Growing Money with Sean Trace

I sat down with Chuck Failla, CFP and founder of Sovereign Financial Group, for one of the most honest conversations I've had on this show about what it really means to trust someone with your money.Chuck has spent 30 years in financial services, from cold-calling stockbroker to fully independent RIA, and the insight he brings is the kind you can only earn through experience. We get into why financial advisors are the only professionals in the four major advice pillars who aren't required to act as fiduciaries, and why that single fact explains so much of the skepticism people feel when they walk into an advisor's office. Chuck breaks down the most common money mistakes he sees families make: almost always rooted in behavior, not math and shares why a solid cash flow analysis is the foundation of every sound financial decision. What's one area of your financial life you've been avoiding looking at honestly?

One of the biggest myths in personal finance is that successful people do everything themselves.They don't.Athletes have coaches. Businesses have teams. Wealthy people have advisors, mentors, accountants, attorneys, and communities that help them make better decisions.In this episode, I explore why trying to do everything alone keeps people stuck, how to build your own financial team, and why your network may be one of the most valuable assets you'll ever have.Because wealth isn't a solo mission.The people around you can change everything.#GrowingMoney #RichPeopleBuildTeams #PersonalFinance #MoneyMindset #WealthBuilding #FinancialFreedom #Mentorship #Leadership #Networking #SeanTrace

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Cary Carbonaro, CFP®, MBA, a women and wealth expert who has spent 25 years helping women understand money, investing, financial planning, and long-term wealth building. This conversation hit me hard as a father, because so much of what Cary shares is about preparing the next generation of women to own their financial future with confidence. We talk about the great wealth transfer, why women are expected to control a massive share of wealth in the coming years, and why the financial industry still has not fully adapted to serve them. Cary also breaks down the myths women are taught about money, why cash can feel safe but hold people back, how divorce and widowhood expose gaps in financial relationships, and why basic money skills should be taught before adulthood. This episode is really about empowerment, education, and changing the way families talk about money.What is one money lesson you wish you had learned earlier in life?

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Dr. Angela C. Meyers to talk about one of the biggest shifts happening in work, money, and identity right now: the rise of AI and the return of the modern polymath. For years, people have been told to niche down, specialize, and become an expert in one narrow lane. But in a world where AI is automating specialized tasks faster than ever, that advice may be starting to fail people. Dr. Angela breaks down why adaptability, curiosity, emotional intelligence, systems thinking, and the ability to connect ideas across disciplines may become some of the most valuable human skills in the next decade. We also talk about why so many people feel financially trapped, why fear can shrink your future, and why your ability to keep learning may be your greatest safety net. This conversation is about money, work, AI, reinvention, and what it really means to stay human in a changing world.Are you trying to master one path right now, or are you building a life with multiple skills, interests, and ways to adapt?

We've all heard the phrase: more money, more problems.But that's not entirely true.Money can solve a lot of problems. It can reduce stress, create opportunities, provide security, and give you options. The real challenge is that money doesn't eliminate problems—it changes them.In this episode, I talk about happiness, lifestyle inflation, responsibility, relationships, the fear of losing what you've built, and why defining "enough" may be one of the most important financial skills you'll ever develop.Because the goal isn't simply more money.The goal is building a life that's worth living once you get it.

I sat down with Logan Bennis, a financial advisor out of Dunedin, Florida, who works with business owners and families to untangle their financial lives and actually build something that lasts. We got into the real reasons why people who earn good money still feel broke, it almost always comes back to lifestyle creep, keeping up with appearances, and skipping the unsexy stuff like disability insurance and estate planning that nobody wants to talk about. Logan broke down the biggest mistakes he sees walking through his door every single day, from families with zero protection on their assets to people chasing get-rich-quick schemes online while ignoring the slow, boring path that actually made every one of his 100+ millionaire clients wealthy. What's one money habit you wish someone had taught you before you turned 18?

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Charles Gaudet, CEO of Predictable Profits, to talk about what it really takes to grow a business in a world where hard work alone is no longer enough. Charles breaks down the difference between starting a business from scratch and buying into one with existing momentum, why so many founders fall into the “founder’s trap,” and how success can sometimes create more pressure, burnout, and dependency instead of freedom. We also talk about AI, business strategy, trust, authenticity, founder branding, and why companies need to focus less on outputs and more on real outcomes. One of my favorite parts of this conversation is Charles’ reminder that the most successful people he has met are also the most curious. They do not assume they know everything. They keep asking better questions, solving bigger problems, and building businesses around impact instead of ego.What do you think is more important for building a successful business today: working harder, asking better questions, or solving better problems?

