The Stacking Benjamins Show

After Monday’s primer on why your portfolio needs some international flavor, we’re following up with a deeper dive—this time with someone who lives and breathes global markets. Joe Saul-Sehy and OG welcome Joy Yang, Head of Index Product Management at MarketVector Indexes, to talk through how to actually invest beyond U.S. borders.

Joy explains how ETFs can help investors capture international growth while minimizing risk—and why country-specific and sector-specific ETFs might just be your new best friend. You'll also hear insights on investing in private markets, the rise of digital assets, and whether private equity in your 401k is a brilliant idea… or a cautionary tale.

But don’t worry, the basement stays weird. Doug brings the trivia heat with a Martha Stewart–Eliot Spitzer stumper, and the episode wraps with some creative audience feedback (including one Stackers’ AI-powered school project that caught our attention).

Topics Covered:

How to diversify globally without overcomplicating your portfolio

The power of ETFs for targeting specific markets and sectors

What you really need to know before considering private equity in retirement accounts

Balancing simplicity with opportunity in a world of shiny investment options

The limits of “going big or going home” when it comes to risk and return

Stackers, if you’re looking for smart ways to expand your portfolio’s reach—or just curious what index creators think about Bitcoin—this episode delivers insights, laughs, and a grounded reminder: simple can still be smart.

FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/how-to-invest-globally-with-joy-yang-1691

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How global is your portfolio, really? This week in the basement, Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, and the gang zoom out from the U.S. markets and take us on a whirlwind trip around the investing world. Spoiler alert: the case for international investing is stronger than you think—and it’s not just about chasing higher returns. It’s about risk reduction, smart diversification, and maybe even admitting that the U.S. isn’t always the world’s MVP.

You'll hear how developed and emerging markets fit into a well-balanced portfolio, how correlation works in your favor (yes, this time that’s a good thing), and what history tells us about going global. Joe and OG share practical advice for how to get started, when to rebalance, and how much international exposure might make sense for the average Stacker.

Then in the second half, we pivot from markets to money buffers: listener Jeff from Cleveland wonders how to set insurance deductibles based on the state of his emergency fund. We break down how to think about the real return on your rainy-day stash—because spoiler: it’s not about the interest rate, it's about your resilience.

To wrap things up, we share timeless wisdom from Stackers across the country on what they’d tell new graduates about money, life, and how not to blow that first paycheck on a jet ski.

Why international investing may improve both your returns and your risk profile

How much of your portfolio to allocate internationally—and what history suggests

What "correlation" really means and why it’s your friend (at least in investing)

Risks and common misconceptions of investing overseas

How to choose between developed vs. emerging markets

Portfolio tools to visualize your asset mix and expected outcomes

Why your emergency fund’s best ROI might be peace of mind

How to align insurance deductibles with your liquidity cushion

What our community of Stackers wishes they had known after graduation

FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/making-the-case-for-international-investing-1690

Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201

Enjoy!

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This week, we’re getting deep (like, basement-deep) into what it means to flourish.

Join Joe, OG, Paula Pant, and special guest Ryan Doolittle as they unpack a brand-new study on happiness. Spoiler: it’s not just about stacking cash. From the influence of childhood experiences to the surprising power of community, autonomy, and faith, this episode asks whether true wealth is more emotional than numerical.

Plus, Ryan shares his adventures from his new series Try and Ryan—where he road-tests hobbies that might just add meaning to your retirement (and your Tuesdays).

What we’re exploring in the basement:

🌱 What the latest research says about flourishing—and why it’s not just for the rich

👶 How childhood trauma or support plays into long-term happiness

⛪ Religious attendance: a surprising common thread in many “happy” lives

🎯 Autonomy, mastery, and purpose at work—and why they might matter more than promotions

🌍 Why Finland keeps winning the “World’s Happiest Country” race (and what Americans might learn from it)

💰 How financial flexibility might be more valuable than financial freedom

🧓 Gender and retirement happiness: why the experience might not be equal across the board

🛠️ Ryan’s “Try and Ryan” series and how picking up hobbies can boost life satisfaction

🏎️ Also: Trivia mayhem involving the Indy 500, Paula’s cat gets a shoutout, and OG still won’t drive stick

🎙️ Want to be wealthy and well?

