Mindset, Health, Purpose w/ Passion, and Community beyond family.
Rethinking retirement, emphasizing financial independence and meaningful activities.
Low levels of daily joy among high net-worth individuals.
The role of purpose and identity post-career.
Impact of mindset and environment on health.
Combating ageism both structurally and personally

EP: 022 Financial Coaching & Hypnotherapy With Jen Reid

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk to Jen Reid, the CEO and financial consultant at BASE Financial Planning, Consulting, and Education. Jen discusses her transition from a traditional financial setting, where her role was primarily to sell life insurance, to becoming an independent financial coach and licensed hypnotherapist. She shares her dissatisfaction with the commission-based model and how it motivated her to focus on addressing clients' broader financial issues, like debt, investments, and college savings.

Jen explains her approach to financial coaching, which includes monthly meetings with clients to focus on budgeting and life coaching aspects. She emphasizes the importance of understanding clients' goals, motivations, and life aspirations. Jen introduces the concept of money dates and talks about the importance of accountability in achieving financial stability. The episode also touches on the role of social influences on spending and the benefits of open financial communication, along with a discussion on various tools and methods she employs, including hypnotherapy and emotional freedom techniques.

To learn more or connect with Jen, visit: https://www.baseplanning.co/

We talk about:

Challenges with commission-based sales models
The importance of monthly meetings for budgeting and lifestyle coaching
Role of financial systems and managing spending and goals
Concept of "money dates" for accountability
Introducing budgeting tools like Monarch
Handling social pressure and financial priorities among peer groups
The metaphor of financial sobriety
Importance of open communication about finances
Differences between therapy and coaching, focusing on forward movement
The role of fitness in financial and emotional well-being
Social media's impact on financial perceptions
Techniques like hypnotherapy and emotional freedom tapping for addressing financial anxiety

EP: 021 Start Thinking Rich With Adrian Brambila and Dr. Brad Klontz

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I welcome Adrian Brambila and Dr. Brad Klontz to discuss their new book, "Start Thinking Rich: 21 Harsh Truths to Take You from Broke to Rich" and to talk about the mindset that may be keeping you poor.

Dr. Brad Klontz is a clinical psychologist and Certified Financial Planner, and Adrian is a former professional dancer, now entrepreneur, YouTuber, and self-made millionaire. They discuss how they met, and why this book was so important for them to write. From Dr. Klontz's beginnings, growing up in a low-income household, and how his early experiences with financial struggles and debt influenced his career in financial psychology, to Adrian's rise to success and learning to navigate letting things go and feeling he deserved it.

We discuss the significance of mindset in achieving financial success and the importance of questioning and often challenging entrenched beliefs about money. We also explore essential mindset shifts for financial wellness. Adrian highlights that true wealth is about freedom of time and choice rather than material possessions. Dr. Klontz discusses the importance of intermittent retirements and the perils of viewing retirement solely as an end goal and working your life away to get there. We also discuss the value of mentorship and continual learning in financial growth.

To pre-order your copy of the book and grab some bonuses like a masterclass and access to their online community, please go here: https://www.startthinkingrich.com/podcast?am_id=jim_ModernFinancialWellness

We Talk About:

The psychology of money and its impact on financial decisions
Importance of mindset shifts for financial success
Insights from "Start Thinking Rich: 21 Harsh Truths to Take You from Broke to Rich"
Concept of wealth beyond material possessions
Importance of intermittent retirements for maintaining purpose and happiness
Role of mentorship and continual learning in financial growth
Using money to enhance life experiences
Advice on outsourcing tasks to better utilize time

EP: 020 The Money & Meaning Journey With Author Jeff Bernier

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0500

So many are working towards retirement, but will you feel fulfilled when work no longer defines you?

In this episode, I talk to Jeff Bernier, a seasoned financial planner, Founder of Tandem Growth Financial Advisors, and host of the "Money & Meaning" Podcast. Jeff brings over 37 years of experience and shares insights from his book, "The Money in Meaning Journey, a Guide to Clarity, Financial Confidence, and Joy."

Jeff shares how his personal experiences, like his father's struggle with finding purpose post-retirement, shaped his holistic approach to financial planning. We explore the psychological and emotional facets of financial decisions, including the importance of self-awareness, core values, and purpose.

Jeff also discusses his transition from focusing solely on the technical side of financial planning to addressing the deeper aspects of clients' lives.

Jeff also shares the three most important things people need to do to figure out how to align their meaning and purpose, which are:

1. Figure Out Who You Are
2. Understand the Context of Your Situation
3. Work On Your Capacity to Fund a Meaningful Life

To connect with Jeff, visit:
www.tandemgrowth.com
www.jeffbernierauthor.com

Key Topics Discussed:
- Balancing Finances With Joy
- Learning to Define 'Enough'
- Discovering Spiritual and Financial Well Being
- Holistic Financial Planning
- Why it's so Important to Understand Your Core Values and Identify

Ep: 019 Aligning Your Purpose With Your Profession w/ Kim Jones

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk to Kim Jones, who shares her journey from a senior executive role in a Fortune 250 company to becoming a coach dedicated to helping individuals align their careers with their values and purpose. We discuss the psychological and emotional aspects shaping financial decisions and career paths, highlighting the prevalent issue of feeling unfulfilled in traditional corporate roles. Kim talks about reconciling financial stability with work that holds meaning and purpose, using frameworks like Ikigai and Clifton Strength Finders to guide her clients through transformational career changes.

