Finance On The Fringes

A conversation about creativity, courage, and the lifelong journey of becoming. Unscripted. Unpolished. Deeply human. 

There are conversations that fill in the spaces we didn’t know were missing—and this is one of them.

Recorded in the impeccably restored barn that is The Topher Kearby Gallery in rural Indiana, this in-person episode with artist and poet Topher Kearby explores what it means to keep showing up when life cracks you open. We talk about:

• Art as healing, honesty, and invitation
• How pain shapes purpose
• Creating a life that feels like your own
• And what it means to be loved without needing to earn it

Topher’s work is textured, layered, and luminous—just like him. His friendship is a quiet miracle I didn’t see coming, and this conversation is one of the deepest I’ve ever had the honor to share. 

Carl Richards has spent decades translating financial complexity into simple truths—sketched with a Sharpie, delivered with soul. But what happens when the conversation slows down enough to surprise even him?

In this episode, Carl and Kris sit down to explore five themes from his new book Your Money—Reimagining Wealth In Simple Sketches.  But what unfolds is more than a book discussion. It’s a vulnerable, layered dialogue about pausing before reacting, raising thoughtful kids in a noisy world, redefining success, and living inside your own enough.

Whether you’re a planner, a parent, a seeker, or someone just trying to navigate money with intention—this one’s for you.

 Carl Richards is the creator of the Behavior Gap, a longtime contributor to The New York Times, and the author of It’s Not About the Money. You can find more of his work at behaviorgap.com. 

I’ve known Mike Carlone for close to 20 years. He’s a Jersey guy, made of saltwater grit that's born of honesty, not ego.

Mike’s one of the smartest people I know. Discerning. Edgy. Grounded. He oversees client relationships for a money management firm, but titles don’t define him—how he treats people does. He builds trust without fluff, leads with clarity, and tells the truth even when it’s uncomfortable. Especially then.

He’s also honest about his struggle with humanity—and that’s part of what makes him magnetic. His pursuit of excellence touches every area of his life, but somehow, he stays rooted. Steady. Present. And that inspires me.

This conversation is about what it means to show up real in a world that rewards the fake. Let’s get into it.

Forging His Own Fringe: Alex Roland’s Way

When Alex Roland first reached out to me, I thought he might be another stressed-out college student fulfilling a class requirement.   What I got was entirely different. 

Alex has faced real challenges, and he doesn’t shy away from the disappointments. But what sets him apart isn’t just resilience—it’s his willingness to learn, adapt, and embrace the messy, human side of finance. As he steps into his career, I have no doubt he’ll push the boundaries of traditional financial planning.

This episode isn’t just about Alex’s journey; it’s a reminder that the future of finance isn’t found in textbooks or boardrooms—it’s shaped by those willing to challenge the norm of what financial success really looks like. 

So, meet Alex Roland.

In Episode 1 of Being James Doe, we step into the mind of James Doe—a rap artist, creative manager, and a relentless advocate for entrepreneurial growth. James shares his unorthodox journey from the edge of the industry to its beating heart, where artistry aligns with purpose and every move is designed to amplify results. Together, we unpack his philosophy of eliminating bottlenecks to focus solely on what propels growth, proving that success isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters. This isn’t just finance; it’s forward motion.

In this episode of *Finance On The Fringes*, we dive deep into the world of mortgages with industry insider Ben Munson. With 20 years of lending experience and seven years in the mortgage trenches, Ben has seen it all—and he’s here to share what most lenders won’t. From demystifying Private Mortgage Insurance to loopholes that can save you thousands, Ben cuts through the jargon to give you practical, no-nonsense advice for navigating the mortgage process. Whether you're a first-time buyer or refinancing, don’t sign a thing until you hear these crucial insights.

Seth Adams is a YouTube influencer and an innovative creator.  He’s fearlessly blazed a trail on the fringes, creating a niche in martial arts educational entertainment that didn't exist before. Seth's humility, wisdom and integrity have united martial artists, and allowed his followers access to the history and intricacy of a diverse list of styles.
Join Seth as he openly recounts his journey; the bumps, the bruises, the lessons and the victories.

In this engaging conversation, Jake Maines shares his journey and fierce commitment to doing it on his own terms.

Jake explains how he used his marketing background to create a networking event that supports his commitment to delivering a great client experience, and how he's expanded his real estate firm to include turn-key rentals.   Jake's life philosophy and his unique approach to real estate centers on building genuine relationships rather than traditional sales methods.

Jake talks about the influence of his hardworking mother and how her determination inspired his own success, and how his family's work ethic and girlfriend's support continue to drive his personal and professional success.  

Don't skip any of this Fringes gem as Jake explains his real estate ventures, detailing his strategic choice of real estate brokerage, understanding of local government regulations, key financial strategies and tax law.

Finally, Jake discusses his involvement with the Nobleman organization, emphasizing the impact of their charity work on children and families.

Welcome to Episode 1 of the Home Ownership Series! Today, Kris sits down with loan officer Ben Munson to dive deep into the real world of the mortgage industry. Together, they uncover what truly drives a deal and how you can make the process work in your favor. Ben also tackles some tough questions, sharing how he educates and empowers his clients to make informed, money-saving decisions—even when it means putting their best interests ahead of his own.