Show notes: https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/money-happiness-and-flourishing-1689/

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Turns out, saving $3,000 a year might be easier (and tastier) than you think. This week, we’re dishing up big savings with Bryan Suddith, who turned his family’s runaway grocery bill into a budget-friendly game—complete with freezer hacks, local meat tips, and food waste strategies that actually work. He joins Joe, OG, and guest co-host Len Penzo (yes, that Len Penzo of LenPenzo.com fame) to share how mindful meal planning can make your wallet and your taste buds happy.

We’re also talking about a Wall Street Journal piece that reveals why high schoolers are ditching traditional degrees for skilled trades... and landing $70K jobs right out of the gate. Plus, Doug helps us navigate one of life’s most awkward questions: What do you call your friend’s mom? (Hint: it’s not “Linda.”)

What’s stacked inside this episode:

🧾 How Bryan gamified his grocery budget and saved thousands—with zero meal-prep burnout

🥩 Freezer hacks, locally sourced meats, and the joys of slow-thawed financial wins

🥦 Food mindfulness: the surprising connection between awareness and grocery savings

🎯 Why budgeting doesn't have to feel like punishment (especially when TikTok is involved)

🎙️ Bryan’s bonus storytelling and public speaking tips for anyone who has to talk to humans

🔧 Trade school is trending: why $70K jobs are showing up before diplomas

🧰 Should your teen consider HVAC over Harvard? We unpack the growing case for skilled trades

🤷‍♂️ Conan O'Brien, Doug, and the Great Parental Naming Debate of 2025

💡 If you’ve ever overpaid at the grocery store or underestimated a plumber’s paycheck... this one’s for you.

Full Show Notes: https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/avoid-food-waste-and-save-benjamins-bryan-suddith-1688/

Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201

Enjoy!

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Think you're being lied to at work? You probably are. From boardrooms to bank accounts, this episode pulls no punches.

We’re stacking double the wisdom on this special Memorial Day episode, as Joe Saul-Sehy interviews two powerhouse guests: Bonnie Hammer, former vice chair of NBCUniversal and bestselling author, and Dr. Erika Rasure from Beyond Finance. Whether it’s breaking glass ceilings or breaking out of debt, this episode is your roadmap to reclaiming control.

Inside the episode:

💼 Bonnie Hammer calls B.S. on the “15 lies women are told at work” — and explains how to rewrite the rules

🎬 Behind-the-scenes of Suits and why even hit shows face wild career landmines

🧠 How your attitude and teamwork can make or break your climb to the top

💬 Dr. Erika Rasure on why 50% of Americans don’t trust themselves with money — and how to start

💸 The real emotional blockers behind budgeting, saving, and staying out of the online cart trap

🧍‍♀️ Gender and generational gaps: why confidence with money isn’t equally distributed (but should be)

🛠️ Financial “practice weeks” and mindset shifts to get unstuck from shame and paralysis

✅ A simple path to get control over your debt without feeling like you’ve failed

Also: Doug delivers his own Memorial Day tribute and trivia, because of course he does.

🎙️ Ready to outsmart bad advice and start building on your own terms?

FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/lies-work-and-money-with-bonnie-hammer-and-dr-erika-rasure-1687

Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201

Enjoy!

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Memorial Day weekend is here, which means it’s officially time to break out the grill, the beach bag… and maybe that travel budget spreadsheet. But don’t worry—this isn’t a guide from travel influencers who hike barefoot with artisanal backpacks. Nope. This episode is brought to you by your favorite money geeks in Joe’s mom’s basement.

Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, Jesse Cramer, Crystal Hammond, and Doug gather 'round the card table to share their best budget-friendly travel strategies, hilarious vacation stories, and maybe one or two travel fails. From choosing the right travel companion to navigating airports like a boss, this crew drops loads of practical wisdom for making your summer adventures awesome and affordable.

