Extreme Personal Finance Show

Choosing a health insurance plan doesn’t have to suck — and this week, we’re proving it.In this episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, I get to sit down with Mike Anderson, owner of Anderson Benefit Partners, and one of the rare humans that make health insurance actually make sense.Open enrollment is here, premiums are totally skyrocketing, plans are changing, and one major carrier just announced it's shutting down. Mike breaks down:What the UCare → Medica transition means for 300,000 peopleHow to compare plans like a pro (without losing your mind)Why networks matter more than you thinkHow GLP-1 drugs, rising claims, and post-COVID care are driving costs upWhat families should evaluate first when choosing a planWhy HSA plans are changing big time in 2026The hidden traps in “preventive care” visitsHow small employers are saving 20–30 percent with level-funded plansWhat Medicare users need to know if they travel or snowbirdHow to avoid paying thousands more because of billing errorsAnd why using a licensed broker is free — and massively valuableThis episode is loaded with clarity, strategy, and real-world advice for anyone choosing their own insurance, supporting a family, running a small business, or stepping into Medicare for the first time.If you’ve ever thought health insurance is confusing, expensive, and impossible to understand, this episode could change everything. Choosing your health insurance doesn’t have to suck. Let’s break it down!Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyConnect with Mike Andersonhttps://www.andersonbenefitpartners.comEmail Mike Andersonmike@andersonbenefitpartners.comResources and Links:CPT Codeshttps://www.aapc.com/codes/cpt-codes-range/Estimate your healthcare expenseshttps://www.fairhealthconsumer.orgThe National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP)https://nabip.org

Work Less, Live More and Own Your Time with Andy Hill | 079In this powerful episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, Chris Luger sits down with Andy Hill, Accredited Financial Counselor®, author of Own Your Time: 10 Financial Steps to Put Your Family First and Escape the Corporate Grind, and creator of Marriage, Kids and Money.Andy shares how he and his wife went from overworked corporate life to living intentionally, with more time for family, health, and happiness. Together, they dive into:How to own your time instead of selling itWhat “diversifying your identity” really means after leaving corporate lifeThe moment Andy realized he needed to walk away from a six-figure jobHow to teach kids generosity, gratitude, and financial independence earlyWhy success isn’t a number. it’s a calendar that reflects your valuesIf you’re stuck in the grind and dreaming of more time, freedom, and purpose listen now! Pre-order Andy’s book: Own Your Time (January 2026)Visit MarriageKidsAndMoney.com for moreContact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyResources and Links: https://marriagekidsandmoney.comOwn Your Time: 10 Financial Steps to Put Your Family First and Escape the Corporate Grindby Andy Hill https://amzn.to/4oIN7JAMemento Mori Calendarshttps://www.amazon.com/s?k=memento+mori+calendarThe Good Enough Job: Reclaiming Life from Work by Simone Stolzoff https://amzn.to/4hwYbqFChris’ Interview on Marriage, Kids and MoneyBecoming a Millionaire After Becoming Mortgage Freehttps://youtu.be/SKvJDS8ZAkA?si=3c7Jjg_NQjDL4VW6Big Tip Tuesdayhttps://marriagekidsandmoney.com/why-were-giving-100-tips-this-holiday-season-and-why-we-want-you-to-join-us/

No 4 year Degree, No Problem: Rock Your Way to a Successful Career with Brian Dolan | 078Do you think you need a four-year degree to land your dream job? Think again.In this episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, Chris sits down with Brian Dolan, a Worldwide Technical Leader to talk about how he built a career without a traditional college degree.From washing cars and driving trucks to leading global technical teams, Brian’s story proves that hustle, curiosity, and relationships can take you further than a diploma ever will. You’ll learn:• How to build a six-figure career without a four-year degree• Why technical programs and trade schools are hidden goldmines for career growth• The power of relationships, mentorship, and curiosity in getting ahead• Why “success” looks different for everyone—and why happiness should always be part of the planWhether you’re just starting out, changing careers, or questioning the college debt hamster wheel, this conversation will light a fire under you.Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyConnect with Brian:https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandolan/Resources and Links:https://hello.fullsail.edu/https://www.simplyhired.comSmart College Buyer https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGvxjS_uLUIPnHKelqSLaHgThe Proximity Principle: The Proven Strategy That Will Lead to a Career You Loveby Ken Colemanhttps://amzn.to/48MGXDnhttps://minnestar.orghttps://honeycrisp-health.com

