How much tech do you let into your life? Do you even know why you let certain tech into your life?

I'm thrilled to welcome back my friend and Microsoft VP, Scott Hanselman. It's been almost four and a half years since our last conversation, and so much has changed for both of us—at home, at work, and everywhere in between.

Scott and I dive into the heart of his recent TEDx Talk, where he questions whether technology is truly delivering on its promises of convenience, connection, and community. We discuss the concept of the "third place"—those spaces outside of home and work where real community forms, and how the pandemic and our increasing reliance on technology have shifted those boundaries.

Scott gets personal about his own life transitions, raising teenagers in a hyper-connected world, and the realities of tech overload. He shares the emotional story of how his parents once sold their van to buy him a Commodore 64 computer—a singular act that changed the course of his life and continues to shape his perspective on investing in our kids' potential.

We also explore the emotional side of money—how we manage stress, organize family finances, and have those sometimes tough conversations with our partners. Scott even shares the allowance system that's kept the peace in his own marriage for 25 years!

Whether you're navigating new technology at home, feeling overwhelmed by all life throws at you, or simply longing for a little more harmony, I think you'll find our conversation both insightful and relatable, with some serious nostalgia along the way.

Please enjoy my conversation with Scott Hanselman.

Connect with Paul

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For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast.

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Resources Featured in This Episode:

Scott Hanselman

Scott Hanselman - LinkedIn

Tech Promised Everything. Did it deliver?

Scaling Yourself

How long have you been planning that trip of a lifetime?

Our resident travel expert, Jill Benedict, is back with us for a lively deep dive into the unpredictable world of family travel. From international cruises and unexpected illnesses to the logistics of planning multi-city adventures, Jill and I swap personal stories, travel mishaps, and insider tips you won't want to miss.

We dig into why cruises can simplify travel logistics, the value of private guides, and even compare dining across cruise lines. Jill also shares why booking excursions through the cruise company often pays off.

Our conversation goes deeper into the choices families face: balancing kids' sports schedules versus family vacations. From my daughter's swim meet to Jill's client balancing baseball with a Hawaii trip, we explore how to prioritize memories over moments that may not matter as much years from now

If you're on the fence about that "big" family trip, remember: you'll never regret time spent together, but you might regret the experiences you missed.

Please enjoy my conversation with Jill Benedict.

Connect with Paul

Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here.

For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast.

Follow Paul on LinkedIn and YouTube.

And feel free to email Paul at [email protected] with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

Resources Featured in This Episode:

Wishes & Wonders Travel Agency

The Ultimate Guide to Stress-Free Family Vacation Planning

How to Master and Save Money on Family Vacations

Have you ever wondered why you get sick on vacation?

I share my all-too-relatable experience of getting sick on my recent anniversary trip across Italy, Greece, and Turkey with our resident therapist, Dr. Jennifer Dragonette. Dr. Jen dives into why our bodies often choose downtime to recover, exploring our hidden demands we carry and how American work culture fuels our "earn your rest" mentality.

But, as always, our conversation expands, weaving in discussions about present-moment awareness, how to build restorative habits into daily life, and why those five-minute "mini-vacations" might be just what your nervous system needs. Dr. Jen and I also tackle bigger questions: When do you know it's time to seek professional help, whether that's in therapy or financial advice? What stigma holds us back, and how much can talking to the right person or connecting with others change our experience?

From the pressures of social comparison to embracing change as parents, this episode is packed with relatable stories and actionable advice. Whether you're guilty of pushing through without a break, curious about the real signs it's time for extra support, or just looking for ways to slow down time and savor life's moments, I hope this conversation provides a little reassurance that you're definitely not alone.

Please enjoy my conversation with Dr. Jennifer Dragonette.

Connect with Paul

Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here.

For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast.

Follow Paul on LinkedIn and YouTube.