You’ll learn why credit card points can be your best friend, how to pick lodging that won’t make you cry (or bankrupt you), and why packing a toothbrush is a good idea… even if Doug’s trivia makes you question the timing.

This isn’t expert advice. These are the musings of people who spend more time optimizing their wallets than their luggage. And that’s exactly why you’ll leave feeling better prepared to tackle your own summer travel—without the jet-setter guilt trip.

Kicking off summer with a Stacking Benjamins travel roundtable

Real-life travel hacks from people who care more about budgeting than boarding groups

Credit card point strategies that actually work

Hot takes on hotels, Airbnbs, and airport snacks

Why picking the right travel buddy can make or break your trip

The one item Doug thinks was more important than nylon (it’s… something)

Whether you’re headed to the lake, the mountains, or just your backyard with a cold drink, join the crew for a hilarious and practical celebration of summer travel.

Full Show Notes: https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/our-favorite-summer-travel-tips-1686/

Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.StackingBenjamins.com/201

Enjoy!

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What do cupcakes, frosting, and financial independence have in common? This week in the basement, Stacking Benjamins welcomes legendary personal finance thinker JL Collins, author of The Simple Path to Wealth, to connect the dots between simple investing and sweet, stress-free success.

In a lively conversation with Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, and Mom’s neighbor Doug (who may or may not be launching a frosting-themed protest movement), JL shares timeless wisdom on avoiding complexity, embracing low-cost index investing, and why FU money is more than just a clever phrase—it’s freedom in a bank account.

You’ll hear JL’s take on portfolio allocation, debt’s sneaky impact on your future, and how to survive volatile markets without sacrificing your peace of mind. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a soul-crushing job? JL’s got some perspective you’ll love.

Then, in the second half of the episode, Joe and OG shift gears to answer a listener question from Mike. He’s wondering about the efficient frontier—yes, we’re getting fancy now—and wants to know how to move beyond the Simple Path. Joe walks through the different asset classes he thinks about when crafting a diversified portfolio, while OG shares how to think through asset allocation as your wealth and confidence grow. Whether you’re curious about real estate, international investing, or just how much to hold in bonds, you’ll walk away with a clearer picture of what your portfolio could look like after “graduating” from JL’s foundational advice.

Why keeping it simple beats chasing trends

What “FU money” really means—and how to get it

The truth about withdrawal rates and why they matter

When debt becomes a dream killer

Tips for navigating market downturns without panic

How to find freedom without spending a fortune

JL’s surprisingly profound parable about a monk, a minister, and money

Doug’s hot take on the great frosting vs. cake debate

A deep dive into the efficient frontier and how to set up your asset allocation beyond VTSAX

Joe Saul-Sehy and OG’s thoughts on portfolio construction for seasoned investors

JL’s insights have inspired millions on the path to financial independence—and now it’s your turn. Tune in, take notes (or don’t, we’ll recap it in the 201), and remember: sometimes the sweetest success starts with doing less.

FULL SHOW NOTES: https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/the-simple-path-to-contentment-with-jl-collins-1685/

Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201

Enjoy!

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Is it summer already, or is that just our theme park budget melting in the sun? Either way, we’re kicking off the season with our annual guide to roller coasters, churros, and how not to hurl after one too many loops. Theme Park Insider’s Robert Niles returns to share the biggest news in amusement park land—from a new Disney park in Abu Dhabi (what?!) to Universal Orlando’s game-changing Epic Universe.

But what’s a summer kickoff without a good ol’ whiplash reminder that your brain can’t be trusted when it comes to investing? Joe Saul-Sehy and OG dive into Jason Zweig’s latest insights about how our market “memory banks” mess with decision-making, and why 2008 probably wasn’t as scarring as your gut tells you.

And yes, Doug's trivia ties it all together—with corn dogs, naturally.

How to actually save money at theme parks without having to sleep in a costume closet.

The surprising reason a $1,400 day at Disney might be your own fault.

