Love & other assets

In this episode of Love & other assets, Emily Luk, CEO and co-founder of Plenty, sits down with Nathan Astle, a leading financial therapist, to delve into the often uncomfortable topic of debt in relationships. They explore how debt can become a source of shame and guilt, particularly when individuals compare themselves to their partners or feel pressure to achieve a debt-free lifestyle. Nate emphasizes that everyone makes mistakes, and judging ourselves or our partners harshly for having debt can hinder our motivation to change. He suggests reframing debt as a problem to be tackled together as a team rather than a reflection of personal failures.

The conversation also delves into the dynamics of navigating debt within couples who have different levels of debt, highlighting the importance of establishing shared financial goals and values. They discuss the various types of debt, acknowledging that not all debt is created equal and that circumstances often play a significant role in debt accumulation.

Nate offers valuable advice for couples navigating uncomfortable money conversations, including the importance of validation, sharing space for understanding, and seeking professional help when needed. He stresses that therapy can be a powerful tool for prevention and support, helping couples build a stronger foundation for communication and decision-making.

What we discussed:

• Reframing Debt: Understand that debt is a problem to be tackled together as a team, not a reflection of personal failures.
• Shared Financial Goals: How to establish clear goals and values when it comes to money as a couple, whether it's sharing everything or creating a "yours, mine, and ours" system.
• Validate Emotions: How you can acknowledge and validate each other's feelings about debt, even if you don't agree with them.
• Seek Professional Help: Nathan shares why you should seek the guidance of a financial therapist or couples therapist when navigating difficult conversations.
• Understand & Communicate: Nathan shares how to use the speaker listener technique to ensure each partner feels understood before diving into problem-solving.
• Focus on Purpose: How to make choices that align with your shared values and emotional needs, rather than focusing solely on the "things."

Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Castbox, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. 

Brought to you by Plenty. Plenty is an investment platform designed specifically for couples to build wealth, together. We go beyond budgeting, making it simple to invest, save and grow towards your future goals by unlocking access to the financial strategies of the wealthy.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Connect with Nathan Astle: Website| LinkedIn 

Connect with Emily Luke: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Plenty: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter/X
 

PEOPLE & RESOURCES MENTIONED

Channing Allen

Relational Money

Financial Therapy Clinical Institute

Beyond Finance

Financial Therapy Association

Feelings Wheel

Speaker Listener Technique

In this episode of Love & other assets, Emily Luk sits down with Amanda Burr, a resilient widow who shares her extraordinary journey of rebuilding her life after the sudden loss of her husband. Amanda's story is a testament to courage, authenticity, and facing fears head-on.

Prepare to be moved as Amanda recounts the emotional roller coaster she endured. From the shock and fogginess of the immediate aftermath to the unexpected challenges of managing finances and navigating the bureaucratic labyrinth of insurance payouts, Amanda reveals the raw reality of grief and the importance of a strong support network.

Get ready for an insightful conversation about financial preparedness. Amanda shares valuable lessons about the crucial role of life insurance, the importance of a robust emergency fund, and the often-overlooked gap between death and receiving insurance benefits. She emphasizes the need to proactively plan for such unforeseen circumstances, especially when children are involved.

You'll discover a moving perspective on money and its power. Amanda's journey highlights a shift in her relationship with finances, moving from a relentless pursuit of "more" to a focus on meaningful experiences and fostering financial literacy for her children.

Prepare to be inspired by Amanda's resilience and her remarkable ability to rebuild her life. You'll hear about her blossoming new relationship and her entrepreneurial spirit, launching two businesses – a kitchen and bath remodeling company with her fiancé and a consulting business for tech companies.

What we discussed:

• Financial preparedness: Did you know there could be a gap of months before you receive life insurance payouts? Amanda shares a chilling story about the importance of being prepared for unexpected events, even when they seem unlikely.
• Strong support network: Amanda's story reveals that even in the darkest moments, a supportive community can make all the difference. Who are the people you can count on when life throws you a curveball?
• Grief and resilience: "You're never going to get over it." Amanda shares her experience with grief and how it transforms over time. What does it mean to live with loss, and how can we find strength in the face of unimaginable challenges?
• Proactive financial planning: What happens if your partner is suddenly unable to manage your finances? Amanda's journey highlights the importance of being on the same page with finances and having open conversations about money.
• Raising financially savvy children: Amanda believes in exposing children to the world of money early on. How can we empower our children to make responsible financial decisions in the future?
• Trusted financial advisor: Amanda advocates for having a financial advisor to help make sense of complex situations. Is there someone you trust to navigate your finances when you need guidance the most?

Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Castbox, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. 

Brought to you by Plenty. Plenty is an investment platform designed specifically for couples to build wealth, together. We go beyond budgeting, making it simple to invest, save and grow towards your future goals by unlocking access to the financial strategies of the wealthy.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Connect with Amanda Burr: LinkedIn |X/Twitter

Connect with Emily Luke: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Plenty: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter/X

PEOPLE & RESOURCES MENTIONED

Channing Allen

Stripe

Financial Advisor

Life insurance

Lego

In this episode of Love & other assets, Emily Luk, CEO and co-founder of Plenty, interviews Emily Garbinsky, an associate professor of marketing and behavioral scientist at Cornell University. Dr. Garbinsky specializes in understanding how couples make financial decisions and creating interventions to help them make better choices.

The conversation delves into Dr. Garbinsky's research, which has revealed a fascinating insight: couples who pool their finances feel a stronger need to justify purchases to their partner, leading them to prioritize utilitarian goods over hedonistic ones. This finding underscores the importance of financial communication in relationships. 

Dr. Garbinsky highlights a crucial question about a couple's communication style: do they perceive financial conflicts as solvable or perpetual? She emphasizes that viewing conflicts as solvable encourages open dialogue about money, leading to better communication and compromise.

The conversation explores strategies for fostering a more positive perspective on financial conflicts, including remembering past instances of successful financial compromises. Dr. Garbinsky also discusses the challenges of discussing financial stress, attributing them to societal taboos around money and the perception that financial discussions are more likely to lead to arguments.

The episode also discusses the benefits of pooling finances, with Dr. Garbinsky noting that couples who share finances are more likely to stay together. She emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of "financial togetherness" regardless of whether finances are combined or separate. Dr. Garbinsky shares valuable insights on how couples can best manage their finances, have open communication about money, and share responsibility. 

What we discussed: 

• Do couples who pool their finances make different spending choices? Dr. Garbinsky reveals a surprising finding: couples who share bank accounts feel a stronger need to justify purchases, leading them to choose more practical products over fun ones.
• Is there a simple question that reveals how well couples communicate about money? Dr. Garbinsky shares a key insight: the way couples view financial conflicts (as solvable or perpetual) directly impacts their willingness to talk about money.
• Can remembering past financial successes change how you view arguments about money? Discover how Dr. Garbinsky suggests using past financial compromises to shift your mindset and make financial discussions less stressful.
• Why are financial conversations so difficult for many couples? Dr. Garbinsky explores the deeper reasons why couples avoid discussing money, including societal taboos and the fear of conflict.
• Is there a simple trick to making financial conversations more enjoyable? Dr. Garbinsky shares a technique she uses with her partner to start financial discussions on a positive note, setting the stage for a productive conversation.
• Do couples who pool their finances stay together longer? Dr. Garbinsky explains how sharing finances can promote a sense of "financial togetherness" and contribute to greater relationship satisfaction.

Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Castbox, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. 

Brought to you by Plenty. Plenty is an investment platform designed specifically for couples to build wealth, together. We go beyond budgeting, making it simple to invest, save and grow towards your future goals by unlocking access to the financial strategies of the wealthy.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Connect with Dr. Emily Garbinsky: Website |Google Scholar

Connect with Emily Luke: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Plenty: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter/X

PEOPLE & RESOURCES MENTIONED

Channing Allen

Boulder Summer Conference on Consumer Financial Decision Making

UBS Study

Rick Steves travel book on Vienna and Salzburg

Dr. Garbinsky's research on couples' financial decisions

Dr. Joe Gladstone

John Gottman

John Lynch & Adrian Ward: You're the 'Money Person' in Your Relationship?

Emily Luk, CEO and co-founder of Plenty, and host of the Love & other assets podcast, welcomes Aja Dang, a content creator who transitioned from modeling and YouTube personality to a financial expert. Aja shares her journey into financial content creation, starting with her vulnerability in sharing her own $150,000 student loan debt on YouTube. This resonated with viewers who felt seen and understood, creating a demand for more open financial conversations.

Aja dives into the complexities of managing money with a partner, highlighting the importance of individual accounts while still having a joint account for shared expenses. She emphasizes that there's no one-size-fits-all solution and encourages couples to find what works best for them.

