The Financial Therapy Podcast - It's Not Just About The Money

In this insightful episode, we delve into how U.S. election outcomes influence retirement planning, revealing a surprising pattern: many advisors and clients react to political uncertainty with fear-driven investment decisions, often to their detriment. Reflecting on the 2016 and 2020 elections, we explore how market reactions defied expectations.  Will history repeat itself and why this year may...

In this podcast episode, we're diving into the critical role that emotional intelligence (EQ) plays in your financial success. Understanding and managing your emotions is key to making smart money decisions, and we're here to help you assess where you stand. We’ll explore ten definitive ways to evaluate your EQ, from recognizing emotions, emotional regulation, relationship health, and ha...

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

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

The transition to retirement often prompts crucial questions about financial well-being. Is ongoing financial planning or therapy essential during this new life chapter? And can retirees realistically afford these services? While the importance of financial guidance in retirement is undeniable, the feasibility of accessing such support varies widely. A particularly ironic situation arises for thos...

In this episode, Rick explores the evolving perspectives on career and passion within the financial life planning community. Once an advocate of "do what you love and the money will follow," many early life planners have now realized the challenges of balancing fulfilling work with financial stability. Featuring insights from Scott Galloway and Jonathan Clemens, he delves into why findin...

In this episode, we delve into the evolving definition of "inflation" and the cognitive biases influencing public perception. While economists traditionally define inflation as the gradual loss of purchasing power reflected in the CPI, many Americans now equate it with high prices. This shift, highlighted in Mike Allen's article "The New Inflation," underscores a significa...

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

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

Feeling stuck? In this episode, host Rick chats with psychotherapist and best-selling author Britt Frank. Discover the neuroscience behind stuckness and practical tools to make positive changes in your life. Britt discusses the difference between feeling stuck due to a lack of choices versus disliking your options. She emphasizes the importance of micro-steps and explains how your brain's foc...

Ditch the stigma! This episode dives into the surprising benefits of prenups, even for young couples starting fresh. We'll show you how exploring a prenup, whether you choose to create one or not, can spark crucial conversations about finances, debt, and your future together. Forget just dividing assets - prenups can build communication, trust, and clarity around money, topics many couples sh...

Forget everything you think you know about Ebenezer Scrooge! This video unravels the surprising truth behind his "miserly" ways. Was he really only concerned for himself ?  OR did his spending habits underscore that he suffered from hidden trauma that actually warped his ability for self-care?  Discover the key to Scrooge's transformation (hint: it's not just about money!) and...

Conclude the series with Rick and Celia as they tackle societal taboos around money discussions and draw parallels between financial secrecy and body shame. Explore the emotional complexities faced by individuals in larger bodies, navigate biases, and challenge assumptions about happiness and appearances. Gain insights into the link between self-worth, body image, and financial status, and how the...

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

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

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

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

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

Family fortunes come with unique challenges. Join Dr. Moira Somers, a leading expert in wealth psychology, as she delves into the complexities of "business royalty." Explore the intricate web of challenges impacting relationships within families and communities, gaining valuable insights for navigating success and prosperity with grace. This episode is your journey into the psychology of...

Ever seek money advice but struggle to follow through? You're not alone! Join Dr. Moira Somers, renowned psychologist and wealth expert, as she dives into the "procrastination puzzle" in finance. Explore the hidden design flaws and psychological roadblocks that hinder financial follow-through. Discover strategies to overcome procrastination and empower yourself to take control of yo...

Feeling overwhelmed by money decisions? Struggling with past financial trauma? This episode is your guide! Join Rick as he answers the crucial question: "How do I know if I need a financial therapist?" Discover the key signs and emotions that might signal it's time to explore financial therapy. From emotional spending to lingering debt trauma, we'll delve into the indicators th...

Join us for a special edition of the Financial Therapy Podcast as we celebrate our third anniversary! Host Rick Kaler reflects on the journey of producing 156 episodes, sharing insights and lessons learned along the way. Rick dives into an intriguing discussion on the psychology of picking up a penny, exploring various money scripts and the emotional responses they trigger. Whether you're a l...

Dive deeper with Dr. Prince Sarpong and Rick as they discuss the complex relationship between financial freedom and community harmony. Discover how embracing healthy boundaries within the Ubuntu philosophy can unlock true liberation. Learn how prioritizing relational well-being alongside financial goals leads to a more fulfilling and meaningful life. A podcast that blends the nuts and bolts of fin...

"Your money troubles run deeper than you think," says Dr. Prince Sarpong. Explore the impact of "Black Tax" and the Ubuntu philosophy on financial culture. Learn how cultural expectations, enabling dynamics, and community connection influence financial decisions. Discover a fresh perspective on financial freedom that goes beyond just the numbers.  A podcast that blends the nuts...

Tired of focusing on negative financial behaviors? Discover a path to true financial well-being! This episode unveils the positive traits that define a healthy relationship with money, guiding you from "tranquility" to "compassion" and beyond. Navigate the financial landscape with more clarity and confidence, fostering a sense of stability and contentment. A podcast that blends...