Behavior Gap Radio

Today, Carl explores the dual questions: "Who is my work for?" and "Who is willing to pay for it?" Reflecting on two decades of aligning his work with personal values, Carl discusses the impact of his work on individuals striving to make more aligned decisions with their capital. He shares insights into the distinct group that values his expertise—financial advisors who seek to integrate these principles into their practices. Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Carl discusses the pervasive mantra of "it's just business" and challenges its ethical implications. Reflecting on a conversation with a landscape consultant, Carl explores the notion that business and personal ethics should not be separate entities. Carl talks about the importance of aligning personal values with professional practices. He questions the validity of using business as an excuse for moral ambiguity, arguing that honesty and integrity should transcend all aspects of life, whether in business or politics. Today, Carl invites listeners to reconsider the meaning of "it's just business.

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl shares insights on tackling seemingly insurmountable problems, comparing them to climbing Mount Olympus in Salt Lake City. Using personal stories, he illustrates how taking the next step can reveal new perspectives and solutions. Carl emphasizes that action, rather than endless contemplation, is key to overcoming challenges. It's time to embrace uncertainty and take that crucial first step!Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Is accumulating wealth for future generations really the ultimate goal? In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores intergenerational wealth and its impact on our lives. He challenges this idea, advocating instead for creating memories, love, and self-worth. Drawing from personal experiences, like choosing time with his children over financial gains, Carl questions the true value of wealth and its unintended consequences. What is more important to you: wealth or meaningful experiences?

How can we stop resisting and start replacing? Today, Carl explores the concept of "don't resist, replace." He shares insights on shifting focus from avoiding behaviors to replacing them with more engaging activities. Carl shares how this approach can lead to deeper engagement and time well spent. Can replacing resistance with positive actions enhance productivity and well-being? Listen to today's episode to find out how this simple shift can transform your life.Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl shares a field note from a recent mountain bike ride, exploring this topic: How can associative thinking change the way we solve problems? He reflects on how activities like biking can be part of work, helping solve problems through movement and flow. Does stepping away from active problem-solving and engaging in outdoor activities lead to breakthroughs? Perhaps sometimes stopping the effort might be the key to finding solutions!Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

How does cultivating your comparison set impact your well-being? Carl discusses this concept and its effects on personal happiness. He explores how comparisons, often driven by social media and societal standards, can undermine confidence. Are we thoughtful about the sources of our comparisons and aware of our own values? Carl shares strategies to navigate the noise, seeing it as theater and engaging in meaningful conversations.

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl discusses the concept of being "fierce with reality," inspired by a conversation with his friend Aaron and a poem by Florida Scott Maxwell. Carl explores the meaning of truly claiming and possessing all that we have been and done, leading to a sense of wholeness and honesty in our lives. He reflects on how embracing our past without letting it define our future can help us move forward with integrity and authenticity. How can we live a life aligned with our true selves?Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Carl challenges the conventional approach to planning with the idea that "all plans are wrong, but some are useful." Inspired by George Box's famous quote, Carl extends this concept to financial, business, and life plans. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on the usefulness of plans rather than their accuracy, fostering a mindset of curiosity, resilience, and adaptability. There is grace in accepting the complexity and uncertainty of planning! Carl says this perspective can lead to more sustainable and meaningful outcomes.

In this episode, Carl dives deep into the complexities of planning in the ever-changing landscape of life. Reflecting on insights from recent retreats, he explores what happens when our starting point (A) and destination (B) shift, making traditional planning models obsolete. Join Carl on this journey of discovery and find out what it means when A is no longer A!

