Behavior Gap Radio (Carl Richards)

Carl shares a story on Behavior Gap Radio about traveling in Spain with his daughter. He talks through the contrast between the comfort of the Pyrenees mountains and the overwhelming chaos of Barcelona. As he navigates unfamiliar streets and faces discomfort, he realizes that this discomfort is the very reason he travels—it brings growth and a fresh perspective! What is the value you find in travel? How does travel change your perspective?

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl reflects on the enduring wisdom found in timeless traditions, specifically honing in on the recurrent theme that money serves as a distraction. Carl reflects on Rumi's wisdom: "The wealth you seek is in the heart, not the pocket." In today's world, where money's importance is amplified, what if we sought wealth within our hearts instead of material accumulation? This episode challenges the conventional view of wealth and encourages listeners to explore true sources of fulfillment and happiness. How might your life change if you pursued the richness of the heart over material wealth?

What's the first feeling that arises when you think about money or see a money symbol? Drawing from insights shared by the audience, Carl reflects on a range of emotions, including jealousy, fear, and even opportunity. He emphasizes the importance of noticing these feelings without judgment and shares a powerful approach: observing them as a non-judgmental outsider, saying, "Isn't that interesting?" Carl explores the transformation that occurs when benign neglect is applied to these emotions, allowing the act of attention to naturally bring about positive change. Listen to this episode of Behavior Gap Radio to uncover the power of self-awareness in reshaping your relationship with money!

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In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores the often-overlooked concept of energy as a valuable source of capital alongside money, time, and attention. He reflects on how we invest, spend, or waste energy on things that either align with or detract from what matters most. Using personal examples, like the energy drain of checking news or podcast stats, Carl encourages listeners to reflect on their own energy usage and consider how aligning it more intentionally can lead to a more fulfilling life.

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In this episode, Carl dives into the sneaky nature of confirmation bias, using a personal story about road biking and weight tracking to highlight how we often seek out evidence that supports decisions we've already made. Carl reflects on how this bias shaped his behavior and shares the "Confirmation Bias Prevention Program," a strategy focused on seeking out disconfirming evidence and engaging with opposing viewpoints. Learn why embracing the discomfort of being wrong is key to making better decisions.

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In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl shares a captivating story that unfolds over years, weaving through unexpected twists and turns. The narrative of this story raises intriguing questions about intuition, alignment, and the mysterious ways in which life unfolds. Carl invites listeners to consider the concept of being open to unexpected thoughts and experiences that may lead to remarkable outcomes.

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What do you truly want? In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl Richards continues the conversation on the two fundamental questions that shape financial decisions—and life itself: Who are you? And what’s important to you? He explores how our desires evolve, how cultural and social influences shape what we think we want, and why living with these questions (rather than rushing to answer them) leads to better-aligned choices. If you’ve ever felt pulled in different directions by expectations, trends, or habits, this episode is for you.

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In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores the transformative power of permission in thinking differently about money. Thinking back on his time in New Zealand, Carl noticed that people didn't start conversations by asking, "What do you do for work?" Instead, they asked more meaningful questions. This shows the significance of asking questions that really count rather than sticking to the usual ones. He shares a pivotal moment when his wife challenged him to consider the possibility that making money could be fun and easy. Carl also emphasizes the significance of engaging in conversations about money with people from diverse backgrounds, as it opens the door to thoughts that had never crossed one's mind before.

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We’ve all heard that money is power—but what if the real power is attention? In this episode, Carl explores how attention has become the most valuable commodity in the world, shaping wealth, influence, and the way we interact with the world. But here’s the good news: if we’re aware of it, we can practice. We can audit where we invest our attention, reclaim control, and make sure we’re spending it on what truly matters. This is both a warning and an invitation—because the fight for your attention is real, but so is your ability to choose.

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Carl shares a thrilling update on his four-year project, which has evolved into a captivating podcast called "50 Fires," with executive producers Chip and Joanna Gaines at Magnolia and a distribution deal with Warner Brothers. Set to launch in 2023, "50 Fires" explores the intersection of money and meaning. Carl offers a sneak peek into a recent interview with Breaking Bad's Dean Norris (who played the character Hank). Dean equates money with the number of months he can go without working. The episode provides a unique perspective on how artists, including comedians, chefs, and musicians, view money as a resource that grants them artistic freedom. Carl reflects on the insights gained from these individuals and invites listeners to join him on this exciting new podcast journey.

