In this episode of Stuff About Money They Didn’t Teach You in School, Erik Garcia is joined by Miles Clark, Senior Analyst at Nasdaq Dorsey Wright, to explore a simple but important question: what’s better—time in the market or timing the market? The conversation opens with a long-term look at how markets have behaved over multi-decade periods and what that data can teach investors when they’re deciding what to do with new money, especially when markets are sitting at or near all-time highs. From there, Erik and Miles walk through three common investor approaches: investing a lump sum right away, waiting for a pullback, or easing in over time. They discuss which experiences tend to lead to better long-term outcomes and why those results often surprise people. The conversation also touches on momentum, relative strength, and market breadth, including what it means when market leadership becomes narrow and valuations stretch. The episode wraps up with Miles’ thoughts on what matters most heading into 2026, what investors tend to worry about too much, and what deserves more attention moving forward. If you found this episode helpful, follow the show and share it with someone who’s still waiting for the “right” time to invest. Episode Highlights: Miles discusses a study showing "Average Joe," who invests $500 monthly regardless of market conditions, outperforms market timers by about $1 million. (07:25) Miles breaks down market breadth through a football analogy: it tells investors whether the market is on offense or defense. (13:20) Miles mentions that in core-dominated markets, the real risk isn't beating the benchmark but simply keeping up with it. (18:55) Miles discusses how Dorsey Wright applies relative strength to identify which assets to hold, focusing on sustained trends rather than short-term news. (22:45) Miles explains how momentum investing rotated out of tech in 2022 into energy and utilities, then back into tech for 2023-2024. (29:30) Erik emphasizes that risk capacity matters more than risk tolerance, which is often driven by emotions about current market conditions. (36:25) Key Quotes: "We don't necessarily have to focus on protecting against the entire market washout. We really just need to protect ourselves against where we're over-concentrated in our portfolios." - Miles Clark "In core-dominated markets, a lot of the risk is actually just not keeping up with the benchmark because it is so strong." - Miles Clark "Finding and earning positive relative strength is just trying to pick those assets that are doing relatively better towards the up or downside than their benchmark." - Miles Clark Resources Mentioned: Miles Clark Nasdaq Dorsey Wright Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

In this solo episode of Stuff About Money They Didn't Teach You in School, Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC®, CLTC, steps behind the mic to wrestle with a tough truth: planning isn’t optional, not if you want control over your future. Fresh off his conversation with Giovanni Arenas about Gio’s life-threatening condition and remarkable double lung transplant, Xavier gets another call that hits just as hard. A dear friend's cancer has returned, and with it comes the realization that he never put proper business succession plans in place. It is a moment that reveals not just financial vulnerability but emotional fallout, the kind that compounds heartbreak when families are already hurting. Xavier digs deeper into why waiting to plan is one of the costliest decisions a business owner can make. He lays out how proactive planning protects the people you care about most and why delaying those decisions hands your future over to circumstances instead of intention. This episode is an honest call to action: don't wait until life forces your hand. If the message resonates, share the episode with someone who needs the nudge, and make sure you're following the show for more conversations that help you take control before life does it for you. Episode Highlights: Procrastination is a bill that silently compounds, delaying tasks makes them harder to complete, and weighs you down. (01:00) Time is the most valuable asset when building wealth. Every year of waiting meant losing opportunity, not just time. (01:30) Xavier references his previous episode with Giovanni Arenas about his double lung transplant and how quickly life can change. (02:30) Xavier shares a personal story: A close friend's rapidly progressing cancer forced immediate business and family decisions no one was prepared for. (04:10) Xavier outlines action steps: Create a will, establish an estate plan (not just for the wealthy), and build a business continuation plan. (07:10) Planning documents are acts of love and gifts of clarity that ensure your intentions, not others' emotions, guide what happens next. (07:50) Key Quotes: “Procrastination doesn't just slow you down. It widens the gap between where we are today and where we want to be.” - Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC®, CLTC “Planning isn't when life is perfect. Planning isn't when life happens, planning now it matters.” - Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC®, CLTC “ Take that first step today, no matter how small. Start planning today. Start the conversation, get the documents in place. Build the plan that protects the people and the legacy you want to fulfill your future self and your family will thank you later.” - Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC®, CLTC Resources Mentioned: Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