Today, Carl shares a game-changing tip for managing overwhelming email inboxes. Introducing SaneBox and its feature, Sane Black Hole, Carl explains how this tool has transformed his email management by seamlessly filtering out unwanted messages. Listen in for a simple yet effective trick that can clean up your inbox and reclaim your time!Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Carl reflects on a profound retreat held at his home, where the unexpected but central question emerged: "How do I figure out who I really am?" Through candid discussions and personal insights, Carl explores the importance of self-discovery, the challenge of committing to one's true desires, and the impact of these revelations on our lives and work. Today, Carl talks about how to explore the essence of who you are, the legacy you wish to leave, and the rituals that can help maintain this clarity amidst life's distractions. Do you want announcements about future retreats at Carl's home? Just tell him where to send your invitation: https://dancingwithdragons.com/

In this brief and impactful field episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl presents a thought-provoking statement: "People who pay, pay attention." Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Tag along with Carl in this special early morning edition of Behavior Gap Radio as he shares his reflections from a transformative retreat with financial advisors at his home in Utah. Despite the tactical challenges we face, Carl reveals that the root of our struggles often lies in fear. Through personal anecdotes and heartfelt insights, he explores how we can find tactical answers easily but struggle to act due to underlying fears. Discover the power of embracing the quiet, calm voice within us, urging us to slow down and find contentment amidst a world demanding more, bigger, and faster. Do you want announcements about future retreats at Carl's home? Just tell him where to send your invitation: https://dancingwithdragons.com/

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl shares a personal story about the doubts and uncertainties that sometimes accompany his work. While grappling with feelings of insignificance, he received an uplifting voice memo from a friend who credited Carl's work for inspiring a major life decision. This touching moment reminded Carl of the importance of expressing gratitude and acknowledging the impact others have on our lives. He encourages listeners to reach out and thank those who have influenced them, underscoring that even those who seem confident might need a reminder of their positive impact.

Carl talks about scaling businesses on today's episode of Behavior Gap Radio. Listen to him address the common concerns of expanding impact, revenue, and client base. Drawing from his own experiences and ongoing reflections, Carl emphasizes the importance of focusing on immediate, small steps rather than overwhelming long-term goals. He shares the wisdom of "doing things that can't scale," and complements his advice with David White's inspiring poem, "Start Close In." It's time to remind ourselves to prioritize the next actionable step, embrace simplicity, and cultivate personal questions over external pressures!Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

In this episode, Carl reflects on his experiences hosting the podcast "50 Fires," where he explores the deep connections between money and meaning. He shares surprising insights from guests who vividly recall their earliest money memories and reveals how these unspoken stories influence their financial decisions. Drawing on a powerful Carl Jung quote, Carl emphasizes the importance of bringing these hidden narratives to light. He encourages listeners to engage in meaningful conversations about money, suggesting a simple yet profound exercise: Ask someone close to you about their earliest money memory and reflect on its impact!Listen to 50 Fires: Money and Meaning with Carl Richards: https://apple.co/47o5vP0

Carl critiques the concept of extreme delayed gratification, likening it to a competitive sport. He shares a story of a debate over how to eat a muffin to illustrate how our culture often places too much emphasis on postponing joy! Carl argues that this mindset can lead to missing out on meaningful moments in life. He encourages listeners to embrace the present, enjoy simple pleasures, and prioritize experiences that bring happiness and connection.

