The Money and Meaning Show

Aligning Wealth with Purpose: Dr. Daniel Crosby on “The Soul of Wealth”

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier welcomes back Dr. Daniel Crosby, a New York Times bestselling author and Chief Behavioral Officer at Orion. Together, they discuss concepts from Crosby’s new book, The Soul of Wealth, exploring how financial well-being intersects with psychology and personal growth. From defining “soulful wealth” to the psychology behind money and happiness, the conversation offers practical insights on aligning financial decisions with what truly matters for a fulfilling life.
Topics covered: 
Overview of Dr. Crosby’s career and role as Chief Behavioral Officer at Orion 
Exploring The Soul of Wealth and its unique, contemplative format 
Defining “soulful wealth” and why wealth is about more than finances 
The impact of meaningful work on life satisfaction and wealth 
Research findings on money and happiness 
Spending habits that contribute to lasting happiness and fulfillment 
The link between generosity, well-being, and the concept of “wealth” 
Behavioral insights for better financial decision-making 
The importance of flexibility in financial planning to accommodate personal growth 
Unique financial strengths and investment tendencies of women 
Setting deeply personal, meaningful financial goals for stronger motivation
Useful Links: 
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jeffberniercfp_the-money-and-meaning-show-activity-7202103509700227072-h0Qn/ 
Daniel Crosby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielcrosby 
Orion: https://orion.com/ 
TandemGrowth Financial Advisors: https://www.tandemgrowth.com/ 

Navigating Midlife Transitions and Financial Empowerment with Sherry Finkel Murphy

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier sits down with Sherry Finkel Murphy, founder and CEO of Madrina Molly LLC. Sherry is a seasoned financial planner who focuses on helping midlife women navigate the complexities of financial and longevity planning. They explore the challenges faced by women in the "Triple Decker Club Sandwich Generation," discuss strategies for reinventing life after 50, and dive into Sherry’s mission to provide financial education through her community platform, Madrina Molly. This conversation offers valuable insights for those seeking to align their financial resources with their personal values and life goals.
Topics covered: 
Challenges of the "Triple Decker Club Sandwich Generation" and its impact on midlife women. 
Sherry’s career journey from financial planner to the founder of Madrina Molly. 
Common financial and emotional struggles among midlife women, including shame around money. 
The importance of financial education and empowering women over 50. 
Strategies for reinventing life after 50, including Sherry’s concept of the “glide path.” 
Insights on longevity planning and how it intersects with health, location, financial, and purpose planning. 
The need for community and purpose in aging and retirement. 
Balancing caregiving responsibilities with personal ambitions and business pursuits. 
Building a supportive community for women navigating midlife transitions.
Useful Links: 
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jeffberniercfp_the-money-and-meaning-show-activity-7202103509700227072-h0Qn/ 
Sherry Finkel Murphy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherryfinkelmurphy 
Madrina Molly: https://www.madrinamolly.com/ 
Tandem Growth Financial Advisors: https://www.tandemgrowth.com/ 

Elections and Markets 🗳️ with Apollo Lupescu, Vice President of Dimensional Fund Advisors

In this episode of the Money & Meaning Show, host Jeff Bernier welcomes Apollo Lupescu, Vice President of Dimensional Fund Advisors. Apollo, known as the “Secretary of Explaining Stuff,” discusses how investors can make sense of financial markets during election years. He shares his insights on investment philosophies, the impact of political events on markets, and strategies for maintaining focus amidst noise. Tune in to learn how to make more informed investment decisions in politically charged times. 
Topics Covered: 
Introduction to Apollo Lupescu and his journey with Dimensional Fund Advisors 
Overview of Dimensional’s investment philosophy and core principles 
How to think about market uncertainty during election years 
The historical performance of markets during election years and what investors can learn 
Debunking common myths about the impact of political policies on specific sectors 
Evaluating the economic burden of national debt and its influence on investment strategies 
The importance of focusing on data-driven decisions over emotional reactions 
Final thoughts on separating politics from investment decisions 
Useful Links: 
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn 
Apollo on LinkedIn 
Dimensional Fund Advisors 
TandemGrowth Financial Advisors 
 