The conversation delves into the importance of individual responsibility and transparency within a partnership, even when one partner takes the lead in managing finances. Aja shares her personal financial routine, which prioritizes investments, taxes, and a joint checking account for family expenses. She advocates for flexibility, testing out different methods and adapting them to individual needs.

Aja shares the lessons learned from her home-buying experience, highlighting the importance of saving more than 20% to account for unexpected costs. She acknowledges that homeownership isn't always the best financial decision, emphasizing the benefits of renting and the freedom it provides.

What we discussed:

• Aja's journey from YouTube personality to financial expert: How did she overcome her own financial struggles and become a trusted voice for others?
• Managing money as a couple: What are the different approaches to couple finances, and how can you find what works best for your relationship?
• Confronting financial fears: What are the common fears people have about money, and how can you overcome them to take control of your finances?
• The surprising truth about homeownership: Is it always the best financial decision, and are there alternatives that might be a better fit?
• Aja's personal financial routine: What are her strategies for budgeting, investing, and saving, and can they be applied to your own life?
• The importance of flexibility and adaptation: How can you adjust your financial approach to fit your changing circumstances and goals?

Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Castbox, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. 

Brought to you by Plenty. Plenty is an investment platform designed specifically for couples to build wealth, together. We go beyond budgeting, making it simple to invest, save and grow towards your future goals by unlocking access to the financial strategies of the wealthy.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Connect with Aja Dang: Website |Tiktok |Youtube

Connect with Emily Luk: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Plenty: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter/X

PEOPLE & RESOURCES MENTIONED

Channing Allen

UBS

In this episode of the The love & other assets podcast, Emily Luk, CEO and co-founder of Plenty, interviews Heather Comella, founder of Folsom Wealth Advisors.  Heather Comella, CFP® is a seasoned financial expert with over 15 years of experience as a holistic financial planner. Heather shares financial strategies for retirement, saving and investing, taxes, equity, and more. Emily and Heather discuss the unique financial challenges entrepreneurs face, particularly when balancing risk, building wealth, and managing household finances.

Heather emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and education, particularly for millennials who often lack formal financial training. She outlines the specific needs of entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of a fully-funded emergency fund, intentional cash flow management, and diversification beyond just business ventures. They also discuss the impact of entrepreneurship on relationships, particularly when one partner is more risk-averse than the other.

Heather shares valuable tips for couples, like establishing clear financial guidelines, removing distractions during financial discussions, and seeking professional guidance when needed. They delve into common financial biases among entrepreneurs, such as familiarity bias, and the importance of addressing these biases to ensure proper diversification. The conversation also touches on cryptocurrency investment, the evolving priorities around homeownership, and the importance of investing in oneself and one's business.

What we discussed:

• Financial literacy and education: The importance of financial education, especially for millennials who often lack formal training.
• Financial needs of entrepreneurs: The importance of fully funded emergency funds, intentional cash flow management, diversification, and balancing business and personal finances.
• Entrepreneurship and relationships: Navigating financial decisions and risk tolerance in couples, especially when one partner is an entrepreneur.
• Common financial biases among entrepreneurs: Familiarity bias and the importance of diversifying investments beyond one's own business and industry.
• Cryptocurrency investment: The importance of viewing cryptocurrency as a gamble and limiting exposure to a small percentage of one's overall wealth.
• Evolving priorities around homeownership: Balancing the desire for homeownership with investing in oneself and one's business.

Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Castbox, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. 

Brought to you by Plenty. Plenty is an investment platform designed specifically for couples to build wealth together. We go beyond budgeting, making it simple to invest, save and grow towards your future goals by unlocking access to the financial strategies of the wealthy.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Connect with Heather Comella: Website |LinkedIn |Instagram

Connect with Emily Luke: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Plenty: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter/X

PEOPLE & RESOURCES MENTIONED

Channing Allen

Mutual Funds

Folsom Wealth Advisors

Exchange Traded Fund (ETF)

Cryptocurrency

Retirement accounts

This episode of Love & other assets explores the crucial aspects of marriage preparation with Laura Cannon, a seasoned wedding officiant and entrepreneur. Laura emphasizes that preparing for marriage goes beyond the wedding day celebration, requiring couples to invest in building a strong foundation for their lifelong partnership.