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Anne Serrano, a CFP professional who helps the rising generation build a healthier relationship with money. We talk about why so many people feel guilt, shame, and anxiety when they look at their bank account, and why budgeting does not have to feel restrictive or miserable. Anne shares a softer, more human approach called cozy budgeting, where money becomes less about punishment and more about building a life that actually feels good.We also talk about comparison, social media, financial stress, and why smart, hardworking people can still feel overwhelmed by money. One of the biggest takeaways for me was that the first financial habit is not always about numbers. Sometimes it is simply learning how to pause, breathe, notice what is happening, and make one compassionate decision at a time. This conversation is really about money, but it is also about self-trust, future-you, and creating a financial plan that feels like home.What is one money habit you want to make feel less stressful and more peaceful?

Walk through any mall and you'll see luxury brands, expensive watches, designer bags, and people chasing the appearance of success.The problem?Looking rich and building wealth are often two very different things.In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I explore why so many people spend money to impress others, how lifestyle inflation quietly destroys financial progress, and what truly wealthy people often do differently.We discuss:• Status vs. wealth• Lifestyle inflation• Social media and comparison• Assets vs. liabilities• Financial freedom vs. appearances• How to stop spending for validationThis isn't about avoiding nice things.It's about asking yourself one simple question:Are you buying it because you want it, or because you want other people to notice it?What's one purchase you regret making just to impress someone?

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Don Bennyhoff, a longtime investment professional and fractional Chief Investment Officer, to talk about why successful investing is often much simpler than people think. Don shares why so many investors get pulled in by scary headlines, financial media, market predictions, and the pressure to “do something” when fear sets in. What stood out to me most is that investing success is not just about being smart or having more information. A huge part of it comes down to behavior, emotional control, keeping costs low, staying diversified, and avoiding unnecessary mistakes over time. We also talk about compounding, long-term investing, why even high-income professionals can overcomplicate money, and why simple strategies often beat complicated ones. This conversation is a great reminder that real wealth is usually built by staying patient, staying invested, and not letting fear or ego take over.What do you think is harder for most people: learning how investing works, or controlling their emotions when the market gets scary?

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Andrew Trammell, founder of Trammell Wealth, to talk about why money is never just about numbers. Andrew is a CFP, enrolled agent, and retirement income certified professional who helps retirees, Florida public employees, and medical professionals build clearer, more intentional financial plans. We get into why smart people still make emotional money decisions, how retailers understand impulse spending better than most of us do, and why making more money can sometimes create more stress instead of less.We also talk about lifestyle creep, keeping up with the Joneses, Social Security, retirement planning, budgeting, compound interest, and why a good financial plan should bring peace, not panic. One of my favorite parts of this conversation is Andrew’s reminder that the best plan is the one that lets you sleep at night. Financial confidence starts with knowing where you stand and making decisions that match the life you actually want to build.What’s one money decision you made that gave you more peace instead of more stress?

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Max Kulyk, founder and CEO of Chicory Wealth, to talk about money in a way that goes far beyond budgets, portfolios, and retirement accounts. Max shares how his own complicated relationship with money led him into financial planning, and how he now helps people think about wealth through the lens of identity, safety, freedom, and values.We talk about the financial challenges many LGBTQ individuals and families still face, including estate planning, healthcare decisions, legal protections, marriage, emergency reserves, and the need for real financial security in uncertain times. Max also shares a powerful perspective on socially responsible investing, why your money should reflect what you believe in, and how asking “who benefits?” can change the way we look at financial decisions.This conversation is about more than investing. It is about freedom, courage, resilience, and using money as a tool to protect the people and communities we care about.What does financial freedom mean to you beyond just having more money?

Money stress never sleeps.Many people believe they'll finally relax once they earn more money, but the truth is that financial anxiety often follows us no matter how much we make.In this video, I share some of the biggest reasons money stress keeps people awake at night, including lifestyle inflation, financial comparison, tying self-worth to income, avoiding money conversations, and the belief that happiness exists at some future income level.I also share some of the lessons I'm learning in my own financial journey and practical ways to build something far more valuable than wealth alone: financial peace.In this video: • Why making more money can create more stress • The danger of lifestyle inflation • How financial comparison steals happiness • Why your net worth is not your self-worth • The importance of financial clarity and automation • How open money conversations reduce anxiety • Why emotional regulation matters as much as financial growth • Defining your personal "enough"Financial freedom isn't just about dollars and cents.It's about creating a life that feels peaceful, sustainable, and aligned with what truly matters.What does financial peace mean to you?Leave a comment below and join the conversation.