Which new coasters (and old favorites) are worth the detour this year.

Why your gut—and your "market memory"—could be sabotaging your investments.

The last time the stock market went down multiple years in a row (hint: not 2008).

What Robert’s favorite underrated U.S. parks are (spoiler: Dollywood shows up, again).

How to strategically splurge or save at the parks—merch fans, avert your eyes.

🎢 This one has thrills, chills, and the occasional spreadsheet. Just how we like it.

FULL SHOW NOTES: https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/welcome-summmer-2025-with-robert-niles-1684/

Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201

Enjoy!

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What really moves the needle on your happiness—making more money or saving more of what you’ve got?

This week, Joe Saul-Sehy and OG are joined by Paula Pant, Jesse Cramer, and the guy who still owes money on his Beanie Baby collection—Doug—for a roundtable filled with bold financial takes and even bolder choices. It’s a rapid-fire round of “either-or” dilemmas, and while nobody gets voted off the island, a few sacred cows are gently tipped over.

Should you max out your retirement account or finally slay your student loans? Ditch credit cards for cash? Bet your future on crypto or keep it stuffed in a fireproof mattress? Our panel debates these decisions and shares real-life stories of what’s worked—and what’s blown up like a microwaved burrito.

Of course, it wouldn’t be The Stacking Benjamins Show without a detour or two: we dig into financial hoarding (how many dusty envelopes is too many?), reveal why your credit score might be your best frenemy, and serve up some vintage airplane trivia, just to keep things classy.

So whether you're team "Earn More" or team "Cut Back," this episode delivers the kind of guidance that helps you feel a little more confident making your next money move—even if it’s just saying no to another financial “shortcut.”

Topics covered include:

Why more income might not be the golden ticket

The case for ditching your credit card (and why that makes Doug twitchy)

Saving vs. investing vs. spending like you’re already retired

What financial hoarding reveals about your mindset

Index funds vs. individual stocks: which one should get your long-term commitment?

The never-ending crypto debate (now with 12% more existential dread!)

How obsessing over your credit score may or may not ruin your weekend

If you’re figuring out how to balance today’s latte with tomorrow’s freedom—or you just want to feel smarter about money than your cousin Gary who “invests in vibes”—this one’s for you.

And remember, no matter how much you earn or save, the real ROI is tuning in with the Stackers each week.

FULL SHOW NOTES: https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/the-happiness-debate-1683/

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Ever feel like money is a never-ending game of not enough? Today, we're rewiring that thinking. Our special guest, Leisa Peterson—author of The Mindful Millionaire and now The Money Catalyst—joins us to talk about abundance, scarcity, and how to stop living life like you're budgeting for armageddon. (Hint: It's okay to order the nice wine now.)

Joe Saul-Sehy and OG also shine a light on the resurgence of alternative investments. Is it innovation... or just Wall Street’s way of sneaking in high fees through the back door? Plus, we roll into Doug’s trivia, a TikTok Minute that flips the script on a certain “draft pick,” and, of course, a few stories that prove—yet again—that golf is no game for the frugal.

“Am I YOLO-ing or just broke?” Why framing matters more than frugality

From scarcity to satisfaction: How one moment in Paris changed Leisa’s relationship with money

You call that a tip? The surprisingly deep conversation behind street musicians, champagne, and generosity

Alternative investments are back (again?) Why your advisor might pitch you on ditching the market... and why you should think twice

Personal growth through fiction: Leisa's surprising journey from nonfiction burnout to a book that might just fix your wallet and your heart

When the camel arrives with a skeleton on its back: Doug’s trivia gets weird (and somehow financial)

TikTok Minute: What happens when a 50-year-old thinks he just got drafted into the NFL

OG’s rule of thumb: Volatility isn’t the villain—it’s the entrance fee

🪄 PS: Boston-area Stackers! Joe’s coming your way May 20th. Get all the meetup deets at stackingbenjamins.com/meetup

🎧 Listen now and start living (and spending) like abundance is already yours.

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