Kim also shares valuable insights on the contemporary job market, discussing the biases in the recruitment process and the importance of soft skills such as resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving. She provides success stories of clients who have made meaningful career transitions, breaking through limiting beliefs, and emphasizes the importance of creating an intentional life and making important career decisions. We also talk about the essential role of coaching in providing clarity and support to individuals looking to make career changes, with personal practices like meditation and journaling aiding in the pursuit of well-being and purpose.

We Talk About:

Career Misalignment and Burnout
Shifting Values Over Time
Balancing Financial Stability with Meaningful Work
The Sole Ego Continuum
Kim’s Transition to Coaching
Importance of Soft Skills in the Modern Workforce
Use of Ikigai and CliftonStrengths Frameworks
Role of ChatGPT in Career Exploration
Biases and Challenges in Recruitment Processes
Success Stories of Career Transitions
Personal Practices for Well-Being
Recommendations for Further Resources

READ+LISTEN+LEARN:
Kim had a great list of items that have helped her in her career change.

Books & Resources
- Adam Grants Work
  - Podcast - “Work life” https://adamgrant.net/podcasts/work-life
  - “Rethinking” - https://adamgrant.net/podcasts/rethinking/
- Other Podcasts
  - Brene Brown - Unlocking Us & Dare To Lead - https://brenebrown.com/podcasts/
  - We Can Do Hard Things - https://wecandohardthingspodcast.com/
Wellbeing and Music:
- 42 minute mark - morning routine meditation journaling and taking a walk , being conscious of her energy level and looking for a boost

Links & Socials

ABOUT ME:

My name is Jim Grace. I am a CFP®️ (Certified Financial Planner) and the Director of Wealth Management at Silver Pine Capital, LLC, (www.silverpinecapital.com) a registered investment advisory firm in Medfield, Massachusetts.

In my spare time I host a podcast and write about Financial Wellness & Wellbeing. Check out some of my other work @ www.ModernFinancialWellness.com. On the website I try to unpack each episode a little further and also spotlight any other resources I think might be helpful to anyone trying to feel better about their finances.

EP: 018 Talking Finances With Erika Wasserman

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I talk to Erika Wasserman, Your Financial Therapist, to explore the relationship between money and emotions. Erika shares her journey from learning finances from her father to a dynamic career that included significant life transitions, such as marriage, children, divorce, and inheriting assets. Through these experiences, Erika deeply understood money's impact on personal relationships and the importance of clear financial communication.

We talk about the crucial role of estate planning and life insurance, particularly for parents with children and aging parents. Erika gives great advice about reducing spending, setting financial boundaries, and using conversation tools to facilitate healthy money discussions. She also talks about the benefits of small, sustainable financial habits and introduces innovative methods, like using conversation cards, to improve financial wellness.

We Talk About:

Importance of estate planning and life insurance
Communication between parents and children about financial matters
Financial support for aging parents
Setting boundaries in financial discussions
Challenges in talking about finances and overcoming them
Reducing spending and building sustainable habits
Practical tips for financial conversations
Aligning spending with personal values
Creating a “Yes Plan” for financial priorities
Importance of updating estate plans and documents
Erika's background and journey in financial therapy
Using conversation cards to improve financial communication

READ+LISTEN+LEARN:

Erika offered a great list of resources for helping with estate planning and money conversations:

Books:
- Cash Flow Cookbook by Gordon Stein
Resources:
- Let's Talk Finances, Erika's new game: https://www.amazon.com/Couples-Relationship-Conversation-Card-Game/dp/B0CZM89CZD
- Erika's website: https://yourfinancialtherapist.com/
- Erika's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/your-financial-therapist/
- Erika's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourfinancialtherapy
- Erika's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourfinancialtherapist/
Wellbeing and Music:
- "War" by Katy Perry

EP: 017 "F.I.R.E for Dummies" w/ Author Jackie Cummings Koski

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0500

On this episode I talk to the author of the new book "F.I.R.E for Dummies", Jackie Cummings Koski, CFP®️.

Jackie's road to an early retirement in her forties began with a wake-up call during her divorce. She walks us through her journey from conquering her fear of the stock market by joining an investment club, educating herself on the ins and outs of personal finance and eventually sharing her knowledge through writing and educating others.

We talk about...

How life events like divorce can spur a quest for financial knowledge.
How joining investment clubs and other communities can demystify the stock market and provide valuable insights around personal finance.
What F.I.R.E is and isn't and how achieving an early retirement requires planning, a commitment to financial education and ACTION!
How to take control of your finances and how to find useful resources for your own F.I.R.E journey.

And much more...

READ+LISTEN+LEARN:

Jackie shared some amazing resources during our conversation. Check them out to find podcasts to listen to, blogs to read and resources to help you along your own path toward Financial Independence and Retiring Early:

https://www.choosefi.com/
https://www.madfientist.com/
https://richandregular.com/
https://www.financiallyintentional.com/
https://www.biggerpockets.com/
https://affordanything.com/

WELLBEING:

Jackie shared that she tries to go out for a hike as much as she can. Now that she's financial independent and has the flexibility, she'll go out for a walk almost everyday.