Listen to 50 Fires: Money and Meaning with Carl Richards: https://apple.co/47o5vP0

Hear the episode "Breaking Bad’s Dean Norris Has Always Lived Within His Means" Carl references in this episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/breaking-bads-dean-norris-has-always-lived-within-his-means/id1709551590?i=1000638409268

In this episode, Carl dives into the often-overlooked challenge of confusing net worth with self-worth. He explores how society tends to equate material possessions and financial success with personal value, reflecting on how this mindset can erode self-esteem, especially in contexts like salary negotiations or unemployment. Carl shares a personal conversation with a friend who felt crushed by the impact of losing work and highlights the importance of finding sources of self-worth that are independent of income or status. This thought-provoking episode encourages listeners to reflect on how they perceive their own value.

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In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl poses a simple yet powerful question: What’s your earliest memory of money? He explores how this question can unlock deep conversations, from childhood experiences to the emotions tied to financial moments. Whether it's recalling a childhood paper route or the tension of overheard arguments, these memories shape our relationship with money. Carl encourages listeners to try asking the question—especially with kids—and to embrace the conversations that follow.

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In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl talks about his visit to the local farmers market and the idea of hyperlocal investing. He shares his meaningful interactions with vendors, like buying honey to help with allergies and chatting with a goat milk farmer. Carl reflects on the sense of community and connection he felt, highlighting how investing time and money locally can bring a unique return on happiness. He encourages listeners to visit their local markets, invest in their communities, and share their experiences with him by emailing hello@behaviorgap.com.

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How are you investing your attention in your relationships? Are you being mindful enough? Today, Carl Richards explores the idea of attention as a form of capital and its critical role in building meaningful connections. Inspired by a quote from Simone Weil, Carl discusses how paying attention can be one of the most generous acts we can offer others. During a recent retreat, Carl was asked why he views attention as one of the four key sources of capital—alongside time, money, and energy. This question led him to reflect on the fleeting nature of attention and the importance of being intentional with where we focus it. 

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl discusses the concept of being "fierce with reality," inspired by a conversation with his friend Aaron and a poem by Florida Scott Maxwell. Carl explores the meaning of truly claiming and possessing all that we have been and done, leading to a sense of wholeness and honesty in our lives. He reflects on how embracing our past without letting it define our future can help us move forward with integrity and authenticity. How can we live a life aligned with our true selves?

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Carl dives into the power of micro-actions and the importance of taking the next smallest step when navigating complex challenges, whether in work, life, or personal projects. Drawing from his own experiences and insights from experts like James Clear, Carl emphasizes that progress isn't about giant leaps but about consistently moving forward with tiny, deliberate steps.

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In this episode, Carl shares an exciting update about his upcoming book—a collection of 97 essays paired with sketches—and invites listeners to join a "reading party" by providing feedback on one of the essays. He reads "Stuff You Own, Stuff That Owns You," a reflection on the fine line between owning things and being owned by them, and offers a simple question to help regain control of your stuff.

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In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl dives into the world of "fancy financial feelings." As Carl explores the nuances of coveting, envy, and jealousy, he challenges societal norms around discussing these emotions. Carl invites listeners to join him in exploring these forbidden financial feelings!

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In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl reflects on the importance of protecting confidence. He delves into the challenges of navigating social media and external feedback while creating meaningful work. With a commitment to prioritize craftsmanship and continuous improvement, Carl shares his dedication to producing high-quality content that resonates with his audience. 

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores the challenging realization that personal obstacles often lie within ourselves. He talks through the importance of action over knowledge and how important systematic habits are if you want to turn your intentions into reality. Drawing inspiration from Brian Johnson's concept of a daily protocol, Carl discusses the significance of pushing through when the desire to follow a routine wanes. He encourages listeners to identify one impactful thing they can commit to, schedule it, and rewire their response to overcome resistance. In the spirit of "Dancing With Dragons," Carl shares his personal commitment with listeners!

