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:

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

  
  


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

  
  


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

  
  


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

  
  


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

  
  


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  💰 How financial flexibility might be more valuable than financial freedom

  
  


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

  
  


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

  
  


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  🏎️ 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?

Tune in for a conversation that’s as heartfelt as it is hilarious—because in the basement, we believe money’s just the fuel. Flourishing is the journey.

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

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