How Gen Z Thinks About Money! Lessons from 21-Year-Old Financial Expert Candela Larson | E077Candela Larson isn’t your typical 21-year-old. She’s a STEM scholar, entrepreneur, and licensed financial professional who’s already stacking credentials like Series 7 and 66 before most people finish grad school.In this episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, Chris Luger sits down with Candela Larson to unpack what drives her passion for money and investing, how Gen Z views wealth, and the real-world money myths holding young adults back.They dive into:Why personal property (your car, purse, or watch) isn’t an investment—no matter what TikTok saysHow Gen Z can start building wealth early without falling into the credit-card-trapThe truth about “doom spending,” student debt, and why skipping Starbucks won’t buy you a houseHow AI and social media are shaping the next generation of investorsCandela’s brutally honest take on life insurance, taxes, and why financial literacy should start nowIt’s a fun, raw, and insightful conversation that proves financial independence isn’t about age—it’s about mindset.Show Notes: Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyResources and Links:https://www.youtube.com/@CalebHammer

Charitable Giving and Tax Strategies with Sean Mullaney, The FI Tax GuyIt’s time to shred your confusion about taxes and charitable giving. In this episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, Chris from Heavy Metal Money sits down with Sean Mullaney — also known as the FI Tax Guy — to talk about how upcoming 2025–2026 tax changes could impact your charitable giving, deductions, and retirement planning.Sean is a fee-only fiduciary financial planner and the co-author (with Cody Garrett) of the new book Tax Planning To and Through Early Retirement. He’s been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, MarketWatch, and on major podcasts like ChooseFI, Stacking Benjamins, and BiggerPockets Money.In this episode, we cover:• Why 2025 is a golden year for charitable giving• What’s changing in 2026 (including that new $1,000 non-itemizer deduction and the 0.5% haircut on itemized deductions)• How to supercharge your giving with Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs)• Why Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are a game-changer after age 70½• How to support causes you love—like The Luger Foundation—while still keeping Uncle Sam off your back• Simple, no-fear strategies for optimizing taxes through early retirementWhether you’re just starting your FI journey or planning your drawdown years, Sean breaks down the complex tax talk into plain English with clear, actionable strategies that anyone can use. I love this!The discussion is intended to be for general educational purposes and is not tax, legal, or investment advice for any individual. Chris and The Extreme Personal Finance Show do not endorse Sean Mullaney, Mullaney Financial & Tax, Inc. and their services. Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyConnect with Seanhttps://fitaxguy.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@SeanMullaneyVideoshttps://x.com/SeanMoneyandTaxResources and Links:Tax Planning To and Through Early Retirementby Cody Garrett & Sean Mullaneyhttps://amzn.to/4mRkisVhttps://www.measuretwicemoney.com/bookhttps://www.thelugerfoundation.orghttps://fitaxguy.com