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl talks about fear-based financial planning. He explores why many of us tend to delay gratification and make financial decisions driven by fear. Carl suggests that this behavior is often influenced by a societal overemphasis on saving for the future at the expense of enjoying the present. He makes a connection between this mindset and the idea of earning one's way to a better future, akin to an afterlife or heaven. Carl unpacks these ideas and challenges the fear-driven narratives that dominate much of the financial advice industry!Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Carl shares insights from his recent conversation with Barry Ritholtz, host of Bloomberg Radio's "At the Money." Carl discusses a common question: Why do we often make irrational investment decisions, like buying high and selling low, despite knowing better? Listen in on an exploration of behavioral finance, the psychology of investing, and practical strategies to avoid common pitfalls!Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Carl missed a few days of podcasting, and he shares the mixed emotions it stirred! He tells listeners about his internal debate about balancing self-compassion with commitment and how his approach to these situations has evolved over the years. Keep listening because Carl updates listeners on some exciting projects he's been working on, including building The Society of Advice, writing a new book, and preparing for an upcoming retreat at his home in Park City, Utah. Get notified about Carl's next retreat here: https://www.dancingwithdragons.com/Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl dives into the concept of confirmation bias, illustrating its insidious nature through personal stories. He recounts his own experiences, from avoiding the scale on days after poor eating choices to misinterpreting dates for a wilderness first responder course, to demonstrate how this cognitive bias leads us to ignore evidence that contradicts our beliefs. Carl explains how confirmation bias protects our ego by reinforcing our existing views, making it challenging to accept that we might be wrong. He offers practical advice on combating this bias by intentionally seeking out contradictory information and considering alternative perspectives. Join Carl as he explores the pitfalls of confirmation bias and shares strategies to overcome it!Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Today, Carl talks about the importance of sound decision-making processes, particularly in high-stakes environments like the mountains and financial markets. He explores the often-overlooked rigor needed in decision-making and the concept of "non-event feedback," where bad decisions can lead to seemingly good outcomes by sheer luck. Carl highlights the necessity of understanding the environment in which decisions are made to ensure that processes are aligned with the risks involved.

Carl reflects on the immediate consequences of his last-minute, intense approach to tasks. After missing the start of a long-anticipated wilderness first responder course due to a critical scheduling oversight, Carl shares the humbling experience and its lessons. He recounts how his ingrained work habits and cognitive biases led to this error, prompting a reassessment of his productivity methods. Tune in to hear Carl’s candid exploration of the downsides of procrastination and the importance of double-checking details, as well as his insights on adapting and improving his approach to avoid future pitfalls!

Today, on Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores the unconventional but highly effective way he manages his professional tasks and continuing education requirements. By leveraging the power of intense, focused work sessions followed by ample downtime, Carl discovers that cramming and crushing tasks right before deadlines might be more suited to his productivity style than a traditional, steady workflow. He reflects on the benefits and potential pitfalls of this approach.Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Imagine if everyone you encountered had a visible net worth sign above their heads, updated hourly. In this hypothetical exploration, Carl challenges listeners to consider how their perceptions and behaviors would change based on this transparency. Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Carl talks through the concept of compensated risk in finance and investing. With insightful clarity, Carl distinguishes between compensated and uncompensated risks, emphasizing the importance of optimizing investment strategies for reliable returns. Through relatable analogies and practical advice, Carl empowers listeners to navigate the complexities of investing by identifying and mitigating uncompensated risks. If you liked this episode, you'd LOVE Carl's Weekly Letter. Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl challenges the societal pressure to conform to external expectations and the relentless pursuit of materialistic ideals. He explores the illusion of "keeping up" and the true sources of happiness and longevity, rooted in meaningful connections and experiences. Tune in to reflect on what truly matters and break free from the cycle of consumption-driven happiness!If you liked this episode, you'd LOVE Carl's Weekly Letter. Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Today, Carl talks about a moment when he woke up early in the morning feeling anxious and scared about money. He shares how he realized that, at that moment, everything was actually okay. Carl talks about how he used to worry a lot about the future and feel bad about things from the past, but now he's learning to find happiness in just being in the now. Listen to this episode as a reminder to enjoy the simple moments of life and be thankful for what you have right now.Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Come along with Carl as he thinks deeply about the words of Blaise Pascal from 1654: "All of humanity's problems stem from man's inability to sit quietly in a room alone." He ponders why people often feel lonely even when surrounded by others. Carl talks about how important it is to spend time alone, even when life gets busy. Using his own experiences and ideas from poet David Whyte, Carl talks about how sometimes being alone can feel scary or make us wish for company. He also shares how he wants to get better at enjoying quiet moments and thinking deeply!

Today, on Behavior Gap Radio, Carl talks about the age-old advice of not counting chickens before they hatch. Carl shares his own experiences grappling with the line between potential and reality. He explores the fine balance between optimism and practicality, stressing the value of embracing uncertainty and avoiding premature celebrations. Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

After a day of talks and walks in the mountains, Carl gets introspective. He dives into big questions about finding meaning and being creative, sparked by a chat with a singer-songwriter. Carl talks about the idea of "enough" versus always wanting more. With wisdom from philosophy and personal stories, Carl invites listeners to rethink the value of chasing goals by finding freedom in the journey itself!

