PODCAST · education
The Financial Freedom Faster Podcast
by Steve Chen
Money doesn’t have to be confusing—and building wealth doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your whole life to do it. I’m Steve, a former public school teacher who hit financial freedom in my 30s, and now I’m here to help you do the same.On this podcast, we talk real strategies for making money, growing it, and keeping it—through investing, side hustles, smart money habits, and the occasional tough love. If you’re ready to stop waiting and start building the life that you want… this is your Call to Leap.
-
45
How to Turn Your HSA Into a $1M Investment Account
Turn your Health Savings Account (HSA) into a powerful long-term investment tool. In this episode, I explain how the wealthy use HSAs differently—investing the balance instead of spending it—so it can potentially grow into a $1M+ tax-advantaged account. You’ll learn the HSA loophole, why it has triple tax benefits, and a simple step-by-step strategy to maximize contributions, invest in ETFs, and build long-term wealth.➡️ Apply for my 1:1 coaching program (If you have more than $100K+ sitting in a low-interest bank and want to invest): https://bit.ly/3OA98gY➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Class to reach your first $100K: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hI➡️ FREE $1M Investing Roadmaphttps://bit.ly/3W1ecec
-
44
Why 20 ETFs Is Worse Than 3
➡️ Apply for my 1:1 mentorship program (If you have more than $100K+ sitting in a low-interest bank and want to invest): https://bit.ly/3OA98gY➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Class to reach your first $100K: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hI➡️ FREE $1M Investing Roadmaphttps://bit.ly/3W1ececMany new investors think owning 20 different ETFs means better diversification, but that’s often not the case. In this video, I explain why having too many ETFs can actually slow down your portfolio growth, increase fees, and create hidden overlap between funds.
-
43
Millionaire Explains: 3 Passive Income Accounts For Beginners
➡️ Apply for my 1:1 mentorship program (If you have more than $100K+ sitting in a low-interest bank and want to invest): https://bit.ly/3OA98gY➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Class to reach your first $100K: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hI➡️ FREE $1M Investing Roadmaphttps://bit.ly/3W1ececEveryone talks about passive income like it’s instant freedom. In reality, building passive income takes time, consistency, and the right strategy. In this video, I break down 3 beginner-friendly passive income streams that I personally used to go from middle school math teacher to building long-term financial freedom.
-
42
How Covered Calls Turn Long-Term Stocks Into Monthly Income
➡️ Apply for my 1:1 mentorship program (If you have more than $100K+ sitting in a low-interest bank and want to invest): https://invest.calltoleap.com/org-paid-accelerator-booking-application➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Class to reach your first $100K: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hI➡️ FREE "Financial Freedom Faster" eBook & Money Cheat Sheet:https://bit.ly/3W1ececWant to turn your long-term stocks into monthly income? In this episode, I break down how covered calls work, how you get paid upfront through option premiums, and how investors can potentially generate 1–5% per month in steady markets using stocks and ETFs like SPY or QQQ. I’ll also cover the risks, capital requirements (100 shares), and key lessons I’ve learned so you can decide if this income strategy fits your investing plan.
-
41
This ETF Mistake Can Cost You $100,000+
➡️ Apply for my 1:1 mentorship program (If you have more than $100K+ sitting in a low-interest bank and want to invest): https://bit.ly/3OA98gY➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Class to reach your first $100K: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hI➡️ FREE $1M Investing Roadmaphttps://bit.ly/3W1ececMost investors love ETFs because they’re simple and diversified. But one small mistake — especially early on — can quietly cost you $100,000+ over time.In this episode, I break down the biggest ETF mistake I made (high expense ratios), plus two others that often go hand in hand: chasing dividend yield and blindly trusting financial headlines. I’ll walk you through real examples and show you how small percentage differences can dramatically impact your long-term returns.