FIND JACKIE:

Buy the Book ! : https://bit.ly/3SjbNue
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackiecummingskoski/
https://www.instagram.com/finomenal_woman/
Check her podcast : https://catchinguptofi.com/

ABOUT ME:

My name is Jim Grace and I am a CFP®️ (Certified Financial Planner) and the Director of Wealth Management at Silver Pine Capital, LLC. (www.silverpinecapital.com) a registered investment advisory firm in Medfield, Massachusetts.

In my spare time I host a podcast and write about Financial Wellness & Wellbeing. Check out some of my other work @ www.ModernFinancialWellness.com. On the website I try to unpack each episode a little further and also spotlight any other resources I think might be helpful to anyone trying to feel better about their finances.

EP: 016 Love, Money & ADHD: How Neurodivergence Impacts Your Finances w/ Christine Hargrove

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0500

On this episode I am joined by Christine Hargrove, PhD candidate at The University of Georgia. Christine's work centers around ADHD, Relationships and Finances and we had a great conversation about the intersection of all three of those things.

ADHD is something that my family lives with, which in the past has sometimes made it challenging for my wife and I to have healthy, constructive conversations about our finances. Being neurodivergent can make the difficult task of managing your money even more challenging.

Additionally, being the spouse or partner of someone with ADHD (like me) requires additional thought and attention focused on things like how you will communicate with one another, what systems of support you might need to have in place and an acknowledgement that even if things are tough, you can and will get through it if you work together and remember that it doesn't have to be perfect.

We talk about ...

What ADHD is, how it is diagnosed and the symptoms that present in those living with it.
Executive functioning skills and how they are impacted by ADHD.
How ADHD can impact not only being able to effectively manage your finances, but also the affects it may have on your relationship.
Systems of support and resources available to help you understand the condition better and tips to apply to your financial lives to help you have a better relationship with money.

... and much more.

READ + LISTEN + LEARN:

Christine provided an amazing list of resources, YouTube channels and books to check out.

The work of Dr. Russell Barkley. His book "Executive Functions" as well as his YouTube channel.

Note: The "Executive Function Jenga" image that appears in the video was adapted by Christine based on the work of Dr. Barkley.

The "How to ADHD" YouTube channel and specifically the, "Wall of Awful" videos.
"Love & Money: 15 Exercises to Strengthen Your Relationship", The book by Dr. Sonya Lutter.
"Your Future Self: How to Make Tomorrow Better Today", The book by Hal Hershfield is also brought up, not as a direct recommendation of Christine. However, having read it myself I wanted to make sure it was listed here.

WELLBEING:

Christine joked (but was serious) that if you live with ADHD, you should make sure you are taking your meds as a step #1 in improving your wellbeing.
She also told us that one of her tricks to make sure she gets a good night sleep is to get herself ready for bed when her kids go to sleep. This keeps her from catching a "second wind" late at night and getting sucked into work into the later hours of the evening. Advice that I could use myself!

FIND HER AT:

Christinehargrove.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-hargrove/

ABOUT ME:

My name is Jim Grace and I am a CFP®️ (Certified Financial Planner) and the Director of Wealth Management at Silver Pine Capital, LLC. (www.silverpinecapital.com) a registered investment advisory firm in Medfield, Massachusetts.

In my spare time I host a podcast and write about Financial Wellness & Wellbeing. Check out some of my other work @ www.ModernFinancialWellness.com. On the website I try to unpack each episode a little further and also spotlight any other resources I think might be helpful to anyone trying to feel better about their finances.

EP: 015 An Intro to Financial Biases w/ Mary Bell Carlson

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0500

Dr. Mary Bell Carlson, CFP®, AFC®, is a financial behavior expert, well-known speaker, podcaster, and storyteller and I was excited to have the chance to talk to her about her work around Financial Biases.

We had a really wide ranging conversation in which we cover...

Mary's extremely unique career thus far. Having spent time in Washington D.C. working with the Pentagon and lobbying Congress on behalf of the Financial Planning Association, Mary gives us a behind the scenes look at the role of the federal government and the impact it can have on financial decision making and financial behavior.
We talk about what Financial Biases are and how they appear in our daily lives.
She helps us understand ourselves better and gives us a lesson in Heuristics, or the "short cuts" our bodies use to help us make decisions.

And much more...

READ + LISTEN + LEARN:

"The Book of Forgiving", By Desmond and Mpho Tutu
"The Bomber Mafia", By Malcolm Gladwell
"Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela"

WELLBEING:

Mary loves to spend time in prayer, reflecting on the things she is grateful for in her life and reading to her children.

FIND HER AT:

https://keynote.financial/mary-carlson/

EP: 014 Living Big: Using Curiosity and Creativity to Create the Life You Want w/ Rochelle Seltzer

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0500

Creativity is something that often appears as a key ingredient in finding purpose and living a meaningful life. I find that connection between creativity and purpose to be really fascinating, which is why I was excited to have the opportunity to talk to Rochelle Seltzer.

Rochelle is an award winning designer, author and coach and she joined me to talk about her book, "Live Big: A Manifesto for a Creative Life".

We talk about...

Rochelle's journey from business owner to coach & author.
How curiosity and creativity help create the space for purpose and meaning to grow.
We also take a tour around her book and some of the 'Discovery Dozen' exercises which Seth Godin said "will change your creative practice (and your life) for the better." !

... And much more

The book is easily digestible and full of great activities, thought provoking questions and ideas to help you re-empower your creative self.