In this solo episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, host Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ sits down for a candid one-on-one about goals. Not the shiny, New-Year’s-resolution kind, but the messy, honest kind we whisper to ourselves when no one’s listening. Erik shares two personal moments that reshaped how he thinks about goal setting, including the year Dr. Matt Morris bluntly told him, “You just made a bad goal,” and the overly ambitious golf objective that nearly convinced him to quit the game altogether. These stories spark a bigger conversation about why we so often overestimate what we can accomplish in the short term and underestimate what we’re capable of over the long haul. In the second half of the episode, Erik unpacks a healthier, more realistic framework for pursuing goals — especially financial ones. Instead of obsessing over hitting a number by a certain date, he encourages listeners to think of goals as direction and objectives as the checkpoints that keep them moving forward. Erik explores why grace, awareness, and better-designed goals lead to more progress and less burnout. If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who needs a fresh perspective on goal setting, and make sure you’re following the show for more conversations that help you move toward a wiser, more intentional financial life. Episode Highlights: Erik discusses why traditional goal-setting frameworks and New Year’s resolutions aren’t the focus, emphasizing the frustration goals often create. (01:10) Erik shares the moment Dr. Matt Morris looked at him and said he had simply made a bad goal, reframing how he viewed falling short. (02:30) A reminder surfaces about how people consistently overestimate short-term capacity and underestimate long-term potential. (04:00) Erik explains why he now treats goals as directions rather than destinations, using the New York-to-England swimming analogy. (05:30) Erik shares how an overly ambitious summer golf goal led to frustration and helped him rethink the difference between goals and objectives. (07:00) Financial goal setting follows the same pattern, as unrealistic expectations often lead to shame, frustration, or giving up entirely. (09:10) Two core takeaways: create better directional goals and recognize the bias of misjudging short- and long-term potential. (10:40) Why having someone walk alongside you, such as a financial planner, helps maintain direction and adjust objectives over time. (11:40) Erik encourages listeners to share the episode and continue reframing their approach to goal setting. (13:40) Key Quotes: “ I've stopped treating goals like a destination, like something I have to reach. Instead, I think of them like a direction.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ “  You're not failing your goals, your goals just might need a reframe. Fix the direction, adjust the objectives, and trust the long-term journey.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ “ Set better goals, not bigger ones, not more detailed ones. Better ones. Goals that orient you long-term, meaningful directional goals, and then backfill that with objectives that guide your ” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ Resources Mentioned: Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors 

In this moving episode of the Stuff About Money They Didn’t Teach You in School podcast, Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC®, CLTC, sits down with Giovani Arenas, business partner of Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA™, ChFC®, at Garcia Insurance Services, to talk about life, death, and everything in between. Gio, who received a double lung transplant just two years ago, shares his remarkable story of resilience and faith. From being told as a child that he wouldn’t live past 40 to defying all odds and thriving in his late 40s, Gio opens up about what it’s like to face mortality head-on—and how that perspective reshapes every part of life, including how we plan for the future. In this powerful conversation, Gio and Xavier discuss the emotional and practical sides of end-of-life planning, from having honest family conversations to getting your estate in order. They explore what it means to prepare for death while choosing to live fully—with gratitude, purpose, and hope. Gio’s story reminds us that wise planning isn’t just about money; it’s about love, legacy, and peace of mind. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to face life’s hardest truths with courage and grace. Episode Highlights: Gio discusses growing up with scleroderma, reconstructive surgeries, and the impact of bullying in his teenage years. (02:48) Gio shares how marriage and becoming a father transformed his outlook and fueled his desire to create a strong family legacy. (04:12) Gio discusses the emotional weight of planning for his family while living with limited life expectancy. (05:42) Gio explains the miracle of receiving a transplant call just one week after being placed on the list and the frantic race to the airport. (08:58) Gio recounts the airport gate reopening and his arrival in Houston before the organs, describing it as the first of many miracles. (14:08) Xavier emphasizes how essential it is to account for different scenarios when building a solid financial strategy. (18:18) Gio explains how he and Erik Garcia planned for financial and business continuity, including wills, trusts, and contingency strategies. (19:20) Gio reflects on the importance of legacy, emphasizing character, faith, and the example he hopes to leave for his children. (20:33) Xavier highlights how many families struggle to address conversations about wills, directives, and preparing for the unexpected. (24:58) Gio encourages listeners to confront difficult conversations about death, wills, and family preparedness. (25:36) Gio affirms that his faith is now “stronger than ever,” describing how the journey reshaped his belief. (28:41) Xavier encourages listeners to begin planning early and communicate the legacy they want to leave. (29:38) Key Quotes: “My actual transformation to a more concentrated person, and being a productive person and being someone happened when my kids were born, that completely changed my way of thinking, because to me, family, it's very important.” - Giovani Arenas “There were so many things that happened that have no explanation except the power of God working in the process, you know. And if I have to say something now is, I believe more now than before.” - Giovani Arenas Resources Mentioned: Giovani Arenas Garcia Insurance Services Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

In this episode of Stuff About Money They Didn’t Teach You in School, hosts Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™, and Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC®, CLTC®, tackle a hard truth — sometimes, the biggest threat to our financial health isn’t the economy, it’s the lies we tell ourselves. From “I’ll save when I make more” to “I deserve this purchase” and “I can time the market,” Erik and Xavier break down how these self-deceptions quietly shape our spending, saving, and investing habits. They’ll also reveal how these internal narratives may be fueling the stress behind alarming stats showing that 58% of Americans feel their finances are in crisis and 47% say money negatively affects their mental health. Digging deeper, they unpack the psychology and emotion behind each lie and how believing them keeps us stuck — overspending, under-saving, and second-guessing our investments. You’ll hear relatable stories, practical tips, and a few laughs along the way as Erik and Xavier guide listeners toward replacing financial fiction with truth. Whether you’re guilty of lifestyle creep, emotional spending, or chasing market timing, this conversation will challenge you to confront your money myths and live the Plan Wisely Way. Be sure to follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Episode Highlights: Erik connects Xavier’s story to financial behaviors that can lead to crisis and introduces “three money lies” people tell themselves. (08:00) Together, Erik and Xavier unpack the first lie: “I’ll save more when I make more,” discussing paycheck-to-paycheck realities and intentional saving habits. (11:00) Xavier challenges excuses around spending, encouraging listeners to align money use with what truly matters. (14:00) Erik emphasizes starting small, automating savings, and prioritizing goals that match personal values. (18:00) Erik and Xavier move to the second lie, “I deserve this,” exploring emotional spending, debt, and budgeting for wants versus needs. (20:00) Erik shares strategies to manage impulse buys and highlights the power of financial planning rooted in discipline and purpose. (24:00) Xavier discusses intentional spending on meaningful experiences and maintaining balance between enjoyment and prudence. (26:00) The third lie, “I can time the market,” introduces a conversation on emotional investing and long-term financial discipline. (28:00) Erik and Xavier reminds listeners that honest reflection, planning, and value-based choices lead to stronger financial wellbeing. (31:00) Key Quotes: “There’s lies that we tell ourselves about money. We're all guilty of this. Just some are guilty of it at different levels. Levels that are more material than others.” -  Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ “Create that strategy, take a look at what your finances are, know what’s important to you, and then make those decisions.” - Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC®, CLTC® “Saving is like a muscle. And the more you use it, the stronger it gets. The more you save, the easier it gets to save. And I think people just need to start.” -  Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ Resources Mentioned: Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

