The Mind Money Spectrum Podcast

What are the non-financial aspects you need to plan for five years before retirement?Retirement isn’t the end. It will last decades, and five years before you retire is when you should start thinking about what you actually want that life to look like. Most people focus on what they’re retiring FROM, but the better question is what are you retiring TO? When you start thinking about your ideal lifestyle, your community, your home, how you spend your time, and whether work still plays a role, you may realize something important. You don’t have to wait. You can start living that life now.Episode ReferencesMMS #6. The difference between well-being and happiness and why you need to choose to be happy to actually be happy.MMS #7. The impact of friends, family, and communities on happiness is larger than you might think. Listen through the end to find out why.MMS #15. George Kinder: Three life questions that will change everything.MMS #129. Ideal day, week...and societal expectations?MMS #130. Manage expectations to cultivate your ideal year.Aaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

You're already won. It's time to take some risk off the table.Five years before retirement is when real planning begins. This is the time to shift from pure growth to an income strategy, reduce sequence of returns risk, and design a withdrawal plan that supports your lifestyle. We’ll cover portfolio transitions, withdrawal rates, and decumulation strategies so you can retire with confidence instead of guesswork.Episode ReferencesMMS #5. The 4% rule is a good start, but betting your life on it can burn you.MMS #12. Sequence of Returns Risk: Why the first few years of withdrawals are the most critical.MMS #29. Want to retire before you turn 70? Tee up big savings with these tips.Aaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

How does a shrinking population affect the stock market?Stock market growth comes from economic growth plus leverage. Economic growth comes from population growth plus productivity growth. Population growth comes from fertility rates and immigration. But what happens when a population stops having children? What does that mean for the economy and, ultimately, the stock market?Aaron and Trishul walk through the data behind global population trends, using Japan as a cautionary example.Episode ReferencesMMS #157. What the hell is jobless growth?MMS #119. What if we live forever?Global GDPWorld PopulationGlobal Fertility RateUS PopulationUS Fertility RateJapan PopulationEurope Fertility RateData InsightsPew Research: Pop Growth in 100 YearsLife ExpectancyBirth Rate By CountryGDP By CountryFertility RatesLargest Countries by GDPNIKKEIACWIAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Trishul sold his New Jersey rental property, while Aaron is keeping his San Diego rental home. Why?Real estate has delivered strong returns for generations, but Trishul believes the dynamics that made it successful are changing and won’t necessarily benefit future generations. Aaron pushes back, arguing that when investors focus on “location, location, location,” real estate can still play an important role in diversifying generational wealth.Episode ReferencesMMS #155. Future Jobs for KidsMMS #13. Is real estate just a big pain?MMS #85. Everything about real estate investingMMS #110. Inflation and deflation at onceMMS #27. UBI for free?Aaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

The economy is expanding, yet we aren’t creating new jobs. What does that mean for the next generation?For most of economic history, rising GDP has gone hand-in-hand with hiring. But AI and advanced technology are breaking that pattern, letting companies grow without adding workers. In this episode, two financial advisors discuss how to help children prepare for adulthood in this environment and imagine different paths society could go down.Episode ReferencesMMS #155. Future Jobs for KidsMMS #156. Should your daughter go to Cornell or NotCornell?MMS ##27. Can a Universal Basic Income really pay for itself?You want to be a millionaire?Ronny Chieng: MAGAAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

If your child has a free ride to multiple universities, how would you help them decide which school and major?Two financial advisors try to separate the value of higher education from all the ancillary benefits of college. If every course lecture is available online for free, should college cost so much? Are the fuzzier benefits worth the tuition and room and board? Would you be better going to NotCornell for half the cost?Episode ReferencesMMS #131. We don't need no education.MMS #87. What's the smart way to fund a college education these days?MMS #28. Is a million dollar higher education worth it? Your kids may not think so.Accepted (movie)Aaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