Carl has received many requests for coaching or consulting, but he doesn’t offer those services. Instead, he has created something different: Dancing With Dragons. This experience involves spending a day together in Park City, Utah, with a loose structure of time outside, time around a table, and time around a fire. It is open to individuals, couples, and teams. For more information, go to https://www.dancingwithdragons.com/.

Today, Carl explores the dual questions: "Who is my work for?" and "Who is willing to pay for it?" Reflecting on two decades of aligning his work with personal values, Carl discusses the impact of his work on individuals striving to make more aligned decisions with their capital. He shares insights into the distinct group that values his expertise—financial advisors who seek to integrate these principles into their practices.

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In this episode, Carl explores the inevitable arrival of risk when making important life decisions, particularly through the lens of parenting young adults facing monumental choices. From career paths to personal relationships, he reflects on how we react when things don't go as planned—whether it's failing a test, missing an opportunity, or changing life directions. Drawing inspiration from Kobe Bryant's mindset of learning from failure, Carl encourages us to embrace risk as part of growth. Tune in to discover how to navigate disappointment, keep moving forward, and learn from the challenges life throws our way.

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In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl dives into a thought-provoking paradox: the all-too-common societal norm of sacrificing health for financial success, only to spend later years using that wealth to recover lost health. With his trademark clarity, Carl unpacks this "weird" cycle and invites listeners to rethink the trade-offs we consider normal. It's a short, impactful reflection that might just shift your perspective on success and well-being.

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In this episode, Carl shares a personal experiment in breaking free from the “dopamine machine”—those tempting websites and distractions that quietly steal our time. He talks about using defensive measures like locking down access, creating space between stimulus and response, and replacing old habits with more meaningful activities. Along the way, he reflects on meditation, addiction, and the surprising power of simply noticing what we feel instead of trying to suppress it.

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Behavior Gap Radio: www.behaviorgapradio.com/

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl examines the struggle of maintaining confidence in straightforward solutions amid complexity. Reflecting on a recent board meeting regarding software product changes, he discusses how simplicity can obscure the effort required behind it. Carl highlights the connection between presenting a clear answer and confidence in our own abilities. He thinks practicing clarity can alleviate doubts, and he differentiates between simplistic and elegantly simple solutions.

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In this episode, Carl explores what he believes is the greatest risk of all—not failure, but waking up one day and realizing we haven’t been the person we hoped to be. He reflects on daily regrets, the subtle ways distraction can derail our intentions, and why ignoring that quiet sense of misalignment only makes it worse. Most importantly, he offers a gentle reminder: notice the feeling, use it to course-correct, and begin again.

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In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl reflects on a quiet but profound shift in his relationship with money and responsibility. Through a family conversation about ski passes, he recognized how old stories of being the "family beast of burden" no longer controlled his reactions. Instead, by simply noticing and labeling his feelings, he allowed them to pass. Carl invites listeners to reflect on their own money stories and celebrate the subtle, unnoticed changes that signal real growth.

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Fresh from his time in New Zealand, Carl reflects on clarity—the kind that comes when the noise fades away. Inspired by Carl Jung’s insight that "only if we know that the thing that truly matters is infinite can we avoid fixing our interests upon futilities," Carl explores how distractions and false possessions dull our sensitivity to what really matters. What happens when we remove the noise? And how do we create space for a clearer signal in our own lives? Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on focus, meaning, and what’s truly essential.

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In this brief and impactful field episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl presents a thought-provoking statement: "People who pay, pay attention."

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Today's field episode takes you on a journey of insight and reflection high in the Wasatch Mountains. Carl shares a revelation about the asymmetry between saying yes and saying no, coining the term "the yes propagation problem." He explores the cascading effects of saying yes and the precision of saying no, drawing parallels to snow avalanches to illustrate the concept's depth. Join Carl as he talks about the intricacies of decision-making and the power of understanding the implications of our choices.

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl imagines an eye-opening conversation with money, personified as a tired but honest friend. Through this thought experiment, he explores how we often ask money to provide things it simply can't—like peace of mind, security, or self-worth—and the disappointment that follows. Carl shares personal insights from his own financial struggles and invites listeners to reflect on the unrealistic jobs they may have assigned to money, encouraging a healthier perspective on its true role as a tool for value exchange.