In this Halloween-themed episode of Stuff About Money They Didn’t Teach You in School, host Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ is joined by Dr. Matt Morris and first-time guest Stephanie Osborn for a fun and insightful conversation about fear, especially the fear of money. The trio starts by sharing their thoughts on scary movies (and why Erik can’t stand them) and explores some New Orleans lingo about what it really means to call someone “scary.” From there, they draw parallels between the things that spook us on screen, and the real-life anxieties people feel around money. As the discussion unfolds, they unpack why money can be so intimidating and how fear often leads to poor, or no financial decisions at all. The group explores the antidote to financial fear: identifying what’s truly important to you, Erik’s first pillar of financial security. Matt shares personal stories about how that focus has helped him overcome financial stress, while Erik and Stephanie offer practical strategies like setting small goals, celebrating wins, and building fierce accountability. Tune in for a lighthearted, meaningful conversation that’ll leave you a little less afraid of your finances—and maybe a little more ready to face your own money monsters. Episode Highlights: Erik kicks off the episode by sharing his fear of scary movies and how “scary” means something different in New Orleans. (03:38) Matt recalls childhood memories of terrifying films like Children of the Corn and Blair Witch Project, explaining why uncertainty makes horror so effective. (04:57) Stephanie admits she used to love scary movies but can’t handle them anymore, naming Scream as her favorite from the ’90s. (05:48) Erik transitions the conversation to the episode’s main topic about how money can be just as scary as horror movies and introduces Stephanie as a first-time guest. (08:00) Matt explains how financial anxiety often stems from the unknown, similar to fear in horror films, and why some people hide from their finances. (09:00) Stephanie cites statistics about Americans feeling anxious and stressed about money, and Matt discusses how confidence and financial literacy help reduce fear. (10:00) Erik and Matt break down three major financial fears: not having enough, fear of debt, and fear of the unknown. (24:00) Matt shares how fear can lead to poor or avoidant financial decisions and explains the importance of awareness and communication in relationships. (27:00) Erik introduces “knowing what’s important to you” as the antidote to financial fear and anxiety, connecting values to practical money habits. (36:00) Matt offers personal examples of aligning money with values, like saving for family travel and using insurance for peace of mind. (39:00) Stephanie adds that identifying where fear comes from and checking in regularly can help manage anxiety and prevent “fear paralysis.” (51:00) Erik concludes by encouraging listeners to identify what matters most, create action steps, and check in consistently to keep fear from controlling their finances. (56:00) Key Quotes: “None of us want to be fear driven. We don't want to make decisions just based out of fear. Our fears are frequently misaligned with reality.” - Dr. Matt Morris “I feel like people with money are always concerned about money, and people without money are always concerned about money. They always want to have more or they fear that they don't have enough.” - Stephanie Osborn “When you stop long enough to determine what’s most important to you, you can start making conscious decisions to align your money with those things.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ Resources Mentioned: Dr. Matt Morris Matt Morris & Associates Stephanie Osborn Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