PPO, HMO, HSA, FSA… WTF? Understanding Employee Benefits with HR Pro Veronica Barnas | E075Open enrollment season is here — but don’t just click “same as last year.” This week on The Extreme Personal Finance Show, Chris sits down with HR powerhouse Veronica Barnas, a 20-year Human Resources veteran specializing in employee benefits.They break down the alphabet soup of benefits — PPOs, HSAs, FSAs, and HMOs — in plain English and with a few laughs. Veronica explains how to stop leaving free money on the table, how to actually build wealth through your benefits, and why your 401(k), HSA, and disability coverage might be more powerful than you think.From the triple-tax advantage of an HSA to secret perks like tuition reimbursement, employee stock programs, and even pet insurance, this episode helps you take control of your financial health the same way you take care of your physical one.In This Episode You’ll Learn:• Why “same as last year” could cost you thousands• The real difference between a PPO, HMO, and high-deductible health plan• How to use your HSA as a stealth retirement account• Why disability insurance is one of the most underrated safety nets• How to spot free money in your benefits package• Overlooked perks like tuition reimbursement, stock purchase programs, and gym reimbursements• How to make open enrollment season work for your wallet, not against itWhether you’re new to the workforce or a seasoned pro, this episode will help you understand your benefits like a boss and maximize every dollar your employer offers.Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyConnect with Veronicahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-barnas-28ba7723/

Long-Term Investing That Actually Works with Jesse Cramer | E074https://youtu.be/dVtYp07ZNSYWhat happens when a rocket scientist becomes a fiduciary wealth advisor? You get Jesse Cramer — the mind behind The Best Interest blog and host of Personal Finance for Long-Term Investors. In this episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, Chris and Jesse talk about what really makes long-term investing work, how to build “behavior-proof” financial plans, and why being too conservative can quietly sabotage your retirement dreams.Jesse shares his journey from aerospace engineering to wealth management at Cobblestone Capital Advisors, breaking down how engineering principles like tolerances and feedback loops apply directly to your money decisions. He explains the “cost of over-conservatism,” the psychological traps investors fall into after long bull markets, and how to prepare mentally for the next bear market without losing your cool—or your portfolio.They also dig into practical habits that anyone can apply today:• The #1 foundation of every financial plan (hint: track your cash flow)• Why measuring what comes in and what goes out beats chasing the next hot investment• The power of community and meeting other money nerds in person• Using philanthropy and planned giving as part of your financial independence journeyWhether you’re new to investing, approaching retirement, or deep in the FIRE movement, this episode will remind you that wealth is built on behavior, not hype. LFG!Subscribe to The Extreme Personal Finance Show for more raw, real, and ridiculously practical conversations about money that works in the real world.Featuring:Jesse Cramer – Author & Host, The Best Interest / Personal Finance for Long-Term InvestorsChris Luger – Host, Heavy Metal Money / The Extreme Personal Finance ShowContact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyConnect with Jessehttps://bestinterest.blogJesse’s Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personal-finance-for-long-term-investors-the-best-interest/id1553180943Resources and Links:Amberly Grant https://www.amberlygrant.com/meetamberlyhttps://www.thelugerfoundation.orghttps://www.lollypop.orghttps://www.yieldandspread.org#JesseCramer #TheBestInterest #LongTermInvesting #FinancialIndependence #FIREMovement #BehavioralFinance #IndexFunds #RetirementPlanning #HeavyMetalMoney #ExtremePersonalFinanceShow

In this episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, Chris sits down with Lauren Aumond, host of the Adulting Is Easy podcast and real estate investor who became a millionaire by age 31 and retired from corporate life at 33!Lauren shares her journey from buying her first house at 23, building a diverse portfolio of long-term and short-term rentals, and creating financial systems that gave her true freedom. She talks about house hacking, managing Airbnbs, the ups and downs of real estate, and how anyone can take small, intentional steps toward financial independence.From squatter nightmares to setting up automation that makes short-term rentals practically hands-off, Lauren brings the real, unfiltered truth about wealth-building. She also dives into her six-year run as a podcaster, why she started Adulting Is Easy, and the biggest money lessons she’s learned from interviewing over 200 guests.If you’re ready to take action on your money, build wealth through real estate, and design a life on your terms—this episode is a must-listen.Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyResources and Links:Lauren on Xhttps://x.com/AdultingIsEasyAdulting Is Easy Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adulting-is-easy-making-personal-finance-real-estate-easy/id1486213364