Financial Wellness and Purpose with James Grace

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier talks with James Grace, Director of Wealth Management at Silver Pine Capital and host of the Modern Financial Wellness podcast. They explore the evolving nature of the wealth management industry, emphasizing holistic financial planning that encompasses not just financial health but also personal fulfillment and purpose. James shares his journey through the financial services landscape and offers insights into how individuals can achieve financial wellness and well-being. Together, they discuss the importance of aligning actions and resources with personal values and goals.
Topics covered:
Introduction to James Grace and his role at Silver Pine Capital.
Evolution of the wealth management industry toward holistic planning.
Differences between financial wellness and financial well-being.
James's career path from biotech sales to wealth management.
The role of behavioral finance and client discovery in financial planning.
The significance of aligning financial strategies with personal values.
The importance of ongoing financial advice and support.
Business models in the financial advisory industry.
Insights from the Modern Financial Wellness podcast.
Useful Links:
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn
James Grace on LinkedIn
Silver Pine Capital
Modern Financial Wellness Podcast
TandemGrowth Financial Advisors

Unpacking Reverse Mortgages: Myths, Benefits, and Strategic Uses with Gabrielle Welter

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier speaks with Gabrielle Welter, a retirement solutions manager at Finance of America. They explore the topic of reverse mortgages, dispelling common myths and misconceptions. Gabrielle explains how these financial tools can provide stability and peace of mind for retirees, addressing key challenges like healthcare costs and market volatility. The discussion delves into the specifics of Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECMs), including their benefits, costs, and strategic uses in retirement planning.
Topics Covered:
Introduction to reverse mortgages and common misconceptions
Gabrielle Welter's background and career journey
The evolution and safety measures of reverse mortgages
Strategic uses of HECMs in retirement planning
The financial and psychological benefits of reverse mortgages
Differences between HECMs and traditional mortgages
Suitability and scenarios for using reverse mortgages
Costs and insurance protection associated with HECMs
Resources for further information on reverse mortgages
Useful Links:
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn
Gabrielle Welter on LinkedIn
Finance of America
TandemGrowth Financial Advisors

Evidence-Based Investing with Larry Swedroe

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier interviews Larry Swedroe, a renowned author and expert in evidence-based investing. They discuss Larry's journey and contributions to the financial industry, his approach to investment strategies, and the importance of diversifying portfolios. Larry shares insights on financial planning, the role of fixed income, and the benefits of alternative investments. This episode offers valuable advice for retirees and those seeking a robust investment strategy.
Topics Covered
Larry Swedroe's career and contributions to financial education
Importance of evidence-based investing
Historical performance of various asset classes
Role of fixed income in portfolios
Benefits and risks of alternative investments
Challenges retirees face in financial planning
Behavioral aspects of investing
Diversification and its impact on portfolio performance
Useful Links:
Larry Swedroe on LinkedIn
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn
TandemGrowth Financial Advisors

Finding Purpose Beyond Financial Success with Paul Ollinger

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier interviews Paul Ollinger, a former Facebook employee turned stand-up comedian and podcast host of Crazy Money. They discuss Paul's journey from the corporate world to comedy, exploring the themes of finding purpose and meaning beyond financial success. The episode offers valuable insights for mid-to-late career executives planning their next steps and navigating life's transitions.
Topics covered:
Transitioning from a corporate career to pursuing personal passions
Challenges and realizations in leaving a high-stress job for stand-up comedy
Impact of Facebook's rapid growth on Paul's career decisions
Finding purpose and fulfillment beyond financial success
Emotional and psychological challenges of retirement
Advice for planning life after a corporate career
Dangers of constant comparison in affluent communities
Importance of meditation, presence, and personal growth
Useful Links:
Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn
Paul Ollinger on LinkedIn
Crazy Money Podcast
Tandem Growth Financial Advisors

Navigating Longevity and Place Planning for a Fulfilling Second Half 📌 with Guest Ryan Frederick

Join Host Jeff Bernier and Guest Ryan Frederick, founder of the Here movement, as they delve into the importance of place planning and healthy longevity. From personal journeys to proactive wealth management, this episode offers insights into living a fulfilling second half of life.
Here is a movement to reshape how we live by helping people better understand the importance of place and by creating tools and frameworks for individuals to make more informed decisions about where to call home. 
According to Ryan, Where You Live Matters. Where you live is much more than a physical place. It is one of the most important decisions you make. It shapes your purpose, relationships, health, financial wellbeing and more.
Topics Covered:
Introduction to holistic wealth management
Ryan's journey from Silicon Valley to thought leader in healthy longevity
Aligning spirituality and purpose in life
Balancing present enjoyment with future preparation
The impact of place on well-being and aging
Recommendations for a balanced approach to planning
Ryan's book, "Right Place, Right Time," and resources on here.life
The evolving role of place planning in wealth management
Are you in the right place for a long, health and financially secure life? Take Ryan's free assessment.
Ryan's book: Right Place, Right Time: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Home for the Second Half of Life
Interested in learning more about holistic wealth management? Check out TandemGrowth Financial Advisors.