Modern Financial Wellness

Modern Financial Wellness

Modern Financial Wellness isn’t just about dollars and cents—it’s about how we think and feel about money, the decisions we make, and the deeper forces that influence our financial wellbeing. Hosted by financial planner Jim Grace, CFP®, this podcast gives you insights into the psychology of money, exploring the emotions, habits, and experiences that shape the way we approach our finances. In today’s world, financial advice is everywhere, but most of it focuses on the technical aspects—how to save for retirement, invest wisely, and minimize taxes. While those topics are important, they’re only part of the picture. The real challenge isn’t just knowing what to do with your money, but understanding why you make the choices you do and how those decisions impact your overall wellbeing. Modern Financial Wellness is dedicated to exploring the human side of personal finance—the fears, anxieties, and personal histories that influence our financial decisions, sometimes more than logic and numbers ever could. Jim has spent years helping clients navigate their financial lives. Through these experiences, he’s seen firsthand how emotions, upbringing, and past experiences drive financial behaviors. Why do some people feel guilt when spending money, even when they can afford it? Why do others struggle with saving, even when they know it’s important? Why do we sometimes make irrational choices, even when we know better? The answers to these questions often lie beyond spreadsheets and investment strategies—in our personal stories, beliefs, and behaviors. Releasing every two weeks, each episode of Modern Financial Wellness explores these deeper topics, offering conversations with experts, real-world insights, and thought-provoking discussions to help you better understand yourself and your relationship with money. You’ll hear from psychologists, behavioral finance experts, and everyday people who have experienced financial challenges and breakthroughs. Together, we’ll explore themes like: How childhood experiences shape our financial habits and attitudes The emotional impact of financial stress and how to manage it How social media and modern culture influence our financial choices The connection between financial security and overall happiness The hidden psychological barriers that prevent us from reaching our financial goals But this podcast isn’t just about discussing problems—it’s about finding solutions. Every episode provides practical takeaways, mindset shifts, and actionable strategies to help you make financial decisions that align with your values and bring you peace of mind. Whether it’s learning how to reframe financial anxiety, develop healthier money habits, or simply gain more confidence in your financial choices, Modern Financial Wellness is here to support you on your journey. Beyond the podcast, we’ll also share additional insights, blog posts, and curated resources—books, articles, and tools—to help you continue exploring these topics. If an episode resonates with you, you’ll always have the next steps to dive deeper and apply what you’ve learned in your own life. Money is personal. It’s emotional. And it’s deeply connected to who we are. Modern Financial Wellness is your guide to understanding that connection and learning how to improve not just your finances, but your overall sense of well-being. Subscribe now and tune in every other Thursday for new episodes.

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

    2 天前

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

    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...

    55 分鐘
  2. Breaking Money Myths: Practical Financial Wellness for Individuals, Couples, and Communities

    8月28日

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

    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 Takeaways1. 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!

    37 分鐘
  3. When to Seek Help: Signs Your Loved One Might Need Senior Care Coordination

    8月14日

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

    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!

    46 分鐘
  4. Navigating Couples and Money: Building Conscious Financial Partnerships with Christine Moriarty

    7月31日

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

    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 TakeawaysMoney 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!

    46 分鐘
  5. Facing Housing Anxiety: Smart Tips for Renters Ready to Buy Their First Home

    7月17日

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

    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...

    58 分鐘
  6. Financial Wellness in College Planning: Timelines, Expectations, and Emotional Traps

    7月3日

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

    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...

    49 分鐘
  7. The Truth About Fiduciary Advice and How to Find It Easily

    6月5日

    The Truth About Fiduciary Advice and How to Find It Easily

    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 Takeaways1. 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...

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

    5月22日

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

    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.

    1 小時 11 分鐘

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簡介

Modern Financial Wellness isn’t just about dollars and cents—it’s about how we think and feel about money, the decisions we make, and the deeper forces that influence our financial wellbeing. Hosted by financial planner Jim Grace, CFP®, this podcast gives you insights into the psychology of money, exploring the emotions, habits, and experiences that shape the way we approach our finances. In today’s world, financial advice is everywhere, but most of it focuses on the technical aspects—how to save for retirement, invest wisely, and minimize taxes. While those topics are important, they’re only part of the picture. The real challenge isn’t just knowing what to do with your money, but understanding why you make the choices you do and how those decisions impact your overall wellbeing. Modern Financial Wellness is dedicated to exploring the human side of personal finance—the fears, anxieties, and personal histories that influence our financial decisions, sometimes more than logic and numbers ever could. Jim has spent years helping clients navigate their financial lives. Through these experiences, he’s seen firsthand how emotions, upbringing, and past experiences drive financial behaviors. Why do some people feel guilt when spending money, even when they can afford it? Why do others struggle with saving, even when they know it’s important? Why do we sometimes make irrational choices, even when we know better? The answers to these questions often lie beyond spreadsheets and investment strategies—in our personal stories, beliefs, and behaviors. Releasing every two weeks, each episode of Modern Financial Wellness explores these deeper topics, offering conversations with experts, real-world insights, and thought-provoking discussions to help you better understand yourself and your relationship with money. You’ll hear from psychologists, behavioral finance experts, and everyday people who have experienced financial challenges and breakthroughs. Together, we’ll explore themes like: How childhood experiences shape our financial habits and attitudes The emotional impact of financial stress and how to manage it How social media and modern culture influence our financial choices The connection between financial security and overall happiness The hidden psychological barriers that prevent us from reaching our financial goals But this podcast isn’t just about discussing problems—it’s about finding solutions. Every episode provides practical takeaways, mindset shifts, and actionable strategies to help you make financial decisions that align with your values and bring you peace of mind. Whether it’s learning how to reframe financial anxiety, develop healthier money habits, or simply gain more confidence in your financial choices, Modern Financial Wellness is here to support you on your journey. Beyond the podcast, we’ll also share additional insights, blog posts, and curated resources—books, articles, and tools—to help you continue exploring these topics. If an episode resonates with you, you’ll always have the next steps to dive deeper and apply what you’ve learned in your own life. Money is personal. It’s emotional. And it’s deeply connected to who we are. Modern Financial Wellness is your guide to understanding that connection and learning how to improve not just your finances, but your overall sense of well-being. Subscribe now and tune in every other Thursday for new episodes.