Welcome to a special "Emotional Balance Sheet" graduation episode where we're diving into real-world advice for all the fresh graduates.  Congratulations on this incredible milestone in your life!  Now, let's talk about what comes next. While the world often echoes Steve Jobs' famous 2005 Stanford speech urging graduates to follow their passion, today, we will shake things up and challenge that narrative.  Instead, I encourage you to pursue what you enjoy and what can sustain you financially because passion alone doesn't pay the bills. To help get you started with this next phase of life, I have brought in one of my favorite writers, Morgan Housel.  Morgan wrote an article that provides unsolicited advice to recent college grads, which I wanted to share with you today, sprinkled in with a few thoughts of my own. The beauty of this advice in typical Morgan fashion is that it applies to adults who could be in the prime of their careers. Connect with Paul Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here. For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast. Follow Paul on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

Have you ever taken the time to think about who you are?  We all have multiple identities, but how do the different people we represent come together to form who we are? Christina Gossayn, a behavioral scientist and Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior candidate, has focused her research on how identities evolve over time, especially under the mantle of responsibility that comes with age.  Our self-reflection can take a backseat as we juggle various roles, from professionals to parents. For many, particularly working parents, the struggle to make time for reflection is real.  Christina and I discuss practical ways for individuals to prioritize and define their purpose amidst the hustle of daily life. Here are three key takeaways: Understanding the value of taking time to contemplate one's purpose and objectives even amidst daily responsibilities.Acknowledging that our identity is not static but constantly shaped by experiences and reflections opening doorways to authentic growth and leadership.Challenging the notion that our careers solely define us and recognizing the importance of empathy, relationships, and personal joys. So, as we prepare to embark on this journey into self, I invite you all to take a step back, reflect, and maybe discover something new about the ever-changing landscape of your own identity. Please enjoy my conversation with Christina Gossayn.

I am the product of a tight-knit, small-town community.  While searching for a job during college, I was fortunate to cross paths with Darrell and Melodee Hoff, who became my first career mentors. Darrell recently passed, and I wanted to share not only the practical skills I learned from him but also the profound influence of his mentor in shaping my personal and professional outlook to this day. Here are a few key takeaways Mentors can deliver more than business lessons,How you define family is up to you,As Darrell always used to say, “Plan the work and work the plan.” Connect with Paul Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here. For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast. Follow Paul on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

Did you know that the path to choosing the "right-fit" college for your child could also lead to life lessons in self-advocacy? I welcome back Holly Markiecki-Bennetts, a high school guidance counselor and college advisor who is also a mom to one + twins!  Holly is a testament to thoughtful and intentional educational decision-making.  While many high school seniors embark on the nerve-wracking odyssey of college applications, laden with standardized test scores and wide nets, Holly worked with her oldest daughter to choose a different path. Our conversation focuses on the challenges students face when transitioning from high school to college, from mastering study habits to time management.  Holly brings her 20-year experience in education to the table, offering tangible strategies like using physical planners and the importance of study breaks to enhance learning retention. A few critical takeaways Don't let the fear of failure creep into your college planning journeyUnderstand the difference between homework and study and the skills each requiresSelf-advocacy is an invaluable lesson to teach kids in middle and high school This conversation provides a deeper understanding of the emotional impact of the college planning process on students and parents, as well as valuable resources and parenting perspectives. I hope you can reflect, relate, and rethink how we guide our children through one of life's most transformative passages. Please enjoy my conversation with Holly Markiecki-Bennetts. Connect with Paul Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here. For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast. Follow Paul on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics. Follow the Show And Never Miss an Episode Follow the show on Apple Podcast |Podurama | Amazon Music | Spotify

ubscribe to the show on Apple Podcast |Google Podcast | Amazon Music | Spotify At retirement, your whole financial life essentially collapses down to one binary question: will your money outlive you, or will you outlive your money? Volatility in the market is often seen as a risk, but it's important to differentiate between the two. The real risk lies in not having a plan that can sustain your financial needs throughout retirement. It's not about meeting a benchmark; it's about developing a plan and staying committed to it. The dominant factor in long-term financial outcomes isn't just your investment performance – it's your investment behavior. For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast. Follow Paul on Facebook and LinkedIn. And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