What recommendations would you give a high schooler to prepare them for their working career?Aaron starts with the question of what college major would you recommend to a high schooler to prepare them for their working career? Trishul immediately questions whether college is even worth it. If both agree that entrepreneurship makes the most sense, how do you encourage teenagers to develop the necessary skills and ambition. Is work experience more valuable than education and networking?Episode ReferencesMMS #142. Wages will never increase again. Here's why.MMS #132. Why would you ever want to be a W-2 employee anymore?MMS #123. I, for one, welcome our new AI robot overlords.MMS #122. The robots are here! Seriously, now what!?MMS #28. Is a million dollar higher education worth it? Your kids may not think so.Aaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Financial planners use the seasons to guide which annual topics to focus on.Managing all your financial tasks can feel daunting and overwhelming. Good financial planning helps identify the priorities that need to be taken care of first. It also uses the seasons and various deadlines as themes for deciding which topics to work on. By taking one step at a time, it’s not long until your entire financial picture is running like a well-oiled machine.Episode ReferencesMMS #130. Manage expectations to cultivate your ideal year.MMS #103. Don't miss out on big savings during Open Enrollment Season.MMS #107. It's a new year! So now what?MMS #100. ISO University: Your guide to navigating ISOs in a pre-IPO company.MMS #120. Planning for downtime during the holiday seasonMMS #117. Aaron teaches Trishul how to play fantasy football.MMS #111. The math behind March Madness and Buffett's Billions.Carl Richards, Next Smallest ActionAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Aaron shares the story of how his family stretched their vacation just a little too much. They added a few days to fit in Padres games or save money on flights. But there came a point they just wanted to sleep in their own bed and walk the dog. Using the life planning exercise of your ideal day, week, and year can help design a routine that you enjoy and make better intentional decisions for your time.Episode ReferencesMMS #129. Ideal day, week...and societal expectations?MMS #130. Manage expectations to cultivate your ideal year.MMS #147. After FIRE: Why this Wealth Manager won’t retire.The Berenstain Bears - Too Much VacationAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

What can you set up today that if you forget about it, you are better off a year later?Maxing out your 401k contribution and investing in stocks has the largest impact on your life for minimal effort. Aaron and Trishul go through other ways that setting up automation can provide significant benefits for your future self. From bill payments to investment contributions, automating your finances removes stress and builds long-term wealth on autopilot. Learn how small setup steps today can lead to massive gains tomorrow.Episode ReferencesMMS #65. The most important financial advice for someone in their 20's.MMS #17. How to take advantage of your lazy brain.Investing Forever - Passive Is the New AggressiveGraystone Advisor: Advice for friends and familyNudge by Thaler and SunsteinThe Opt-Out SolutionThe Impact of Legislation on Organ DonationAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

In 2024, tech stocks were up, while layoffs were also up, leading to a general concern among tech employees. Tech employees saw their incomes rise dramatically from their equity compensation, but the specter of layoffs meant most people were still concerned. Aaron and Trishul discuss some of the potential reasons behind this dichotomy and how to help people deal with the fear. A healthy cash reserve can help mitigate the concerns of job loss and market downturns as well.Episode ReferencesMMS #148. Why Smart Advisors Don’t Care About Market Drops.MMS #150. Wealth Manager shares his secret FIRE recipeMMS #34. How do RSUs work?Warren Buffett quoteAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

