Behavior Gap Radio

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl reflects on his recent travels and the profound impact they had on his perspective. After sending his daughter off to the Olympics, Carl explores the historic streets of Barcelona, feeling both awe and humility in the face of centuries-old architecture and diverse cultures. He shares inspiring quotes about the transformative power of travel and the stories it creates, questioning the true value of these experiences. Today, Carl invites listeners to consider the worth of their own adventures and the unique feelings they evoke, challenging us to embrace the richness of exploration and the beauty of the unknown.

Carl shares a story on Behavior Gap Radio about traveling in Spain with his daughter. He talks through the contrast between the comfort of the Pyrenees mountains and the overwhelming chaos of Barcelona. As he navigates unfamiliar streets and faces discomfort, he realizes that this discomfort is the very reason he travels—it brings growth and a fresh perspective! What is the value you find in travel? How does travel change your perspective?

In this episode, Carl reflects on the idea of unconventional investment advice, sharing a personal story that defies traditional financial wisdom. He recounts how, despite his initial reservations, he followed the advice of a respected community leader to move his family to New Zealand—a decision that turned out to be one of the most valuable experiences of his life. Carl highlights how some of the best investment advice may not fit conventional definitions but can yield extraordinary returns in terms of personal growth and fulfillment. He invites listeners to broaden their thinking about what constitutes truly valuable advice!

Carl recently discussed unconventional investment advice in a Behavior Gap Radio episode, drawing inspiration from a Wendell Berry quote about knowing where the rarest wildflowers are. He contrasts this with the disconnected advice often seen in mainstream financial media, which tends to ignore the broader impacts of investments, like those in companies selling unhealthy products. Carl is fascinated by the idea of "connected" investment advice, which values investments in time, money, energy, and attention.

What’s the best investment advice you’ve ever received? How does it align with your values? If you think about your return on life, happiness, and connection, what advice stands out? Carl invites listeners to share their thoughts and experiences by emailing him 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/

Today on Behavior Gap Radio, Carl talks about the nuanced relationship between risk and reward in investing, inspired by a thought-provoking quote from Howard Marks. He challenges the common misconception that taking on more risk automatically leads to higher returns, emphasizing that risk only offers the potential for reward, not a guarantee. Carl discusses the importance of skillfully and intelligently sacrificing certainty while keeping emotions in check and highlights the dangers of uncompensated risks, such as gambling on single stocks. This episode is a deep dive into understanding the true nature of risk and how to approach it with clarity and caution.

In this episode, Carl reflects on the surprising value found in life's simplest moments, contrasting the desire for more extravagant experiences with the deep joy of quiet, everyday activities. He shares a personal story of finding peace in evening landscaping sessions, where the simplicity of nature brings lasting contentment. Inspired by a Wendell Berry quote, Carl explores the idea that true wealth lies in knowing where to find life's "rarest wildflowers," those quiet moments of happiness that require no explanation or defense—offering a unique perspective on what it means to invest in a 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/

Carl recently received an email from a listener who was deeply moved by his episodes on hyperlocal investing. The listener shared how forming relationships with local producers has become one of their greatest sources of happiness. 🌱 They make it a point to visit local markets in each new city, connect with vendors, and fill their home with locally made items. Carl relates strongly to this sentiment, finding joy in supporting local businesses. Wouldn't it be amazing if there was a marketplace or events dedicated to hyperlocal investing? How could such an idea be spread to others who feel the same way? If you have a story about hyperlocal investing, Carl would love to hear it. Email him at [email protected].

Today, Carl is excited about the idea of hyperlocal investing! This morning, he visited his local farmer's market to buy honey and the experience was incredible. He had the chance to meet the beekeeper and learn about his passion for producing local honey, which is helping with Carl’s allergies. For Carl, this connection represents the “return on connection” (ROC). Investing locally offers more than just financial returns; it builds relationships and strengthens the community. How can you invest your time, energy, and money locally? What connections could you build today?

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 story from his rock climbing days, where he and a friend made mistakes that led to a serious accident. He reflects on two types of risk: "ignorant risk," where you don’t know the consequences, and "honest risk," where you understand the consequences but choose to proceed anyway. What risks are you taking without fully knowing the consequences? How can you ensure that your risks are more informed and intentional?

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/

Do you know what your true desires are, free from societal influences? In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl shares an essay from his book, Volume One, titled "The Only Goal That Matters." He discusses the difficulty of identifying our true desires amidst societal influences, from family and peers to social media. Carl illustrates how we often adopt others' goals, leading us to make choices that don't align with our true selves. How important is personal clarity in investing? Carl says that the only goal that matters is your own! Accompanied by one of his favorite sketches, he visually represents the unique significance of individual goals in the midst of external pressures.

Volume One is sold out. You can learn about Carl's book, Volume Two, here: https://thesocietyofadvice.com/the-volumes-project

You can see his sketch, "The Only Goal That Matters" here: https://store.behaviorgap.com/products/the-only-goal-that-matters-color