Staying Alive with Jon Gabrus & Adam Pally Episode: Amortize & Immortalize (w/ Haley Sacks) Release Date: May 22, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "Amortize & Immortalize," hosts Jon Gabrus and Adam Pally delve into the often daunting topic of personal finance with their special guest, Haley Sacks. Known for their comedic prowess and candid discussions on health and wellness, Jon and Adam pivot towards financial well-being, sharing their personal struggles and strategies for managing money in an unpredictable industry.

Personal Financial Stress and Reluctance

The episode kicks off with Jon and Adam expressing their apprehensions about discussing money. Both admit to feeling uneasy and stressed when it comes to financial matters, especially given their creative and fluctuating incomes in the entertainment industry.

Adam Pally [00:32]: "It's something that, you know, I'm not good at. Not good at it."

Jon Gabrus [02:04]: "We lived in a world where you just couldn't talk about it, but you knew you didn't have it."

Their candidness sets the stage for a relatable conversation, especially for listeners who find financial planning intimidating or overwhelming.

Introduction of Haley Sacks and Financial Insights

Haley Sacks joins the conversation to offer expert advice on managing finances. She emphasizes the importance of establishing a solid financial foundation before diving into investments.

Haley Sacks [10:38]: "The first thing you need to do is have a three to six month emergency fund."

She explains how a high-yield savings account can be a practical tool for this purpose, ensuring that listeners have accessible funds separate from their regular bank accounts.

Saving and Investing Strategies

Jon and Adam discuss their personal approaches to saving and investing, revealing that neither is actively engaged in the stock market. They touch upon the concept of "amortizing" expenses and income to manage their finances more effectively.

Adam Pally [08:07]: "Spreading it out over the course of amortized. Amortize. Thank you. I just learned that word."

Haley elaborates on investment strategies, highlighting the significance of understanding one's time horizon and risk profile.

Haley Sacks [21:02]: "Like, you don't have to time the market. Like none of this is rocket science. Like it's literally start today."

She advises listeners to focus on long-term growth and avoid short-term market fluctuations that can jeopardize their financial security.

The Impact of Gambling on Finances

The conversation takes a humorous yet insightful turn as the hosts discuss their gambling habits and its repercussions on their financial health. Both admit to indulging in various forms of gambling, from craps and blackjack to sports betting.

Sean Hayes [15:20]: "I will literally go. I'm addicted to gambling. Yes. I will literally come with you."

This segment serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of impulsive financial decisions and the importance of maintaining discipline to prevent unnecessary losses.

Wealth Inequality and Taxation

Haley Sacks introduces a critical discussion on wealth inequality and the complexities of taxation for the ultra-wealthy. The hosts express their concerns about billionaires avoiding taxes and the ethical implications of such practices.

Jon Gabrus [27:13]: "I believe like they should be taxed. You should just have a $999,999,999 and any dollar more you get over that, it gets chopped up and sent to poor people."

Haley underscores the need for a fair tax system that ensures the rich contribute proportionately to societal welfare.

Maintaining Financial Habits

Haley offers practical advice on building and maintaining healthy financial habits, such as conducting regular "money dates" to review spending and savings.

Sean Hayes [56:53]: "It's a set time every month that I just force myself to do it."

Jon and Adam share their struggles with procrastination and the psychological barriers that make financial planning challenging. Haley's strategies aim to simplify these tasks, making them more manageable and less daunting.

Teaching Kids About Money

The hosts briefly touch upon the importance of educating the next generation about financial responsibility. While Jon mentions his wife's adeptness at managing their finances, both agree that instilling good money habits in children is crucial.

Jon Gabrus [31:25]: "My wife is really good with money."

They acknowledge that while their careers are hectic, maintaining open discussions about money within the family helps in fostering a healthy financial environment.

Personal Anecdotes and Lessons Learned

Throughout the episode, Jon and Adam recount personal stories from their early careers, highlighting lessons learned from various financial missteps and unconventional income sources, such as prank shows and odd jobs.

Adam Pally [37:56]: "That's one of the worst things I've done for money."

These anecdotes add a relatable and humorous layer to the discussion, illustrating the unpredictable nature of finances in the entertainment industry.

Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, Jon and Adam reflect on the importance of balancing financial responsibility with personal happiness and career fulfillment. They encourage listeners to embrace financial planning as a means to achieve long-term security without sacrificing creativity and passion.

Adam Pally [62:29]: "You can be more comfortable in front of people."

Haley's insights, combined with the hosts' honest reflections, provide a comprehensive guide for listeners looking to navigate the complexities of personal finance.

Notable Quotes

• Adam Pally [08:07]: "Spreading it out over the course of amortized. Amortize. Thank you. I just learned that word."

• Haley Sacks [10:38]: "The first thing you need to do is have a three to six month emergency fund."

• Sean Hayes [15:20]: "I will literally go. I'm addicted to gambling. Yes. I will literally come with you."

• Jon Gabrus [27:13]: "I believe like they should be taxed. You should just have a $999,999,999 and any dollar more you get over that, it gets chopped up and sent to poor people."

Conclusion

"Amortize & Immortalize" serves as an enlightening episode that blends humor with practical financial advice. Jon Gabrus and Adam Pally, alongside Haley Sacks, offer listeners valuable insights into managing money, overcoming financial anxiety, and building sustainable financial habits. Whether you're a fan of the podcast or new to these conversations, this episode provides a comprehensive roadmap to staying financially alive amidst life's unpredictabilities.