What does the mainstream media get wrong in their economy and stock market coverage?  How much does the economy influence the stock market and vice versa?   Neil Dutta, a noted business economist from Renaissance Macro Research and father of 1 plus twins, takes us on a journey into investment advice's economics and shattering stereotypes mainstream media dishes out. Neil will debunk the myth of the 'doomer' in investment circles and offers a fresh perspective on current economic conditions, including inflation and the labor market. My conversation goal with Neil is to help you not accept what economic headlines you read or hear.  Our economy is a complex organism that cannot be explained in a two-minute segment.  This is why I rely on experts like Neil who can help me dig deeper and provide meaningful information to you and families I work with. Please enjoy my conversation with Neil Dutta. Connect with Paul Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here. For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast. Follow Paul on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics. Follow the Show And Never Miss an Episode Follow the show on Apple Podcast |Podurama | Amazon Music | Spotify

Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcast |Google Podcast | Amazon Music | Spotify In the midst of disappointment, our emotions can run hot.  Whether it's parenting, finances, or life in general, understanding the impact of emotions on our choices is crucial.  Making decisions in the heat of the moment rarely leads to positive outcomes. Instead, creating space to step back, breathe, and gain clarity allows for better, more informed decisions.  By being aware of our emotions, we can make strides toward achieving balance and clarity in our decision-making process. For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast. Follow Paul on Facebook and LinkedIn. And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

Most couples think they end up in a therapist's office to talk about sex and money.  But it's really deeper underlying issues couples are looking to hash out.  Dr. Joy Lere, a licensed clinical psychologist and co-founder of Shaping Wealth, is a leading voice in the psychology of money and applied behavioral finance.  In her practice, Joy has observed that individuals find it easier to disclose the details of their intimate encounters than to reveal the figures in their bank accounts.  Joy's expertise lies in unraveling the profound connection between money and self-esteem, understanding it as an emotional flashpoint for couples and parents.  Key Takeaways  Self-awareness is a Superpower - Learn to wield the power of understanding your own and your partner's money script to build a stronger financial future together.  Financial Wellness is a Team Sport - Embrace financial discussions and check-ins with your partner as a path to closer bonding rather than a chore.  Hint: Check out temptation bundling to make this process more enjoyable!  Joy discusses the complexities that arise when individuals in a relationship come from diverse financial backgrounds, acknowledging that such differences are frequently the seedbed for conflict.  Joy's insights shed light on people's silent struggles when discussing earnings, identifying money as a cornerstone of personal identity that people fiercely guard.   Please enjoy my conversation with Dr. Joy Lere.  Connect with Paul Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here. For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast. Follow Paul on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

Do you give an honest answer when someone asks, "How are you doing?" Or do you give the typical generic response about how "busy" you are?  Paul Graham is an investor who has worked with thousands of startup companies and is also a prolific writer.  I imagine that Paul has some valuable insights into what it means to be busy.  The central thesis behind our discussion is Paul's essay "How to lose time and money."  Within it, I go deep into the idea that the most dangerous way to lose time is not to spend it having fun but doing fake work.  Connect with Paul Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here. For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast. Follow Paul on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

Trust that today's conversation holds valuable guidance for those grappling with the emotional hurdles of a career change or fine-tuning work-life balance, especially busy parents. We welcome back our resident career expert, Carrie Schochet of Purple Squirrel Advisors, to discuss everything from the delicate balance of flexibility in the workplace to maintaining privacy during a job search. Here are a few key topics The strategic use of AI to navigate resumes, job applications, and interview questions,The subtle art of exploring new opportunities without commitment andThe psychology of changing careers or jobs while understanding the emotional hurdles between the two. The pandemic has reshaped the work environment. We confront the challenges and benefits of remote work, considering parents' perspectives, the desire for flexibility and social interaction, and what this means for the future of workplaces. Please enjoy my conversation with Carrie Schochet. Connect with Paul Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here. For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast. Follow Paul on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

The Gap and The Gain  Do you see the horizon, but it’s not moving?  Our purpose is a lot like the horizon; it is helpful to figure out your direction and to plan your journey, but you can’t reach your purpose any more than you can arrive at the horizon.  A few years ago, I came across a book by Dan Sullivan titled The Gap and The Gain.  It was somewhat life-changing at the time and continues to hold a theory I wrestle with today.  A theory I discuss with the families I work with and even my kids.  The idea we discuss in this episode is how we measure progress by looking back from where we started, rather than comparing ourselves to an ever-changing endpoint.    Follow the Show And Never Miss an Episode Listen on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, Work With Paul Contact Paul at https://www.tammacapital.com/contact or use this scheduling tool to set up your free alignment meeting. For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast.  Follow Paul on Facebook and LinkedIn.  And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