And feel free to email Paul at [email protected] with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

Resources Featured in This Episode:

Finding Harmony in Life, Work, and Family

Inside the Family Office: A Family's Journey Working with a Financial Advisor

What If You Didn't Need a Wake-Up Call to Change Your Life?

Have you ever wondered why you buy what you buy? There are so many reasons under the surface for our purchases from social status to taking care of our future selves.

I have the perfect guest to help break down these spending thoughts for us. Dr. Michael Barbera, associate professor of marketing at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, explores the fascinating world of "Costco therapy" and the deeper psychology behind our shopping habits.

Mike and I delve into what truly drives us to fill our carts—not just at Costco, but at big-box stores everywhere—and how the thrill of discovery, exclusivity, and even our future selves influence the decisions we make every time we shop.

You'll also hear about how brands use subtle psychological tactics—think those rotating aisles, shiny new objects, and exclusive memberships—to keep us coming back for more. The conversation covers everything from customer loyalty, subscription traps, and the emotional calculus behind "saving money," to the powerful role of social media and the human urge to keep up with the Joneses.

Please enjoy my conversation with Dr. Michael Barbera.

Connect with Paul

Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here.

For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast.

Follow Paul on LinkedIn and YouTube.

And feel free to email Paul at [email protected] with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

Resources Featured in This Episode:

Dr. Michael Barbera

What Is "Costco Therapy"—And Why Is It So Effective?

Your Future Self: How to Make Tomorrow Better Today

Do you know how the new "One Big Beautiful Bill" will impact you during your retirement years?

I'm wrapping up my One Big Beautiful Bill series by exploring the unique challenges and opportunities of financial planning for retirees. I walk you through the key highlights of the new legislation and what it means for those who are already in retirement, as well as for those helping parents and loved ones navigate these waters.

From expanded senior deductions to strategic Roth conversions and increased estate tax limits, I explain why retirees stand to benefit the most from these new changes. You'll learn about crucial tax strategies, the ins and outs of leveraging deductions, how to make the most of gifting, and even ways to maximize after-tax returns in your golden years.

Whether you're just starting planning for retirement or living it now, this episode is packed with actionable insights for you and your family. If you're looking to simplify your financial future or want to help your parents or kids avoid costly mistakes, this conversation provides you with the guidance you may need.

As we close out this informative series, don't forget to share the episode with anyone you know who could benefit from comprehensive financial planning.

Connect with Paul

Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here.

For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast.

Follow Paul on LinkedIn and YouTube.

And feel free to email Paul at [email protected] with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

Do you know what one of the most underrated life transitions is? And how the "One Big Beautiful Bill" may impact it?

Today, I delve into the often-overlooked yet pivotal transition of entering the empty nest and pre-retirement phase. Drawing on years of experience working with families, I share personal reflections and practical insight about the emotional and financial shifts that occur at this stage of life.

I explore why maintaining strong relationships with partners is more important and challenging than ever, especially as statistics show divorce rates spike for those in their 50s and 60s. I also unpack the impact of the OBBB does and, more importantly, what it doesn't do for your tax planning, retirement catch-up contributions, deductions, healthcare, and gifting strategies.

From actionable advice on Roth conversions and sequence withdrawals to navigating health insurance before Medicare eligibility, I cover the complex landscape that pre-retirees face. I candidly share why now is the time to prioritize clear objectives, family communication, and a thoughtful financial plan, blending both heartfelt perspective and practical analysis.

Whether you're approaching this life stage or helping a loved one through it, this episode is packed with critical insights to help you maximize your emotional and financial well-being.

Connect with Paul

Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here.

For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast.

Follow Paul on LinkedIn and YouTube.

And feel free to email Paul at [email protected] with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

Parents, are you juggling high school schedules, college plans, and the ever-growing list of financial and personal priorities?

This doesn't leave much time to understand how the new "Big Beautiful Bill" will affect you. However, this is the life stage we will tackle today, drawing on my firsthand experiences as a parent of triplets (plus one!).

