In our first podcast episode, 183 episodes ago, we introduced financial therapy as a groundbreaking blend of emotional insight and financial strategy. But has the field evolved since then? In this multi-part series, we revisit the core principles of financial therapy and explore how the practice has changed—and how it hasn't. From the rise of new tools and research to shifts in client needs and industry challenges, we'll examine what's stayed constant and what innovations have pushed the fiel...

In this episode, I’m sharing a hard lesson I learned about travel insurance—one that cost me thousands of dollars and a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Arctic for my 30th wedding anniversary. Like many of you, I thought I understood what my travel insurance covered, but as it turns out, I didn’t read the fine print closely enough. A mechanical flight delay resulted in us missing the cruise, and the insurance company denied our claim. I’ll break down what went wrong, the hidden details in trave...

If we were driven purely by logic, coffee shops wouldn’t stand a chance. But let's be real—habits, emotions, and convenience keep us coming back for that daily cappuccino. In this video, we break down the financial side of making coffee at home (hint: the savings are big) and take a closer look at why, even with the math on your side, you’re still hitting up your favorite café. Let’s explore what’s really stopping us from giving up that $5.50 cup.A podcast that blends the nuts and bolts of fi...

In this episode, we explore why $1 million today doesn’t hold the same power as it did in the past. Did you know it would take $18 million in today's dollars to match the purchasing power of a 1929 millionaire? We dive into cognitive biases like money illusion, anchoring, and status quo bias, explaining why so many people still cling to the notion of wealth that no longer applies. Learn how inflation has shaped our perceptions of what it means to be "rich."A podcast that blends the nuts and b...

In this podcast episode, we're diving into the critical role that emotional intelligence (EQ) plays in your financial success. Understanding and managing your emotions is key to making smart money decisions, and we're here to help you assess where you stand. We’ll explore ten definitive ways to evaluate your EQ, from recognizing emotions, emotional regulation, relationship health, and handling criticism, they all have an impact on your financial well-being. Whether you’re struggling wit...

Discover the surprising emotional journey behind senior discounts in this episode, where we unravel the mix of pride, resistance, guilt, and even shame that often accompany these perks of aging. Why do some seniors hesitate to claim what they’ve earned? How do societal views on aging influence these feelings? And how can we shift our perspective to see these discounts as a well-deserved reward for a lifetime of contributions? Join us for a thoughtful and lighthearted exploration of identity, ...

In this insightful episode, we delve into how U.S. election outcomes influence retirement planning, revealing a surprising pattern: many advisors and clients react to political uncertainty with fear-driven investment decisions, often to their detriment. Reflecting on the 2016 and 2020 elections, we explore how market reactions defied expectations. Will history repeat itself and why this year may or may not be different. Join us as Rick discusses what you need to do both emotionally and ...

In this podcast episode, we're diving into the critical role that emotional intelligence (EQ) plays in your financial success. Understanding and managing your emotions is key to making smart money decisions, and we're here to help you assess where you stand. We’ll explore ten definitive ways to evaluate your EQ, from recognizing emotions, emotional regulation, relationship health, and handling criticism, they all have an impact on your financial well-being. Whether you’re struggling wit...

Fear and frustration about Social Security's future are spreading like wildfire, especially during election seasons. Politicians have intensified these concerns, warning that Social Security will go broke by 2035. This has left many, especially younger workers, feeling bitter and anxious about their financial futures. Stories of individuals doubting they'll ever see the benefits of their contributions highlight a growing sense of hopelessness. However, experts assure that a complete collapse ...

When people think of "Dying Broke," they often picture spending their retirement on memorable experiences, influenced by optimism bias. However, the harsh reality is that many will outlive their financial resources due to long-term health care costs, driven by availability heuristic and anchoring bias. The hidden and escalating fees in assisted living facilities, despite their high profitability, add to the financial stress and confusion for families, fueling emotions of frustration, fear, an...

The transition to retirement often prompts crucial questions about financial well-being. Is ongoing financial planning or therapy essential during this new life chapter? And can retirees realistically afford these services? While the importance of financial guidance in retirement is undeniable, the feasibility of accessing such support varies widely. A particularly ironic situation arises for those who rely on fee-only financial planners: as retirement progresses and financial resources dwind...

In this episode, Rick explores the evolving perspectives on career and passion within the financial life planning community. Once an advocate of "do what you love and the money will follow," many early life planners have now realized the challenges of balancing fulfilling work with financial stability. Featuring insights from Scott Galloway and Jonathan Clemens, he delves into why finding your talent might be more crucial than following your heart. Join Rick as he discusses his own path of ap...

