Inspired Money

Family & Finances: Navigating the Toughest Money Conversations

Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen Think managing family finances is all about spreadsheets and wills? Think again. "Money Talks: The Family Finance Conversations Nobody Is Having" dives deep into the real, emotional, and sometimes uncomfortable money talks that can make or break family relationships, and even impact your financial future. The episode delivers practical tips, expert perspectives, and real-life stories that will help you strengthen trust and open communication across generations. If you care about protecting your family and your money, this conversation is essential viewing. Meet the Expert Panelists Dr. Moira Somers is a psychologist, family wealth consultant, and executive coach who specializes in the psychology of money, advising individuals, families, and institutions worldwide. She is the international bestselling author of Advice That Sticks and a faculty member at the UHNW Institute and Sudden Money Institute, and she is a leading voice on why financial advice succeeds or fails at the human level. Dr. Somers is a co-founder and Chief Learning Officer at Blackwood Family Enterprise Services. https://moneymindandmeaning.com Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, The Money Coach®, is the Founder of the Financial Influencer Network and a nationally recognized personal finance expert. She is the author of 16 books, including the New York Times bestseller Zero Debt and her latest book, Bounce Back: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Resilience. A former CNBC commentator and Wall Street Journal reporter with more than 1,000 television appearances, Lynnette helps families and organizations build practical, multigenerational financial confidence through her articles, media appearances, and the Financial Influencer Network's education-driven initiatives. https://lynnettekhalfanicox.com Scheduled but was not able to join due to travel delays. Bobbi Rebell, CFP®, is the founder of Financial Wellness Strategies and the author of Launching Financial Grownups, a go-to guide for helping (almost) adult kids become money smart. A former global business news anchor at Thomson Reuters and frequent media expert quoted by outlets including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and CNBC, she brings deep expertise at the intersection of money, parenting, and real-life decision-making. https://bobbirebell.com Key Highlights: 1. Breaking the Silence on Tough Conversations According to Dr. Moira Somers, many families avoid uncomfortable discussions about aging, health, and money—which only leads to bigger problems later. She encourages families to plan ahead: "If you have [these conversations] a decade at least in advance...you can be thoughtful and caring and have, you know, be candid about how hard it might be." Proactively talking about financial help, household changes, and even when to stop driving sets the stage for smoother transitions. 2. Family Loans: More Than Money on the Line Lynnette Khalfani-Cox sheds light on why family loans so often turn sour. She urges clarity: "If you know...whoever you're loaning money to has already not paid you back...take off the rose colored glasses." She notes it's vital to formalize these deals to avoid resentment and preserve relationships—because loans can impact family bonds for years, not just bank accounts. 3. Preparing for Legacy and Heirlooms Both panelists agree: settling an estate isn't just legal—it's deeply emotional. Transparent processes, open inventory, and discussing "the why" behind gifts and heirlooms help families avoid the heartbreak of sibling feuds. Dr. Somers adds, "We ask heirlooms and possessions to do things that they were never capable of doing." The episode explores how sharing your intentions openly—while you're still here—can bring families closer together. 4. Blended Families Need Extra Clarity Blended families face even more complexity. Lynnette Khalfani-Cox emphasizes the importance of communication, aligning on values, and using structures like prenuptial agreements and QTIP trusts to protect everyone's interests. Discussing obligations and honoring prior commitments sets the foundation for multi-generational wealth and stability. Call-to-Action One thing to do this week: start one conversation you've been putting off. It could be asking your parents where key documents are, setting expectations with an adult child, or clarifying a financial boundary. You don't need all the answers. You just need to open the door. Find the Inspired Money channel on YouTube or listen to Inspired Money in your favorite podcast player. Andy Wang, Host/Producer of Inspired Money

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Investing in Art: Unlocking the World of Fine Art Investments