In this episode of Growing Money with Chandra's, I sit down with financial coach Morgan Brown to talk about what it actually takes to get a handle on your money, especially when your income isn't steady. Morgan breaks down why financial stress isn't just a low-income problem, why separating your business and personal finances is non-negotiable, and how the income smoothing account method can take the emotional rollercoaster out of variable income. We also get into the psychology behind money shame, why clarity is more powerful than any investment strategy, and how building financial confidence really just starts with one small goal at a time. Whether you're a freelancer, entrepreneur, or just someone who feels behind, this conversation is a reminder that managing money is a skill, and like any skill, it can be learned. What's one money habit you've been putting off that you know would actually change things for you?

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Karthik Ramanan, a former Wall Street professional turned naturopathic physician and emotional health mentor, and we get into the real conversation that high-performing entrepreneurs are afraid to have.Dr. K shares how he walked away from a prestigious banking career during the Great Recession, hit rock bottom more than once, and discovered that the body and mind keep score long before we're willing to admit it. We talk about the earliest warning signs of burnout that most leaders write off as normal, why chronic stress quietly hijacks your decision-making before you even notice, and what it actually means to be resilient versus just repressing everything and hoping for the best. If you've ever told yourself you'll slow down after the next milestone, this one's for you.What's one belief about money or success that you grew up with, and do you think it's actually serving you now? 

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Mindy Neira, a certified financial planner and chartered special needs consultant, to talk about financial planning in a way that feels real, personal, and human. We discuss why money can feel overwhelming, why so many smart people still struggle with their finances, and why the first step is often not a massive plan but one small action, like automatic savings or simply looking at where your money actually goes. Mindy also shares why financial planning matters deeply for LGBTQ individuals, couples, and families, especially when it comes to estate planning, legal documents, healthcare proxies, name changes, parentage, family building, and protecting chosen family. This conversation is about more than money. It is about confidence, safety, identity, and building a financial life that actually fits your real life.What is one money conversation you wish more families started having earlier?

Everyone wants financial freedom.But most people are focused on the wrong things.In this video, I share the real steps I'm taking in my own life to build financial freedom. I'm not financially free yet, but I'm actively working toward it every day, and these are the lessons that have made the biggest difference for me. We cover:• Why you need to stop waiting to feel ready • The importance of increasing your income • How to develop high-income skills • Why assets matter more than paychecks • The danger of trying to look rich • How delayed gratification builds wealth • Why financial freedom is different for everyoneFor some people, financial freedom means driving a Ferrari.For others, it means picking up their kids from school, working on their own terms, traveling, or simply sleeping without financial stress.The goal isn't to copy someone else's definition of success.The goal is to build a life that aligns with your values.What does financial freedom look like to you?Let me know in the comments.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with financial therapist and serial entrepreneur Khara Croswaite Brindle to unpack something most of us never learned, that your relationship with money is emotional first, logical second. Khara breaks down what financial therapy actually means, how childhood money beliefs and generational trauma silently shape every financial decision you make as an adult, and why so many people feel anxious about money even when they have plenty of it. We explore the four money scripts developed by Dr. Brad Klontz: money avoidance, money worship, money status, and money vigilance, and Khara shares the three healthy money scripts she developed through her own client work: money optimism, money harmony, and money plentiful. We also get real about burnout, hustle culture, the danger of comparison, and why calling it a "spending plan" instead of a budget actually changes everything.What's one money belief you grew up with that you've had to unlearn as an adult?

I sat down with financial planner Taylor Stewart to do something nobody asked for but everyone needed: break down the financial disasters of Dumb and Dumber and find out why Lloyd Christmas and Harry Dunne might actually be the most relatable money story ever put on screen. We kicked things off with the IOU suitcase scene, which honestly hits different when you realize it's just a funnier version of swiping a credit card you can't pay off. Taylor made the point that borrowing is always stealing from your future self, and spending a lump sum feels like having all the time in the world right up until the hourglass is empty. That's the trap. Money that doesn't replenish itself disappears faster than you think, and no amount of optimism changes the math.What would you actually do if you found a suitcase with $1 million? Would you invest it, spend it, or something in between, and be honest with yourself about whether your answer changes if nobody was watching?

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Colin Page, a CFP and flat-fee retirement planning advisor based in Charlottesville, Virginia, whose path into the financial world is anything but conventional. Colin brings a perspective on money that you genuinely do not hear anywhere else, and the insight he walked away with after years on the inside of professional investing completely changed how he advises clients today.We get into why so many smart, high-achieving people still struggle with their finances, what it actually means to take risk versus avoid it, and how to build a financial plan that bends with real life instead of breaking under it. What is one thing you wish someone had taught you about money before you had to figure it out on your own, and how did not knowing it affect you?

