Behavior Gap Radio

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl unpacks a fascinating lesson about goals, metrics, and intention. Sparked by a conversation about someone else's impressive achievement, he reflects on how quickly arbitrary goals can take root—and how easily we can lose sight of what truly matters. Carl challenges us to examine whether the numbers we chase align with our deeper purpose or if they’re just distractions shaped by others’ expectations. It’s a thought-provoking reminder to focus on what really matters to us, not the metrics that might impress others.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 reflects on a powerful Dostoevsky quote about self-betrayal and the courage required to step off established paths to pursue our own. Through a personal coaching story, he explores the fear and exhilaration of navigating uncharted territory and the pitfalls of grasping for others' trails when our unique path is calling. This episode challenges us to confront the discomfort of authenticity and the transformative potential of choosing our own way, even when it feels terrifying.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 explores the finite nature of our most precious resources—time, energy, and attention—and the importance of investing them intentionally in relationships. He shares a personal story about choosing where to focus his efforts, emphasizing the need to prioritize the connections that generate the greatest returns in love, kindness, and richness of life. With practical insights, Carl challenges us to make thoughtful decisions about how we allocate our relational capital to create meaningful and impactful outcomes.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 reflects on how easily we can get derailed even when starting the day with the best intentions. He shares a transformative lesson learned from cold water swimming at Hampstead Heath, using the cold to calm the nervous system instead of up-regulating it. With practical insights on staying centered amidst life's unexpected challenges, Carl reminds us that simply noticing when we’re off course is a powerful first step toward regaining balance.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 imagines an eye-opening conversation with money, personified as a tired but honest friend. Through this thought experiment, he explores how we often ask money to provide things it simply can't—like peace of mind, security, or self-worth—and the disappointment that follows. Carl shares personal insights from his own financial struggles and invites listeners to reflect on the unrealistic jobs they may have assigned to money, encouraging a healthier perspective on its true role as a tool for value exchange.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 reflects on a quiet but profound shift in his relationship with money and responsibility. Through a family conversation about ski passes, he recognized how old stories of being the "family beast of burden" no longer controlled his reactions. Instead, by simply noticing and labeling his feelings, he allowed them to pass. Carl invites listeners to reflect on their own money stories and celebrate the subtle, unnoticed changes that signal real growth.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 explores a profound Zen quote: "I have learned only one thing in life. How much is enough?" He delves into the concept of enough—not as a one-time discovery but as a lifelong practice of learning and reminding. Through relatable examples, Carl invites listeners to reflect on where they feel a sense of lack and to consider how understanding "enough" might be the most valuable lesson of all.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 reflects on the wisdom of Thích Nhất Hạnh's words about aligning money with values. Through personal stories, he explores the inevitable gap between our spending and our priorities, emphasizing that the real work isn’t in achieving perfect alignment but in noticing and learning from the gap. This episode offers a practical and compassionate perspective on closing the space between what we value and how we live.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 a thought-provoking paradox: the all-too-common societal norm of sacrificing health for financial success, only to spend later years using that wealth to recover lost health. With his trademark clarity, Carl unpacks this "weird" cycle and invites listeners to rethink the trade-offs we consider normal. It's a short, impactful reflection that might just shift your perspective on success and well-being.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 powerful takeaway from his conversation with Dr. Gina Gorlin, a psychologist and coach for founders. Exploring the concept of "success porn," they discuss the hollowness of chasing success without substance. Dr. Gorlin's poignant question—"What good is success without substance?"—leads Carl to reflect on the quiet desperation many feel despite outward achievements.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 reflects on a provocative quote from Nassim Taleb about the three great addictions: heroin, carbohydrates, and a monthly salary. He dives into how our reliance on safety and security can sometimes hold us back from pursuing what truly matters. How do the choices we make today shape the person we want to be in three years? Are we prioritizing immediate comfort at the expense of long-term fulfillment? 