Jan 2801:20:10Tap to summarize

Why This Episode Is a Must-Watch Is fine art a savvy investment, or just a glamorous gamble? This episode of Inspired Money pulls back the curtain on the art market and uncovers what most investors really need to know before putting their money into masterpieces. Whether you're curious, skeptical, or already have a piece or two on your walls, this panel of high-caliber experts navigates art's intersection with investment, tech, and trust... making it a must-watch for business professionals, finance enthusiasts, and art lovers alike. Meet the Expert Panelists Philip Hoffman is the Founder and Chairman of The Fine Art Group, a global leader in art investment, finance, advisory, and philanthropy that he founded in 2001 after a distinguished 12-year career at Christie's, where he became CFO at age 27 and Deputy Chief Executive of Europe by 33. Under his leadership, The Fine Art Group now advises on over $20 billion in art annually for more than 350 family offices worldwide, with a presence across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Australia. Philip is a widely quoted authority on the art market in global media and at leading financial and cultural institutions. https://www.fineartgroup.com Nanne Dekking is Co-Executive Chairman of Winston Artory Group and one of the most prominent pioneers in applying data science, artificial intelligence, and asset tokenization to the global art market. With more than three decades of experience as an art historian, advisor, and market innovator, he has consistently operated at the intersection of connoisseurship, finance, and technology. Formerly Vice Chairman and Worldwide Head of Private Sales at Sotheby's, and the founder of Artory, Dekking is widely recognized for advancing provenance, transparency, and trust in high-value art transactions through data-driven systems and blockchain-based infrastructure. He is a frequent contributor to Bloomberg and the Financial Times and a leading voice on the future of art as an institutional-grade asset class. https://www.wag-art.com Dr. Carina Popovici is the co-founder and CEO of Art Recognition, a Zurich-based ArtTech company pioneering the commercial use of artificial intelligence for art authentication and forgery detection. A PhD-trained theoretical physicist and former quantitative risk specialist in Swiss banking, she brings deep expertise in AI, physics, and finance to one of the art market's most critical challenges: trust, provenance, and authenticity. Her work has been featured by major international outlets including The Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, and The Guardian. In 2025, Luxembourg-based art investment firm Alpha Star invested USD 1 million in Art Recognition to accelerate the company's growth and mission. https://art-recognition.com Key Highlights: 1. Authenticity, Trust, and Data—More Fragile Than You Think Blue chip status rests on reputation, but Carina Popovici reveals that institutional validation doesn't eliminate authenticity risks. AI tools are changing how authenticity and confidence intersect, potentially saving investors from costly surprises. 2. Investment Is About Expert Know-How, Not Just Data Philip Hoffman emphasizes that "human interaction, professional knowledge, and expertise make the difference between $3 million and $30 million." Data and AI support, but don't replace, the judgement of seasoned advisors, especially when condition and provenance can shift value dramatically. 3. Fractional Ownership: Democratizing or Dangerous? Platforms like Masterworks are opening doors, but Nanne Dekking and Philip Hoffman warn about high fees and speculative risks for everyday investors. "The costs kill it. For every million you're investing…in a fractionalized fund…your fees will be $40 million," cautions Philip Hoffman. 4. AI Can Be a Double-Edged Sword While good AI models are advancing to authenticate art, Carina Popovici highlights the growing threat: "These days it's possible to fake absolutely anything…with AI." The stakes in provenance and validation have never been higher. Call-to-Action Here is one thing to do this week, take a moment to explore your own relationship with art: visit a gallery, research an artist you admire, or even start tracking works that inspire you. Engaging with the art world, even just a little, is the first step toward thinking like a thoughtful art investor. Find the Inspired Money channel on YouTube or listen to Inspired Money in your favorite podcast player. Andy Wang, Host/Producer of Inspired Money

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The Future of Work: Adapting to Changing Career Landscapes

Jan 2100:57:40Tap to summarize

Why This Episode Is a Must-Watch Are you ready for the seismic changes transforming the workplace? If you're seeing headlines about "AI reshaping jobs" or "the rise of the portfolio career," but wondering how to actually navigate these trends, this episode of Inspired Money is your roadmap. We assembled a panel of top experts, authors, analysts, and entrepreneurs, who share practical strategies to help you future-proof your career, build resilience, and find meaningful work in a rapidly evolving professional world. Meet the Expert Panelists Pamela Slim is an award-winning author, speaker, and CEO of The Pamela Slim Agency, where she helps business owners scale their businesses and intellectual property through productized services, certifications, and licensing programs. She is the author of Escape from Cubicle Nation, Body of Work, and The Widest Net, the latter of which won Porchlight's Best Sales and Marketing Book of 2021. https://pamelaslim.com Charlene Li is a renowned author, analyst, and entrepreneur who has been at the forefront of major technological transformations for the past three decades, helping organizations thrive through disruption. As the founder of Altimeter Group and author of six books, including "The Disruption Mindset" and "Winning with Generative AI," she provides strategic insights on leadership, customer experience, and the future of work. https://charleneli.com Elaine Pofeldt is an award-winning journalist and author of The Million-Dollar, One-Person Business, where she documents how solopreneurs are building highly profitable companies without employees. Her reporting for Forbes, Fortune, and Inc. has made her a leading voice on independent work, scalable solo businesses, and the future of entrepreneurship. https://www.elainepofeldt.com Key Highlights: 1. Build a Resilient 'Skill Stack' Today, career security isn't tied to a single job title. Pamela Slim advocates for building a "body of work" by identifying your anchor skill and layering in complementary skills for adaptability. She encourages professionals to find the connecting thread in their diverse experiences and to "codify your unique genius" through what she calls the "thumbprint method," ultimately scaling your impact and income. 2. Partner With AI: Don't Fight It According to Charlene Li, AI isn't here to replace you—it's here to assist. Her "90-day AI Blueprint" helps professionals apply AI to their biggest goals, not just tasks. She shares, "Start with the biggest, most important goals that you have and then apply AI to it," emphasizing that upskilling is continuous and should focus on both technical and timeless human strengths. 3. Scale Smarter, Not Just Bigger Elaine Pofeldt points out that the million-dollar solo entrepreneurs she profiles excel by streamlining, outsourcing, and leveraging tech—not by working around the clock. She underscores that strong systems, clear focus, and building genuine human connections ("the greatest efficiency") are the ultimate productivity boosters. Her practical advice: "Pare down what you need to do and outsource or automate the rest." 4. Align Work With Your Values and Build Your Own Safety Net The panelists agree: Authenticity and alignment aren't buzzwords. They are strategies for resilience. Burnout happens when your values and your work clash. In today's post-corporate landscape, your security comes from the systems you build... emergency funds, insurance, retirement plans, and your ability to adapt. Call-to-Action Here's one thing you can to do this week. Take 30 minutes and do a simple audit of your career. Write down your anchor skill, the thing that reliably creates value today. Then list two or three adjacent skills, tools, or interests you could develop to increase your optionality, whether that's learning to use AI more effectively, productizing part of what you do, or exploring a side project you've been putting off. You don't have to act on all of it. Just name it. Clarity is the first step to momentum. Find the Inspired Money channel on YouTube or listen to Inspired Money in your favorite podcast player. Andy Wang, Host/Producer of Inspired Money