In this episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, Chris sits down with Cletus Coffey—former professional and world champion athlete turned motivational speaker and coach for single dads and business owners. Cletus opens up about his journey from chasing money and titles to building a life of truth, authenticity, and freedom.He shares how men often tie their identity to the “scoreboard” of business and wealth, and why true success means balancing five core areas: finances, fitness, family, focus, and foundation. From overcoming divorce and personal setbacks to creating the Be The Torch movement and Podcast, Cletus delivers raw insights on resilience, vulnerability, and becoming the man capable of leading both at home and in business.If you’ve ever struggled with identity, work-life balance, or finding your authentic self—this episode will light the fire you’ve been missing.Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyResources and Links:https://www.cletuscoffey.comCletus on Youtubehttps://www.youtube.com/@thecletuscoffeyBe The Torch Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-the-torch/id1228060195The Score Takes Care of Itself: My Philosophy of Leadershipby Bill Walshhttps://amzn.to/4m9BwBv

Mountains, Money, and Community of Longmont, Colorado | 071In this episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, Chris sits down with Amy from Longmont, Colorado—the so-called FIRE Mecca made famous by Mr. Money Mustache. Amy shares her story of moving from Michigan to Longmont, and how this vibrant community has become a hub for financial independence seekers.We dive into what makes Longmont special—Mustache HQ, the tight-knit FI network, outdoor adventures, and how community supercharges the journey to financial independence.Amy also reveals her new project with Mark Trautman (Mark’s Money Mind), creating “Mountains and Money,” a retreat designed to teach college-aged kids the power of FI and community.Whether you’re chasing FIRE, looking for your financial tribe, or just curious about why Longmont is drawing money rebels from across the country, this episode delivers inspiration, laughs, and actionable insight.Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyResources and Links:Longmont, Coloradohttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Longmont,_Colorado‘Stashtown, USAhttps://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2014/05/09/stashtown-usa/HQhttps://www.mrmoneymustache.com/hq/Carl Jensenhttps://www.1500days.comMark Trautmanhttps://marksmoneymind.com/about/Mountains and Money (Coming Soon!)https://www.instagram.com/mountainsandmoney/https://mountainsandmoney.com

The Magic of the EconoMe Conference and Community with Diania MerriamIn this episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, Chris sits down with Diania Merriam, founder of the EconoMe Conference and host of Optimal Finance Daily.Diania shares her inspiring journey from racking up $30,000 in debt while living large in New York City, to discovering the FIRE movement, and eventually creating one of the most electric gatherings in personal finance.We dig into:How Diania’s Camino walk at 30 sparked her debt-free journeyThe creative and fun ways she paid off debt without feeling deprivedWhy Mr. Money Mustache changed her money mindsetThe story behind launching the EconoMe Conference and its explosive growthWhy human connection is the missing link in your path to financial freedomIf you’re looking for both practical strategies and mindset shifts to fuel your financial independence journey, this episode delivers.Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyResources and Links:The EconoMe Conferencehttps://economeconference.comOptimal Finance Dailyhttps://oldpodcast.com/podcast/optimal-finance-daily-financial-independence-and-money-adviceMr. Money Mustachehttps://www.mrmoneymustache.com/The World Domination Summithttps://worlddominationsummit.comhttps://walkthecamino.com

What if the life you’ve been sold is a scam? At CampFI Midwest, Chris Luger—founder of Heavy Metal Money—delivered a powerful message about cranking life up to 11 and living on your own terms.In this presentation, Chris dives into:Why the “default life path” of school, work, retire, and die is brokenHow to reclaim your identity after setbacks and rewrite your storyBuilding a mindset that fuels freedom, purpose, and financial independenceActionable steps to start living life louder todayThis isn’t a roadmap—it’s a pep talk. A wake-up call. A reminder that you don’t owe anyone a boring life. It’s time to rebel, redefine success, and unleash the life you were meant to live.If you’re ready to stop coasting and start rocking, hit play.Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyResources and Links:https://heavymetal.money/livelouder/