-
40
How To Make Sure Your Kids Actually Benefit From Your Wealth
Want to build generational wealth and make sure your kids actually benefit from your money? In this episode, I break down a simple, step-by-step plan to grow long-term wealth using a Roth IRA, taxable brokerage account, ETFs, and smart beneficiary setup — even if you’re starting with just $50 per month. ➡️ Apply for my 1:1 mentorship program (If you have more than $100K+ sitting in a low-interest bank and want to invest): https://bit.ly/48XkN0M➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Class to reach your first $100K: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hI➡️ FREE "Financial Freedom Faster" eBook & Money Cheat Sheet:https://bit.ly/3W1ecec
-
39
The Best Investing Strategies By Income Level
The best investing strategy depends on your income. In this video, I break down exactly how to invest if you earn $25K, $60K, or $100K+ — including emergency funds, money market funds, Roth IRAs (2026 limits), ETFs, and taxable brokerage accounts. Investing isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the right move at $25K is very different from the right move at six figures.➡️ Apply for my 1:1 mentorship program (If you have more than $100K+ sitting in a low-interest bank and want to invest): https://bit.ly/48XkN0M➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Class to reach your first $100K: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hI➡️ FREE "Financial Freedom Faster" eBook & Money Cheat Sheet:https://bit.ly/3W1ecec
-
38
How To Invest In A Roth IRA In 2026
➡️ Apply for my 1:1 mentorship program (If you have more than $100K+ sitting in a low-interest bank and want to invest): https://bit.ly/48XkN0M➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Class to reach your first $100K: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hI➡️ FREE "Financial Freedom Faster" eBook & Money Cheat Sheet:https://bit.ly/3W1ececIn this video0:47: Roth IRAs Explained4:34: Backdoor Roth IRA Strategy6:44: The Exact Steps To Open Your First Roth IRAA Roth IRA sounds complicated. It's not.In this video, I'll teach you..✓ How a Roth IRA actually works✓ The exact 4 steps to open one✓ What to invest in for growth✓ Income limits & backdoor strategiesEverything you need to get started.
-
37
I Spent a Month Studying Dividend ETFs - Here Are the Winners
I analyzed 100+ dividend ETFs so you don’t have to. In this video I break down the best (and worst) dividend ETFs for 2026 — focusing on reliability, growth, and real long-term wealth… not just flashy yields.You’ll see why some popular high-yield funds can quietly destroy portfolios, and which ETFs I’d actually trust for beginners building passive income.Links:Money cheat sheet: https://bit.ly/42ZddyIBeginners investing masterclass: https://bit.ly/44xS9lg
-
36
The Only Tech ETF I Would Buy in 2026
Sign up for my beginners investing masterclass: https://bit.ly/41tye4nTrying to pick the right tech stock can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re investing for the long term. That’s why tech ETFs exist. In this episode, I break down the best tech ETFs to consider in 2026, explain how they work in plain English, and compare popular options like QQQ, QQQM, VGT, VUG, and emerging-market tech ETFs—so you can invest without guessing.I also share the one tech ETF I personally invest in and would buy today, who it’s best for, and who should avoid it. If you’re focused on long-term growth, retirement, or reaching your first $100K, this walkthrough will help you choose a tech ETF that actually fits your goals.
-
35
Don’t Buy the Wrong S&P 500 Fund - Watch This First"
Sign up for my beginners investing masterclass: https://bit.ly/44xS9lgIf you’ve ever typed “S&P 500” into your app and thought, why are there so many of these? — you’re not alone. In this video, I walk through SPY, SPYM, VOO, IVV, and FXAIX so you can see what actually makes them different and which one makes the most sense for your first $1,000.In this episode, we’ll keep it simple and talk about the stuff that really matters — fees, share price, dividends, and how to choose a fund that fits how you want to invest long term.
-
34
Focus on These 4 Numbers to Become a Millionaire
➡️ Apply for my 1:1 mentorship program (If you have more than $100K+ sitting in a low-interest bank and want to invest): https://bit.ly/48XkN0M➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Class to reach your first $100K: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hIMost people track too many money numbers — and still feel stuck. Wealthy people keep it simple by focusing on just 4 key numbers that actually predict long-term wealth.In this episode, I break down exactly what to track so you can grow your net worth, build real financial security, and stop guessing with your money.
-
33
How I Would Invest $100K At 40 in 2026
➡️ Apply for my 1:1 mentorship program (If you have more than $100K+ sitting in a low-interest bank and want to invest): https://bit.ly/48XkN0MIn this episode, I break down exactly how I’d invest a $100,000 lump sum step by step—without a financial advisor, high fees, or complicated strategies. You’ll learn how to use a brokerage account, Roth IRA, and taxable account, which ETFs I’d choose for growth and income, and how to invest confidently using dollar-cost averaging.
-
32
2025-12-10 - The Only 3 Investments You Need to Build Real Wealth - V1 (PODCAST)
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the “best investment” advice online, this episode will calm the noise. Steve breaks down the only three types of investments you actually need to build real long-term wealth — the same framework he uses in his own portfolio.