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 challenges high-performing entrepreneurs, creatives, and consultants to rethink how they document their learning. Instead of overcomplicating the process, he asks: how can you make it smaller, simpler, and more consistent? From voice memos to minimalist approaches, Carl explores how simplifying the act of sharing ideas can unlock progress without perfection.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 explores the reasons behind his habit of turning personal learning into public artifacts. He delves into the value of creating tangible outputs—not for the format, but for the impact on his thinking and growth. Carl shares three key insights: how creating sharpens his ideas, how feedback enriches his understanding, and how these artifacts build intellectual property over time. It’s not about outcomes but about leaving a meaningful trail.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 delves into the deeply personal risk of creating something and sharing it with the world. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or business owner, putting a piece of yourself out there invites emotional and identity risk—leaving you exposed to critique, rejection, or indifference. Carl reflects on how cultural expectations, resilience, and mental well-being intersect with this unique form of vulnerability and asks: Is this risk an essential part of the creative process?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 Behavior Gap Radio field episode, Carl dives into the messy, courageous work of embracing who you really are—and the creative risks it takes to get there. Sharing his journey of rejecting traditional consulting norms in favor of transformative "Dancing With Dragons" days in the Utah desert, Carl explores what happens when you lean fully into your unique path. It’s a call to step away from distractions, take a deep breath, and trust that being authentically you is where the real magic happens.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 reflects on a deeply personal and universal question: What good is it to protect and provide if your kids don’t feel safe around you? Sharing a heartfelt story from a yoga teacher and his own experiences as a dad, Carl explores the tension between the hustle to provide and the need to show up as the calm, safe presence our families need. It’s not about blame—it’s about reflection and small, intentional choices that make a lasting impact.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 reflects on the age-old archetype of masculinity and money—the roles of protector and provider. Through a candid conversation with his wife, Cori, Carl examines the tension between the honor of caring for others and the constraints of societal expectations. What does it truly mean to provide? Is it material security or something deeper, like creating safety, belonging, and connection? Join Carl as he explores how to honor this archetype while rewriting it for a more balanced and meaningful 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 unpacks the metaphor of "khaki pants" as a symbol of stability, security, and predictability—and the tension between craving stability and longing for a creative, adventurous life. Inspired by a conversation with filmmaker and musician Scott Blue, Carl explores the paradox many of us face: envying the stability of others while they envy our spontaneity. With insights from Mary Oliver and Steven Pressfield, Carl asks: Are you living the life you’re meant to live? 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 reflects on a powerful question posed by writer and ultra-runner Katie Arnold during a recent conversation: “I don’t know how to be with money.” Exploring the idea of money as a relationship rather than a mere resource, Carl delves into themes of presence, acceptance, and the discomfort many feel when confronting their connection to money. How do we treat money—something to control, chase, or avoid? And what would it mean to simply be with 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/

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores the haunting concept of the "hungry ghost" from Buddhist tradition—a being with an insatiable desire, unable to find satisfaction. Inspired by conversations with Jerry Colonna, Carl reflects on the modern glorification of "never enough" and its invitation to perpetual dissatisfaction. Instead, he challenges us to live with the question: What does enough look like for me? By shifting our focus from accumulation to meaningful experiences and authentic connection, we might uncover the antidote to the endless chase.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 reflects on the profound wisdom of Lao Tzu’s quote, “Be who you really are and go the whole way.” Inspired by Katie Arnold’s books and her upcoming appearance on 50 Fires, Carl explores the challenges of authenticity, especially in moments of change. He delves into the role of teachers and guides, sharing the Zen teaching that true learning happens when we let go of the teacher and find our own path. Through stories and reflections, Carl invites listeners to embrace the uncharted journey of discovering and living their truest 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/

