In this episode of the South Baltimore Now podcast, we sit down with John Shea and Brendan O’Brien—two South Baltimore neighbors who are blending decades of high-level financial expertise with a deep-rooted love for their community. Together, they’ve launched Old Irish Guys Financial, a venture built on the idea that sound financial advice should be as accessible as a conversation with a neighbor.

The journey to this partnership began in the world of institutional finance. Brendan’s roots go back to the "late 1900s" at Leg Mason before he transitioned to the independent side with LPL Financial. Meanwhile, John’s career kicked off at State Street Bank, where he managed public pension funds before eventually serving as the Director of Development for the Baltimore Family Alliance. After years of navigating the complexities of large-scale finance, they’ve "hung up their own shingle" to focus on what matters most: providing neighbor-to-neighbor coaching right here on the peninsula.

While both John and Brendan are Boston natives, they’ve found their true home in South Baltimore. They discuss the "hooks" that kept them here, choosing to raise their families in the heart of the city rather than retreating to the suburbs. Their commitment is visible in their support for local institutions like Francis Scott Key and Federal Hill Prep, proving that families don't have to move once their kids hit third grade. From volunteering at local sports to advocating for walkable turf fields, they are proof that community involvement and city living go hand-in-hand.

Net Worth & Chill

This philosophy of accessible advice extends to their new podcast, The Penny and the Pint. They’ve coined the phrase "Net Worth and Chill" to help couples navigate the often-stressful conversations surrounding money and significant others. Whether they are helping clients consolidate "pots of money" scattered across old 401(k) plans or offering a 30,000-foot view to balance retirement, college savings, and the inevitable home repairs of city life, John and Brendan are focused on the big picture.

Learn More:

• Website: oldirishguysfinancial.com
• Podcast: Look for The Penny and the Pint on all major podcast platforms.

* Shout Out to Liv's Tavern for hosting us to record in-person. Delicious food, fantastic staff and perfectly poured pints - Thank You! 

• (00:00) - Pub Setup and Introductions