Christina Gravert, a behavioral scientist and a new mother, has something to say about motivation and habits.  Ten months after welcoming a baby into her life, Christina confronts a reality familiar to many: the struggle of balancing personal objectives, like returning to the gym, with the demands of parenthood.  Her experiences have led her to probe deeper into the nature of motivation and its limitations. Christina understands firsthand that motivation, like any fleeting emotion, can wax and wane.  Through her research, Christina concludes that sheer willpower is not a sustainable strategy for long-term behavior change.  Instead, Christina advocates for a more strategic approach in her insightful article, Why Triggering Emotions Won't Lead to Lasting Behavior Change By reducing the "costs" associated with desired actions—making it to the gym, engaging in bedtime storytelling, or cooking healthy meals at home—we can make it easier to maintain these practices even when our motivation dips. Her thoughts resonate with many who have found themselves setting ambitious New Year's resolutions, only to see their determination fade into daily life's distractions and competing priorities.  Christina Gravert's insights encourage us to rethink our reliance on motivation and to create environments and systems that support our objectives, making desirable behaviors more effortless. Resources Featured in This Episode: Christina Gravert Why Triggering Emotions Won't Lead to Lasting Behavior Change Hal Hershfield – Your Future Self: How to Make Tomorrow Better Today Follow the Show And Never Miss an Episode Listen on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, Work With Paul Contact Paul at https://www.tammacapital.com/contact or use this scheduling tool to set up your free alignment meeting.

Do you know what the difference between tax planning and preparation is?  Were you even aware that this is a difference between the two? Today, we delve into the often-misunderstood differences between tax preparation and tax planning. With tax season upon us, it's crucial for everyone to grasp the objectives and intricacies of both. We discuss practical examples of tax planning, from retirement account contributions to college planning and charitable contributions. Additionally, we outline the numerous benefits of tax planning, including long-term savings, improved investment efficiency, enhanced retirement planning, and overall peace of mind. Tax planning is an essential part of a holistic approach to personal finance, aligning closely with your family's purpose and objectives, which are both personal and financial. Taxes touch every part of your personal and financial life.  By understanding and utilizing tax prep and tax planning, your family can make more informed decisions supporting your short and long-term objectives. For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast. Follow Paul on Facebook and LinkedIn. And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics. Follow the Show And Never Miss an Episode Listen on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, Work With Paul Contact Paul at https://www.tammacapital.com/contact or use this scheduling tool to set up your free alignment meeting.

oday, we're diving into the second part of our insightful series with college planning expert Heidi King.  If you thought college planning was just about selecting the right campus vibes for your kids, prepare to think again. We continue unraveling the complexities of the modern financial aid landscape, a terrain changed by replacing the expected family contribution with the new student aid index, shifting how college costs are calculated and how families can prepare. Get ready to dive into the nuances of the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), its role in college marketing, its simplification, and why even those who might not expect to qualify for aid should still fill it out. Heidi brings us personal stories from the frontlines of college tours and campus visits, insights into the often-overlooked details of financial aid packages, and the finer points of scholarship stacking and its pitfalls. Please enjoy my conversation with Heidi King. Part 1 - Heidi King - The High Stakes of College Planning for Parents For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast. Follow Paul on Facebook and LinkedIn. And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics. Follow the Show And Never Miss an Episode Listen on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, Work With Paul Contact Paul at https://www.tammacapital.com/contact or use this scheduling tool to set up your free alignment meeting.

Are you feeling overwhelmed with college planning?  If you're a high school senior or a parent navigating the college search process, it's understandable if you're feeling anxious. To help guide you through this process, our host Paul Fenner shared a comprehensive list of questions to ask during your college search in the latest episode of Emotional Balance Sheet. Paul outlines key questions to ask during your college search, covering academic, social, and lifestyle aspects. From admissions and financial aid to campus life and academic support, we've got you covered. Plus, we've included a handy list in the show notes for your reference. Stay tuned for expert insights on maximizing financial aid and tax implications. For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast. Follow Paul on Facebook and LinkedIn. And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics. Follow the Show And Never Miss an Episode Listen on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, Work With Paul Contact Paul at https://www.tammacapital.com/contact or use this scheduling tool to set up your free alignment meeting.