In this episode, we delve into the evolving definition of "inflation" and the cognitive biases influencing public perception. While economists traditionally define inflation as the gradual loss of purchasing power reflected in the CPI, many Americans now equate it with high prices. This shift, highlighted in Mike Allen's article "The New Inflation," underscores a significant gap between professional and public understandings. We explore how biases like confirmation bias, anchoring, and the Du...

Rick tackles a common misconception about Social Security benefits. Many people opt to take their benefits early to avoid leaving money on the table if they pass away young. However, this very reason is exactly why they should consider waiting and why cognitive biases and emotions keep us locked into making a poor decision. We’ve all heard that by delaying your Social Security benefits, you can statistically significantly increase the amount you receive, ensuring greater financial security in...

Are you struggling to break free from unhealthy money habits? Do anxiety and shame sabotage your financial goals? In this video, I dive into a groundbreaking therapeutic approach called Internal Family Systems (IFS). You'll learn how IFS can help you understand the "parts" within you that drive your money behaviors. We'll explore how these internal parts might hold outdated beliefs, fears, or even trauma that keep you stuck in financial patterns you want to change. Get ready to discover how I...

Feeling stuck? In this episode, host Rick chats with psychotherapist and best-selling author Britt Frank. Discover the neuroscience behind stuckness and practical tools to make positive changes in your life. Britt discusses the difference between feeling stuck due to a lack of choices versus disliking your options. She emphasizes the importance of micro-steps and explains how your brain's focus on survival might be holding you back. Learn how to break down big goals into manageable pieces and...

Ditch the stigma! This episode dives into the surprising benefits of prenups, even for young couples starting fresh. We'll show you how exploring a prenup, whether you choose to create one or not, can spark crucial conversations about finances, debt, and your future together. Forget just dividing assets - prenups can build communication, trust, and clarity around money, topics many couples shy away from. So, before you say "I do," listen in and discover how a prenup discussion can actually st...

Forget everything you think you know about Ebenezer Scrooge! This video unravels the surprising truth behind his "miserly" ways. Was he really only concerned for himself ? OR did his spending habits underscore that he suffered from hidden trauma that actually warped his ability for self-care? Discover the key to Scrooge's transformation (hint: it's not just about money!) and learn how to avoid the "Scrooge Syndrome" in your own life. This is one Christmas Carol twist you won't wan...

Conclude the series with Rick and Celia as they tackle societal taboos around money discussions and draw parallels between financial secrecy and body shame. Explore the emotional complexities faced by individuals in larger bodies, navigate biases, and challenge assumptions about happiness and appearances. Gain insights into the link between self-worth, body image, and financial status, and how they impact health and well-being. Discover common challenges related to safety, unmet needs, and se...

Dive deeper with Rick and Celia as they explore the profound link between feeling secure in your body and financial safety. Uncover the emotional drivers behind controlled or chaotic eating, and how both food and spending can be used to seek connection or disconnection. Learn about the psychological roots of money and food-related behaviors, emphasizing the importance of addressing underlying needs and emotions for lasting change. This episode equips therapists and financial professionals wit...

Join financial therapist Rick and food & body image specialist Celia Clark as they shatter myths about health and unveil surprising connections between healing your relationship with food and managing your finances. The speakers explore the concept of "bonding" with food or money, and how societal pressures play a role. Explore the link between debt and weight, challenge body size stereotypes, and discover how binge eating and binge spending might share similar roots. While both food and ...

Money challenges cross income lines. This episode sparks a thought-provoking discussion on why everyone needs financial literacy. We explore limitations of current programs, delve into emotional aspects of money across income levels, and consider what else is needed. Join us as we challenge assumptions and discover new approaches to empower everyone financially, regardless of their social standing. It's a must-listen for individuals, educators, and financial professionals seeking to build a m...

Is homeownership the dream for everyone? Join Rick as he dives into the complex emotions behind renting vs. owning. Discover the hopes, fears, and personal factors that shape this life-altering decision. This insightful exploration goes beyond finances, offering valuable perspectives for financial planners and individuals seeking a holistic understanding of their financial journey. Tune in to unlock the true meaning of "owning your dreams."A podcast that blends the nuts and bolts of financial...

Forget financial utopias! This episode tackles the often-overlooked emotional realities of senior financial planning. Explore the unique hurdles faced by seniors, from navigating changing health to grappling with complex financial decisions. This eye-opening journey provides crucial insights for both seniors and their loved ones, empowering you to create a roadmap for financial well-being in the later chapters of life.A podcast that blends the nuts and bolts of financial advice with the emoti...