In this episode of Stuff About Money They Didn’t Teach You in School, Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™, and Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC®, CLTC, tackle one of the most important yet often overlooked financial topics: long-term care. The conversation kicks off with a laugh as Erik shares how Xavier nearly got himself kicked out of a professional study group for challenging the conventional wisdom around long term care insurance. That sets the stage for a lively discussion about why this issue matters so much, even if it is not the kind of thing people want to chat about at a cocktail party. Between sobering stats about rising care costs and Xavier’s candid story of his aunt currently in a long term care facility, this episode keeps things engaging while shining a light on a subject that is too often ignored. But ignoring the problem does not make it go away. With the average nursing home room now costing well into six figures annually, long term care planning is a reality everyone needs to address. Erik and Xavier unpack the complexity, explaining why traditional policies may not be as reliable as they seem, why the financial planning around it can be so tricky, and how thinking in terms of cash flow might change the conversation entirely. Along the way, Erik lightens the mood with a surprisingly fitting analogy about chickens and eggs, reminding us that financial planning can be both practical and a little entertaining. Tune in, lean in, and be sure to share this episode with someone who may need a nudge to plan wisely for their future. Episode Highlights: Erik emphasizes why long term care matters, even for younger listeners, due to its inevitable impact on families. (01:12) Erik unpacks the challenges retirees face when fixed incomes meet rising care costs. (03:01) Xavier explains how some advisors buffer rate hikes by quoting higher premiums upfront. (04:00) Xavier shares a personal story to define long-term care as more than just insurance, it’s physical and emotional support. (06:56) Xavier discusses the national costs of care and why planning for it is essential. (11:00) Erik outlines the risks of asset depletion and reduced income after losing a spouse. (13:38) Xavier explains how women statistically need care longer and why planning must consider longevity. (14:18) Erik highlights why long-term care planning must include income replacement strategies. (16:17) Xavier warns against “one-size-fits-all” insurance solutions in client conversations. (17:36) Erik uses a chicken-and-egg analogy to explain sustainable income planning. (21:53) Erik encourages listeners to focus on income streams over lump sums in planning for future care. (24:36) Xavier shares a case study about a client who prioritized legacy over self-care and why that needed to change. (25:39) Erik urges listeners to talk with aging parents now about their long-term care plans. (27:00) Key Quotes: “ As a planner, I'm always thinking about how does this affect you long term, not just today, but what happens 10 years from now? Because if we're doing your planning today, I'm still doing your planning 10 years from now.” - Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC®, CLTC “Even though you may not necessarily be taking direct action to solve a potential financial problem today or in the future, having the conversation about it is actually starting to solve the problem.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ “We are financial planners. We love helping people solve financial problems, and we love helping people make financial decisions that are in alignment with what is most important to them.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ Resources Mentioned: Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

In this episode of Stuff About Money They Didn’t Teach You in School, hosts ⁠Erik Garcia⁠, CFP®, BFA™, ChFC®, and ⁠Xavier Angel⁠, CFP®, ChFC®, CLTC, dive into what they call “backwards planning.” Erik shares a story about driving his daughter to college, where the destination was clear but the journey allowed for meaningful detours that still aligned with their ultimate goal. This idea of starting with the end in mind sets the stage for a conversation about how clarity in your future direction influences the decisions you make today. Together, Erik and Xavier explore why envisioning your future, whether that is retirement, your personal life, or your career, matters so much. They highlight fascinating research showing that people who see an older version of themselves are more likely to save for the future, underscoring the power of visualization in financial planning. Tune in to learn how backwards planning can help you make intentional choices now that lead to the life you want later. If you enjoy this episode, follow the show and share it with someone who could use a clearer vision for their future. Episode Highlights: Erik explains backwards planning as starting with the destination and mapping the steps backward to determine the best route. (03:07) Erik challenges traditional retirement assumptions, encouraging a customized definition of what retirement really looks like. (08:01) Erik cites a study showing that people are more likely to save when they can visualize their older selves. (10:58) Xavier encourages listeners to clearly define their destination and work backward to create an effective roadmap. (13:01) Erik explains how knowing your destination allows for flexibility, adaptability, and detours in your financial plan. (16:15) Erik advocates for directional goal settingcasting a vision that provides long-term guidance, even if you never fully reach it. (17:14) Xavier describes how he used backwards planning to pay off debt and delay buying a new car. (22:45) Erik emphasizes the importance of aligning financial goals with personal values, not societal pressures or outside expectations. (26:01) Erik and Xavier conclude that vision, values, and direction are foundational to any financial plan. (28:00) Key Quotes: “ Think about what is your destination, what is your goal, what are you trying to attain? And then plan for it.” - Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC®, CLTC “We need to be intentional about the direction that we're going in when it comes to our finances.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA “The best goal setting is directional. You may never reach the goal, but it's constantly pointing you in a particular direction.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Resources Mentioned: ⁠Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA⁠ ⁠Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC⁠ ⁠Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors⁠

What do engineering, entrepreneurship, and divinity have to do with each other? Apparently, more than you think. In this episode, ⁠Erik Garcia⁠, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™, sits down with Tulane professors ⁠Rob Lalka⁠, who teaches entrepreneurship, and ⁠Matt Escarra⁠, a professor of engineering, to talk about a course that challenges students to ask the big questions. They discuss technology, ethics, purpose, and yes, even money. Inspired by a curriculum from Yale Divinity School, the class invites students to wrestle with questions like: What is the good life? What should we hope for? And how do we shape a future worth building? Together, they explore how innovations like AI, gene editing, climate tech, and social media are not just technical challenges. They are deeply human ones. This conversation will make you think differently about how we define progress, what we value, and how we prepare the next generation of leaders. If you enjoy the episode, follow the show, share it with a friend, and keep asking the questions that really matter, the ones that go way beyond the bottom line. Episode Highlights: Rob explains how entrepreneurship education can prepare students to build mission-driven companies that shape the future. (03:00) Matt describes how a conversation with a visiting AI expert led to the course’s inspiration and partnership with Yale's Life Worth Living program. (05:00) Erik asks how Matt integrates the technical side of engineering with questions about ethics and social impact. (06:00) Rob discusses his book ⁠The Venture Alchemists⁠ and how founders’ values influence technology’s role in society. (09:00) Matt outlines how the course delays tech discussion to first explore ancient wisdom, values, and views of the good life. (15:00) Rob shares how classroom conversations mimic the deep late-night college discussions that shape students’ thinking. (19:00) Erik connects course themes to financial advising, noting how values influence money decisions. (22:00) Rob describes how student projects will pair deep research with direct conversations with top industry leaders. (30:00) Rob and Matt explore how suffering shapes a meaningful life and why students should reflect on this before entering leadership. (37:00) Rob and Matt reflect on the long-term impact they hope this course will have on their students’ personal and professional lives. (51:00) Key Quotes: “We are equipping you to be great critical thinkers, great empathetic leaders, people who are able to go into tough conversations and be really great listeners. And not just trying to argue your point.” - Rob Lalka “I'd love to see them developing thoughtful careers where they can feel like they made some recognition in our class about what their values are and then followed through on their values, whatever that looks like for them.” - Matt Escarra “The dimensions by which you can achieve efficiencies are really mind blowing when we think about the future of technology.” - Matt Escarra Resources Mentioned: ⁠Rob Lalka⁠ ⁠Matthew Escarra⁠ Book: ⁠The Venture Alchemists⁠ ⁠Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA⁠ ⁠Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC⁠ ⁠Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors⁠