The math behind how quickly savings and investments can achieve financial independence.Trishul re-creates the spreadsheet he used to calculate his pursuit of FIRE twenty years ago. He begins with simple time value of money calculations and walks through how increasing savings rates and different investment returns dramatically impact your path to financial freedom. Aaron brings the math to life with a real-world example: a couple maxing out their 401(k)s over two decades. Together, they show just how attainable it is to build a multi-million dollar nest egg with disciplined investing and long-term planning.Episode ReferencesMMS #147. After FIRE: Why this Wealth Manager won’t retire.MMS #144. What Financial Independence in Your 40's Really Looks LikeMMS #143. FIRE with Kids? Here's How to Make It Work!MMS #65. The most important financial advice for someone in their 20's.MMS #56 The most important rule in finance.MMS #5. The 4% rule is a good start, but betting your life on it can burn you.MMS #1. What's the big deal about FIRE?Trishul's Super Secret FIRE CalculatorRule of 72Einstein QuoteFinancial Independence Retire Early WebsiteTrinity StudyDetermining Withdrawal Rates Using Historical DataThe Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early RetirementAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Safe withdrawal rates often lead to having more money than you need. What then?Trishul achieved FIRE and then built a business that now sustains his lifestyle. He knows he's on track to have more money than he needs. Aaron and Trishul discuss how it feels to be in this position and what to do next. Adjusting to this new phase can take years—and maybe it’s okay if spending doesn’t increase.Episode ReferencesMMS #146. A Financial Planner's Journey.MMS #147. After FIRE: Why this Wealth Manager won’t retire.MMS #112. Here's why you need to spend more.MMS #65. The most important financial advice for someone in their 20's.MMS #56 The most important rule in finance.MMS #15. George Kinder: Three life questions that will change everything.MMS #7. The impact of friends, family, and communities on happiness is larger than you might think. Listen through the end to find out why.MMS #5. The 4% rule is a good start, but betting your life on it can burn you.MMS #3. Does money buy happiness? Sometimes yes, but not in the way you think.Die with Zero bookKitces: Upside of Sequence of Returns RiskAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Whether the stock market is up or down, Trishul and Aaron have developed the super power to not care.Stock market downturns often trigger fear among investors. But Aaron and Trishul have developed the ability to simply not care about stock market volatility. It comes from a combination of resilience through multiuple downturns, acknowledging the long-term aspect of investing in stocks, using mutliple asset classes, such as bonds and international stocks, and having a healthy cash position for short-term needs. They also discuss different strategies for tuning out the things they can't control and focusing on what truly matters.Episode ReferencesMMS #112. Here's why you need to spend more.MMS #20. When markets crash, ignore this critical advice at your peril.Vanguard Money MarketMax My InterestCarl Richards: Fear and GreedCarl Richards: What to focus onAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Trishul's journey from FIRE to lifestyle practice.Trishul Patel achieved FIRE by building teams to solve problems. After reaching financial independence, his desire to help others led him to accidentally create an lifestyle practice. Now, he focuses on keeping it from growing too large, ensuring it doesn’t interfere with the hobbies he finds most fulfilling.Episode ReferencesMMS #144. What Financial Independence in Your 40's Really Looks LikeMMS #91. Why did Trishul and Aaron choose lifestyle practices?MMS #90. What you need to know about advisory fees.MMS #88. What's the big deal about the CFP®?MMS #74. This hidden benefit of financial independence changes everything.Aaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Trishul's journey from engineer to hedge fund manager.How does an engineer become a hedge fund manager? Trishul Patel shares his journey from engineering to wealth management, bringing his analytical mindset into the world of finance. In this episode, he dives into the key moments of his career and explains how foundational concepts like compounding and risk shaped his path to financial independence. Discover how his unique perspective on money management can inspire your own journey toward building wealth and achieving financial freedom.Episode ReferencesMMS #1. What's the big deal about FIRE?MMS #138. Financial Planner tells a story of why Fee-Only mattersInvesting Forever: About Trishul PatelPolitical prediction marketsAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