Most people don’t stay broke because of coffee. They stay broke because nobody ever taught them how money actually works.In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, Sean breaks down practical, real-world strategies to help you save more money, even when life feels expensive and overwhelming.We talk about: Why automating savings changes everything  How “pay yourself first” rewires your mindset  The real expenses secretly draining your money  Why flashy cars and lifestyle traps keep people stuck  How to create friction that stops impulse spending  Why increasing your income matters just as much as cutting expenses  The psychology behind saving money successfully This isn’t financial guru nonsense. It’s practical advice from someone who’s struggled with saving too, and is still learning, building, and improving every day.If you’ve ever felt like: “I make money… so why do I still feel broke?”This episode is for you.

I sat down with Brendan O'Rourke, Managing Partner at Greenway Financial Advisors, and this conversation is one of those that quietly shifts the way you think about money. Brendan works primarily with retirees and pre-retirees, and the wisdom he's gathered from sitting across from hundreds of families comes through in every answer he gives.We got into why so many people feel financially stuck even when things look fine on paper, and his answer has nothing to do with income. We talked about the difference between having a rigid plan and simply moving in the right direction, why telling people to follow their passion is often terrible advice, and how wealthy families think about money in ways most people never get exposed to. He also broke down the three-bucket framework he'd give his younger self: spend, protect, and grow - simple, boring, and genuinely powerful.When it comes to your money, are you more of a detailed planner or a "pick a direction and course correct" type, and has that approach actually worked for you?

I sat down with Geoff Bruskin, founder of White Tiger Connections, to break down one of the most overlooked wealth-building tools available to business owners - mergers and acquisitions. Geoff specializes in M&A advisory, recruiting, and management consulting for professional services firms.We get into what mergers and acquisitions actually mean in plain terms, why your business valuation can look completely different depending on whether a traditional buyer or private equity is at the table, and what EBITDA really is and why it matters more than your gross revenue when serious buyers are involved. Geoff also explains why the single most valuable thing a business owner can do, years before they even think about selling, is to remove themselves from day-to-day operations and build a company that runs without them.If you found out you could sell your business today, do you think a buyer could run it without you, or are you still the business?

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Demonay Moss from Rooted Financial Coaching for a powerful conversation about faith, finance, financial stability, and building a legacy that actually lasts. We talk about why so many people work hard but still feel trapped living paycheck to paycheck, how survival mode affects the way we spend, save, and make decisions, and why creating a simple money plan can be the first step toward peace and control.Demonay shares her own story of being overwhelmed by debt, learning financial stewardship, leaning on faith, and realizing that money is not just something we use to pay bills. It is a tool that can help us create security, teach our children better habits, and build a future with more breathing room. We also talk about budgeting, emergency funds, paying yourself first, automating savings, opportunity cost, debt-to-income ratio, and how small intentional choices can completely change the direction of a family’s financial life.This conversation is for anyone who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to start with money. You do not need to have everything figured out today, but you do need a vision, a plan, and the belief that your current situation does not have to be your final destination.What is one financial cycle you want to break for yourself or your family?

I sat down with Skee Orr, fee-only fiduciary and co-founder of Kinetic Wealth in Knoxville, Tennessee, and this conversation shifted something for me. We grew up in similar places - Western North Carolina, not a lot of money, not a lot of financial guidance, and that shared background made this one feel real. Skee breaks down what it actually means to be a steward of your money, why fee-only financial planning eliminates conflicts of interest that most advisors won't even admit exist, and why so many people feel shame or confusion around their finances before they ever get started. We talk about legacy, not just what you leave for people, but what you leave in them, and Skee makes a case that the 401k is the single most powerful wealth-building tool available to almost everyone, and most people aren't using it right. This isn't about getting rich quick. It's about knowing your North Star and making intentional decisions that actually reflect your values.What's one money belief you grew up with that you've had to completely unlearn as an adult?

I sat down with Erin Botsford and her story completely reframed how I think about money, resilience, and building something that actually lasts. From losing everything early on to building and selling a seven-figure firm, this conversation breaks down why most people stay stuck doing everything themselves and how real freedom comes from systems, people, and thinking long-term. What would your life look like if your business actually ran without you?