Change is part of life—but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Transitions—whether personal, professional, planned, or unexpected—can shake our sense of identity, rhythm, and control. Even positive change can feel disruptive when it alters what we’ve known or how we’ve operated. In this episode, ⁠Erik Garcia⁠, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™, and ⁠Dr. Matt Morris⁠ explore how leaders can navigate seasons of change without losing their footing. They discuss the emotional toll of transition, the importance of anchoring to your values, and the power of intentional structure when everything feels uncertain. Stability doesn’t mean staying the same—it means moving forward with clarity. Episode Highlights: Matt lists common life transitions like marriage, divorce, and kids going to college, highlighting their emotional and financial effects. (02:55) Erik questions whether the success of transitions is more impacted by finances or relationships. (05:44) Matt notes how impulsive decisions during transitions can undermine thoughtful planning. (10:19) Erik emphasizes connecting transitions to long-term goals and personal values. (15:58) Erik recommends consulting entrepreneurs who’ve navigated similar changes for grounded insight. (19:12) Matt discusses the importance of mindset—acceptance, action steps, and reframing change as opportunity. (21:56) Matt introduces desire and timing as key mindsets when assessing transition readiness. (24:45) Matt encourages committing to decisions without fantasizing about alternatives. (28:52) Erik shares a personal business transition he considered, reflecting on the emotional, relational, and financial layers involved. (35:59) Erik concludes that leadership carries weight and surrounding oneself with trusted advisors is essential. (44:57) Key Quotes: “You can't control how people react to your decision or even to your communication. But you can control the information you share with them.” - Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT “If your decision was rooted in purpose, if it was rooted in what's most important to you and it's moving you towards that. Then move on to the decision.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ Resources Mentioned: ⁠Cultivate Success Podcast Series Companion Handouts⁠ ⁠Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT⁠ ⁠Matt Morris & Associates⁠ ⁠Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™⁠ ⁠Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC⁠ ⁠Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors⁠

You can have the best ideas in the world—but if you can’t communicate them clearly, they won’t move anyone. Great leadership requires great communication. Whether you’re casting vision, navigating hard conversations, or just trying to be heard in a noisy world, how you say it matters just as much as what you say. In this episode, ⁠Erik Garcia⁠, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™, and ⁠Dr. Matt Morris⁠ explore what separates effective communicators from everyone else. From listening well to speaking with clarity and confidence, they share practical ways leaders can build influence and trust through the way they communicate. Because at the highest levels of leadership, words carry weight. Episode Highlights: Erik explains how communication is about influencing outcomes, not just exchanging words. (02:26) Matt discusses the leader’s superpower of moving people forward through big ideas and trust. (03:10) Erik emphasizes that leadership communication happens through culture and clarity of purpose. (06:33) Matt shares the importance of transparency and vulnerability in building trust. (09:44) Erik discusses how storytelling creates timeless, powerful messages. (14:40) Matt believes empathy and curiosity are essential for meaningful connection and leadership. (19:21) Erik and Matt stress that knowing your audience is key to communicating effectively. (23:18) Matt explains why effective leaders listen deeply and ask better questions to foster connection. (27:15) Erik shares how communication starts with self-awareness and clarity of values. (29:02). Matt emphasizes that good communication in leadership means choosing the right time and tone. (31:38) Erik believes nonverbal cues and consistency play a critical role in building trust. (35:41). Matt discusses how leadership is not about dominating the room, but inviting others in. (38:10) Erik concludes that great communicators create safe environments where others feel heard. (40:52) Key Quotes: “ If we want to be successful, leading people, leading a business, leading a family. We have to continually grow in our ability to communicate.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ “ Leaders often have to communicate things that are not easy to communicate. ” - Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT “ Leaders in communicating also need to be good listeners…There's a balance between listening and speaking.” - Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT Resources Mentioned: ⁠Cultivate Success Podcast Series Companion Handouts⁠ ⁠Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT⁠ ⁠Matt Morris & Associates⁠ ⁠Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™⁠ ⁠Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC⁠ ⁠Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors⁠