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Carl reflects on the profound significance of the words we use to describe money, such as "means of exchange" and "store of value." He explores the historical context of exchanging goods and services, highlighting the personal connection and value inherent in these interactions. Carl will leave you with a question, "What does it mean to exchange?" He encourages us to contemplate the deeper implications of our relationship with money!

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Today, on Behavior Gap Radio, Carl talks about the elusive concept of status and its insatiable nature. How much status is enough? Carl highlights the inherent paradox of chasing status, noting that it's a pursuit without a finish line. With references to Michael Easter's insights on scarcity loops, Carl invites listeners to consider how they can break free from the status-driven cycle and cultivate a more fulfilling mindset.

Learn more about the work of Michael Easter here: https://eastermichael.com/

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores the modern obsession with efficiency and questions its place in our personal lives. While metrics and dashboards might drive success in business, Carl humorously points out the absurdity of applying the same logic to human relationships. Carl talks about why he believes efficiency should never be the goal in our connections with loved ones.

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In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl unpacks a fascinating lesson about goals, metrics, and intention. Sparked by a conversation about someone else's impressive achievement, he reflects on how quickly arbitrary goals can take root—and how easily we can lose sight of what truly matters. Carl challenges us to examine whether the numbers we chase align with our deeper purpose or if they’re just distractions shaped by others’ expectations. It’s a thought-provoking reminder to focus on what really matters to us, not the metrics that might impress others.

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Carl shares insights from his recent conversation with Barry Ritholtz, host of Bloomberg Radio's "At the Money." Carl discusses a common question: Why do we often make irrational investment decisions, like buying high and selling low, despite knowing better? Listen in on an exploration of behavioral finance, the psychology of investing, and practical strategies to avoid common pitfalls!

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Carl explores the concept of lightness, contemplating what it means to carry a lighter load in terms of future goals and intentions. He shares a transformative shift in his perspective, acknowledging that the responsibility of shaping the next 10 years need not feel like a heavy burden. Carl reflects on the idea of turning the responsibility of his life over to God, allowing for a more playful and light approach to his work. Drawing on metaphors from whitewater rafting and Nordic skiing, he challenges the conventional narrative of hard work and proposes a more graceful and intentional engagement with life's uncertainties.

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Is accumulating wealth for future generations really the ultimate goal? In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores intergenerational wealth and its impact on our lives. He challenges this idea, advocating instead for creating memories, love, and self-worth. Drawing from personal experiences, like choosing time with his children over financial gains, Carl questions the true value of wealth and its unintended consequences. What is more important to you: wealth or meaningful experiences? 

What are you willing to do for money? In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores the growing tension between long-held values and the relentless pursuit of wealth, power, and attention. As hustle culture celebrates sacrifice in the name of success, he questions whether money is becoming the central organizing principle of our lives—and at what cost. If you don’t know who you are in relation to money, the future might be an expensive place to figure it out.

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In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl shares a story about someone who mastered the art of politely turning down invitations that didn't match her priorities. She wasn't rude or dismissive; she simply knew what mattered most to her! Carl highlights her approach as a lesson in prioritization and focus. Saying no isn't about shutting people out. It's about saying yes to what truly matters!

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In this episode, Carl unpacks the “process of creating things,” removing the pressure from terms like “creative process” or “art.” He explains that creativity isn’t about waiting for inspiration; it’s about creating a process that invites magic to happen. Carl shares how he schedules regular time to sit down and create, regardless of how he feels in the moment. By treating creativity like a job with structure and routine, he’s able to consistently produce work. How can you create the conditions for your own magic to show up?

Carl asks a game-changing question: What's the One Thing you already know could make your life so much better? He asks listeners to recognize the simple yet mighty steps they could take to boost their happiness. Sharing from his own life and experiences, Carl stresses the importance of putting these known actions first instead of endlessly searching for new fixes. Whether it's getting more shut-eye, starting a daily routine, or opting for healthier habits, Carl urges listeners to pinpoint that one action that could kickstart a wave of positive change.

Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Join Carl on this episode of Behavior Gap Radio as he talks about the importance of being mindful of who and what we compare ourselves to. With sharp observations and personal stories, Carl shows how the people we hang out with and the media we consume can really affect how we see things like money, success, and happiness. Using some examples from his own life, he explains how our comparison set can even shape how we spend our money and how happy we feel. Carl suggests that by being picky about who and what we let influence us, we can take back control of our thoughts and feel more satisfied with our lives.

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Today, on Behavior Gap Radio, Carl talks about the age-old advice of not counting chickens before they hatch. Carl shares his own experiences grappling with the line between potential and reality. He explores the fine balance between optimism and practicality, stressing the value of embracing uncertainty and avoiding premature celebrations.

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In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl dives into why he’s writing another book—Your Money: Reimagining Wealth Through Simple Sketches—and what drives the project. He sees books as tools for meaningful conversations, whether around the dinner table, on a walk with a partner, or in an advisor’s office. He shares his ambitious goal of sparking a million conversations a month and gives a behind-the-scenes look at upcoming book launch plans, from virtual chats to live events.

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In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores the idea of achieving "calm money" by shifting our mindset around finances. While society often bombards us with fear and anxiety about money, Carl suggests that cultivating a calm, intentional relationship with it can transform our experience. By recognizing and managing our fears, we can approach money with clarity and peace, sidestepping the noise that clouds our judgment. Tune in to learn why calm, not fear, is the best fuel for a healthy, sustainable relationship with money.

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In an exciting milestone, Carl celebrates the incredible journey to episode 800 of Behavior Gap Radio. Reflecting on the power of compounding small activities, he shares insights into the transformative impact of consistent effort, drawing parallels between the podcast's growth and the broader vision for Behavior Gap and its community. As Carl envisions the next 30 to 40 years of projects, including ambitious plans for annual Behavior Gap Festivals and book releases, he invites listeners to contemplate their own compounding activities. Carl talks about the significance of small, consistent actions over time.

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl unpacks the power of visual shortcuts and meaningful souvenirs—how his sketches distill complex ideas into simple, conversation-starting icons. He shares an essay from his upcoming book, Your Money: Reimagining Wealth Through Simple Sketches, exploring the foundational idea that a plan must come before anything else. Too often, we obsess over products—stocks, credit cards, investments—without first deciding where we’re headed. Through his well-known sketch, The Plan Comes First, Carl explains why products only make sense in the context of a plan and how visuals serve as both a shortcut to understanding and a lasting souvenir of a learning experience.

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Join Carl on a preview of an exciting new podcast project where he explores "Conversations About Money and Meaning." Although he can't reveal all the details just yet, Carl shares an intriguing snippet from a recent conversation, reflecting on an op-ed from The New York Times about a Wall Street trader dissatisfied with a $3.6 million bonus because it wasn't enough.

Delving into the elusive concept of "enoughness," Carl highlights the universal challenge of comparison in a world where the goalposts keep shifting. Whether it's the person next to you in the office or on social media, the subtle allure of more can make it challenging to appreciate what's truly enough!

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On this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl shares a quote from Mary Oliver that has been resonating with him deeply. "The dream of my life is to lie down by a slow river and stare at the light in the trees. To learn something by being nothing." 

Carl reflects on the simplicity and power of this idea, especially in our fast-paced lives filled with constant thoughts and distractions. Perhaps we can find our own version of "lying down by a slow river" to learn and grow? 

Today, Carl talks about a moment when he woke up early in the morning feeling anxious and scared about money. He shares how he realized that, at that moment, everything was actually okay. Carl talks about how he used to worry a lot about the future and feel bad about things from the past, but now he's learning to find happiness in just being in the now. Listen to this episode as a reminder to enjoy the simple moments of life and be thankful for what you have right now.

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Carl engaged in a nuanced discussion with a close friend about the concept of financial security. They talked about this question: Does a specific bank balance—in this case, 12 months of spending—truly foster a sense of security? Carl challenges the notion that more money inherently equates to feeling secure. He argues that security is an internal state, not an external destination, shedding light on the crucial distinction between financial resources and emotional well-being. 

What are some tasks or commitments you can start delegating or eliminating? Carl reflects on the simple yet powerful idea of doing more of what lights you up and less of what doesn’t. He shares how life has improved as he’s become more intentional about focusing on what energizes him and delegating or eliminating tasks that drain him. The challenge, he says, is figuring out what those things are—and it’s a process that takes time. Sometimes, it’s easier to start with a “stop doing” list, identifying things that don’t bring energy and gradually removing them from your life.