WELLBEING:

In 2015 Rochelle took a painting class which she describes as having changed her life. She has been taking painting classes ever since and draws great joy from the experience in creating on a canvas.
She also enjoys writing.

FIND HER AT:

https://thelivebigbook.com/

EP: 013 Love & Money: How Joint Bank Accounts Help Your Marriage w/ Jenny Olson

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 22:00:00 -0500

Merging your finances and having joint bank accounts when you get engaged or married might seem like a good idea. But it turns out that it's actually backed by science as well!

I sat down with Jenny Olson, Assistant Professor of Marketing at Indiana University's Kelley School of Business to discuss her work around all things couples and money, but specifically...

Combining finances and joint bank accounts.
The reasons joint bank accounts are beneficial to relationships.
The Connubial Crucible (aka the first 2 years of marriage).
Financial Infidelity and the impact on a relationship.

.... and much more.

READ+LISTEN+LEARN:

If you want to dig into the research and check out Jenny and her colleague's studies you can find them here:

Jenny also recommends:

"Tightwads and Spendthrifts: Navigating the Money Minefield in Real Relationships", by Scott Rick
"The All-or-Nothing Marriage: How the Best Marriages Work", by Eli J. Finkle

WELLBEING:

Jenny loves "artisanal lattes and reflections at coffee shops", writing poetry and posting on Instagram (which was great to hear coming from a behavioral scientist!)

FIND HER AT:

www.jennyginolson.com

EP: 012 Finding Your Purpose In Life, The Japanese Secret of Ikigai w/ Neil Bage

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 13:00:00 -0500

On this episode I talk with Neil Bage about Ikigai, the Japanese concept that combines the words "Iki" or "Life" and "Gai" or "Worth". Combined the word Ikigai means, "That which gives your life worth, meaning, or purpose".

Finding purpose and living a life filled with meaning are important things to pursue, but these concepts can sometimes feel difficult to approach. Exploring Ikigai can be a helpful way to get started thinking about the things that are most important to you and how you want to be spending your time making a living.

During the conversation we delve into...

The 4 key elements of Ikigai:
- What you love.
- What you can get paid for.
- What the world needs.
- What you are good at.
How the concept connects to our financial world.
Why balancing what we love and how we get paid can be challenging and how to reconcile some of the conflict we find in our lives.

... And much more.

WELLBEING:

To improve his Financial Wellbeing Neil focuses on automation and using apps like https://www.getchip.uk/, to off load some of the demands of managing his finances on a regular basis.

READ + LISTEN + LEARN:

Neil recommends the book "The Power of Letting Go: How to Drop Everything That's Holding You Back", by John Purkiss.
Resources from PositivePsychology.com

FIND HIM AT:

Shaping Wealth
Twitter: https://twitter.com/neilbage

EP: 011 Finding Your "Enough" w/ Manisha Thakor

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 14:00:00 -0500

On this episode of MFW I talk with Manisha Thakor about her new book "Money Zen: The Secret to Finding Your Enough". In the book Manisha shares her struggles with workaholism and "hustle culture" and how she's left behind the constant quest for "more" and created a life filled with balance and meaning.

I believe that the word "Enough" can be one of the most important topics in all of personal finance. I don't know that I can think of another word that carries so much weight and can appear in so many different ways.

Do I make enough money? Am I investing enough? Are my returns good enough to help me accomplish my goals? I hear questions like this all the time.

It shows up all over the place, intertwined with all kinds of financial planning concepts. However, where the word starts to take on new meaning is when it' is asked in questions related to one's identity.

Questions like, Am I doing enough for my children? Am I spending enough time with my family? Am I good at my job? When we start to use the word in this way what we are really doing is asking the question...

Am "I" Enough?

All of these questions and how you feel about them can impact your financial lives, as well as your overall wellbeing. So spending some time thinking about what your "enough" is can be time very well spent. Therefore I can't recommend Manisha's new book enough, pun intended!

During our chat Manisha and I talk about:

Her childhood and how she traces her struggles with workaholism all the way back to the "small t" trauma she experienced when she was bullied in her elementary school days.
Being a "Human Doing" vs. Being a "Human Being" .
Social Comparison & Counterfeit Financial Culture and the challenges that they present in our modern lives.
Net-Worth ≠ Self-Worth
Money Zen = Financial Health + Emotional Wealth , How to invest in both sides of the equation.
The 3 Super Power C's - Curiosity, Connection and Creativity
Creating a "Joyful Spending" plan
Granting yourself permission to accomplish less.

READ + LISTEN + LEARN:

I forgot to ask the specific question re: what books, podcasts or other things Manisha would recommend checking out, but during our conversation she references:

The work of Derek Thompson at The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/author/derek-thompson/
"A Room of One's Own", The book by Virginia Woolf
"Your Money or Your Life", The book by Vicki Robin & Joe Dominguez * This marks at least the 3rd time this book has come up on the podcast which means you should probably read it.

FIND HER AT:

https://moneyzen.com/

ABOUT ME:

My name is Jim Grace and I am a CFP®️ (Certified Financial Planner) and the Director of Wealth Management at Silver Pine Capital, LLC. (www.silverpinecapital.com) a registered investment advisory firm in Medfield, Massachusetts.

