Trading Secrets: Episode 207 - Johnny McIntyre & Amy Cortes

Release Date: November 4, 2024

Hosts: Jason Tartick and David
Guests: Johnny McIntyre & Amy Cortes
Podcast: Trading Secrets by Audioboom Studios

1. Introduction

In Episode 207 of Trading Secrets, host Jason Tartick welcomes Johnny McIntyre and Amy Cortes, a married couple who emerged as fan favorites from Season Six of Netflix's reality dating show Love is Blind. The episode delves into their first year of marriage, their transition into the content creator space, and comprehensive discussions on finances and career changes.

2. Background of Johnny and Amy

[08:34] Johnny McIntyre:
"Johnny and Amy walked away from season six of Netflix's Love is Blind as the only couple happily married."

Johnny and Amy share their journey from being highly educated professionals to securing their relationship on national television. Their experience on Love is Blind required balancing intense personal connections with professional commitments, laying the groundwork for their post-show endeavors.

3. Navigating Careers Post-Marriage

[10:46] Johnny McIntyre:
"Professionally, you're in tech sales. Did you lose your job when you went on the show?"

Both partners faced significant career considerations during and after filming. Johnny maintained his role in IT sales by negotiating a flexible work arrangement but ultimately decided to step back to focus on content creation. Amy, on the other hand, transitioned from a corporate role to full-time influencer work, seeking greater flexibility and alignment with her personal values.

[11:43] Amy Cortes:
"We got married in such a fast-paced process, and we just want to enjoy it."

4. Financial Alignment and Transparency

[12:18] Johnny McIntyre:
"In IT tech sales, your compensation typically includes a base salary and commissions, potentially doubling your earnings."

Johnny provides insight into the financial structures of IT sales, highlighting the potential for high earnings through commissions. Both discuss their approaches to managing finances as a newly married couple, emphasizing transparency and strategic planning.

[19:08] Amy Cortes:
"We talked about finances and how to balance our different approaches."

They address the common financial tensions in relationships, detailing how they navigated differing money management styles by creating joint accounts and setting personal spending allowances.

[45:23] Amy Cortes:
"We started funneling all our content creation income into a joint business account."
[45:30] Johnny McIntyre:
"From the income, we decide how much to allocate for personal expenses, allowing each other financial freedom without judgment."

5. Health Issues and Insurance Challenges

[66:44] David:
"I had a calcium score test that revealed significant calcium buildup, leading to insurance issues."

David shares a personal health story about undergoing a comprehensive Prenuvo scan, which revealed several health concerns despite his outward fitness. This proactive approach to health uncovered financial challenges when his insurance provider terminated his coverage due to pre-existing conditions detected early.

[71:04] David:
"Understanding your health is crucial, and preventive measures like calcium scoring can save lives."
[72:38] David:
"Check out the Prenuvo scan. It's a life-changing investment in your health."

6. Future Plans and Goals

[24:02] Amy Cortes:
"I’m enjoying the flexibility of content creation and the increased income it provides, allowing me to support my family better."
[28:39] Amy Cortes:
"We plan to reassess our career paths by the end of the year, ensuring we remain aligned with our personal and professional goals."

Johnny and Amy discuss their aspirations, including potential real estate investments in Charlotte, expanding their content creation efforts, and the possibility of starting their own business ventures. They emphasize the importance of flexibility and continuous evaluation of their career trajectories to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

7. Relationship Dynamics and Communication

[16:55] Amy Cortes:
"We have consistent conversations about finances, kids, and personal growth to ensure our relationship remains strong."

The couple highlights the critical role of open communication in their relationship, especially regarding finances and future planning. They share strategies for avoiding resentment by maintaining transparency and supporting each other's individual interests and responsibilities.

[41:13] Amy Cortes:
"We eliminate resentment buildup by having open and honest conversations, ensuring no issues are swept under the rug."

8. Insights and Conclusions

[56:48] Johnny McIntyre:
"When you're feeling comfortable, that's the best time to make a move and do something different."
[57:23] Amy Cortes:
"Follow your intuition and trust where it guides you."

Johnny and Amy conclude the episode by sharing their personal "trading secrets." Johnny emphasizes the importance of taking risks and stepping out of comfort zones to foster growth, while Amy advocates for trusting one's intuition to navigate life's uncertainties. These insights underscore the episode's themes of personal development, strategic financial planning, and the significance of maintaining a strong, communicative partnership.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Johnny McIntyre [56:48]:
  "When you're feeling comfortable, that's probably the best time to make a move and do something different."

• Amy Cortes [57:23]:
  "Follow your intuition and your gut and just trust where it'll guide you."

• Johnny McIntyre [41:13]:
  "It's about finding compromise and understanding each other's differences."

• Amy Cortes [19:08]:
  "We might not meet in the same place in the beginning, but we could potentially meet in the middle."

Conclusion

Episode 207 of Trading Secrets offers an in-depth look into the complexities of balancing personal relationships, professional careers, and financial responsibilities. Johnny McIntyre and Amy Cortes provide valuable insights into effective communication, financial transparency, and the importance of aligning personal values with career choices. Their story serves as an example for listeners navigating similar transitions, emphasizing the significance of adaptability, mutual support, and strategic planning in achieving both personal and professional success.