You need to build your own routine to thrive in retirement.People often retire with the idea of spending their time doing "whatever they want, whenever they want." However, this lack of structure can lead to a negative spiral, potentially resulting in health issues such as depression. To truly thrive in retirement—whether in your 40s or 60s—you need to create your own sense of discipline. It's essential to plan things to look forward to on a daily, weekly, and annual basis.Episode ReferencesMMS #7. The impact of friends, family, and communities on happiness is larger than you might think. Listen through the end to find out why.MMS #19. Life doesn't need to begin at retirement. Here's why.MMS #129. Ideal day, week...and societal expectations?MMS #130. Manage expectations to cultivate your ideal year.MMS #135. Aaron and Trishul discover the meaning of life.Maslow’s Hierarchy of NeedsAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Trishul is in his 40's and has achieved FIRE. Aaron is also in his 40's, but is not financially independent. Yet they both lead similar lives. What's the difference?Trishul achieved FIRE and began writing a blog to help friends and family make better financial decisions. This eventually led to starting a lifestyle practice as a financial advisor. Aaron started a lifestyle business to help people with stock options while having the time to coach his kids' sports teams. Both see the value in making intentional decisions with family lifestyle as the priority. The difference is that Trishul's backup plan is his nest egg, while Aaron's backup plan is his future income potential.Episode ReferencesMMS #143. FIRE with Kids? Here's How to Make It Work!MMS #135. Aaron and Trishul discover the meaning of life.MMS #117. Aaron teaches Trishul how to play fantasy football.MMS #91. Why did Trishul and Aaron choose lifestyle practices?MMS #74. This hidden benefit of financial independence changes everything.MMS #19. Life doesn't need to begin at retirement. Here's why.MMS #1. What's the big deal about FIRE?Aaron's blog with friendsTrishul's book with his fatherAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Parents teach hard worth through their actions, not their employment.Trishul has achieved FIRE and is a parent. Aaron describes clients who have achieved financial independence, but still have kids at home for another decade. You teach kids the value of hard work, not through your employment, but through the same activities that make your life fulfilling—whether you're financially independent or not. Parenting is one aspect of the many intentional decisions you must make to design your ideal life.Episode ReferencesMMS #35. Parents: How to face an impossible decision without losing your sanity.MMS #16. What was money like when you were growing up? And why a strong foundation matters.MMS #1. What's the big deal about FIRE?MMS #19. Life doesn't need to begin at retirement. Here's why.Aaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Despite a generation of no real wage growth, how could wages increase?Trishul examines why wages have stayed flat on a REAL inflation-adjusted basis over the last couple of generations. Globalization, tax law, and legislation favoring corporations have combined to increase wealth inequality and suppress wage growth. And Trishul sees no reason for it to change moving forward. Aaron argues that rewarding productivity and stability will be mutually beneficial to both employers and employees, rather than trying to extract all excess value. We'll see who's right in 40 years.Episode ReferencesMMS #141. The Unrealized Gains LoopholeMMS #132. Why would you ever want to be a W-2 employee anymore?MMS #98. Why do the rich keep getting richer? The shocking truth behind the Pandora Papers.MMS #86. How does your True Tax Rate compare with the wealthiest Americans?MMS #37. How to get rich and never pay a dollar in taxes.Federal Reserve Board: Survey of Consumer FinancesDistribution of Wealth in the USEPI: Retirement in AmericaHousehold Wealth TrendsGovernment RevenueCensusS&P 500 vs CPIAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Addressing criticisms of Kamala Harris's Unrealized Gain tax plan.The ultra-wealthy pay a lower tax rate than wage earners, meaning the US has a regressive tax system rather than the intended progressive tax system. Kamala Harris's tax plan would address wealth inequality by taxing unrealized gains. A Forbes article provides numerous critiques, and Trishul and Aaron try to address each point.Episode ReferencesForbes: Unrealized Gains Tax is "Capital Punishment"MMS #86: Tax RatesMMS #70: State TaxesMMS #27: UBIMMS #37: Never Pay TaxesMMS #38: U.S. TaxesProPublica: America's Highest Incomes and Taxes RevealedLamar Hunt's EstateAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Rent or buy? How much as a down payment?Most Americans have most of their net worth in their home equity. In this episode, Aaron and Trishul discuss the pros and cons of making a down payment and buying a home. Is it worth making a larger down payment to lower the monthly mortgage? Is it dependent on the growth assumptions of various asset classes or the behavior and discipline of individuals?Episode ReferencesMMS #31: Is Real Estate just a real pain? Or are the psychological benefits worth the costs?MMS #139. Rent-Seeking Exposed: Hidden Costs of Modern LifeUS Population over timeChloe Moore: Renting vs BuyingAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

How U.S. government incentives create rent-seeking.In economics, rent-seeking is extracting wealth without adding value. Trishul provides data and examples of how rent-seeking has made lives harder. Home prices, healthcare, and education have all increased more than incomes, and rent-seeking is partially to blame. They look at how the U.S. government has incentivized individuals at the expense of society as a whole.Episode ReferencesMMS #26. Practical advice on navigating a dysfunctional healthcare system.MMS #85: Real EstateMMS #28: EducationRent-seekingReuters: Record Home PricesPopulation DemographicsMLS LawsuitJapan Housing PricesPrice ElasticityCartelSouth Korea Population DeclineAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

How snowboarding in Park City influenced the genesis of Graystone AdvisorIn this episode, Aaron shares his story of attending due diligence conferences to learn about non-traded REITs. While it was nice to be wined and dined, he started to see where the client's money went and how understanding fees is important. There will always be conflicts of interest, but if you are open and transparent about incentives, you can start down the path of trying to do better.Episode ReferencesNon-Traded REITBlue Vault ReportInvesting Forever - Follow the MoneyFee-Only Network: Trishul PatelFee-Only Netowrk: Aaron AgteNAPFA: NAPFA: Aaron AgteXYPN: Aaron AgteXYPN: Trishul PatelInvesting Forever - Three Key BenefitsAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