How to Retire Early (Even If You’re Starting Late)This is an automated translation from the blogpost:Do You Want To Retire Early? https://heavymetal.money/howtoretireearly/Think early retirement is only for tech bros and trust fund babies? Think again. In this blogcast episode, we're tearing down the myths and breaking down exactly how you can retire early—even if you're behind, broke, or just waking up to the reality that working 'til you die isn’t the dream.Chris from HeavyMetal.Money shares the brutally honest path to financial independence:Why most people never escape the grindHow much money you really need to walk awayStep-by-step tactics to build wealth faster than your 9-5 drains your soulThe mindset shift you need to go from paycheck-to-paycheck to total freedomWhether you want to retire by 50 or just reclaim your damn time, this episode is your battle plan.

Ever wonder what really goes down at CampFI? Spoiler: it’s not just a bunch of nerds sitting around spreadsheets in the woodsIn this special live episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, I take you inside CampFI 2025 Midwest Week 1. Recorded in front of a live audience, you’ll hear from campers on why CampFI is more than a retreat—it’s a financial independence festival where money nerds, rebels, and freedom-seekers come together.We break down:Why CampFI is the ultimate meetup for the FIRE community 🔥The friendships and connections that fuel financial independenceThe myths (and truths) about “money camp”Stories, laughs, and real talk from the people living life on their own termsIf you’ve ever asked yourself “Should I go to CampFI?” this episode is your loud, unapologetic answer: HELL YES.Subscribe to The Extreme Personal Finance Show and turn up the volume on your journey to financial freedom.https://campfi.org#CampFI #FinancialIndependence #FIREmovement #MoneyNerdsUnite #FinancialFreedom #ExtremePersonalFinance #HeavyMetalMoney

Doom Spending: Retail Therapy or Financial Sabotage?This is an automated translation from the blogpost:Doom Spending: The Destructive Financial Habithttps://heavymetal.money/doomspending/In this blogcast episode, we dive into the chaos-fueled spending habits known as doom spending. From late-night Amazon hauls to buying crap you don’t need just to feel alive—this one's for every rebel who’s tried to buy their way out of stress.We break down:What is doom spending?Why anxiety and fear drive bad money habitsHow the economy and world events are pushing people into retail therapy gone wildHow to stop doom spendingWant to take control of your money without losing your edge? Smash that play button, and let’s get loud.#DoomSpending #HeavyMetalMoney #ImpulseBuying #MoneyMindset #PersonalFinance #RetailTherapy #FinancialAnxiety #MillennialMoney #GenZMoney #Blogcast #FinancialWellnessContact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.money

In this electrifying episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, we sit down with Dr. Paris Woods—award-winning education leader, social entrepreneur, and author of the #1 bestseller The Black Girl’s Guide to Financial Freedom. With over 120,000 copies sold, her book is flipping the script on how we talk about money, especially for women of color.Paris shares her powerful personal story of rising from poverty, questioning toxic money myths, crushing debt, and finding her way into the world of FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early). We dig into the myth of success through debt, the trap of hustle culture, and how she used real estate and career moves to fast-track her financial freedom.You’ll learn:Why budgeting every penny isn’t the long-term solutionHow Paris hacked her housing expenses using AirbnbThe underrated power of earning moreHow to escape hustle burnout and stop trading time for moneyThe truth about college, career paths, and building a future you actually wantWhether you’re just getting started or looking to level up, this episode delivers practical, unapologetic advice that challenges traditional financial narratives and inspires you to take control of your money—and your life. Horns Up!Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyResources and Links:The Black Girl's Guide to Financial Freedom: Build Wealth, Retire Early, and Live the Life of Your Dreamshttps://amzn.to/4fmx4gPPaul PantAfford AnythingDave Ramsey Total Money Makeoverhttps://www.ynab.com/ - You Need A BudgetYour Money or Your Life: 9 Steps to Transforming Your Relationship with Money and Achieving Financial Independenceby Vicki Robin https://amzn.to/461NR5OSecrets of the Millionaire Mind: Mastering the Inner Game of Wealth Hardcover by T. Harv Ekerhttps://amzn.to/4fNjt2gYouthForce NOLAhttps://www.youthforcenola.org