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores the idea that most problems are simply projections—fears about a future that may never happen. Drawing on Wendell Berry's poetic wisdom and Mark Twain's humor, Carl reflects on how humans often tax themselves with "forethought of grief," carrying unnecessary worries as if they were real. Through this lens, he invites listeners to take inspiration from nature, letting go of imagined problems to live more fully in the present.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 delves into the transformative exercise he calls the "$100 Bill Meditation," inspired by his guest Johnny Miller and a retreat in Bali. Carl challenges listeners to reframe their relationship with money by imagining it as a person—someone who has heard every hope, frustration, and expectation we’ve projected onto it. Through guided journaling, he encourages us to describe what money truly represents and, in a thought-provoking twist, to ask: If money could speak, what would it say to us? This meditation invites a deeper understanding of money as both a tool and a mirror of our own stories.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 deeper into the "collective delusion" around money, expanding on his previous discussion about money as a shared story. He explores the powerful beliefs society attaches to money—like money as power, freedom, or influence—and how these narratives can mislead us. While some of these ideas are positive and others negative, Carl argues they are all ultimately illusions that distract us from deeper truths. He challenges listeners to question these collective assumptions and hints at an upcoming episode where he’ll discuss the "$100 bill meditation" as a tool for reframing our relationship with money.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 reflects on his conversation with Krista Tippett, host of On Being, which led him to explore the idea of money as a collective story we've all agreed upon. He delves into how money, though just paper or digital numbers, gains power through our collective belief—a useful story that can drive progress but also a dangerous delusion when given too much meaning. Carl introduces the "$100 bill meditation," a thought experiment that encourages listeners to reframe their relationship with money by considering its true nature and the narratives we attach to 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/

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores the powerful link between money and fear, reflecting on his own journey to move away from making financial decisions from a place of anxiety. He shares personal stories about rewiring the deep-rooted fear response often triggered by money, a shift that came not from changing his financial situation but from growing awareness and practices like meditation and therapy. Carl invites listeners to consider how fear influences their own financial choices and shares how embracing awareness can lead to profound, lasting change. He welcomes listeners to share their own experiences on this journey away from fear-based decisions.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 an essay on finding clarity in decision-making and risk. Inspired by a personal shift in his backcountry skiing approach after a tragic accident, he explores the powerful concept of focusing on terrain that's always safe rather than testing boundaries. This episode delves into three key themes: rethinking risk, clarifying motivations, and the creative process of distilling insights into a single, impactful idea—like finding one grain of sand on a vast beach. Join Carl as he reflects on applying this "Dr. Low Angle" philosophy both in skiing and in 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 special field episode from New York City, Carl shares reflections from his "idea tour," which has taken him across the U.S., exploring the profound alignment between money and personal values. He discusses the concept of "compounding kindness"—the idea that small acts of kindness can multiply and impact lives across the globe. Reflecting on personal encounters, he highlights the power of one-to-one kindness scaling into a global network of positive impact. With over a million downloads of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl envisions a future of spreading kindness at scale and invites listeners to join the movement by sharing the episode with others who could use a spark of inspiration.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 thought-provoking episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl challenges us to rethink our relationship with money, suggesting that money itself is simply a word—a neutral tool that we've imbued with complex stories, emotions, and generational beliefs. He explores how recognizing money as a concept, rather than the source of our financial stress or aspirations, can open the door to clearer, more actionable financial thinking. Carl isn’t proposing a quick fix for financial struggles but rather a reframing: by seeing money for what it is and isn’t, we can begin to untangle our emotions from the practical steps needed to navigate our financial realities.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 reflects on the balance between discovery and clarity, suggesting that true insight often emerges when we step away from constant consumption and allow space for reflection and creation. He explores the idea of alternating between periods of deep learning and intentional time to process and create, finding clarity through stillness rather than endless discovery. Tune in to consider how stepping out of "discovery mode" might offer a new path to deeper understanding and creativity.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 explores the idea of achieving "calm money" by shifting our mindset around finances. While society often bombards us with fear and anxiety about money, Carl suggests that cultivating a calm, intentional relationship with it can transform our experience. By recognizing and managing our fears, we can approach money with clarity and peace, sidestepping the noise that clouds our judgment. Tune in to learn why calm, not fear, is the best fuel for a healthy, sustainable relationship with money.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 brief yet impactful episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl delves into a powerful concept: kindness as an investment with compounding returns, while negativity acts as an expense that only drains. Building on yesterday’s thoughts on kindness, Carl highlights the ripple effect of our interactions and challenges us to choose kindness as a long-term investment in positive outcomes. Tune in for a simple yet transformative reminder that each moment of kindness is a step toward a better world.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 profound realization sparked by a conference interaction—a reminder of the lasting impact that small acts of kindness can have on others. Reflecting on encounters from years past, he marvels at the compounding effect of positive moments: a thoughtful word, a high-five, or just a few seconds of genuine attention. This episode dives into Carl’s personal journey toward embodying "compound kindness" as a life mission, embracing positivity in every interaction and fostering a ripple effect of kindness that continues to grow with each person it touches.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 revisits one of his favorite topics: investing. He challenges the common misconception that success comes from finding the "best" investment and explains how true investment success is about becoming a better investor. Instead of constantly searching for the perfect opportunity, Carl emphasizes the power of consistency, long-term commitment, and resisting the urge to interrupt compounding. He also touches on the behavioral challenges we face, such as spending versus saving, and how mastering these habits is key to long-term financial 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/

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl dives into the process of decision-making, particularly when faced with big, life-altering choices. He emphasizes the importance of balancing analysis with intuition. While gathering information, testing assumptions, and creating pros and cons lists are essential steps, there comes a point when the analysis must stop, and it's time to trust your gut. Carl reflects on the shift from head-based decision-making to heart-based, highlighting the beauty of quieting the noise and asking, "Which one feels right?"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 explores the inevitable arrival of risk when making important life decisions, particularly through the lens of parenting young adults facing monumental choices. From career paths to personal relationships, he reflects on how we react when things don't go as planned—whether it's failing a test, missing an opportunity, or changing life directions. Drawing inspiration from Kobe Bryant's mindset of learning from failure, Carl encourages us to embrace risk as part of growth. Tune in to discover how to navigate disappointment, keep moving forward, and learn from the challenges life throws our way.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 emotional rollercoaster of managing anxiety around money, particularly during times of high cognitive demand. After a whirlwind of travel, conferences, and personal challenges, he reflects on what helps alleviate stress and what exacerbates it. From the short-term comfort of ice cream to the long-term clarity that comes from organizing his space and staying mindful of his diet, Carl shares personal insights on how small, intentional actions can make a big difference in navigating financial worries. Tune in to explore the simple question: What makes it better and what makes it worse?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, we dive into the deep, meaningful connections that define true friendship. Through a personal story of returning to the red rock canyons of Utah with friends he’s known since childhood, Carl reflects on the power of investing time and attention in friendships. He shares how these relationships have provided a safe space for vulnerability, forgiveness, and grace, despite mistakes. Carl emphasizes that nurturing friendships, even after long periods apart, offers invaluable returns. If you’re feeling disconnected, he shares simple steps to start building or rekindling those essential bonds.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 deeply personal story about overcoming fear and self-doubt by finally completing a wilderness first responder course after over 20 years of hesitation. He reflects on the emotional challenges, including trauma around certain injuries and the mental hurdles that kept him from pursuing something he had always wanted to achieve. Carl’s message is simple but powerful: we can do more than we think we can. He encourages listeners to identify a long-held fear, embrace the discomfort, and take the leap, reminding us all that growth happens when we challenge our limits.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 reflects on a conversation with a friend who realized he had spent much of his life feeling appalled, offended, or upset over trivial things. Carl shares personal moments where he caught himself feeling unnecessarily frustrated, like in traffic, and questions the value of those feelings. He wonders how much time and energy could be reclaimed if we let go of these small, unnoticed annoyances. Tune in for an insightful discussion on freeing ourselves from unproductive emotions and finding more peace in everyday situations.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 personal revelation sparked by his wife's observation that he was "in his body, instead of in his head." After completing an intense wilderness first responder course, Carl reflects on how the immersive, hands-on experience pulled him out of his usual mental routines and into the present moment. He discusses the concept of "replacing, not resisting" distractions like constant phone checking, and the value of embodied experiences over endless thinking.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 reflects on the value of investing time with friends, sharing a personal story of spending 60 minutes in conversation with his long-time friend Matt. Despite busy schedules and tiredness, Carl and Matt chose to connect, and the return on that investment was profound—bringing a sense of refreshment, energy, and deeper connection. Carl contrasts this with other ways we often spend our time, like scrolling social media or watching TV, emphasizing the lasting fulfillment that comes from genuine, meaningful interactions.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 explores the idea of energy as a vital form of capital, inspired by a question from Tom Rath’s "Are You Fully Charged?". With only 11% of people reporting having plenty of energy, Carl reflects on the importance of managing and replenishing our energy resources. He shares personal insights on how simple changes, like a good night's sleep, can make a huge difference and emphasizes the value of both building up energy and spending it wisely. Tune in for a thought-provoking take on aligning your energy with 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/

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl delves into the impact that relationships have on our energy, one of the four essential sources of capital. He explores the idea of how certain people can energize us while others can drain our energy and highlights the importance of being mindful about who we invest our time with. By aligning our social interactions with those who leave us feeling recharged, we can create a surplus of energy, like a renewable resource. Tune in to reflect on your relationships and learn how to optimize your energy.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 explores the often-overlooked concept of energy as a valuable source of capital alongside money, time, and attention. He reflects on how we invest, spend, or waste energy on things that either align with or detract from what matters most. Using personal examples, like the energy drain of checking news or podcast stats, Carl encourages listeners to reflect on their own energy usage and consider how aligning it more intentionally can lead to a more fulfilling 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, Carl invites you to join him for a thought experiment at your favorite coffee shop, where he draws a simple yet powerful symbol—a dollar sign. He explores the wide range of emotions and thoughts this symbol can provoke, from feelings of control to reflections on family legacies and financial struggles. Through stories shared by others, Carl highlights the deep personal meaning we often attach to money and invites you to reflect on your own reactions. What does the dollar sign stir in you? 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 reflects on the powerful and generous act of simply witnessing someone’s struggle, particularly when it comes to money. He explores the complexities of our relationship with money, from feelings of guilt over privilege to the shame of not having enough. Carl shares thoughtful conversation starters, such as asking about someone's first memory of money, to help create space for open and honest discussions. Tune in for a fresh perspective on the value of being a compassionate listener when it comes to the financial struggles we all face.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 dives into the sneaky nature of confirmation bias, using a personal story about road biking and weight tracking to highlight how we often seek out evidence that supports decisions we've already made. Carl reflects on how this bias shaped his behavior and shares the "Confirmation Bias Prevention Program," a strategy focused on seeking out disconfirming evidence and engaging with opposing viewpoints. Learn why embracing the discomfort of being wrong is key to making better decisions.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 reflects on the powerful idea that "attention is the rarest and purest form of generosity," a thought-provoking quote from Simone Weil. As he works on his new book about aligning the use of personal capital with what matters most, Carl explores attention as one of the four key forms of capital. He invites listeners to consider how they invest their attention and the profound impact it has on relationships. Through personal anecdotes, Carl highlights the deep connections that arise when we give others our full attention, a rare and generous act in today's busy world.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 delves into the profound question, "How much time do you have?"—exploring it both on a micro level, like during daily interactions, and on a macro level, as we contemplate our lives and mortality. He reflects on time as a form of capital, similar to money, energy, and attention, yet more elusive and harder to bank or store. Carl shares thought-provoking insights on how we invest time, how it aligns with what matters most, and the importance of making the most of it. It's a deep reflection on the nature of time and its role in 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/