The red flags of TikTok financial videos.In this episode, Trishul and Aaron discuss the problem of trying to pare down financial advice to soundbites. TikTok financial videos can contain red flags ranging from likely inappropriate to downright wrong. Anytime we hear passive investing, real estate, crypto, or "Don't invest in your 401k", we immediately assume the video has some ulterior motive.Episode ReferencesMMS #3: Does money buy happiness?Trishul Patel - CRDInvesting Forever Advisory - CRDAaron Agte - CRDGraystone Advisor, LLC - CRDBrokerCheck - FINRAAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Bring on 80% unemployment!In this episode, David Shapiro joins Trishul and Aaron to discuss AI and the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Where are we now with technology and society, and where are we going? What is the future of AI at the individual, corporate, and state levels? How does AI affect different jobs? How does AI interact with capitalism in America? If 80% of society is unemployed, how do individuals and society thrive?Episode ReferencesDavid Shapiro YouTubeMMS #135. Aaron and Trishul discover the meaning of life.MMS #131. We don't need no education.MMS #121. The robots are here! Now what?MMS #122. The robots are here! Seriously, now what!?MMS #123. I, for one, welcome our new AI robot overlords.MMS #126. The robots are here! Are humans finished?MMS #27. Can a Universal Basic Income really pay for itself?IkigaiPerplexitySelf-Determination TheoryLiving DeliberatelyAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

If a Tesla robot can fold your laundry (and do all the other chores), how do you spend your time? What do you take pride in?In a world where robots handle our chores, what becomes of human time? How should we guide children into adulthood? Aaron and Trishul explore these questions, delving into Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. They contrast the past, where activities fulfilled both basic and self-fulfillment needs, with a future where self-esteem must be cultivated separately from safety and security. With all needs provided for, the quest becomes: How do we discover our purpose? And crucially, how do we impart this quest for purpose to the next generation?Episode ReferencesMMS #3: Does money buy happiness?What is the Rabbit?Maslow's Hierarchy of NeedsTesla Robot Folding ShirtAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Stuff is cheap. You should spend more on experiences.In this episode, Trishul and Aaron dive into the world of "stuff." They reflect on their spending patterns and attitudes towards material goods versus life-enriching experiences. As the affordability of items increases, they explore strategies to avoid overconsumption, considering not only the physical space it occupies but also its broader impact on life. They propose a thought-provoking idea: true wealth comes from desiring less than what you own, understanding that no quantity of material possessions can surpass the happiness brought by appreciating what you already have.Episode ReferencesMMS #3: Does money buy happiness?MMS #65: The most important financial advice in your 20'sMMS #112: Here's why you need to spend moreAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

How do you navigate the emotional landscape of deciding whether to sell or hold stock when there's no pressing financial goal guiding your choice?In this episode, Aaron explores a unique situation: a client facing an IPO without needing to sell stock for their lifestyle. Trishul weighs in with the concept of 'homo economicus' and frameworks for handling concentrated stock positions. They delve into the emotional journey of such financial decisions. What's the impact of holding onto stock through a crash, or selling it and seeing it soar? Join us for a deep dive into the complex interplay of finance, emotion, and life-changing choices.Episode ReferencesMeg Bartelt - Giant Pile of Company StockWhat to do after a windfall?Homo EconomicusGraystone Advisor: Buying Stocks For FunAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