-
31
Ranking Every Credit Card in 2025 - Here’s What’s Good
➡️ Get my FAVORITE credit cards and get potential sign up bonuses with my link: https://bit.ly/3U5kM2bOverwhelmed by credit card comparisons? In this video, I break down a smarter, simpler way to choose the right credit card based on your actual goal, not flashy perks. Whether you want cashback, travel rewards, a business card, help paying down debt, or to build your credit from scratch, I’ll walk you through how to think about credit cards the right way and share the cards I personally use!
-
30
If I Started Investing in 2026, This Is What I’d Do
Sign up for my beginners investing master class here -> https://bit.ly/44xS9lgIf I woke up in 2026 with no money and had to start investing from zero, this is exactly how I’d do it. In this episode, I break down the strategy I’d use to invest my first $1,200, the ETFs I’d pick, how I’d avoid my old mistakes, and the habits that actually build long-term wealth.
-
29
$150,000 is Considered Middle Class in 2025
Sign up here: https://bit.ly/44xS9lgThe middle class is shrinking — and even a $150,000 salary doesn’t go as far as it used to. In this episode, I break down why six-figure earners are still struggling in 2025 and what you can do to protect your finances and build real wealth.We’ll look at how the middle class changed since the 1970s, why the income ranges keep shifting, and the 4 actionable steps anyone can take to move up financially — no matter where you live or what you earn.
-
28
The One Simple Budgeting Method That Changed My Life
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hI➡️ FREE "Financial Freedom Faster" eBook & Money Cheat Sheet:https://bit.ly/3W1ececIf budgeting has ever stressed you out or made you feel like you’re “bad with money,” this episode is going to feel like a breath of fresh air. I’m walking you through the ONE method that completely changed how I manage my money.I’ve used this approach for almost a decade, and honestly… it’s the reason I always end the month with extra money to save or invest.
-
27
How to Build a Dividend Portfolio
Sign up for my FREE beginners investing class: https://bit.ly/44xS9lgWant to get paid just for investing? In this episode, I’ll talk about how to build a beginner-friendly dividend portfolio using 3 proven dividend ETFs—SPYD, VYM, and SCHD. You’ll learn how dividends work, how to research high-quality ETFs, and how much you’d need to earn $500/month in dividend income.
-
26
How Much You Should Save In Your 401K By Age
Join my free investing class: https://bit.ly/44xS9lgHow much should you have saved in your 401(k) by each age? In this episode, I break down simple retirement savings goals — from your 20s to your 60s — and how to figure out your own target based on when you want to retire and the lifestyle you’re aiming for.
-
25
How to Start Investing In 10 Minutes (Even With Just $1)
Join my beginners investing master class here: https://bit.ly/44xS9lgLearn exactly how to start investing in just 10 minutes — even if you only have $1. In this episode, we break down the simplest beginner setup, the accounts you actually need, and the step-by-step plan to make your first investment without stress or confusion.
-
24
7 Signs Someone is Secretly Wealthy
➡️ FREE "Financial Freedom Faster" eBook & Money Cheat Sheet: https://bit.ly/3W1ececYour “normal” friend might be wealthier than you think — and it has nothing to do with fancy cars or designer clothes. In this episode, I’ll show you 7 clues that someone might be secretly rich (and how you can spot them).
-
23
9 Things I Stopped Buying (Financial Minimalism)
Spending money has never been easier — but that also means wasting it is, too. In this episode, I share 9 things I stopped buying to save hundreds each month and start investing more intentionally. If you’ve ever wondered where your money keeps disappearing, these financial minimalism tips will help you cut back on what doesn’t matter and focus on what truly builds wealth.
-
22
Why Networth Explodes After $100K
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class and ask me questions: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hIEveryone wants to be a millionaire — but the real battle is the first $100,000.It feels painfully slow. You’re saving, investing, sacrificing, and still wondering why your account barely moves. But here’s the truth: the first $100K is the hardest you’ll ever work for. Once you hit it, everything changes — your money starts compounding, growth speeds up, and your net worth finally moves without you grinding 24/7. That’s the tipping point wealthy people never shut up about.In this video, I’m breaking down why that first $100K feels impossible and how to reach it faster than you think.