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sat down with Rand Selig - investment banker turned author of Thriving: How to Create a Healthier, Happier and More Prosperous Life - for one of the most honest conversations I've had about money, meaning, and what we're really chasing. Rand spent decades at the highest levels of finance, helping people build serious wealth, and what he saw up close might surprise you. More money doesn't automatically bring more happiness, and for a lot of high achievers, the pursuit of wealth actually starts working against the life they say they want far sooner than they realize. We talked about the difference between the doing world and the being world, why busy people can still feel completely empty, and what it really means to have enough. Rand also opened up about a career decision that looked smart on paper but cost him years of fulfillment, and how a single conversation with a coach helped him finally stop complaining and start building. This one hit close to home for me, especially when my daughter walked in mid-recording and reminded me exactly what I'm doing all of this for.What's one area of your life where you've been telling yourself "just a little more", and do you actually believe it?

I sat down with certified financial planner Jeffrey Panik - 26 years in the industry, former Army officer, and author, to talk about the personal finance education most of us never received and what to actually do about it. We get into why financial literacy is still missing from most school curriculums, why high earners can feel just as stressed about money as someone starting out, and why the advice you find online is usually trying to sell you something. Jeff breaks down why the first real step isn't investing or budgeting: it's taking a full inventory of what you actually have so you can make informed decisions instead of reactive ones. We also talk about what happens when couples merge finances with completely different money mindsets, how procrastination quietly destroys long-term wealth, and why starting small - even $50, beats waiting for the "right moment" every single time. The conversation gets personal too, touching on purpose, values, and what "enough" really means when you strip away the noise of what everyone else seems to be earning. If you've ever felt behind financially or overwhelmed every time you try to get your money in order, this episode is your starting point.What's the one money habit you wish someone had taught you before you had to figure it out the hard way, and are you actually doing it now?

In this episode, I sat down with Zee Barfoot to unpack one of the toughest lessons in entrepreneurship: just because you can do everything doesn’t mean you should. We get into the real difference between owning a business and just owning a high-stress job, and why so many skilled technicians struggle when they step into the founder role without the systems or support to match. We talk about how tracking your time can expose the low-value tasks quietly draining your energy, and how replacing those tasks with the right people can completely change your growth trajectory. We also dive into hiring the right way, why paying great people more is often the smarter move, how to build structure when no one else is creating it for you, and the power of niching down so you can serve the right clients at a higher level. There’s a big focus on shifting from doing everything yourself to building something that can actually run and scale without burning you out. If you’re in that stage where you feel busy all the time but not moving forward, this conversation is going to feel very real. What’s one thing you need to let go of so you can finally focus on what actually moves the needle?

I sat down with Vince Hockett, president of XY Planning Network, to unpack why so many people feel anxious about money and how independent financial planners are flipping that script. We talked about why you don’t need to be wealthy to get real financial advice, how your relationship with money starts earlier than you think, and why finding someone who actually understands your life can completely change your financial future. If money has ever felt confusing or intimidating, this conversation will shift how you see it. What’s one belief about money you grew up with that you’re starting to question?

In this episode, I sat down with Maya Middlemiss, founder of Remote Work Europe, to talk about why remote work is much bigger than just working from home. We got into how location independence can reshape not only your income, but also your lifestyle, your time, your energy, and the kind of life you are actually able to build. We talked about the future of remote work, digital nomad life, hybrid teams, productivity, burnout, and why more people are starting to question the old model of tying work to one office, one city, and one fixed way of living. What stood out to me most was the idea that wealth is not only about making more money, but also about having more freedom, more family time, better health, and more control over how you live day to day. This conversation really challenged the way we think about success, career growth, and work life balance in a world where technology now makes it possible to live and work almost anywhere. Do you think remote work gives people more freedom, or does it create a whole new set of challenges?

This episode got personal in the best way. Talking with Daniel Yerger, I kept coming back to this idea that nobody actually wants money for the sake of money. What we really want is the life it allows us to live. We broke down why financial anxiety often has nothing to do with numbers and everything to do with deeper fears, and why even people who “have enough” still struggle to feel secure. The biggest takeaway for me was this simple but powerful question: if money wasn’t the issue, what would you actually do with your time? That question alone can change everything.If money wasn’t a concern at all, what would your life actually look like tomorrow?

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with repeat guest Hamilton Brandenburg to talk about one of the biggest mindset shifts around wealth, retirement, and fulfillment: money can reduce stress, but it cannot create purpose. We get into why more income does not automatically fix bad habits, broken relationships, insecurity, or the need for validation, and why so much financial advice falls flat for normal people trying to build a meaningful life. This conversation goes beyond numbers and into what it really means to know your “enough” number, stop chasing status, and start using money as a tool to build the life you actually want. If you have ever wondered why financial success still leaves some people unhappy, this episode will make you think differently about wealth, contentment, and intentional living. What does “enough” look like for you?