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Today, Carl tackles the tough subject of dealing with unthoughtful criticism or "haters." He defines haters as those who disagree without really thinking it through, often twisting words or refusing to understand. Carl shares his own strategy for handling such criticism, stressing the importance of not letting haters steal unnecessary attention. He talks about the power of deleting or ignoring unthoughtful comments as a way to avoid getting sucked into an emotional battle. Carl also shares a recent experience and walks through his approach for dealing with unthoughtful criticism, providing valuable insights for listeners dealing with similar situations.

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl shares a personal story about his surprising reaction to using a credit card—an instinctive response rooted in old financial anxieties. Why do these ingrained behaviors stick with us even when they're no longer helpful? And how can we start changing these patterns? Carl offers a compassionate approach by recognizing and thanking these old habits for their past role, then suggests a kinder way to rewire our mindset about money.

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Carl reflects on a profound retreat held at his home, where the unexpected but central question emerged: "How do I figure out who I really am?" Through candid discussions and personal insights, Carl explores the importance of self-discovery, the challenge of committing to one's true desires, and the impact of these revelations on our lives and work. Today, Carl talks about how to explore the essence of who you are, the legacy you wish to leave, and the rituals that can help maintain this clarity amidst life's distractions.

Do you want announcements about future retreats at Carl's home? Just tell him where to send your invitation: https://dancingwithdragons.com/

In this episode, Carl tells the story of someone who reached out to him, struggling with a toxic relationship with money despite having $1.2 million in savings. As soon as the number is mentioned, Carl highlights how our minds tend to shift into judgment mode, trying to evaluate whether this person “should” be struggling. He challenges us to stop using net worth, income, or spending as a tool for judgment and instead focus on the real issue—money struggles often have little to do with the actual amount of money. How does your brain react when you hear someone’s financial situation? Is it possible to look beyond the numbers and empathize with their struggles?

Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl dives deeper into the "collective delusion" around money, expanding on his previous discussion about money as a shared story. He explores the powerful beliefs society attaches to money—like money as power, freedom, or influence—and how these narratives can mislead us. While some of these ideas are positive and others negative, Carl argues they are all ultimately illusions that distract us from deeper truths. He challenges listeners to question these collective assumptions and hints at an upcoming episode where he’ll discuss the "$100 bill meditation" as a tool for reframing our relationship with money.

Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/ 

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores the concept of "honest money stories." Reflecting on personal experiences and conversations with friends, he delves into the common tendency to use financial limitations as a shield to avoid meaningful discussions about choices and priorities. Why do we often hide behind money when discussing our true values? Carl emphasizes the importance of being truthful about why we spend or save money the way we do, challenging listeners to rethink their narratives around affordability. Join Carl as he navigates the path to financial honesty and the deeper conversations it can inspire.

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl revisits the purpose of goals—why we set them, why they’re often just guesses, and why we should still have them anyway. He explores how goals provide a sense of direction and create a gravitational pull that helps us recognize opportunities. But a recent conversation introduced a third, unexpected reason: hope. What if setting a goal isn’t just about achievement but about creating something to look forward to?

Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/ 

In this field episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl shares a powerful reflection following a dinner discussion with students from Utah Valley University. Inspired by a student's question, Carl revisits the impactful query he poses at the end of his podcast "50 Fires" regarding the role of money in one's life. This time, he's turned the lens on himself, contemplating what he hopes his own children will say about money 20 years from now. Carl passionately expresses his desire for his kids to understand that money's natural state is flow, emphasizing the importance of circulation over accumulation. In a poignant analogy, he hopes they won't confuse the finger (money) pointing at the moon (love and the present moment) with the moon itself. Join Carl in this heartfelt exploration of teaching profound lessons about money to the next generation.

Listen to 50 Fires: Money and Meaning with Carl Richards: https://apple.co/47o5vP0

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl reads a new essay from his upcoming book, Your Money: Reimagining Wealth Through Simple Sketches. The essay is titled You Can’t Hedge Yesterday, and it uses a simple circle sketch to illustrate a powerful truth: The time to prepare is before the crisis, not after. Carl reflects on how we often react to past events with elaborate solutions that can’t change what’s already happened—and why true resilience comes from preparation, not panic.

Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/ 

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl Richards dives into the essence of Real Financial Planning, which he defines as the continuous process of aligning your use of capital—time, money, energy, and attention—with what truly matters to you. Using the metaphor of two shifting circles, Carl illustrates how both our resources and our priorities are in constant motion, requiring ongoing adjustments to keep them in harmony. He emphasizes the importance of experimenting, acknowledging changes in what we value, and embracing the practice of aligning our capital with our evolving goals.

Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl discusses the often-overlooked aspect of financial planning: understanding your current position. While it might seem simple, Carl explains that assessing where you are today is actually a complex process influenced by emotions and personal values. Using the metaphor of an explorer's map, he shows how your starting point—whether it's a balance sheet or your core values—shapes your financial journey. Tune in to learn why getting clear about your present is an ongoing practice and how it impacts your path to financial goals.

Have you ever questioned the truth of your money beliefs? Today, Carl explores the idea of honest money stories by asking, "Are you sure that's true?" He shares his journey of examining his own financial narratives and encourages listeners to question their own long-held beliefs about money. Carl discusses how self-judgment can arise during this process and stresses the importance of staying neutral. By challenging our stories, Carl aims to uncover deeper truths and build a healthier relationship with money.

Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

Tag along with Carl in this special early morning edition of Behavior Gap Radio as he shares his reflections from a transformative retreat with financial advisors at his home in Utah.

Despite the tactical challenges we face, Carl reveals that the root of our struggles often lies in fear. Through personal anecdotes and heartfelt insights, he explores how we can find tactical answers easily but struggle to act due to underlying fears. Discover the power of embracing the quiet, calm voice within us, urging us to slow down and find contentment amidst a world demanding more, bigger, and faster.

Do you want announcements about future retreats at Carl's home? Just tell him where to send your invitation: https://dancingwithdragons.com/

In this episode, Carl explores the difference between "hard" and "heavy" in pursuing our goals. Reflecting on the concept of forcing functions and the distinction between tasks that feel natural versus those that require discipline, Carl unpacks the nuanced relationship between challenge and effort. Drawing from his own personal experiences, he invites listeners to consider the energizing nature of tackling difficult endeavors versus the draining weight of forcing oneself through grit alone. 

In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl shares his love for simple tools and how they can be surprisingly effective in daily life. Building on the previous day's discussion about gratitude, he talks about using the iPhone's built-in Reminders app to help reinforce positive habits instead of spending hours searching for more complex solutions. By focusing on simple, accessible tools like the Notes and Reminders apps, Carl emphasizes the power of replacing distractions with meaningful practices. He reflects on how these simple methods leave no room to hide from action, making them a valuable part of his daily routine.

Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/ 

Have you ever thought about whether pursuing a creative life can lead to stability? In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl tackles that question (inspired by a recent conversation with university students). He shares that while most people optimize for ease and stability, he’s more interested in doing hard things and creating meaningful experiences, like hosting retreats at his home. Using the metaphor of “seeing the mountains,” Carl explains that once you’ve experienced something truly transformative, you can’t go back to settling for less. Have you seen your own “mountains,” and how has that shaped the way you design your life?

Do you want announcements about future retreats at Carl's home? Just tell him where to send your invitation: https://dancingwithdragons.com/

In this episode, Carl Richards shares a "secret" about how to tap into magic to accomplish things you never thought possible. The key, he explains, is to act fully committed to your goal, even if you're still unsure. By saying, “I’m going to do this,” and acting as if it’s already happening, you create space for magic or confirmation to show up. However, Carl emphasizes the importance of keeping your uncertainty quiet, as magic only shows up when you appear fully committed. Have you been holding back on a big decision? What would happen if you acted as if you were already committed?

Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/

In a world overflowing with information, how much do you value the process of distilling wisdom into its most essential form? In this episode of Behavior Gap Radio, Carl explores the value of distillation and brevity. He reflects on how creating concise, meaningful content takes significant effort, likening his podcast to a draft that will eventually become a refined essay or book. Carl poses an intriguing question: What is the worth of distillation and editing in your life?

Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/