Carl reflects on something important: What if they say yes? Carl shows how believing in a positive outcome can change everything! He urges listeners to think differently about their doubts and fears and to see the amazing opportunities that come from just asking.

Today is another field note episode of Behavior Gap Radio! Carl shares insights from a recent challenging yet enriching experience in Zion National Park. As he confronts physical discomfort and mental projections during a long fast-pack trip, Carl explores the behavioral bias of recency bias. This is when the recent past is projected indefinitely into the future, often leading to unnecessary complications. Drawing from Eckhart Tolle's teachings in "The Power of Now," Carl encourages listeners to harness the power of staying present and embracing each step as it unfolds rather than succumbing to future projections.

On this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl dispels the misconception that passionately pursuing your craft and earning a living are incompatible pursuits. He talks through the significance of viewing profit as validation to continue making a meaningful impact in your work. With an emphasis on a service-oriented mindset, integrity, and sustainability, Carl urges listeners to embrace profit not as a taboo, but as a crucial tool for sustaining their dedication to excellence and service. Hear Carl speak about the harmony between purpose-driven work and financial success.Carl released a series of five episodes from Behavior Gap Radio on using a lifestyle business to create freedom in your life. You'll hear Carl's thoughts on what it means to use a lifestyle business to optimize for freedom in your life and get a behind-the-scenes look at the tools we use around here at Behavior Gap to optimize for freedom. Carl also created a list of must-read resources to dive deeper into the material. Just tell us where to send you the episodes! https://behaviorgap.com/radio/lifestyle-business/

Join Carl for a field episode of Behavior Gap Radio, recorded on the move in Austin, Texas! Today, Carl reflects on the profound impact of adopting a rational approach to investing, grounded in data and evidence rather than being swayed by financial myths and rumors. By exploring the intricacies of portfolio construction and emphasizing the significance of each investment piece serving a purpose within the larger framework, Carl encourages listeners to reconsider their investment strategies to ensure alignment with their long-term goals and risk tolerance. Get ready for practical advice and a gentle reminder that informed investing requires thoughtful consideration and strategy, not mere hunches.

Carl grapples with a paradox that many of us face in today's world: the overwhelming exposure to tragedy and suffering versus the desire to live life to the fullest. Carl discusses the feeling of existential dread brought on by constant news consumption and offers a remedy: embracing life wholeheartedly. Carl draws inspiration from Mary Oliver's poignant question: "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" from her poem "The Summer Day." Tune in for a heartfelt reflection on embracing life's precious moments and aligning personal values with intentional action. Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Today, Carl explores the art of strategic decision-making and value alignment through two compelling stories. He shares how a smart public speaker transformed his business class travel perks into long-term investments, prioritizing financial stability over luxury. Then, Carl shares another story about how a simple parking choice paved the way for meaningful family dinners, highlighting the significance of aligning financial decisions with personal values. In this episode, Carl covers the importance of thoughtful decision-making, setting up automated systems, and maximizing the benefits of intentional choices!

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl shares a story about someone who mastered the art of politely turning down invitations that didn't match her priorities. She wasn't rude or dismissive; she simply knew what mattered most to her! Carl highlights her approach as a lesson in prioritization and focus. Saying no isn't about shutting people out. It's about saying yes to what truly matters! Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Today's field episode takes you on a journey of insight and reflection high in the Wasatch Mountains. Carl shares a revelation about the asymmetry between saying yes and saying no, coining the term "the yes propagation problem." He explores the cascading effects of saying yes and the precision of saying no, drawing parallels to snow avalanches to illustrate the concept's depth. Join Carl as he talks about the intricacies of decision-making and the power of understanding the implications of our choices.