Most people grow up learning algebra, history, and science…but almost nothing about money.In this episode of Growing Money, I went back to my hometown in Napa Valley and started thinking about where my own understanding of money really came from, and what actually matters.Because the truth is, money isn’t just about numbers.It’s about habits, mindset, and the “seeds” you plant over time.We talk about:Why financial education is missing for most peopleThe difference between needs vs wants (and how I teach it to my daughter)What “real wealth” actually looks likeWhy money is a tool, not the goalHow to start building a better relationship with moneyI’ve spent years talking to financial advisors, business owners, and everyday people about money, and almost all of them come back to the same thing in the end…It’s not just about how much you have.It’s about how you live, who you spend time with, and the life you build.If you’re trying to get your finances in order, or just think about money in a healthier way, this is for you.

Starting a business often feels like a far-fetched dream until you're actually in the trenches dealing with CRMs and cash flow runways. In this conversation, Brock Buckles joins me to pull back the curtain on the "glamorized" version of entrepreneurship seen on shows like Shark Tank. We dive deep into the reality of the "art of the pivot" - from launching a business right as a global pandemic hits to the liberation of realizing you aren't the right fit for every customer. We explore the transition from solopreneur to boutique agency and why having a "loose" business plan is better than no plan at all. Whether you're struggling with imposter syndrome or trying to land your very first paid client, this episode is a masterclass in staying authentic while building a brand that actually reflects who you are.If you had to start a business tomorrow with zero dollars and no audience, what is the very first "messy" action you would take to get moving?

In this episode of Growing Money, I sit down with Brian Feroldi to break down investing in a way that actually makes sense. We talk about why so many people feel overwhelmed by the stock market, how to stop seeing stocks as random letters on a screen, and why the real key is understanding the business behind the ticker. Brian shares how he teaches people to read financial statements, spot red flags, think long term, and avoid getting trapped by emotion, hype, and constant market noise. We also get into why index funds make sense for most people, how different investing styles fit different personalities, and why building wealth often comes down to patience, consistency, and learning the fundamentals before putting your money to work. If you’ve ever wanted investing explained in plain English without the jargon, this conversation is for you.

I sat down with financial relationship and wealth building coach Dee Zimmerman to get into something nobody talks about honestly - why couples can't seem to get on the same page about money, and what it actually takes to fix it. Dee breaks down how we each carry these deeply ingrained money scripts from childhood that quietly drive every financial decision we make, and how when two people with completely different scripts try to build a life together, things get complicated fast. We talk about the difference between being an expressive spender and a protective saver, why emotional safety in a relationship has to come before any real money conversation can happen, and how setting financial boundaries with yourself, your partner, and the outside world is the missing piece most couples never consider.If you and your partner keep hitting the same financial walls, this one is going to hit close to home.What is one money habit or belief you brought into your relationship that you did not even realize was causing tension, and did you ever figure out where it came from?

In this episode, I sit down with CFP and registered life planner Lillian Turner to talk about the deeper side of money, from financial literacy and money trauma to debt, happiness, values, and what it really means to build wealth. We get into why so many people think they are bad with money when they were simply never taught, how coaching and financial planning can work together, and why true financial freedom is about more than just saving and investing. We also unpack the connection between money and meaning, the difference between return on investment and return on life, and how to spend in a way that actually aligns with what matters most. This conversation goes far beyond budgeting, 401(k)s, debt, and investing strategies. It is about using money as a tool to create a life that feels rich in experiences, purpose, and fulfillment. If you have ever wrestled with scarcity, guilt, financial overwhelm, or the pressure to follow someone else’s definition of success, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on wealth, happiness, and living intentionally.

In this episode, I sit down with financial educator Sarah Brady to break down one of the biggest questions people face with money: should you pay off debt or start investing? What we uncover goes way deeper than numbers. We talk about how most people never learn basic financial principles, why high-interest debt quietly destroys your wealth, and how emotional habits like guilt, fear, and avoidance keep people stuck financially. Sarah shares real stories from her time as a credit counselor, including how people make decisions based on inherited beliefs rather than facts, and how something as simple as understanding interest rates can completely change your financial future. We also get into the psychological side of money, why your upbringing shapes your financial behavior, and how small habit shifts can help you build stability, reduce chaos, and actually take control of your money over time.If you had extra money right now, would you pay off your debt or invest it—and what’s really driving that decision for you?