W-2 employees can still have an entrepreneurial mindset, right?In this episode, Trishul and Aaron examine mechanical differences between W-2 employees and self-employed individuals, including contractors. While W-2 employees get several benefit-related decisions made for them, they also have to take the employer's choices. A psychological growth mindset can help. Do you prefer "Entrepreneur's GET to figure everything out for themselves" or "Entrepreneurs HAVE to figure out everything for themselves"? The world may be moving towards the latter whether you like it or not.Episode ReferencesMMS #129: Ideal day, week...and societal expectations?Motley Fool: 1099 vs W-2Forbes: W-2 vs 1099Neil deGrasse Tyson: Let the kid grab the eggQuickbooks: 1099 vs W-2Kitces: S-Corp reduces self-employment taxesAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Education is designed to produce employees, not entrepreneurs.In this episode, Aaron and Trishul reflect on whether their advice applies to most people. Not everyone can structure their calendars like small business owners. For those who are hard-working and ambitious early in their careers, there are a few different ways to enact a mindset shift to allow them to pursue the freedoms they want in life. Trishul further argues that our current education system pushes students towards being a cog within a large organization and that a better education system might allow more people to pursue their passions earlier in life.Episode ReferencesMMS #129: Ideal day, week...and societal expectations?MMS #130. Manage expectations to cultivate your ideal year.Jeff Sandefer TED TalkHow to Seek Validation from WithinThe Gap and the GainAdam Smith The Wealth of NationAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Ideal year and managing expectations.In this episode, Trishul and Aaron continue the exercise of "Ideal Day, Week, and Year." Aaron clarifies his thoughts regarding the differences between his ideal day and week. They discuss the relationship between discipline and freedom and how embracing both allows you to find a balance. They end up discussing how underpromising and overdelivering are more important than filling up your plate while acknowledging that this is easier said than done, especially for entrepreneurs compared to W-2 employees.Episode ReferencesMMS #129: Ideal day, week...and societal expectations?MMS #15. George Kinder: Three life questions that will change everything. MMS #18. Why happiness is not the answer to your problems.US News: Year Round School CalendarBohr QuoteAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Ideal day, week, and year...but really why life is so hard.In this episode, Aaron and Trishul begin an exercise to imagine their ideal day, week, and year. What does your perfect Monday look like? What might be too much for every day but sensible for once a week? They discuss the reasons why their model day feels so good. But then, they delve into competing societal pressures and soon uncover the challenges around putting an ideal day into action.Episode ReferencesMMS #15. George Kinder: Three life questions that will change everything. MMS #18. Why happiness is not the answer to your problems.MMS #7. The impact of friends, family, and communities on happiness.Neuroscientist 'These 5 Things Will Improve Your Life Drastically'George Kinder's Step-by-Step Guide: How to Develop a Life Plan and Live into Your Dreams of FreedomAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Understanding mutual fund share classes helps transparency in financial services.In this episode, Trishul and Aaron discuss mutual fund shares classes and the evolution of mutual funds over the last forty years. They describe how stock brokers transitioned to financial advisors and how the Internet improved investor education. Consumer demand and aligned incentives fostered the rise of fee-only investment advisers more than regulatory requirements. ETFs are not necessarily better than mutual funds if you understand how they work and where they came from.Episode ReferencesMMS #11. In the active vs. passive debate, fees and taxes matter more than trying to identify alpha MMS #90. What you need to know about advisory fees.Investing Forever - Active vs PassiveVanguard Share ClassesInvesco S&P 500 Index A (passive mutual fund)John Bogle (Vanguard Founder)American Funds Growth Fund of Amer AVanguard S&P 500 Mutual FundVanguard S&P 500 ETFVanguard Total Stock Market Index FundAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Aaron and Trishul think it's okay not to save. WHAT?!?!In this episode, Aaron and Trishul discuss scenarios when it is okay not to save for the future. When is traditional financial planning too conservative? When taking a life planning approach, it's okay to prioritize well-being over prudent financial decisions. It may require future flexibility, but with good process and intention, you should feel like you are living the life you want rather than making a sacrifice.Episode ReferencesMMS: What's the big deal about FIRE?MMS: Most important financial advice for someone in their 20'sKitces: 3 Types of RetirementMMS: #15. George Kinder: Three life questions that will change everything.Aaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

When AI becomes more intelligent than humans, is humanity doomed?In this episode, Trishul prepares Aaron for when Artificial Intelligence becomes Artificial General Intelligence and the ensuing implications for humanity. He explains inner alignment and outer alignment problems and how capitalism and the prisoner's dilemma may mitigate AI creators from pursuing sufficient safety. When we start to consider scale and accessibility, it's possible that despite the best efforts of the vast majority of humanity, we can't overcome humans' inability to unanimously agree on anything.Episode ReferencesArtificial General IntelligenceNuclear Close CallsPrisoner's DilemmaMolochYoutube: AI Alignment ProblemMicrosoft $10B investment in OpenAIGreat FilterDon't Look UpI, RobotAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

How do you decide when to sell your NSOs?In this episode, Aaron uses the Netflix Employee Stock Option Plan to explain how to decide when to sell NSOs. Just because the stock price has appreciated doesn't mean you should cash out now. Options have both moneyness and time value. Aaron explains leverage to help understand when an option is sufficiently "in-the-money" and a Black-Scholes Calculator to quantify the Time Value. You can then apply an Insight Ratio to determine if you should cash out now or hold on for longer.Episode ReferencesGraystone: Netflix employees should wait to sell their stock optionsGraystone: Netflix Employee Stock Option PlanmyStockOptions.com Black-Scholes CalculatorYahoo Finance: NFLXNFLX VolatilityStockOpter Insight Ratio®Aaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