As a leader, decisions are part of your daily rhythm. But not all decisions are equal—and some carry more weight than others. Under pressure, even seasoned leaders can fall into traps: overthinking, reacting too quickly, or second-guessing themselves after the fact. Stress clouds clarity, and fatigue makes it harder to trust your gut or your process. In this episode, ⁠Erik Garcia⁠, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™, and ⁠Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT⁠ break down the hidden costs of poor decision-making and offer tools to help you slow down, stay grounded, and make confident choices—even in high-stakes moments. Because the quality of your decisions shapes the direction of your leadership. Episode Highlights: Erik shares wisdom from a mentor on why stepping away from the office can enhance decision clarity. (01:21) Matt discusses how minimizing trivial decisions, like wardrobe choices, can preserve mental energy for high-stakes calls. (03:39) Erik explains how decision fatigue impacts professionals, citing studies on judges and doctors. (05:24) Matt outlines three major decision pitfalls: analysis paralysis, emotional bias, and tunnel vision. (06:34) Erik and Matt explore how leisure, nature, and rest aid complex decision-making clarity. (13:27) Erik breaks down Ben Franklin’s pros/cons method and introduces an 80/20 rule for data sufficiency. (18:26) Matt explains the OODA Loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) as a tactical decision-making framework. (27:00) Erik offers three confirmation techniques to ensure a decision is sound before acting. (30:00) Matt concludes that consistent, value-aligned frameworks beat perfectionism when making decisions. (37:03) Key Quotes: “ Since we have to make so many decisions, it's important to create time in our day to make decisions.” - Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT “Oftentimes we tend to be in a better state of mind to make hard decisions when we're not necessarily thinking about the very thing that we're trying to decide on” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ “Every decision maker has to develop processes for making decisions over time.” -  Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT Resources Mentioned: ⁠Cultivate Success Podcast Series Companion Handouts⁠ ⁠Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT⁠ ⁠Matt Morris & Associates⁠ ⁠Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™⁠ ⁠Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC⁠ ⁠Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors⁠

You’re getting things done—but are you getting the right things done? As a leader, your plate is always full. Tasks stack up, people need your input, and it’s easy to fall into a pattern of constant motion with little traction. You’re working hard, but still feel behind. You’re productive, but not always effective. In this episode, Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™, and Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT explore the common traps high performers fall into when managing their workload. From overfunctioning to poor delegation and unclear priorities, they offer tools to help you take back control of your time, your energy, and your focus. Because it’s not about doing more. It’s about doing what matters—on purpose. Episode Highlights: Matt explains why productivity is about managing finite time and variable energy, and stresses improving efficiency rather than perfection. (01:43) Erik shares a story about micromanagement and a pivotal moment that reshaped his view on letting go of control. (04:38) Erik introduces the concept of revenue-generating vs. non-revenue-generating tasks to better prioritize daily actions. (09:41) Matt walks through a detailed guide on developing effective delegation skills, including the 70% rule and clear expectation setting. (12:37) Erik emphasizes the role of written processes in reducing micromanagement and building scalable systems. (18:16) Matt encourages using project management tools wisely, while Erik cautions against tech overload and advises crafting a "technology policy statement". (24:57) Matt lists mental models like the Eisenhower Matrix, Pareto Principle, and "One Thing" method to clarify focus and reduce task overwhelm. (33:44) Erik suggests flipping the script by asking “What are three things I don’t need to do?” to stay sharp and intentional. (48:00) Key Quotes: “ We have to acknowledge that time is finite. And it escapes us all the time. And so we have to be able to work smarter ” - Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT “ The more scale, the more repeatable something is, the more efficient and effective you can be.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ “ If you're going to delegate to people, they need to feel that you trust them and you need to feel that you, that they're going to get it done. ” - Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT Resources Mentioned: Cultivate Success Podcast Series Companion Handouts Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT Matt Morris & Associates Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

As a high achiever, your work never really 'stops'—but should it? You feel pressure from the outside and from deep inside that you NEED to find balance. But balance seems elusive. Just when you feel you've found it, it’s gone. In this episode, ⁠Erik Garcia⁠, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™, and ⁠Dr. Matt Morris⁠, LMFT break down the myth of work-life balance, the cost of blurred boundaries, and how to set limits that work without guilt or career damage. Episode Highlights: Erik introduces the episode by framing the common struggle of work-life balance and the guilt that often surrounds it. (01:31) Matt discusses how high achievers often experience work creeping into home life and the need to define realistic boundaries. (03:56) Erik explains why he believes work-life balance is a myth and argues for alignment of values instead of perfect balance. (06:45) Matt shares his definition of balance: enjoying both work and home life without one impeding the other. (10:07) Matt emphasizes that integration, not perfection, is the key to sustaining relationships and success. (13:51) Matt explains how unresolved work stress affects sleep, health, and emotional presence. (17:52) Erik highlights the role of self-awareness and coaching in identifying when work is intruding on personal life. (19:20) Matt shares the importance of start-stop rituals and sacred times, noting their role in maintaining boundaries. (24:09) Matt encourages leaders to model healthy habits and communicate boundaries to both teams and clients. (27:31) Matt explains how setting boundaries may trigger guilt and discomfort, but it’s a normal part of growth. (36:04) Key Quotes: “ Success shouldn't come at the cost of your personal life.” - Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT “The goal isn’t balance or like getting the scales to be weighed. It was more of an alignment of value and purpose.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ “Create sacred times for your family and for personal priorities. These are things that are, for the most part, 99% of the time, non-negotiable.” - Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT Resources Mentioned: ⁠Cultivate Success Podcast Series Companion Handouts⁠ ⁠Dr. Matt Morris, LMFT⁠ ⁠Matt Morris & Associates⁠ ⁠Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™⁠ ⁠Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC⁠ ⁠Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors⁠