Communication emerges as a central theme, with Laura advocating for proactive discussions about expectations, boundaries, and potential conflicts. She introduces the "three-step dialogue" - a powerful communication tool that fosters understanding and collaboration. She also emphasizes the importance of discussing the "Four Rs of Relationships": Relationship boundaries, Roles, Responsibilities, and Resources. Laura challenges the stigma surrounding prenuptial agreements, viewing them as a loving way to protect each other's financial interests.

The conversation delves into the dynamics of change within a relationship, highlighting the need for open communication and a willingness to renegotiate boundaries as life evolves. Laura draws from her experience as a meditation teacher, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness in fostering connection and navigating conflict.

This episode offers practical tools and actionable insights for couples at all stages of their relationship, providing a roadmap for building a fulfilling and meaningful partnership.

What we discussed:

• Preparation for Marriage: Laura highlights the distinction between preparing for a wedding and preparing for a marriage. The latter requires a solid foundation built on communication, understanding, and shared values.
• Communication is essential for a successful marriage: Open and honest communication is vital for navigating life's challenges and maintaining a strong connection.
• Premarital counseling or coaching can be beneficial: Seeking guidance from a professional can help couples improve communication skills, manage conflict, and address potential issues before they become problems.
• The "three-step dialogue" is a powerful communication tool: This structured approach to conversation encourages understanding, empathy, and collaboration.
• Discuss the "Four Rs of Relationships" before marriage: This framework helps couples address key areas: Relationship boundaries, Roles, Responsibilities, and Resources.
• Mindfulness and presence strengthen relationships: By practicing mindfulness and being fully present with your partner, you can deepen your connection and cultivate a more fulfilling relationship.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Castbox, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. 

Brought to you by Plenty. Plenty is an investment platform designed specifically for couples to build wealth, together. We go beyond budgeting, making it simple to invest, save and grow towards your future goals by unlocking access to the financial strategies of the wealthy.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Connect with Laura Cannon: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube

Connect with Emily Luke: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Plenty: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter/X

PEOPLE & RESOURCES MENTIONED

Channing Allen

Laura Cannon's eBook: "The Marriage Manifesto

Ours (startup offering online premarital counseling)

In this episode of the Love & other assets Podcast, Emily Luk, CEO and co-founder of Plenty, interviews Dan Ariely, Professor of Psychology and Behavioral Economics at Duke University and a founding member of the Center for Advanced Hindsight. Dan is a renowned behavioral economist and a 3x New York Times Bestselling Author. Some of his best sellers are Irrationally Yours, Predictably Irrational, The Upside of Irrationality, The (Honest) Truth About Dishonesty. 

Emily and Dan explore the intersection of irrationality, love, and money in relationships. They delve into how our often-unconscious biases and irrational tendencies influence our choices in dating, financial decision-making, and navigating the complexities of building a life together.

The conversation then turns to managing money as a couple, where Dan highlights the importance of establishing a joint financial system. He underscores the influence of power dynamics related to income and cautions against the pitfalls of dividing financial responsibilities too rigidly. He emphasizes the need for couples to make decisions together, especially regarding values, long-term goals, and shared financial aspirations.

Dan offers practical advice on hacking temptation, highlighting the benefits of automated savings processes and the power of personal rules to prioritize future well-being. Throughout the episode, Dan emphasizes the importance of recognizing and embracing our inherent biases and irrational tendencies as a springboard for making better choices in relationships. He encourages couples to actively engage in open communication, build shared financial systems, experiment with different approaches, and adjust their strategies to create a fulfilling and lasting partnership.

What we discussed

• Irrationality in Dating: Dan argues that we often overestimate our ability to judge people quickly and miss opportunities with those who don't make a great first impression. He also points out the power of infatuation and the need for courage and vulnerability when dating.
• Managing Money as a Couple: Dan highlights the importance of establishing a joint financial system, recognizing the impact of power dynamics related to income, and avoiding the pitfalls of division of labor. He emphasizes the need for couples to make decisions together, especially regarding values and long-term goals.
• Hacking Temptation: Dan discusses the benefits of automated savings processes and the power of personal rules to help couples prioritize their future selves. He encourages experimentation to find out what brings the most joy and value in spending.
• Second Chapter Relationships: Dan notes that relationships evolve over time and require different tools and approaches as couples navigate different stages and priorities.