In this episode, I sat down with Albania Espinal to talk about a side of money that does not get enough attention: how to build a financial life that actually feels good while still preparing for the future. We got into why so many people are taught to obsess over retirement without thinking about what brings them joy right now, how financial stress often comes from avoidance and emotional patterns, and why self-awareness is one of the most important money skills you can build. Albania shared how giving your money a job, creating simple spending buckets, and being honest about your habits can lower stress and help you make better decisions without feeling restricted. We also talked about the emotional side of money, how family experiences shape the way we spend and save, and why taking one small step today can completely change your financial future. This conversation is for anyone who wants to stop feeling guilty about money, start feeling more confident, and create a plan that supports both peace of mind and real joy.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with returning guest David Houston, financial coach, speaker, and small business consultant, to talk about the real money habits that shape our lives long before wealth ever shows up. We get into why so many young people still make the same financial mistakes, how social media and broke advice keep people stuck, and why knowing where you are financially is the first step to getting where you want to go. We talk about compound interest, student loans, debt culture, budgeting without feeling restricted, raising money-smart kids, and the emotional weight debt puts on your life and marriage. David also shares practical advice on choosing between college, community college, and trade school, how to stop comparing yourself to everyone online, and why having a clear “why” is the key to changing your financial future. We even dive into one of the biggest money traps out there: buying a car. This conversation is packed with practical personal finance advice, debt payoff strategies, budgeting mindset shifts, financial literacy tips for families, and honest insight for anyone who makes decent money but still feels broke at the end of the month.What do you think keeps more people stuck financially today: debt, bad habits, or chasing a lifestyle they can’t actually afford?

In this episode, I sit down with Drew Boyer, CFP and founder of Boyer Financial Group, to talk about the powerful connection between music, money, fatherhood, and what real wealth actually means. We dive into how Drew went from being a drummer to becoming a financial advisor, why rhythm and repetition matter in personal finance, and how good habits shape everything from saving money to raising resilient kids. We also get into financial literacy for children, the responsibility that comes with parenthood, how to avoid raising entitled kids, and why generational wealth is about so much more than just passing down money. This conversation touches on college savings, Roth IRAs for kids, debt, long-term thinking, health, lifestyle, and the freedom that comes from building a life with intention. If you care about personal finance, being a better parent, creating options for your family, and redefining wealth in a more meaningful way, this episode is packed with practical insights and real perspective.What is one money lesson you want your kids, or your future kids, to understand earlier than you did?

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with financial and career coach David Gibbs for a real conversation about money habits, debt, budgeting, financial literacy, behavior change, and why so many people stay stuck even when they want better for themselves and their families. We get into why I started this podcast, how trying to teach my daughter about money pushed me to get serious about learning personal finance for myself, and why understanding the “why” behind our spending matters so much. David shares his approach to coaching, including how he teaches families to replace allowance with commission, how to build better money habits through accountability, and why your financial goals need to be tied to a deeper vision for your life. We also talk about emergency funds, saving for predictable expenses, staying out of debt, controlling what you can control, building momentum with small choices, and why financial peace creates the freedom to help yourself and other people. This episode is packed with practical personal finance advice for parents, families, anyone trying to break bad money patterns, and anyone who wants to build a more intentional, less stressful financial life.What is one money habit you know would change your life if you finally stayed consistent with it?

One thing I’ve noticed after talking to financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and families is that making more money doesn’t magically make money stress disappear. In fact, sometimes it makes it worse.In this episode, I sit down with financial advisor Ryan Johnson, who works with high-earning young families making anywhere from $200K to $500K a year. And what surprised me is that the biggest problem they face isn’t usually investments or market timing. It’s uncertainty. It’s that quiet voice in the back of your head saying, “I finally make good money… what if I mess this up?” We dig into the real questions people ask when their income starts growing. Can I actually afford that vacation? Should I save more for my kids’ college or my own retirement? How do you build a financial system that lets you enjoy life today without destroying your future?Here’s the question I’d love to hear from you: If your income suddenly increased tomorrow, would your first instinct be to spend more or save more, and why?

In this episode, I sit down with Certified Financial Planner Cristian Mundy to talk about what really happens when people start making more money but still do not build real wealth. We get into financial literacy, lifestyle creep, immigrant family pressure, generational wealth, athlete and entertainer money mistakes, and why high income does not automatically mean financial security. Cristian shares what he sees behind the scenes with pro athletes, executives, and entertainers, and we unpack how money trauma, identity, and the wrong circle can quietly wreck someone’s future. This conversation is really about how to stop confusing income with wealth, how to pay your future self first, and how to build a financial life that actually lasts.