What happens to Silicon Valley Bank customers and will this affect my cash?What does the failure of Silicon Valley Bank mean? On 3/15/23, Aaron and Trishul answer client questions regarding the news about SVB. They discuss FDIC insurance and how some risk-free instruments are safer than other risk-free instruments. They address how specific regulatory and economic factors affected SVB and how they may or may not apply to other banks and money markets. In the end, SVB may be suffering the consequences of the risks they took on, but customers probably don't need to worry about losing any money.Episode ReferencesAI CopywriterSIPCSVB Weakens RiskSIVB StockSVB Balance SheetSVB Relative SizeMaxMyInterestUS Reserve Requirement RatioInvestopedia: Reserve RequirementsDid WaMu customers lose money?Aaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

What happens after AI replaces labor?In this episode, Trishul and Aaron imagine what happens when robots and AI put everyone out of a job. What careers could still exist? Does everyone get custom computer-generated content? If wealth inequality continues on an exponential path, what will the median household do? If the costs of everything in life are driven to a de minimis level, do most people even need jobs? If not, how do they spend their time?Episode ReferencesAI CopywriterWealth Inequality in AmericaTrends in Income and Wealth InequalityU.S. Wealth Distribution Over Time(Graph error; total wealth in Trillions, not Billions)AI reading X-raysMusic AIExams Passed by ChatGPTAI Makes Basic Coding ObsoleteChatGPT FAQAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Is AI going to replace Aaron and Trishul?In this episode, Aaron and Trishul discuss the implication of ChatGPT on their (and other) careers. It will likely replace the knowledge they have gained through the CFP program and can answer most client questions directly. Just like a student can outsource a test and a CPA can outsource data entry. The future value may not come from their knowledge but from the ability to help clients who don't know what they don't know. In asking better questions, both about their lives and specific topics, the ability to help guide along the way to make better decisions will be how advisors [and doctors] thrive in the future.Episode ReferencesAI CopywriterAI VideoAI LawyerAI BlogsArthur C Clarke's QuoteChatGPT on Final ExamsChatGPT passes Wharton ExamAI Robot LawyerADA Health AI ToolChatGPT will change automation jobsAI Lawyer in actionAI PodcastChatGPT adoption ratesAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Trishul and Aaron get philosophical as they consider artificial intelligence.In this episode, Aaron and Trishul planned on discussing ChatGPT. But when they go through the history of machine learning, Trishul wonders if a modern AI can pass the Turing Test, and they go down a rabbit hole of the difference between humans and machines. They ponder the question of whether a human's mind/soul has free will or whether the human brain is the result of biology and external inputs.Episode ReferencesBot Writes a Hallmark Christmas MovieChatGPTDeep Blue vs Gary KasparovAlphaGoAlphaFoldFree WillBlog on ChatGBTAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Creating a routine to fill the unstructured time off.In this episode, Trishul and Aaron discuss what they are going to do with their unstructured time off around the holidays. Aaron is particularly concerned with limiting screen time for his three kids. Trishul shares some of the activities he and his family did during his sabbatical and during Covid and how you can create a routine when you have time to do whatever you want.Episode ReferencesAll TrailsThousand TrailsYear-End Financial Planning ChecklistVideo Games Versus TVSocial Media Versus Mental HealthAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Safe withdrawal rates, fulfillment, and economic impact of an aging population.In this episode, Aaron and Trishul explore the question "What if we live forever?" They touch on the science of aging, the economic impact of an aging population, like Japan, and the ramifications on the workforce. While it may seem that supporting a long retirement may require a larger nest egg, it's possible the next generation chooses lifestyles and careers they can maintain much later in life.Episode ReferencesVariable Spending StrategyFuture Population GrowthRetirement Spending StrategiesThe Rejuvenation RoadmapReverse Aging Treatment for Mice“Time Jump” by 30 YearsAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