Key Takeaways:

• Recognize and Embrace Irrationality: Understanding our inherent biases and irrational tendencies can help us make better decisions in relationships.
• Build a Shared Financial System: Establishing a joint financial system allows for greater alignment, transparency, and accountability.
• Prioritize Open Communication: Sharing vulnerabilities, fears, and values is crucial for building trust and strengthening relationships.
• Experiment and Adjust: Don't be afraid to try new things and adapt your approach to financial management and relationship dynamics to fit your unique needs.

Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Castbox, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. 

Brought to you by Plenty. Plenty is an investment platform designed specifically for couples to build wealth, together. We go beyond budgeting, making it simple to invest, save, and grow towards your future goals by unlocking access to the financial strategies of the wealthy.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Connect with Dan Ariely: Website |LinkedIn |Twitter/X

Connect with Emily Luke: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Plenty: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter/X
 

PEOPLE & RESOURCES MENTIONED

Channing Allen

Aziz Ansari

John Lynch

Even

Adam Putterman, co-founder of Ours, joins Emily Luk, co-founder and CEO of Plenty, on the Love & other assets podcast to discuss the importance of relationship health and how his company is revolutionizing couples therapy. He shares his personal journey, driven by a desire to help couples intentionally invest in their relationship and the lack of focus on this crucial area despite its significant impact on overall well-being. 

Adams dives into the world of premarital counseling highlighting its potential to provide couples with a structured space to have important conversations about long-term goals, finances, and family planning.  He emphasizes the importance of finding the right therapist, discussing how both the therapist and the couple need to be on the same page regarding values, priorities, fears, expectations, and desired outcomes for the relationship.

Adam shares his personal insights on relationship rituals, emphasizing the importance of regular relationship check-ins, date nights, and novel experiences. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking valuable advice for finding the right therapist and building strong relationship rituals.

What we discussed

1. The Importance of Relationship Health: The episode highlights the lack of attention given to relationship health despite its significant impact on overall well-being. Adam emphasizes the need for intentional investment in relationships and the powerful effect of small actions.
2. Accessibility and Destigmatization of Couples Therapy: Adam addresses the barriers to couples therapy, particularly financial and social stigma. Adam discusses Ours' mission to make therapy more accessible and less stigmatized through pricing models, therapist matching, and partnerships.
3. Premarital Counseling: The conversation delves into the potential of premarital counseling to prepare couples for the challenges of marriage by providing a structured space for important conversations about finances, family planning, and relationship goals.
4. Finding the Right Therapist: The episode stresses the importance of finding a therapist who is a good fit for the couple. This includes considering therapist specialization, experience, and alignment with the couple's values and priorities.
5. Building Strong Relationship Rituals: Adam highlights the importance of establishing consistent rituals for relationship maintenance, such as regular check-ins, date nights, and novel experiences. He shares his personal experiences and tips for making these rituals a regular part of life.

Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Castbox, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. 

Brought to you by Plenty. Plenty is a wealth platform helping modern couples invest and plan for their future together. We bring the investment strategies and products of the wealthy to the everyday household.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Connect with Adam Putterman: Website |LinkedIn |Twitter/X

Connect with Emily Luke: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Plenty: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter/X

PEOPLE & RESOURCES MENTIONED

Channing Allen

John Gottman

Ours

Serena Ventures

Esther Perel's Podcast

Joy

Eataly

In this episode, Emily Luk interviews Jessica Bishop, CEO and Co-founder of Budget Savvy Bride, The Budget Savvy Bride is the #1 resource for couples planning a wedding on a budget. Jessica is a wedding planning expert, best-selling author, and podcast host who shares her insights and expertise on wedding planning and savings. Emily and Jessica discuss the inspiration behind Budget Savvy Bride and the changing trends in weddings over the years.

Jessica shares the story of how Budget Savvy Bride started as a personal blog to document her wedding planning journey. She emphasizes the importance of managing finances and shares tips for couples to save money on their weddings. Jessica also discusses the impact of Covid-19 on weddings and how couples are reevaluating their priorities. Emily and Jessica discuss the changing trends in weddings, such as elopements and micro weddings, and how couples are reevaluating their priorities. Emily and Jessica also share tips for couples to save money on their weddings. Jessica encourages couples to focus on what is important to them and their partners and to find ways to make their wedding day special within their budget.