-
21
6 Ways You're Losing Money Without Realizing It
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hIMost people are unknowingly losing $100–$300 every month on things like unused subscriptions, low-interest savings, high-interest debt, impulse buys, wasted food, and not valuing their time—and over the years, that can quietly add up to $10K–$20K or more. In this episode, I break down 6 of the most common money leaks and how to stop them so you can finally keep (and grow) more of what you earn.
-
20
Millennials & Gen-Z are Poorer Than Ever (Here’s Why)
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hIWhy does it feel like life is financially harder for Millennials and Gen-Z than it was for previous generations? In this episode, I break down the real reasons—from skyrocketing housing costs and crushing student debt to the rise of consumer debt and subscriptions.You’ll learn why owning a home feels impossible, why education is more expensive yet less valuable, and how debt keeps so many stuck. Most importantly, I’ll share what you can do to push back, build resilience, and take control of your financial future.
-
19
Why Dumb People Make More Money Than You
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hIWhy do people that are less smart seem to get rich while talented, intelligent people stay stuck? 🤔 In this episode, I reveal the surprising reasons why overthinking and perfectionism can hold you back—and how action, resilience, and the right mindset can change everything.If you’ve been researching for months but not moving forward, this video is for you. Listen until the end for a clear roadmap to start building wealth today.
-
18
5 Habits Of Quietly Wealthy People
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hIThink being a millionaire means fancy cars and designer suits? Think again. I dug into the real lives of quiet millionaires—from a library janitor worth $8M to a flight attendant who quietly left $3M. Listen to this episode to uncover the simple habits that actually build lasting wealth.
-
17
Cars Are Bankrupting Americans (It's About to Get Worse)
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hICar ownership in America has quietly turned into a financial trap—and it’s only getting worse. 🚗💸 In this episode, I break down why car prices have skyrocketed since the pandemic, how underwater loans are crushing families, and the hidden monthly costs that make owning a car way more expensive than most people realize. Using real examples (like the Honda CR-V), I’ll show you how dealerships, lenders, and rising interest rates have changed the game—and what smarter alternatives you can take instead.
-
16
How To Escape The Rat Race Without Quitting Your 9-5 Job
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hIStuck in the 9–5 grind? In this episode, I share practical ways to escape the rat race without quitting your job—straight from my own journey as a teacher turned entrepreneur. You’ll learn how to fix what you hate about work, create better hours, improve your environment, and start making progress on your own dreams. Plus, I’ll show you how shifting your mindset and building other income streams can make Mondays exciting again.
-
15
How To Be A Millionaire On A Low Salary
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class and ask me questions: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hIThink you need a high-paying job to become a millionaire? Think again. In this episode, I’ll show you how ordinary people—yes, even those earning modest salaries—build real wealth using four key pillars: frugality, consistent investing, skill-building, and mindset. If you're ready to take control of your financial future, this is where to start.
-
14
7 Things I Did to STOP Wasting My Evenings After Work
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hII used to waste my evenings—scrolling, binge-watching, and telling myself I was “too tired.” Before I knew it, the night was gone. In this episode, I’ll show you the 7 habits that helped me reclaim 1,000 hours a year so I could finally work on the things that mattered—like building a business, getting healthier, and actually enjoying my evenings.
-
13
If I Wanted To Become A Millionaire In 2026, I'd Do This Now
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hIEvery day in the U.S., 1,000 people become millionaires—and most of them aren’t celebrities or tech geniuses. They’re regular people who followed a plan. In this video, I’m breaking down the exact roadmap I’d follow if I wanted to hit my first million by 2026, starting from scratch.
-
12
7 Signs You're Doing Financially Well
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class here: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hIThink you're behind financially? Think again. In this episode, I break down 7 surprising signs you're actually doing better with money than you think—even if it doesn't feel like it. From debt-free living to quiet wealth-building habits, these signs will shift how you see your progress.
-
11
How Lazy People Can Make $1,000+ Online
Get your free AI store builder here 👉 https://bit.ly/4nrELpb Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class 👉 https://bit.ly/3zUS9hIThink making money online means hustling nonstop? Nope! In this episode, I’ll show you 5 income streams that can make $1,000+ while you actually live your life.They take a little setup, but once they’re running, they can keep earning in the background.Remember: you don’t need to do everything at once. You just need to start. Small steps today can turn into big wins tomorrow. 💪
-
10
How to Become a Millionaire Starting in Your 30s
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hIWant to become a millionaire—even if you’re starting in your 30s? 🚀In this episode, I’ll share the 7 money milestones that helped me go from stressed teacher to millionaire before 40. You’ll learn how to track your net worth, fix your credit, build an emergency fund, invest automatically, boost your income, grow your network, and protect the wealth you’re building.Whether you’re catching up on retirement, paying off debt, or just trying to get ahead, these steps will help you hit $1M faster.