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What the $7 Billion Fine Wine Market Reveals About Investor Behavior

Jan 2000:52:24Tap to summarize

Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen What can the fine wine market reveal about global economics, behavioral finance, and the quest for value? This episode of Inspired Money is a goldmine for investors, entrepreneurs, and anyone fascinated by luxury markets and economic cycles. Discover how major disruptions, from skyrocketing release prices to geopolitical trade tariffs, reshaped the global wine market, toppled the old guard, and revealed a new playbook for buyers, producers, and brands. Whether you collect wine, follow alternative investments, or want to spot signals before they echo in bigger markets, this episode delivers actionable insights and stories straight from industry insiders. Meet the Expert Panelists Sophia Gilmour is a Market Analyst on the Market Intelligence team at Liv-ex, where she delivers data-driven insights on wine market dynamics, new releases, pricing trends, and Liv-ex indices, helping industry professionals stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market. Blending her background in economics, philosophy, and data analysis with a lifelong exposure to wine, she is also the author of the Power 100 report and a frequent contributor to webinars and industry discussions. https://www.liv-ex.com Robbie Stevens is the Head of Broking at Live-ex, the global exchange for fine wine, market data, and insight. On a daily basis he deals with the largest fine wine buyers and sellers globally, offering them data-driven intelligence and opportunities to trade. With over a decade at Liv-ex and experience across global wine markets, as well as regularly sharing his experience on the international stage, speaking at conferences such as Vinexpo and the National Association of Wine Retailers, he combines deep knowledge of the fine wine market with strong industry perspective. https://www.liv-ex.com Key Highlights: 1. Consistency Is the New Currency in Luxury Markets After years where price equaled prestige, disciplined pricing and brand integrity now drive ranking and investor loyalty. As Sophia Gilmour noted, "The brands that have done especially well this year and traded most frequently perform best on price are those that have adopted more structured, less reactive pricing." This marks a strategic shift from speculative greed to sustainable trust between collectors and producers. 2. Trade Tariffs Exposed Regional Fragility—and the Power of Global Demand When US buyers pulled back due to tariffs, entire categories (especially classic Italian wines) suffered, except for the globally-marketed Super Tuscans. As Robbie Stevens explained, the rapid US exit left Italian trades "fragile and underbid," revealing why diversified demand is essential for resilience. The lesson is clear: in a fragmented world economy, brands that cultivate international appeal will withstand regional shocks. 3. The Rise of the "Drinker-Investor" – Experience Over Speculation Burgundy's shakeup shows collectors are prioritizing wines they actually want to uncork, not just hold. Mid-range labels under £2,000 are now outperforming trophy bottles. Sophia Gilmour observed, "You're forced to think more about the decisions that you're making and why you're making them… It's more cognizance of quality and whether you're guessing what you're paying for." This "flight to value" signals a deeper psychological change in luxury buying. 4. Champagne: A Case Study in Liquidity as a Safe Haven When markets wobble, capital flows into Champagne, for good reason. Grand Marque Champagnes like Dom Perignon and Krug command both high volumes and price stability. As Robbie Stevens put it, "Champagne… has a broader appeal… which means that consumption happens far more regularly than perhaps in other categories." Liquidity, it turns out, is the ultimate market signal. Call-to-Action This week, pick one area of your financial life: investments, spending, or even your career. Ask: Are you acting out of habit or with real agency? Make one disciplined, intentional choice that creates value for the long term. Find the Inspired Money channel on YouTube or listen to Inspired Money in your favorite podcast player. Andy Wang, Host/Producer of Inspired Money