What we discussed:

• Financial Management in Relationships: Jessica highlighted the importance of managing finances as a couple, especially in the context of weddings. 
• Impact of Covid-19 on Weddings: The pandemic caused couples to reevaluate their wedding plans, leading to more intimate ceremonies and elopements. Jessica discussed how the shift in priorities due to the pandemic has influenced wedding trends.
• Tips for Saving Money on Weddings: Jessica shared practical tips for couples to save money on their weddings such as prioritizing wedding elements, and considering alternatives or DIY options.
• Balancing Budget and Priorities: Jessica shares the importance of couples focusing on what's important to them and their partners when planning their weddings and ways for couples to find ways to make their wedding day special within their budget.
• The Role of a Wedding Planner or Coordinator: Jessica discussed the difference between a wedding planner and a wedding coordinator, and how they can help couples navigate the complexities of wedding planning. 
• Changing Trends in Weddings: Jessica highlighted changing trends in weddings, such as the rise of sober weddings, interactive elements, and personalized touches and how couples can embrace their uniqueness and make their weddings reflect their values and preferences.
• Navigating Cultural Traditions: Jessica highlights the importance of open communication and finding compromises that respect both families.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Castbox, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. 

Brought to you by Plenty. Plenty is a wealth platform helping modern couples invest and plan for their future together. We bring the investment strategies and products of the wealthy to the everyday household.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Connect with Jessica Bishop: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter

Connect with Emily Luke: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Plenty: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter

The Budget Savvy Bride: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter

Savvy Wedding Guide Vendor Directory: Website |

Bouquet Toss Podcast: Website |

Something Borrowed Blooms: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

Bloom Culture Flowers: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube

PEOPLE MENTIONED

Channing Allen

In this episode of the Love & other assets podcast, Emily Luk, CEO and co-founder of Plenty, interviews Sam Dogen, the founder of Financial Samurai. He was previously at Goldman Sachs and Credit Suisse, from which he retired at age 34. Dogen is a graduate of The College of William & Mary and received an MBA from the University of California, Berkeley. 

Sam shares his journey from Wall Street to financial independence, discussing his early inspiration for finance, experiences during the dot-com era and the 2008 crisis, and the origin story of Financial Samurai. He candidly reflects on his decision to wait until later in life to start a family, highlighting the benefits of early family planning. We delve into his philosophy of extreme frugality, which allowed him to save 70% of his income early in his career. Sam discusses the balancing act of raising children and maintaining financial goals, emphasizing the importance of financial conversations in couples. 

Throughout the conversation, Sam provides valuable insights on achieving financial freedom, navigating family life, and embracing a fulfilling lifestyle that prioritizes both wealth creation and well-being.

What We discussed: 

Early Fascination with Wealth: Sam recalls being intrigued by wealth from a young age, inspired by encounters with successful individuals in his childhood.

Transition to Wall Street: Sam's interest in finance led him to study economics and Mandarin at the College of William and Mary. He began day trading in college, sparking his desire to pursue a career in finance. Sam shares his journey to Wall Street, from internships to landing a job at Goldman Sachs and later at Credit Suisse.

Experiences in Finance: Sam reflects on the highs and lows of his career in finance, from the excitement of the dot-com boom to the challenges of the global financial crisis. He shares stories of layoffs and the changing atmosphere on Wall Street during turbulent times.

Transition to Entrepreneurship: Sam discusses his decision to leave finance and pursue entrepreneurship. He shares a pivotal moment that sparked his transition.

Building Passive Income: Sam explains his strategy for building passive income, emphasizing frugality and strategic savings. He shares insights into his financial philosophy and the importance of saving aggressively to achieve financial freedom.

Navigating Family Planning: Sam reflects on his experience of delaying family planning and the eventual decision to have children. He shares advice for his younger self, urging prioritization of family planning and cherishing time with loved ones.

Financial Philosophy: Sam emphasizes the importance of saving and investing aggressively, encouraging couples to align their financial goals and have open conversations about money. He discusses his frugal lifestyle and how it has shaped his approach to finances with his wife.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Castbox, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. Watch the interview on YouTube here.

Brought to you by Plenty. Plenty is a wealth platform helping modern couples invest and plan for their future together. We bring the investment strategies and products of the wealthy to the everyday household.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Connect with Sam Dogen: Website | LinkedIn

Connect with Emily Luke: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Plenty: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter

PEOPLE & RESOURCES MENTIONED

Channing Allen

Financial Samurai

Goldman Sachs

Credit Suisse

CNBC

Godaddy