When is the right time to talk with your kids about planning for college?  Why is finding the "right fit" school so critical, and what criteria do you use to choose it? Heidi King has a front-row seat in helping parents guide their kids through the college planning process, especially regarding the tough emotional side.  Heidi entered college advising after a mid-career change driven largely by not finding the resources her family needed as she went through the college planning journey with her two sons. Three Key Takeaways There are real costs to not finding the "right fit" school.  Transferring schools can increase the cost of college by $14,000 - $24,000.  With 38% of students ending up transferring, it's crucial to consider the 'right fit' before commencing.It's essential to start early conversations about college expenses, financial affordability, and how much parents are willing to support their kids.The 'right fit' includes evaluating academic, social, and financial aspects.  Considering the learning style, competitiveness, experiential learning (academics), size, Greek life, sports, and location (social), along with the cost (financial), is critical to finding that perfect fit. We also touch on why tuition costs have skyrocketed and how the college planning landscape has changed due to COVID-19.  Whether you're a parent exploring college options with your high schooler or wondering when to begin having conversations with your middle schooler, there is something in this conversation for every parent and family. Please enjoy my conversation with Heidi King. For show notes and resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/102. For more episodes, go to tammacapital.com/podcast. Follow Paul on Facebook and LinkedIn. And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

Today I reflect on the milestone of my triplets turning 13 years old and the anniversary of starting his firm, Tama Capital. I share the significance of the name "Tama" and how it represents families helping families. Through personal anecdotes and engaging conversations with others, I delves into the concept of time, emphasizing the importance of cherishing moments and being present in both parenthood and relationships. Join me as we explore the profound impact of the phrase "the days are long, but the years are short," and its relevance to navigating life's milestones and chaotic moments.   Follow the Show And Never Miss an Episode Listen on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, Work With Paul Contact Paul at https://www.tammacapital.com/contact or use this scheduling tool to set up your free alignment meeting.

Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcast  | Amazon Music | Spotify UCLA Professor and author Cassie Holmes helps us unravel the intricacies of time management and emotional investment, offering valuable insights that can reshape the way you approach your daily life. We delve into the challenges of balancing a busy life, the inspiration behind "Happier Hour," and strategies to maximize productivity and happiness. Cassie's journey from being an assistant professor and a new mom to crafting a fulfilling schedule will resonate with anyone grappling with time constraints. Our conversation concludes with a powerful message – intentional time investment is the key to transforming time poverty into time prosperity. By savoring ordinary moments, investing attention in relationships, and finding joy in everyday activities, you can reshape your emotional balance sheet for a richer and more satisfying life. Please enjoy my conversation with Cassie Holmes Resources Featured in This Episode: Cassie Holmes Happier Hour: How to Beat Distraction, Expand Your Time, and Focus on What Matters Most Hal Hershfield - Your Future Self: How to Make Tomorrow Better Today For additional resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast. Follow Paul on Facebook and LinkedIn. And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

In this episode of Emotional Balance Sheet, I dive into the topic of predictions and why it's crucial to steer clear of them, especially when it comes to the stock market and the economy. Join me as I share insights on the impact of predictions and why having a flexible approach is key to successful portfolio management. This episode is brought to you by Tamma Capital. Key Takeaways: - The stock market and the economy are not always aligned. Understanding the distinction is crucial in making informed financial decisions. - Short-term market movements may not significantly impact your long-term financial plan. Keeping a focus on long-term goals is essential. - Avoid getting caught up in predictions propagated by social media and mainstream news. Stay informed, but don't let predictions dictate your financial decisions. Tune in for a deeper dive into this important topic and gain valuable insights for your financial journey. Listen to the full episode on Emotional Balance Sheet.  Follow the Show And Never Miss an Episode Listen on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, Work With Paul Contact Paul at https://www.tammacapital.com/contact or use this scheduling tool to set up your free alignment meeting.

Allison Schrager is an economist and writer who has taken on the complex subject of risk in her illuminating works.  With astute perception and a flair for engaging storytelling, Allison seeks to debunk commonly held myths about risk—challenging the widely accepted mantra of 'no risk, no reward.' Allison's work probes into the subtleties of risk management, emphasizing that while society often chooses to ignore the inherent trade-offs of pursuing greater rewards, acknowledging these risks is crucial for not only successful investing but in every aspect of life Two Key Takeaways Financial planning must transcend beyond portfolio performance to include risk management and lifestyle planning.Consideration of inflation uncertainty and purchasing power is vital for the health of your financial future. Please enjoy my conversation with Allison Schrager.