How AI Is Changing the Way We Manage MoneyThis is an automated translation from the blogpost:How AI Is Changing the Way We Manage Money https://heavymetal.money/moneyandai Artificial Intelligence isn’t just for robots and sci-fi movies—it’s now headbanging its way into your bank account. In this blogcast episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, we break down how AI is transforming everything from budgeting apps to investing platforms and even your side hustles.We’re talking robo-advisors, smart algorithms, and automated tools that can help you spend smarter, invest faster, and maybe even get your time back. If you've ever wondered how to use ChatGPT to slash your spending, find new ways to make money, or stop doomscrolling your budget into oblivion—this one’s for you.Highlights:The rise of AI in personal finance toolsHow to use ChatGPT to cut costs, find deals, and plan smarterWhy trusting an algorithm could be your next financial power moveWays AI can boost your side hustles or reselling bizWarning signs: When automation leads to dumb money decisionsReady to shred your financial stress and let tech do the heavy lifting? Hit play, and let’s crank up the volume on your financial IQ.Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerx`https://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.money

In this powerhouse episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, Chris sits down with personal finance legend and podcasting icon Joe Saul-Sehy—host of Stacking Benjamins and co-author of Stacked: Your Super-Serious Guide to Modern Money Management.They dive into:How humor and storytelling can supercharge financial learningWhy most financial advice is either too serious, too salesy, or straight-up wrongThe truth about doing it all yourself (spoiler: just because you're smart enough doesn’t mean you should)Joe’s wake-up call after blowing his first tax year as a new financial advisorHis take on FIRE, community, “happy money,” and how to fuse your future goals with your present habitsWhy your systems matter more than your willpowerThe most powerful money mindset shift Joe ever made (and how it can change your life too)Plus, personal stories, board games, running marathons, and the truth about that runner’s high. This episode is for anyone who wants financial freedom without the financial snobbery.Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyConnect with Joehttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-stacking-benjamins-show/id650045209https://www.instagram.com/averagejoemoneyhttps://www.facebook.com/jsaulsehyResources and Links:Why Having Fun Is the Secret to a Healthier Life | Catherine Price | TEDhttps://youtu.be/iMBJrvEwv8s?si=Jrnzggl89jKydN5BTwin Cities Stacking Benjamins Meetup Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/1AziMX4ydn/Join or Die Filmhttps://www.joinordiefilm.comKing Tut by Steve Martinhttps://youtu.be/FYbavuReVF4?si=tS36RReiIoEwQ2VWWhy Paying for Professional Retirement Asset Management May Be Worth Ithttps://heavymetal.money/financialadvisor/The Jaimie Dimon Interview - Summer 2025https://youtu.be/AR_1IPhzAtU?si=4Q3YG4l-KadCKCpzHow To Make $100M Dollars in 2025 (with Alex Hormozi) Part 1 & 2https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-stacking-benjamins-show/id650045209?i=1000682302745https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-stacking-benjamins-show/id650045209?i=1000682511271Understanding Your Financial Roadmap (with Nick Maggiulli) SB1712https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-stacking-benjamins-show/id650045209?i=1000718574702Of Dollars And Data bloghttps://ofdollarsanddata.comTHE RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN® SHOWhttps://www.rogerwhitney.comKen Hondahttps://kenhonda.comHappy Money: The Japanese Art of Making Peace with Your Money Paperback by Ken Hondahttps://amzn.to/4mqHIWuPaula Panthttps://affordanything.comCatching Up to FI - Financial Independence For Late Startershttps://catchinguptofi.comDr. Jordan Grumet https://jordangrumet.comThe Earn & Invest Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/earn-invest/id1440355498Gen Conhttps://www.gencon.com/aboutusGen Con Indy. largest and longest-running game convention, held annually in Indianapolis. It’s a four-day event that attracts tens of thousands of attendees and features a wide variety of tabletop, card, and video games, as well as seminars, art shows, and other related events. Three Tales of Financial Triumph (with Jonathan Clements)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlsaUxfksy8Humble Dollar https://humbledollar.com/about/Retirement Starts Today Podcast by Benjamin Brandthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retirement-starts-today/id1052378769Run Disneyhttps://www.rundisney.com/Avowed is a first-person fantasy RPG set in the world of Eora, where your choices carve a path through war, intrigue, and ancient mysteries. Navigate a land in turmoil, forge powerful alliances or deadly rivalries, and wield magic and steel to shape the fate of the Living Lands—and your own destiny.https://store.steampowered.com/app/2457220/Avowed/Jesse Cramerhttps://bestinterest.blog/personal-finance-for-long-term-investors/