The current and future impact of going solar and electric.In this episode, Trishul and Aaron discuss the decreasing cost of solar power and whether paying the extra cash now for solar panels or electric vehicles pays off in the end.Episode ReferencesEVs save money in the long runCalifornia Electric MandateSolar is now the cheapest in historyPrice of solar has dropped 89% in 10 yearsSolar makes sense at ground levelEnergy.gov: Homeowner's Guide to Federal Tax CreditAre EVs worth the money?Solar in US to triple in five yearsAre EVs worth it?Only EVs by 2035Aaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Everything Fantasy Football.In this episode, Aaron teaches Trishul how to play fantasy football. They use passive investing and simple behavior heuristics as analogies for auto-drafting and setting a lineup. They discuss positional scarcity, relative value, and the diminishing marginal benefit of additional research time. But in the end, it's the context that keeps a group of friends together that is the biggest benefit of fantasy football.Amazon: All or NothingYahoo! Fantasy SportsESPN FantasyAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Is ESG investing worth extra fees and opportunity cost? There may be better ways to spend your money.In this episode, Aaron and Trishul discuss Socially Responsible Investing and ESG investing. Environmental, Social, Governance investing. They discuss the theories around how and why you you would invest in companies with objectives other than pure profit maximization. Trishul argues that if there was any additional ourperformance to be had, the efficient market would already have priced that in. Aaron uses an analogy of female led companies to argue that there may be some bias against non-traditional invesment strategies. But in the end, they both agree that lower investment fees is the way to go.Women Led Startups received 2.3% of VC FundingFemale Entrenpreneurs Funded by Female VCsESGV - Vanguard ESG US Stock ETFCompanies with female leaders outperform those dominated by menESG ETFsWhat is ESG investing?Forbes: ESG InvestingNerdwallet: ESG InvestingRobo-Advisors Socially Responsible InvestingESG Investing introESG ETF ReportsAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Tax-Loss Harvesting is not free money, but it still has some long-term benefits.In this episode, Trishul and Aaron discuss all the nuances and caveats of tax-loss harvesting. It is definitely a good thing, but may be more of a tax-deferral than a genuine tax savings. Unless you can get a step-up in basis. The biggest benefit of tax-loss harvesting may come from the time value of money; the compounding growth on the money that didn't go to taxes at the beginning.MMS #79. Tax-Loss Harvesting 1017 Stages to Financial FreedomMox-nixVOO - Vanguard S&P 500 ETFVT - Vanguard Total World Stock ETFFidelity: Tax-loss harvestingIRA Wash Sale RuleWash Sale Challenge: What is substantially identical?Aaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

With social media, it takes practice to fight the default doomscrolling behavior.In this episode, Trishul and Aaron examine their own behaviors when it comes to social media and how it continually elicits negative emotions. Social media engines feed more negative items because these drive greater interaction across society. They discuss the balance between 'ignorance is bliss' and being an informed voter. With so much noise in the world, it takes work to create filters and you need to practice the process of curation.DoomscrollingTang pingBBC: DoomscrollingEcho ChamberAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Most advice for dealing with rising interest rates doesn't work after the fact.All the advice of what to do during rising interest rates only applies if you went back in time and knew interest rates were going to rise in the future. Once they have already risen, there is not much you can do. But Aaron and Trishul discuss some of the things you could have done if you were able to predict the future.MMS #61. The market's at an all-time high (again!).CNN: How to benefit from rising interest rates.Interest Rates are Rising GloballyFed Raised Interest RatesFed Funds Rate History: Highs and LowsUS Treasury Yield CurveBND - Vanguard Total Bond Market ETFInterest Rate SensitivityMortgage RatesAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.

Being intentional with spending and saving can reduce stress and increase happiness.If you are on track to be financially independent, when is it ok to spend more? If you are saving well and your income keeps growing, do you scale back or use your extra to move beyond basic needs? After you are earning enough to cover regular spending and saving, it becomes an intentional life decision of what you do with your extra income? Do you maintain the same expenses and pursue FIRE? Do you become a one-income household? Do you design your career with your life in mind? As you move from stability to flexibility, it becomes more important to be intentional with your life decisions first, then make sure your finances are supporting your ideal life.MMS #3. Does money buy happiness?MMS #6. The difference between well-being and happinessMMS #7. The impact of friends, family, and communitiesMMS #18. Why happiness is not the answer to your problems.7 Stages to Financial FreedomRich Dad Poor DadHedonic TreadmillReddit FIREHappy MoneyAaron Agte and Trishul Patel go beyond traditional finance questions to help you explore how to use your money to achieve the freedom you want in life. Aaron is a Bay Area Financial Planner with GraystoneAdvisor.com, and Trishul is an East Coast Wealth Manager (InvestingForever.com). MindMoneySpectrum.com and YouTube.