-
9
Millionaire Explains: Financial Literacy In 30 Minutes
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hII wish someone had sat me down in my 20s and explained how money actually works. No one taught me how to budget, invest, or even negotiate a raise — so I figured it out the hard way, through years of trial, error, and a lot of expensive lessons.In this episode, I’m sharing the exact money lessons that helped me go from stressed-out public school math teacher to millionaire in my 30s. It’s everything I wish I’d known sooner, packed into a quick 30 episode.
-
8
Give Me 12 Minutes and You’ll Get Ahead Of 97% Of People
➡️ Join my FREE Beginner's Investing Master Class: https://bit.ly/3zUS9hIEver feel like you’re doing all the “right” things but still not getting ahead? Same. In this video, I’m walking you through 5 game-changing rules that helped me stop spinning my wheels and actually start making progress. These aren’t hacks or shortcuts—just simple shifts that help you work smarter, build momentum, and finally feel in control of your money.
-
7
Why Everything Changes After $10K
Hitting your first $10,000 is more than just a financial milestone—it’s a mindset shift. In this episode, I break down why reaching $10K changes the way you save, invest, and think about money.Want to learn how to invest? Join my FREE master class: https://bit.ly/44xS9lg
-
6
How To Change Your Finances In 6 Months
In this episode, I tell you exactly how you can change your financial situation in just 6 months. Want to learn how to invest? Join my FREE master class: https://bit.ly/44xS9lg
-
5
How To Manage Your Money Like The 1%
I break down the 70/20/10 Rule—a simple framework that helps you spend smarter (without guilt), save consistently (even on a small income), and invest confidently (without guessing). Whether you make $30K or $300K, this strategy works—and I’ll show you how to apply it step-by-step with real-life examples.Want to learn how to invest? Join my FREE master class: https://bit.ly/44xS9lg
-
4
7 Rich People Habits That Will Change Your Life
Ready to earn more on your savings? Grab my list of the best HYSAs here → https://bit.ly/3RIfIAcI used to struggle with money, but these 7 habits helped me build real wealth — and they can help you too. From saving smarter to thinking like a winner, these are the steps rich people actually follow. I’ll also share my favorite high-yield savings accounts to help you grow your money faster. If you’re ready to build real wealth, this episode is for you.
-
3
The Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2025
💰 See the full updated HYSA list (with bonus offers): https://bit.ly/3RIfIAcTired of earning pennies on your savings? In this episode, I break down the best High-Yield Savings Accounts (HYSAs) in 2025. Whether you’re saving for a house, an emergency fund, or just want your money to keep up with inflation, I’ve got you covered. I’ll share my personal picks, rate comparisons, and what to avoid so you stop leaving money on the table.
-
2
7 Best Side Hustles to Start in 2025
💸 Want my free Money Cheat Sheet? Grab it here: https://bit.ly/42ZddyIWhat are the best side hustles to start this year? In this episode, I break down 7 powerful income ideas that actually work in 2025—plus how much time they take, how fast you can make your first $100, and real stories from my own journey. From tutoring and digital products to video editing and creative gigs, there's something here for everyone—whether you're just starting out or ready to level up.
-
1
My Honest Advice To Someone Who Wants Financial Freedom
Want to save hundreds on car insurance? 🚗 Use my favorite tool to compare rates in minutes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XqfyPfui1EUp5I_bKeQjNoSvOxHcUSK2MQDuAUscLvo/editIn this episode, I’m breaking down the exact 5-step plan I followed to go from folding jeans for $6.25/hour to building a life I don’t need a vacation from.
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
Money doesn’t have to be confusing—and building wealth doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your whole life to do it. I’m Steve, a former public school teacher who hit financial freedom in my 30s, and now I’m here to help you do the same.On this podcast, we talk real strategies for making money, growing it, and keeping it—through investing, side hustles, smart money habits, and the occasional tough love. If you’re ready to stop waiting and start building the life that you want… this is your Call to Leap.
HOSTED BY
Steve Chen
Loading similar podcasts...