In my spare time I host a podcast and write about Financial Wellness & Wellbeing. Check out some of my other work @ www.ModernFinancialWellness.com. On the website I try to unpack each episode a little further and also spotlight any other resources I think might be helpful to anyone trying to feel better about their finances.

https://www.instagram.com/modernfinancialwellness/

EP: 010 Breaking Money Silence w/ Wealth Psychology Expert Kathleen Burns Kingsbury

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0500

On this episode I discuss the often difficult subject of "Talking About Money" with Wealth Psychology Expert, Author and Coach Kathleen Burns Kingsbury.

Through her work Kathleen inspires women, the next generation, and financial professionals to break their money silence and live richer, more satisfying lives.

THINGS YOU WILL LEARN:

Kathleen describes the shift she has seen in the financial services industry over the years and how advisors are now more open to discussing how clients are feeling and their attitudes towards money. She even admitted that early in her practice she avoided using the word "emotions" when coaching advisors because it was "off putting".
Why it can be difficult to talk about money in the first place and how to go about having better conversations about finances with your spouse or partners.
We talk about the unique challenges that women can face when talking about money, especially those that find themselves in the position of female breadwinner.
Kathleen shares her thoughts on how women can go about determining what they are worth and how to ask for what they deserve in negations.
How to go about changing your "money talk mindset".

... And much more.

READ + LISTEN + LEARN:

Kathleen Recommends:

"Money Zen, The Secret to Finding Your Enough", The book by Manisha Thakor. *** Stay tuned for my interview with Manisha about this book launching soon.
"The Financial Wisdom of Ebenezer Scrooge, 5 Principles to Transform Your Relationship with Money", The book by Ted Klontz, Ph. D., Brad Klontz, Psy. D., & Rick Kahler, MS, CFP©️
Smartless - The podcast hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes & Will Arnett is what Kathleen turns to for some lighthearted entertainment!

WELLBEING:

Kathleen loves the outdoors and finds things like mountain biking, skiing, hiking and paddleboarding help improve how she's feeling.

FIND HER @:

Her Website: www.https://www.breakingmoneysilence.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleenburnskingsbury/

ABOUT ME:

My name is Jim Grace and I am a CFP®️ (Certified Financial Planner) and the Director of Wealth Management at Silver Pine Capital, LLC. a registered investment advisory firm in Medfield, Massachusetts.

https://silverpinecapital.com/

In my spare time I host a podcast and write about Financial Wellness & Wellbeing.

Check out some of my other work @ https://www.modernfinancialwellness.com/ . On the website I try to unpack each episode a little further and also spotlight any other resources I think might be helpful to anyone trying to feel better about their finances.

EP: 009 F.I.R.E: Charting a Healthy Coarse Towards Financial Independence w/ Allen Mueller

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 22:00:00 -0500

In this episode I talk with Financial Planner Allen Mueller about F.I.R.E, Financial Independence Retire Early. What it is and isn't, how to go about seeking financial independence and things to consider if you plan to retire early.

YOU WILL LEARN ABOUT:

F.I.R.E - What it is and isn't
Allen’s journey from engineer in a cubicle to being an independent financial advisor on his own path toward financial independence. All of which was driven by a “Desire for a control of my time”.
Retiring "Away" from something vs. Retiring "To" something else.
Having the ability to live your lifestyle without earned income.
Saving and investing enough to retire “earlier” than normal.
Calculating your FI # (Financial Independence #) = Household spending x 25.
Coast FIRE & Being FI Enough > Taking a pay cut to follow a passion.
If I didn’t need the paycheck, would I still be doing this?
Tips to Follow When Seeking Financial Independence:
- Being as efficient as possible
- Fees need to be low
- Taxes need to be optimized
- Picking the right types of accounts
- Proper planning for the "what if’s" of life
An alternative to "Budgeting" = "Conscious Spending Plan"

TOOLS:

https://www.firecalc.com/
https://www.monarchmoney.com/

READ + LISTEN + LEARN:

"The Simple Path to Wealth", by JL Collins
"Outlive", by Peter Attia & Bill Gifford
The "Choose FI" Podcast - https://www.choosefi.com/listen/choose-fi-podcast/
https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/

WELLBEING:

Allen explains his thoughts on overall wellbeing telling us that, “Heath is wealth. What’s the point of being retired early if you can’t enjoy it". Therefore Allen likes to stay fit and focused on eating a healthy diet.

FIND HIM @:

https://7saturdaysfinancial.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/allenrmueller/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/7Saturdaysaweek
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7saturdaysaweek/

ABOUT JIM:

My name is Jim Grace and I am a CFP®️ (Certified Financial Planner) and the Director of Wealth Management at Silver Pine Capital, LLC. a registered investment advisory firm in Medfield, Massachusetts.

In my spare time I host a podcast and write about Financial Wellness & Wellbeing. Check out some of my other work @ Modern Financial Wellness . On the website I try to unpack each episode a little further and also spotlight any other resources I think might be helpful to anyone trying to feel better about their finances.

Instagram

EP: 008 New Year Money Makeover a Step by Step Guide To Organizing Your Finances in 2024

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 16:00:00 -0500

For the first episode of Modern Financial Wellness in 2024, I put together a short "How To" show. I'll walk you through the things to think about and steps to take when you consider organizing your finances.

We'll start with some high-level ideas like:

Creating a "Year End Review" for 2023. Because you can't move forward without thinking about where you have been.
Having an "Open Growth Mindset". I reference Carol Dweck's book "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" which tells us that anything you practice, you can get better at. This directly applies to managing your finances. Especially if managing your money is difficult or stressful. That's totally normal. If you practice you will get better! And it will feel less stressful over time!