I highlight the positives of the new legislation, like the increased standard deduction and stable marginal tax rates. But, I also unpack the complexities and challenges hidden in the fine print, such as SALT deduction limits, tight retirement catch-up contributions, business owner perks, and what's really happening with those much-hyped vehicle and energy credits.

If you're looking for smart strategies for balancing college savings and retirement, managing capital gains, and understanding why tax diversification should be on your radar, we cover these topics as well.

If you're feeling pulled in every direction and trying to make sense of how the latest tax changes intersect with your family's goals, this episode is packed with actionable advice and thoughtful perspective, whether you're a parent, business owner, or just trying to keep up with life's financial demands.

Connect with Paul

Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here.

For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast.

Follow Paul on LinkedIn and YouTube.

And feel free to email Paul at [email protected] with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

As a busy parent trying to manage your family and career, do you even have time to understand what he new One Big Beautiful Bill will mean to you?

Today, I am going to explore the winds and losses through the "One Big Beautiful Bill" during this pivotal life stage of career and family growth. Drawing from my own experience as a parent of triplets (plus one!), I dive into the financial and emotional challenges parents face when juggling careers, raising children, and planning for the future.

I break down what recent legislation means for families in this life stage, including significant updates to tax brackets, standard deductions, the SALT deduction, child tax credits, dependent care benefits, and the new "Trump account" investment option for kids.

I also share proactive strategies for maximizing FSAs and HSAs, making the most of state-specific and charitable deductions, and finding harmony in your savings plan—no matter what life throws your way.

If you're feeling pulled in a hundred directions by kids, careers, and finances, or want to stay ahead of the latest tax changes, this episode is packed with real stories, valuable strategies, and honest encouragement to help you build a solid roadmap for your family's future.

Connect with Paul

Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here.

For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast.

Follow Paul on LinkedIn and YouTube.

And feel free to email Paul at [email protected] with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

What does the new One Big Beautiful Bill mean to parents and young adults?

I am kicking off the "Big Beautiful Bill" series by breaking down what the new legislation means for those just starting their financial journeys—think high schoolers, college students, and anyone landing their first job.

I deep dive into the bill's highlights, including the extension of marginal tax rates, increased standard deductions, and hot topics like deductions for reported tips, overtime pay, and vehicle interest—clearly outlining who benefits, the real dollar impact, and the fine print you need to know.

I also highlight the bill's downsides, including tighter student loan limits, the phasing out of home energy credits, and EV incentives.

If you're wondering how these changes could shape your financial future, or that of your kids or grandkids, this series offers practical advice.

Connect with Paul

Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here.

For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast.

Follow Paul on LinkedIn and YouTube.

And feel free to email Paul at [email protected] with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

Resources Featured in This Episode:

"That's something that I wrestle with on a daily basis. It's like showing up at the Masters every year; it's like why do I want to win this golf tournament so badly? Why do I want to win the Open Championship so badly? I don't know because, if I win, it's going to be awesome for two minutes."

That is a quote from the world's top golfer, Scottie Scheffler, before he tees it up to try and win another major golf tournament. Scottie's point is also the topic of conversation today with our resident psychologist expert, Dr. Jennifer Dragonette.

Dr. Jen and I explore how the thrill of big wins fades quickly and why major milestones, whether in sports, career, or personal life, rarely satisfy us for long. Together, we also unpack common traps around goal-setting, retirement, and the pursuit of "enough," all while examining the importance of focusing on values over simple achievements.

There are many great personal stories we share in this discussion, so I hope you can take away a few strategies from the conversation to help you along your journey.

Please enjoy my conversation with Dr. Jennifer Dragonette.

Connect with Paul

Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here.

For resources discussed in this episode, visit tammacapital.com/podcast.

Follow Paul on LinkedIn and YouTube.

And feel free to email Paul at [email protected] with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.

Resources Featured in This Episode:

Dr. Jennifer Dragonette

Scottie Scheffler's take on success in golf: 'What's the point?'

Focusing on What Never Changes