You’re successful, driven, and operating at a high level—but something still feels off. Maybe you’re stuck, overwhelmed, or just not seeing the growth you want. You can use help to get to the next level. Hiring a coach could be the missing piece. In this episode, Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™, and Dr. Matt Morris break down the difference between coaching, therapy, and mentorship, and how to self-assess whether coaching is the right move. Episode Highlights: Matt recalls hiring a golf coach when he felt stuck and needed help improving his score. (01:55) Erik describes hiring a business coach after realizing there were skills he hadn’t yet developed. (05:10) Matt emphasizes the value of hiring a coach when you don't know what you don't know (06:27) Erik explains his natural drive to grow and his desire to learn from people ahead of him. (08:50) The two discuss how coaching can help with specific roadblocks or feelings of dissatisfaction. (12:43) Erik outlines how hiring a coach provided objective, emotionally detached insight for better decision-making. (14:00) Matt breaks down the differences between coaching and therapy, clarifying their distinct purposes. (18:00) They compare coaching to financial advising and mentorship, identifying key overlaps and distinctions. (20:45) Erik reflects on the loneliness of entrepreneurship and how coaching offers perspective and clarity. (28:51) Matt and Erik encourage listeners to explore coaching when feeling stuck, off-balance, or in need of accountability. (30:34) Key Quotes: “Coaching is a strategic partnership between me, you, and someone else who just needs to tackle some roadblock in their work life.” - Dr. Matt Morris “Every individual should sit down with a financial planner at least once in their life.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ “You can be content without being complacent. You could be content and still be ambitious to want to do something more.” - Dr. Matt Morris Resources Mentioned: Cultivate Success Podcast Series Companion Handouts Dr. Matt Morris Matt Morris & Associates Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™ Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

Why do we assume something has to be complicated to be valuable? That question sparked a spontaneous recording session after Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™, walked into Xavier Angel’s office to unload a bit of planner frustration. Joined by co-host Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC®, CLTC, the two dive into the false narrative that complexity equals effectiveness when it comes to financial planning. Spoiler: it doesn’t. In this unscripted and honest conversation, Erik and Xavier explore why simplicity should always be the starting point in financial planning. They break down the difference between necessary complexity and unnecessary confusion—and how chasing sophistication too soon can sabotage progress. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by your financial plan (or someone tried to impress you with one), this episode is for you. Follow the show and share it with someone who needs a little more clarity and a lot less clutter. Episode Highlights: Erik explains the myth that complexity is better than simplicity in financial planning and why he disagrees. (01:19) Xavier explains how some software can be manipulated to justify a particular product sale through overwhelming documentation. (05:02) Erik emphasizes the hidden long-term costs and commitments associated with complex strategies. (07:00) Erik highlights the importance of considering future flexibility and whether the strategy can be explained simply. (10:36) Xavier stresses the value of collaboration and asking the right questions to ensure solutions match the actual problem. (11:41) Erik shares why understanding and simplicity matter, as they increase commitment and long-term success. (12:48) Xavier emphasizes the need to revisit financial strategies regularly as life circumstances change. (18:00) Erik explains how changing laws can render complex strategies obsolete or burdensome over time. (19:08) Erik encourages listeners to push for clarity and not be swayed by flashy but ineffective financial plans. (21:00) Key Quotes: “We like complexity, we like that kind of stuff. It feeds our ego, but man, simplicity generally wins out.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA “If you're being presented a financial plan, ask questions, push for understanding, don't settle for whatever the advisor or the planner is presenting, just because it sounds good, complex does not equal effective, don't let it feed your ego.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA “If you don't know what the problem is that you're trying to solve, it's hard to come up with a solution that's going to fit that specific one.” - Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Resources Mentioned: Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

In this episode of the Stuff About Money They Didn't Teach You in School podcast, host ⁠Erik Garcia⁠, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™, shares a practical financial strategy he personally uses—what he calls practicing your future payment. Whether you’re planning to buy a home, send a child to college, or take on any significant financial commitment, Erik walks through how simulating that future expense now can reduce stress, build confidence, and help you make smarter money decisions. Plus, he dives into the psychology behind this tactic, including why naming a savings account after your future goal can be surprisingly powerful. Erik outlines three reasons to practice your future payment and three key benefits that come from doing it, including building a custom emergency fund and creating margin before you need it. Backed by behavioral research and real-world application, this episode offers a clear, actionable approach to preparing for life’s financial milestones. If this helps you, share it with someone else who’s facing a big financial decision, and don’t forget to follow the show for more thoughtful money strategies. Episode Highlights: Erik explains the idea of planning for predictable future expenses by simulating those costs in advance. (01:00) Erik outlines three reasons to practice future payments: stress testing your budget, building confidence, and evaluating the decision’s wisdom. (01:43) Erik shares the mechanics of how to implement the strategy using a named savings account and automatic transfers. (04:00) Erik provides examples of future costs like buying a house, a car, or college tuition, and explains how to simulate those payments. (04:48) Erik highlights the benefits: building a savings buffer, easing financial transitions, and creating financial margin. (06:27) Erik references research on “episodic future thinking” and its impact on behavior and reduced money-related stress. (09:00) Key Quotes: “I'm speaking as a fellow sojourner with you, someone who is actively trying to manage their finances better.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA “You're building in some space financially that if things go wrong, you've got money set aside in savings.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Resources Mentioned: ⁠Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA⁠ ⁠Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC⁠ ⁠Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors⁠