I walk you through 3 important areas to focus your efforts:

1) Getting Organized.
2) Understanding where your money is coming from and where you are spending it.
3) Building good processes and routines for cultivating healthy financial habits you can stick with.

Any time I'm talking about building new habits and routines I always recommend James Clear's book, "Atomic Habits: Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results". If you are kicking off a new routine with your money, then this book should be on the top of your reading/listening list.

I spotlight a few different Tools, Apps and FinTech Platforms that can help make your financial lives easier and generally lower the stress and anxiety around managing your money. Here are a few:

Along the way I also share lessons learned from prior episodes including:

EP:001 Mindfulness & Money w/ Derek Hagen - The importance of being "Non-Judgmentally Aware" of our spending and habits.
EP: 003 Getting Things Done w/ Dr. Moira Somers and Shaun Erikson - We're human, managing money is hard. Give yourself a break and stick with it!
EP: 005 Time & Money w/ Time Management Expert Dr. Sarah Reiff-Hekking - The importance of having an open growth mindset.

Finally, I talk about how my wife and I manage the day to day of our finances and what some of our routines look like, as well as anecdotes from client experiences and much more.

Best of luck with your financial goals for 2024 and beyond! I am here to help if you need me.

And remember if you ever want to chat about anything from the episode or have questions about how these things might apply to you, please feel free to virtually drop by my office sometime using the link below. I'm always happy to connect and help out where I can...

https://calendly.com/james-grace/office-hours

EP: 007 Tech Spotlight on Sequence, a first of it's kind Financial Router

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0500

On this special TECH SPOTLIGHT edition of Modern Financial Wellness Jim talks with Gilad Uziely CEO and Founder of Sequence, a first of its kind “Financial Router”.

So What is Sequence?

Sequence is a “Financial Router” which means it is a platform designed to help you use logic and automation to move money, or route it, between multiple accounts, across the many financial institutions you might currently do business with.

Why is it Unique?

There are a number of things I like about the platform. Sequence allows you to visualize your money flow across multiple accounts and automate transactions amongst them. These are both really useful but other financial apps and institutions do some of this already.

What makes Sequence different is its use of LOGIC.

Logic allows you to create rules and what if scenarios across your financial plan to improve efficiency and eliminate as much “human error” as possible.

For example, let’s say you have a cash savings account that gets an automatic deposit into it every month. Let’s assume you also make some additional deposits into the account when you get a bonus or a commission check. Eventually your intention is to not have too much in your savings account and to move money into other places.

What Sequence allows you to do is set up a rule that says something like,

“When my cash savings account balance gets up to X amount, move 25% into my brokerage account with Fidelity and move 25% into our joint savings account where my wife and I are saving for our second home.”

Once those rules and logic are established you let Sequence take care of the rest. And that is what I love most about it.

Some of the Benefits:

The amount of rules you can apply are endless which will take a lot of time and stress out of having to regularly monitor balances and manually move money across platforms.

It can help eliminate a scenario I see all the time. People leaving money in accounts where it doesn’t belong for too long. That can create a potential opportunity cost of having not done something better with the money while it sat there.

Small business owners and the self employed folks I work with often struggle to manage cash flow. There are often multiple revenue streams coming in from many different places and landing in different accounts. Once revenue is "received in the business" it needs to continue to move between accounts to make payroll, pay rent, take profits, etc. Sequence can help streamline all of that.

We should be spending our time planning what we want for our future and strategizing how to get there. But we shouldn’t have to spend hours making those plans a reality. Once we have our goals defined ideally we’ll use technology to help us implement so we can go back to living our lives.

I see Sequence as being a platform that allows us to do just that!

FIND HIM @:

gilad@getsequence.io
https://www.getsequence.io/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giladuziely/

READ + LISTEN + LEARN:

Gilad recommends Starting Greatness : https://greatness.floodgate.com/

He is also a fan of the Ben Miller, founder of ChroniFi and host of the ChroniFI podcast:

WELLBEING:

Gilad shared with us that he surfs and enjoys the fact that he can’t take his phone with him when he goes!

CHECK OUT Modern Financial Wellness

EP: 006 Buying a House is Hard w/ Mortgage Expert John Donlon

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode Jim talks with mortgage expert John Donlon about the home buying experience, why it can feel so stressful and how to best prepare for the biggest financial transaction in most of our lives.

John has over 20 years of experience, helped thousands of people purchase a home or refinance their existing mortgage and talked thousands more through the process ultimately never leading to a completed loan. He has seen it all.

HERE IS WHAT WE LEARNED:

Things not working out, loans failing, homes not being purchased are often times a good thing.
Why buying a home so stressful and how to prepare yourself for the journey.
What's at stake when buying a home.
How to be okay with uncertainty.

HELPFUL TIPS:

Buying a home or moving takes "100 hours" start to finish when you consider all the moving pieces. Start Early.
"It is an emotionally charged process, a 10/10 on the scale and somewhere along the way you will have failure. Failure is necessary along the journey, if not you may end up owning a home that just wasn’t meant to be ."
Write a mission statement. What do you want out of your home?
Be true to yourself and your mission, stay patient and don't settle.
Build a team and build it early.

We learn from John that the real estate market is more challenging today than ever before, which requires more preparation than ever. It is important to keep in mind that it is a competitive process. Which means that the most competitive offer is the one that offers the lowest risk to the seller.

"Prepare, give yourself time, build your team, pressure test your why."

John describes the home buying experience as if ...

"...you are raising your hand and jumping into chaos. You shouldn't move reactively, make a proactive gameplan and follow it."

Jim also shares his experience in buying and selling homes over the years, as well refinancing mortgages. He describes the stress that came with those transactions and what he learned from it.

Listen to your gut!

WELLBEING:

John is a fan of putting "Permanent Guardrails" around the important and meangingful things in his life. Hacks if you will, that allow him to stay focused and committed to the things most important to him and his family.

As an example, John has made coffee at home since January of 2019 and has a system in place to make sure it's ready every morning, automatically without having to think about it.

FIND HIM @

Are you ready to buy a home ? Check out your "Home Ownership Aptitude Score"
Instagram
LinkedIn

ABOUT JIM:

My name is Jim Grace and I am a CFP®️ (Certified Financial Planner) and the Director of Wealth Management at Silver Pine Capital, LLC. a registered investment advisory firm in Medfield, Massachusetts.

In my spare time I host a podcast and write about Financial Wellness & Wellbeing. Check out some of my other work @ Modern Financial Wellness . On the website I try to unpack each episode a little further and also spotlight any other resources I think might be helpful to anyone trying to feel better about their finances.

Instagram

EP: 005 Couples & Money w/ Couples Therapist Ashley Quamme, LMFT

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 22:00:00 -0500

On this episode Jim talks with couples financial therapist and coach Ashely Quamme, LMFT about couples & money and why talking about money can be so difficult.

So why is it difficult for couples to talk about money? Here are a handful of ideas from Ashley and Jim’s conversation:

Culturally money can be a taboo subject, we don’t talk about a lot in our families and growing up.
We may have deeply rooted beliefs about money and finances, and we bring these beliefs into our relationships.
Money brings with it a lot of emotions, sometimes negative emotions, and that can be difficult to deal with.

Ashley describes money as sometimes a “content issue”. It is what clients might be arguing about, but that’s just at surface level. Like an iceberg, money can be the issue above the surface, but below it there can be all kinds of negative emotions and history that needs to be explored and dealt with.

So how do you do that?

Ashley suggests starting with good conversations, but acknowledges that getting two people to the table can be “the real work”. Both partners need to be willing to come to the table and “accept influence from our spouses and partners” to really have a chance at making progress.

If we can do that, then she says everything else is usually “figureoutable”. And even though that's not a real word, we LOVE that advice.

So what can you do to have a better money relationship with your partner? Ashley suggests:

Regular money dates. Don’t call them “meetings”, because no one likes meetings!
Try creating a money timeline.
“Think. Feel. Do”
Use “We” language instead of you and I. How do we spend our money together?
Being transparent, especially when keeping separate accounts.
Don’t be afraid to reach out for help.

Find Ashley @:

The Wealthy Marriage
Instagram
FaceBook
LinkedIn

Resources Ashley Recommends:

Financial Therapy Association
Dr. Brad Klontz on TikTok
“Mind Over Money” by Dr. Brad & Ted Klontz

Wellbeing Ideas:

Reading before the kids get up, slow mornings allowing her to set her day up for success.
Walking, mid day especially after mornings of client work.

About Me:

My name is Jim Grace and I am a CFP®️ (Certified Financial Planner) and the Director of Wealth Management at Silver Pine Capital, LLC. a registered investment advisory firm in Medfield, Massachusetts.

In my spare time I host a podcast and write about Financial Wellness & Wellbeing. Check out some of my other work @ Modern Financial Wellness . On the website I try to unpack each episode a little further and also spotlight any other resources I think might be helpful to anyone trying to feel better about their finances.

Instagram

EP: 004 Time & Money w/ Time Management Expert Dr. Sarah Reiff-Hekking

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of MFW Jim’s talks to time management expert Sarah Reiff-Hekking about the similarities between managing your time and managing your finances.

Jim recently completed Sarah’s “Jump Start Your Productivity” online program and shared what he learned while spotlighting some of the areas where having better time management skills would benefit someone's financial life.

Jim and Sarah unpack:

The importance of having a Growth Mindset.
Mindfulness in Time Management and Personal Finance.
Why Self Care is an important factor in being productive.
Meal Prep!
What a Meaningful Use of Time might look like.
And Much More!

Being aware of how you are spending your time, being aware of the present moment and how you are choosing to spend your time are important first steps in gaining control of your days. Just like being aware of how you are spending your money helps you gain control of your financial lives.

About My Guest:

Dr. Sarah Reiff-Hekking is a Speaker, Coach, and Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience helping people create and achieve their goals. She’s developed unique systems to help her clients get a grip on their time and step up to the next level in their life or business.

Dr. Reiff-Hekking received her Ph. D. from SUNY at Stony Brook in 1997, and Coach Certification from MentorCoach. She was on the facility at UMass Medical School for 6 years. She founded True Focus Coaching in 2005 and, as a business-savvy entrepreneur, she grew her successful coaching practice during a down economy.

Find Her @:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/truefocuscoaching
True Focus Coaching: https://www.truefocuscoaching.com

About Me:

My name is Jim Grace and I am a CFP®️ (Certified Financial Planner) and the Director of Wealth Management at Silver Pine Capital, LLC. a registered investment advisory firm in Medfield, Massachusetts.