In this episode of Growing Money, I introduce one of the strangest, and honestly most fun, frameworks I have ever used to explain personal finance. I am building a new book that breaks financial survival down through the lens of a zombie apocalypse. It sounds ridiculous at first, but the more I thought about it, the more the metaphor made sense. In every zombie movie there is always a moment before everything collapses, that first week when something feels off but people are still going to work, ordering food, scrolling their phones, and pretending nothing is wrong. That moment is exactly what financial problems look like in real life.I talk about how rising credit card balances, minimum payments, empty savings accounts, buy-now-pay-later debt, and inflation slowly eating your income are the financial equivalent of those early infection signs. Nothing explodes overnight. It creeps in quietly while people convince themselves everything is fine. I also share some of my own mistakes with debt and credit cards and why so many people hide money problems from their families even when those problems are getting worse.The real danger is not the crisis itself, it is ignorance. Most people were never taught how interest works, how banks profit, how inflation erodes purchasing power, or how the financial system actually functions. When the system shakes, the uninformed panic. The informed prepare. That is why week one of this book is not about investing or fixing anything yet. It is about reconnaissance. I challenge listeners to map out their income, expenses, debt interest rates, credit score, and net worth so they can actually see the system they are living in.Financial literacy is not paranoia. It is preparation. In the same way the smartest characters in apocalypse stories board their windows early and study patterns, the smartest financial survivors learn the system before it becomes a crisis.So here is the question I want to leave you with: if your financial life had a “week one warning sign” right now, would you recognize it, or would you ignore it like everyone else in the zombie movies?

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Matthew Filepp, CFA, CFP®, founder of PB Wealth in Charlotte, North Carolina, to talk about what actually makes financial progress stick, especially for people who are busy, high-achieving, and still feel like their money disappears. We get into why fee-only, advice-only financial planning builds real trust, how lifestyle creep quietly turns higher income into long-term stress, and why “what you’re approved for” is not the same thing as “what you can afford” if you want freedom later. Matthew breaks down a simple money checklist, spend less than you earn, build an emergency reserve that fits your real life, and automate investing so you stop relying on willpower. I share my own stories, credit cards, profit-first buckets, pineapple cakes at 3 a.m., and even Muay Thai habit stacking, to show how money is basically the same as fitness, the basics work, but only if you do them consistently. If you want less anxiety, fewer money fights, and more control, this conversation is a practical reset on how to build your financial future by design, not by default.

In this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Bryan Jepson, a former emergency medicine physician who just retired after a 30 year career and made a bold transition into the financial world as a CFP financial advisor. We talk about why so many people feel behind with money, and why that feeling is usually not about a number, it is uncertainty and a lack of structure. Bryan breaks down what it really takes to make real change, clarity, a simple plan, and a team that keeps you accountable, the same way a gym partner helps you stay consistent. We also get into true wealth, not chasing more, but having enough assets to control your time, create meaningful experiences, and build deep relationships, plus the power of giving back. We tackle one of the biggest practical questions people ask, debt versus investing, including how to think about high interest credit card debt versus lower interest debt, and why waiting too long to start investing can quietly cost you years of compounding growth. If you want a smart move you can make this week, this conversation brings it back to the simplest answer that actually works, decide to get clear on where you are, define where you are going, and commit to consistent actions that compound over time.

In this episode of Growing Money, I sat down with CFP Uziel Gomez to talk about something that doesn’t get discussed enough in personal finance, what it actually feels like to be a first-generation wealth builder. We didn’t just talk about investing or retirement accounts. We talked about money mindset, survivor mentality, overspending versus hoarding, being your parents’ retirement plan, and the guilt that can come with earning more than anyone in your family ever has. I shared my own experience of growing up without strong financial guidance, making mistakes when income increased, and realizing that earning more does not automatically create financial stability. Uziel broke down why financial literacy fundamentals matter more than fancy strategies, why a spending plan works better than traditional budgeting, and how culture, identity, and family expectations shape financial decisions for immigrants and minorities. If you are navigating family pressure, long-term care planning, supporting parents, or trying to build generational wealth without a blueprint, this conversation will hit home. This episode is about financial literacy, emotional intelligence with money, building wealth responsibly, and breaking cycles of scarcity so the next generation does not carry the same stress.If your income doubled tomorrow, would your habits protect you, or would your old money story take over?

Two years ago, I recorded this conversation with Ramon Ray for the Growing Money podcast. And then… the audio failed.At the time, I couldn’t properly process it. The quality just wasn’t there. So it sat. Now, with new AI tools, I’ve been able to restore the audio and finally bring this conversation back to life.Quick apology to Ramon for the long delay, and big shoutout to him. His message on visibility, trust, and building a strong personal brand is just as relevant today as it was then.This episode is a reminder that attention builds trust, and trust builds opportunity. Whether you’re a financial advisor, entrepreneur, or creator, being known in your space changes everything.My question for you: If someone in your industry needed what you offer today, would your name come up first?