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Master Your Money Mindset: Secrets to Financial Freedom

Jan 701:06:18Tap to summarize

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

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The Mindful Retirement: Creating Financial Peace and Personal Fulfillment

Dec 1001:11:15Tap to summarize

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

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Navigating Market Volatility: Strategies for Investing in Uncertain Times

Dec 301:10:57Tap to summarize

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

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Financial Planning for Life Transitions: Navigating Changes with Confidence

Nov 2601:10:57Tap to summarize

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

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Wine Auctions and Collectible Bottles: Unveiling Investment Opportunities

Nov 1101:25:42Tap to summarize

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

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Mastering the Art of Leadership: Financial Success and Personal Growth

Oct 2301:02:43Tap to summarize

Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen What does it really take to master leadership in a fast-changing, high-pressure world? This episode from Inspired Money goes far beyond the usual advice, diving into real strategies for financial success and personal growth. If you want to lead with impact, whether at the kitchen table or the boardroom, this expert panel shares actionable insights, powerful stories, and game-changing tools for becoming the kind of leader people actually want to follow. Meet the Expert Panelists Heather Younger is the Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a leading consulting firm specializing in employee engagement, culture, and active listening. A bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and expert on empathy in leadership, she empowers organizations to build trust, inclusivity, and workplaces where every voice feels heard and valued. https://heatheryounger.com Charlene Wheeless is a leadership strategist, executive coach, and bestselling author who helps leaders and organizations transform culture, elevate communication, and lead with authenticity and impact. A former Principal Vice President at Bechtel Corporation and member of Marshall Goldsmith's 100 Coaches, she is a sought-after speaker on resilience, empowerment, and purpose-driven leadership. https://charlenewheeless.com Tiffany Yu is the CEO & Founder of Diversability, a 3x TEDx speaker, and the author of The Anti-Ableist Manifesto: Smashing Stereotypes, Forging Change, and Building a Disability-Inclusive World. She started her career at Goldman Sachs and was named to the 2025 Forbes Accessibility 100 List. At the age of 9, Tiffany became disabled as a result of a car accident that also took the life of her father. https://www.tiffanyyu.com This episode is sponsored by Runnymede Capital Management. Get your free 3-minute financial plan at https://www.inspiredmoney.fm/getplan and discover your retirement age, income, and strategy today. Key Highlights: 1. Leadership Is Adaptability in Action Charlene Wheeless shares how true leaders move beyond hierarchical models: "You quickly learn that hierarchical leadership is quite ineffective…If you can connect with someone, you can lead someone." Adaptability, active listening, and connecting with people on a one-on-one level turn authority into inspiration. 2. Vulnerability Is the New Power Tiffany Yu talks openly about leading with vulnerability and authenticity—especially in spaces that haven't historically made room for difference. "I believe that we have the capacity to be our full, authentic selves…Just different parts of it are showing up at different times." Her approach shows how vulnerability, not perfection, drives belonging and possibility. 3. Listening and Empathy Build Trust Heather Younger explains her unique practices for making teams feel truly seen and heard: "I always have this practice where if I'll present an idea…I let them basically overvote me. That creates a sense of safety. And they know what, they can trust me." Her actionable tips for active listening cut through disengagement and unlock deeper trust. 4. Integrity as a Strategic Asset The panel emphasizes how integrity isn't just a virtue. It's foundational to sustainable business success. Tiffany points out: "There is a business case for disability inclusion…how can we balance both the moral imperative with the economic imperative and have them in tandem?" Integrity shapes culture, attracts talent, and drives performance... not just reputation. Call-to-Action Your Inspired Money challenge for the week: choose one conversation where you'll listen with full attention. No distractions, no rehearsed responses... just presence. Notice how it changes the dynamic and what opens up as a result. Find the Inspired Money channel on YouTube or listen to Inspired Money in your favorite podcast player. Andy Wang, Host/Producer of Inspired Money

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All episodes

Family & Finances: Navigating the Toughest Money Conversations

Investing in Art: Unlocking the World of Fine Art Investments

The Future of Work: Adapting to Changing Career Landscapes

What the $7 Billion Fine Wine Market Reveals About Investor Behavior

Master Your Money Mindset: Secrets to Financial Freedom

The Mindful Retirement: Creating Financial Peace and Personal Fulfillment

Navigating Market Volatility: Strategies for Investing in Uncertain Times

Financial Planning for Life Transitions: Navigating Changes with Confidence

Wine Auctions and Collectible Bottles: Unveiling Investment Opportunities

Mastering the Art of Leadership: Financial Success and Personal Growth