What if you didn’t have to wait until 65 to slow down? In this episode of The Extreme Personal Finance Show, we sit down with Scott Folland, a physician assistant and FIRE movement enthusiast, to talk about the art of living intentionally before traditional retirement.Scott shares how a sabbatical and some well-timed lifestyle choices allowed him to downshift from full-time work to a 4-day workweek—without blowing up his retirement plans. We dive into concepts like Coast FI, mini-retirements, and how to optimize your life for meaning instead of just money.Whether you're dreaming of a slower pace, more time with your kids, or just want to test-drive retirement without leaving your career behind, Scott’s journey is packed with wisdom and practical inspiration.Topics Covered:What is Coast FI and why it might be your best path to freedomHow Scott negotiated a 6-month sabbatical with zero policy in placeWhy downshifting doesn’t mean giving up—it means realigningHow to know if you’re financially independent (even if you don’t feel like it)The surprising joy of slow Fridays and prioritizing presence over paychecksWhat to consider financially and emotionally before reducing your work hoursTravel hacking, biking, music, and redefining purpose beyond workWhether you're in your 40s, 50s, or just reevaluating your path—this one will hit home.Live slower. Plan smarter. Retire on your own damn terms.Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyResources and Links:Twin Cities Stacking Benjamins Meetup Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/1AziMX4ydn/CampFIhttps://campfi.org The Fioneers https://thefioneers.comWhat is Coast FICoast FI, or Coast Financial Independence, is a stage within the Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement where you've saved and invested enough money that your future retirement is secure, even if you stop saving further. You can then "coast" to your target retirement age, relying on the growth of your existing investments to reach your financial goals. This means you can potentially reduce your work hours or even switch to a less demanding career without jeopardizing your retirement. Pierce The Veil 10X Travelhttps://10xtravel.com10X Travel Free Beginner Coursehttps://10xtravel.com/free-tools/#MiniRetirement #CoastFI #FinancialFreedom #FIREmovement #IntentionalLiving #DownshiftToFreedom #SemiRetiredLife #MoneyAndMeaning #PersonalFinancePodcast #ExtremePersonalFinance #RetireEarly #LiveYourLife

Demystifying Your Credit Score: A Financial Report CardThis is an automated translation from the blogpost:Demystifying Credit Scores: Your Financial Report Card and Why It Mattershttps://heavymetal.money/creditscores/Think credit scores are just for loans? Think again. In this blogcast episode, we go full shred mode on the mysterious world of credit scores —what they are, how they’re calculated, and why ignoring yours could sabotage your entire financial future.From getting denied for an apartment to paying thousands more in interest over your lifetime, your credit score is the shadowy figure lurking behind your money moves. But fear not, we break down the brutal truth in plain English and give you the weapons to fight back.Whether you're rebuilding after a financial faceplant or just trying to boost your score to unlock better rates, this episode has your back. It's time to **take control, slash bad habits, and build a score that kicks ass.**Key Takeaways:* What’s really behind that 3-digit number• Why your score affects way more than just loans• The top 5 factors that make or break your credit• How to repair a wrecked score and build it back stronger•Tools, tips, and battle-tested strategies for credit dominationDon't let bad credit keep you in chains. Let’s crank it up and get you financially metal.Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.money