In my spare time I host a podcast and write about Financial Wellness & Wellbeing. Check out some of my other work @ Modern Financial Wellness . On the website I try to unpack each episode a little further and also spotlight any other resources I think might be helpful to anyone trying to feel better about their finances.

Instagram

EP: 003 Getting Things Done w/ Clinical Neuropsychologist Dr. Moira Somers and FinTech Founder Shaun Erikson

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0500

In this episode Jim talks to clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Moira Somers, Ph. D. and Financial Planner/Fin Tech Founder Shaun Erickson, CFP®️ about why it can be difficult to complete financial tasks and what to do about it.

Dr. Somers describes the 3 biggest reasons why we don't accomplish our financial tasks:

1) Procrastination. Usually used as an avoidance tool because we don't want to deal with the emotional aspects of our financial lives.
2) Overwhelm. Simply put, we all have a lot going and sometimes we feel the need to prioritize the things right in front of us.
3) We Forget. We are all human and it turns out that "40-70% of our best intentions are forgotten" - Dr. Moira Somers

Shaun discusses his work as a financial planner and why he decided to create the FinTech company Knudge, a tool designed to help financial advisors better support their clients in completing financial tasks.

And Dr. Somers adds her expertise to explain why a "Knudge" can be so useful:

"Nothing feels better than progress" - Dr. Moira Somers.

About our Guests:

Dr. Moira Somers, Ph. D. is a psychologist, family wealth consultant and executive coach. She specializes in the psychology of money. She addresses matters that range from the highly personal concerns of individuals and families all the way up to broader service, design and structural issues affecting financial follow-through and equitable access to capital. Although Canada is her home, her client base is international.

Dr. Somers is a faculty member at the Ultra High Net Worth Institute and at the Sudden Money Institute. She leads the Financial Psychology Special Interest Group for the American Psychological Association. She is a featured guest and writer for many financial advising/family office podcasts and publications.

Her book, Advice that Sticks: How to Give Financial Advice that People Will Follow, has become an international bestseller. It tackles, head-on, the problem of unimplemented financial advice. It has been adopted as an authoritative guidebook by such diverse groups as postsecondary institutions, private firms specializing in Ultra Hight Net Worth clients, and credit counselling agencies.

Find Her @:

Website: https://moneymindandmeaning.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moira-somers/

Shaun Erickson, CFP®️ is the founder of Single Point Partners, LLC. a registered investment advisory and financial planning firm in Boston, MA.

In addition he is also the founder of Knudge.com, a Fin Tech tool designed to help financial advisors better support their clients in accomplishing financial tasks.

Find Him @:
Website: https://spcfo.com/
Website: https://knudge.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-erickson/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Shaun_SPP

About Jim

Jim Grace CFP®️ is the Director of Wealth Management at Silver Pine Capital, LLC. a registered investment advisory firm in Medfield, Massachusetts. Jim has more than a decade of experience in the financial services industry and currently leads the firms flat fee only financial planning offering.

Website: Modern Financial Wellness
Instagram

EP:002 Feel Empowered By Budgeting w/ Budget Coach Jen Fuhler

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 11:00:00 -0500

In this episode Jim talks with YNAB certified Budget Coach Jen Fuhler about how she found confidence and comfort during a difficult personal time by taking control of her finances and budgeting.

About our Guest:

Jen Fuhler is a YNAB certified budget coach. She holds a masters degree in Financial Planning and a certificate in Financial Therapy. She is currently a full time college professor where she created and taught the personal finance course offered at the school.

She is a member of the Financial Therapy Association and financial literacy advocate. She spends some of her free time creating financial literacy workshops and teaching financial skills to kids.

Find Her @:

Facebook: facebook.com/jenfuhlerbudgetcoach
Website: jenfuhler.com
Email: jenfuhler@gmail.com

About Jim

He most often helps busy, successful, professional couples with kids get organized, create meaningful goals and implement financial strategies designed at increasing their financial wellbeing. He is married, is a father to two young children and the son of two aging parents, and faces many of the same financial challenges that his clients and listeners do every day.

Find Jim @:

LinkedIn: James Grace
Company Website: SilverPine Capital
Personal Blog: www.modernfinancialwellness.com

EP: 001 Mindfulness and Your Money w/ Mindfulness Coach and CFP Derek Hagen

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode Jim talks to mindfulness/meditation coach Derek Hagen about what mindfulness is and isn't as well as some practical ways to apply mindfulness to our financial lives.

About our Guest:

Derek Hagen, CFP®, CFA, CFT-I™, FBS®, CIPM is a certified mindfulness/meditation teacher and financial psychology expert specializing in meaning in life. He helps clients who feel stuck.

He supports financial health, mindset change, and intentional living by helping people understand their beliefs, values, and thinking patterns to help them live a life of meaning and purpose. He is a certified mindfulness and meditation teacher

He writes about the psychology of money and meaningful living using simple sketches on his Meaningful Money blog.

He has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Nerd’s Eye View, Standard Deviations Podcast, Human Side of Money Podcast, Business Insider, and the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

Here are some links:

Website: www.meaningfulmoney.life
Mindfulness Course: www.meaningfulmoney.life/mindfulness
Blog and Newsletter: www.meaning.blog
Twitter: @_derekhagen_
Instagram: @moneypsychology

About Jim

LinkedIn: James Grace
Company Website: SilverPine Capital
Personal Blog: www.modernfinancialwellness.com