In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik Garcia, CFP®, welcomes back longtime guest and college funding expert John Hupalo from MyCollegeCorner.com. As Erik navigates the emotional rollercoaster of planning for his own child’s college costs, he brings listeners along for a candid conversation about the realities of paying for school when savings and cash flow aren’t enough. From the tension between dreams and debt to that Rodrigue Blue Dog artwork hanging behind John in New York, this episode blends practical advice with real-world emotion. Erik and John dive deep into the differences between federal Parent PLUS loans and private student loans—unpacking the risks, benefits, repayment structures, and emotional consequences of each. They also share smart strategies for comparing options, planning payments, and managing expectations. Whether you’re a parent feeling overwhelmed or a financial professional advising clients, this conversation is packed with insight. If you enjoy the episode, follow the show and share it with someone navigating the same road. Episode Highlights: Erik opens up about the emotional and financial challenges of navigating college costs as both a financial advisor and a parent. (01:19) John explains the three ways families can pay for college: saving, cash-flowing, or borrowing—emphasizing this discussion focuses on borrowing options beyond federal student loans. (02:28) Erik and John discuss the potential dangers of Parent PLUS loans and explain why parents must understand the loan structure and long-term implications before committing. (09:30) John shares how private loans differ from Parent PLUS loans, including credit-based underwriting, variable rates, and the absence of origination fees. (17:01) Erik encourages “practicing the payment” as a proactive strategy—making mock loan payments in advance to test affordability before borrowing. (36:29) John suggests reducing market risk by shifting 529 funds to conservative options in advance of college payments. (38:01) They stress the value of planning for contingencies, including hidden risks like a student withdrawing mid-semester, and mention TuitionGuard as a resource to explore. (39:44) Key Quotes: “You just got to really be careful how far you're willing to reach for your, your students' dreams.” - John Hupalo “This is the time to be realistic and throughout the optimism, throughout the pessimism, and get the family together and talk about what can actually happen.” - John Hupalo Resources Mentioned: John Hupalo Invite Education MyCollegeCorner.com Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

In this episode of the Stuff About Money They Didn’t Teach You in School podcast, certified financial planner Erik Garcia speaks directly to those regularly investing in a 401(k), 403(b), or IRA. With the market constantly shifting, it can be tempting to pause contributions and wait for “better” times. But that move might cost you more than you think. Erik explains why dollar cost averaging—investing consistently regardless of market conditions—is actually your retirement plan’s greatest superpower. You’ll hear about three powerful benefits of dollar cost averaging, along with two real challenges that make it tough to stick with. This episode is all about helping you stay confident and committed to your long-term plan—even when the headlines say otherwise. If you're wondering whether to keep investing through market noise, this one’s for you. Episode Highlights: Erik explains the concept of dollar cost averaging and why it's a hidden 401(k) superpower. (01:01) Erik outlines how volatility can be an opportunity for 401(k) investors through consistent investing. (03:21) Erik shares how dollar cost averaging helps remove emotional decision-making from investing. (04:28) Erik emphasizes the role of automated discipline in building long-term wealth. Erik cautions that dollar cost averaging doesn't remove investment risk and long-term perspective is key. (06:23) Erik warns about the emotional challenge of staying invested during market drops. (07:57) Erik encourages investors to keep contributing, and possibly increase contributions, during down markets. (09:00) Key Quotes: “ The third benefit of dollar cost averaging is you are building a very important habit that's gonna help you build wealth, and that is discipline.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA “ investing in a down market is actually a very good long-term investment strategy, so stay invested. Keep investing. Use your superpower, your dollar cost averaging superpower to build your wealth in your 401k.” - Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Resources Mentioned: Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors

In this episode of Stuff About Money They Didn't Teach You in School, I (Erik Garcia, CFP®, ChFC®, BFA™) take a solo journey back to 2019—pre-COVID, pre-pandemic stimulus, pre-whatever the heck this current economy is. It's wild to think how much has changed… and how much has stayed the same. This episode opens with a confusing encounter with a Polish website and a German iPhone—setting the stage for how disorienting the financial world can feel when recession fears start swirling. And lately? With inflation still lingering, market volatility, and general unease—it's giving déjà vu all over again. Though recorded years ago, the financial wisdom in this episode remains rock solid. I unpack five economic realities that hold true no matter the cycle, explain key market terms you’re probably hearing more of, and walk through a 4-step plan that works at any income level. Whether you're nervous about what's next or just want to make smarter money moves, this episode is a reminder that fear doesn’t have to drive your decisions—clarity and preparation can. Be sure to follow the show and share it with someone who could use a little financial calm in the chaos. Resources Mentioned: Erik Garcia, CFP®, BFA Xavier Angel, CFP®, ChFC, CLTC Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors