Behavior Gap Radio

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/

In this episode of Behavior Gap radio, Carl shares a story about the complexities of social status and self-perception. He prompts listeners to explore their honest emotions in moments of perceived judgment and comparison. 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/

On this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl talks through a road trip with his wife, Cori, where he posed the question: What does it truly mean to provide? He encourages listeners to ask themselves the same question!If you have an answer you'd like to share with Carl, email [email protected].

On this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl shares a quote from Mary Oliver that has been resonating with him deeply. "The dream of my life is to lie down by a slow river and stare at the light in the trees. To learn something by being nothing." Carl reflects on the simplicity and power of this idea, especially in our fast-paced lives filled with constant thoughts and distractions. Perhaps we can find our own version of "lying down by a slow river" to learn and grow?

Carl reflects on the profound significance of the words we use to describe money, such as "means of exchange" and "store of value." He explores the historical context of exchanging goods and services, highlighting the personal connection and value inherent in these interactions. Carl will leave you with a question, "What does it mean to exchange?" He encourages us to contemplate the deeper implications of 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/

Carl explores the profound disconnect we've developed in our relationship with money, contrasting it with historical exchanges of goods and services imbued with personal connection. He emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with the essence of these exchanges, viewing money as a representation of life energy.Listen to this episode and then stop to think about the trade-offs inherent in your financial decisions. Carl asks us to examine our relationship with money as a pathway to healing and wholeness.

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl challenges listeners to reconsider their relationship with money. Drawing parallels between friendships and financial interactions, Carl prompts listeners to reflect on their emotional responses to money and envision a more positive relationship dynamic. Carl shares a quick practice to try out today! He encourages listeners to articulate their relationship with money in three words and contemplate what a healthy relationship with money would entail. If this episode made you think about your relationship with money, share your reflections with Carl by emailing [email protected].

Carl addresses the pervasive struggle with the concept of "enough" and its roots in the human brain's scarcity mindset. Drawing insights from Michael Easter's book, "The Scarcity Brain," Carl explores how our brains are wired to constantly seek more. It turns out that we often associate "less" with negativity and view abundance as the ultimate goal. But in today's age of plenty, this mindset can lead to maladaptive behaviors.In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl offers listeners a pathway toward embracing sufficiency and contentment!

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl talks about the profound influence of money on our lives through a poignant quote from John Armstrong's book, "How to Worry Less About Money." Reflecting on the multifaceted nature of our relationship with money, Carl shares how it shapes our identity, attitudes toward others, and even societal dynamics. He challenges conventional notions of money as mere spreadsheets and calculators, highlighting its role in evoking feelings of anxiety, desire, and power. In this episode, Carl invites listeners to reconsider their perspectives on money and its broader implications on personal and societal 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/

"What economic class were you in junior high?" In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl reflects on the significance of this question. Carl offers two follow-up questions to deepen the conversation:"How did you know?" "Can you share a story with me about how you knew?" Have a story to share? Email Carl at [email protected]!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 anecdote about the impact of meaningful conversations about money within relationships. Drawing from his podcast "50 Fires," Carl recounts how a simple question—what's your earliest memory of money?—led to profound insights between a financial planner friend and his spouse of 15 years. The resulting hour-long discussion went beyond tactical finances, revealing personal stories and childhood experiences that deepened their understanding of each other. Carl encourages listeners to initiate similar conversations with their loved ones!Listen to 50 Fires: Money and Meaning with Carl Richards: https://apple.co/47o5vP0

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl reflects on the importance of protecting confidence. He delves into the challenges of navigating social media and external feedback while creating meaningful work. With a commitment to prioritize craftsmanship and continuous improvement, Carl shares his dedication to producing high-quality content that resonates with his audience.

Listen in as Carl explores the significance of certainty and control in various aspects of life, particularly with our finances. In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl highlights how our behaviors, tactics, and mindsets differ based on the level of certainty and control we perceive in different areas of our financial lives. Drawing from personal experiences, he emphasizes the importance of understanding and acknowledging these factors to make informed decisions and avoid disappointment. 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 on Behavior Gap Radio is all about the importance of error correction mechanisms in our lives. Carl challenges the notion of avoiding being wrong and embracing the practice of actively seeking disconfirming evidence. Drawing from personal experiences, he reflects on how confirmation bias often leads us to defend our theories about the future, hindering our ability to adapt and learn. Instead, he advocates for celebrating errors as opportunities for growth and truth-seeking, suggesting that establishing conditions for being "less wrong" tomorrow is more valuable than striving for precise correctness today.

Join Carl as he shares a story from his early days of backcountry skiing, reflecting on the blurred line between good decisions and fortunate outcomes in uncertain environments. Recounting a risky adventure down an avalanche-prone slope, Carl explores the concept of "wicked learning environments" where feedback is delayed, infrequent, or inaccurate, leading to a potentially dangerous reinforcement of erroneous behaviors. Drawing parallels to financial decision-making and personal experiments, Carl offers insights into navigating uncertain terrain and recognizing the true nature of the environments we operate in.

Jumping off from episode 1016, Carl continues his exploration! This time, he focuses on the concepts of "forced" versus "flow" in navigating life's challenges and decisions. Reflecting on the distinction between tasks or decisions that feel coerced versus those that align effortlessly, Carl invites listeners to consider the subtle yet profound difference between forcing outcomes and allowing them to flow naturally. Carl shares that he thinks the right decisions often feel like they effortlessly fall into place, accompanied by a sense of clarity and momentum. 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 difference between "hard" and "heavy" in pursuing our goals. Reflecting on the concept of forcing functions and the distinction between tasks that feel natural versus those that require discipline, Carl unpacks the nuanced relationship between challenge and effort. Drawing from his own personal experiences, he invites listeners to consider the energizing nature of tackling difficult endeavors versus the draining weight of forcing oneself through grit alone.

This is a brief but impactful episode of Behavior Gap Radio! Carl challenges conventional wisdom surrounding certainty and uncertainty in decision-making. Whether you're a financial advisor, investor, or entrepreneur navigating complex landscapes, Carl's insight cuts to the core: Certainty is easy to sell but impossible to deliver. Instead, he advocates for embracing uncertainty and seeking out those skilled in managing 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's episode of Behavior Gap Radio is all about Carl's concept of "success porn" and its implications on personal growth and achievement. Carl reflects on the prevalent culture of motivational speakers and internet gurus who preach about exponential growth and mindset shifts, arguing that success often transcends mere positive thinking. Drawing from his own experiences, Carl highlights the multifaceted nature of success, emphasizing the importance of product quality, market fit, and relentless iteration. In this episode, Carl challenges the notion of simplistic success formulas and urges listeners to focus on meaningful work and genuine resilience.

Join Carl on Behavior Gap Radio as he explores the intricacies of risk in our daily lives. Reflecting on his own statement, "Risk is what's left over after you think you've thought of everything," Carl examines the unseen hazards that exist beyond our awareness. Using backcountry skiing as a metaphor, he discusses the difference between risk and uncertainty, emphasizing the difficulty of preparing for the unexpected. Through personal stories and insights, he delves into the concept of general resilience as a means of navigating uncertainties and enhancing our ability to cope with life's unpredictable events.

Today's episode explores the intricate realm of decision-making in uncertain environments. Carl reflects on the allure of navigating risky landscapes, drawing parallels between financial decisions and outdoor adventures. Using the concept of "wicked problems," Carl explores their complexity, emphasizing their interdependent nature and the absence of definitive solutions. With insights into characteristics and examples of wicked problems, he contrasts them with "kind learning environments." 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 examines the struggle of maintaining confidence in straightforward solutions amid complexity. Reflecting on a recent board meeting regarding software product changes, he discusses how simplicity can obscure the effort required behind it. Carl highlights the connection between presenting a clear answer and confidence in our own abilities. He thinks practicing clarity can alleviate doubts, and he differentiates between simplistic and elegantly simple 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/

Carl shares a candid reflection on the role of intuition in high-risk decision-making scenarios. Following up on listener feedback from episode 1008, "Intuition," Carl talks through the nuanced interplay between intuition and stoke, exploring how to discern between gut feelings and mere excitement. Drawing from personal anecdotes, Carl navigates the complexities of intuition, particularly in unconventional career choices and significant life decisions.Hear the episode "Intuition" that Carl references: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1008-intuition/id1034934586?i=1000647197424