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl talks about the journey from idea to reality. From books to business ventures, Carl celebrates the transformative process of seeing a mere concept evolve into tangible existence. He encourages listeners to embrace their own creative endeavors, big or small, and revel in the joy of bringing ideas to life.Don’t wait around for creativity to come to you by accident. Be creative on purpose. Carl released a series of four episodes from Behavior Gap Radio on creating things. Just tell us where to send you the episodes! https://behaviorgap.com/radio/the-process-of-creating-things/

Today's episode of Behavior Gap Radio takes you on a field adventure high in the Wasatch Mountains. Carl shares an insight: The ultimate shortcut lies in embracing activities resistant to hacks and shortcuts. Carl challenges listeners to invest in endeavors that demand dedication and perseverance over time, transcending the allure of quick fixes. Tune in to discover the power of committing to the long haul and finding fulfillment in the journey itself!Carl released a series of five episodes from Behavior Gap Radio on using a lifestyle business to create freedom in your life. You'll hear Carl's thoughts on what it means to use a lifestyle business to optimize for freedom in your life and get a behind-the-scenes look at the tools we use around here at Behavior Gap to optimize for freedom. Carl also created a list of must-read resources to dive deeper into the material. Just tell us where to send you the episodes! https://behaviorgap.com/radio/lifestyle-business/

Carl celebrates the incredible milestone of over 1.3 million downloads, highlighting the power of compounding in the podcast's success! Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Today, Carl dives into a big question: What gets you really excited? He takes inspiration from a quote by Dr. Howard Thurman and talks about how cool it is to follow what truly lights you up in life. Instead of just doing what everyone else expects or what society says is important, Carl suggests we should chase after the stuff that makes us feel alive inside! Imagine a world full of people doing what they love—that's the world Carl is aiming for. Tune in for a fresh take on finding our purpose and feeling alive in everything we do!Carl released a series of five episodes from Behavior Gap Radio on finding and doing Your Thing. Carl believes that everyone has a Thing they are uniquely suited to do! It turns out that Your Thing is uncovered by learning to be yourself. Come along with him. Just tell us where to send the series: https://behaviorgap.com/radio/the-personal-thing-series/

In this episode, Carl shares a personal anecdote of a morning adventure. As he takes a journey on a familiar trail, he reflects on the abundance of micro adventures of awe and wonder awaiting just outside of our doorsteps. From sunrise vistas to simple moments of connection, Carl invites listeners to invest their time, energy, and attention in these small yet profound experiences. Savor the micro adventures of wonder and awe that surround you each day!

Carl explores the profound impact of simply showing up for those we care about, especially in times of pain or struggle. Drawing from personal experiences, Carl emphasizes the invaluable investment of being there for others. He uses the mantra to "err on the side of presence" as a beacon of genuine connection and support in our relationships and communities.

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores our desire for certainty in a world inherently filled with uncertainty. Drawing from Robert Green's book "Mastery," Carl discusses how the need for certainty is deemed the greatest disease of the mind. Carl challenges listeners to reconsider their relationship with certainty and embrace the complexities of life!Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Today, Carl explores the relationship between money and values within the context of wisdom traditions. Carl reflects on why money holds such fascination for him despite claiming not to care about it. He argues that money serves as the interface where our values are expressed and where much of our trauma resides. He emphasizes the importance of healing this interface both individually and collectively, recognizing that true healing requires a holistic approach that considers our interdependent relationships with others. Carl suggests that through introspection and communal effort, we may be able to transcend the cycle of trauma and foster healthier attitudes toward money and each other.

Embracing uncertainty has a profound impact on our lives! In a world where certainty is often sought after, Carl argues that uncertainty is not only inevitable but also holds immense value. He talks about how uncertainty brings about surprise and plot twists and ultimately shapes the most significant moments of our lives. Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Carl talks about the interplay between our use of capital—which he defines as time, money, energy, and attention—and what truly matters to us. He navigates the complexities of self-awareness and the pursuit of authenticity in our daily lives. Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/