Episode 318 - Small Thinking vs Big Thinking
Built For Life, Not Just Wealth
Release Date: 09/15/2025
Built For Life, Not Just Wealth
In this episode of "Built For Life, Not Just Money," hosts Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins delve into the complexities of wealth management beyond mere financial metrics. They discuss how, for high net worth individuals, money transitions from being a problem to a source of tension, as conversations shift from basic financial survival to deeper questions about values, legacy, and the purpose of wealth. The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding one's values and priorities when it comes to financial decisions, highlighting the need for a decision-making framework rather than traditional...
info_outlineBuilt For Life, Not Just Wealth
In this episode of "Built for Life Not Just Wealth," Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the importance of aligning financial planning with life events rather than just focusing on wealth accumulation. They emphasize how significant life moments—whether joyous or challenging—can shift perspectives on money, highlighting that financial security allows individuals to make decisions without the burden of financial stress. The conversation also touches on the need for flexibility in financial planning, advocating for liquidity and a cash flow system that empowers clients to prioritize their...
info_outlineBuilt For Life, Not Just Wealth
In this episode of Beer and Money, hosts Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins announce an exciting rebranding of their podcast to 'Built for Life, Not Just Wealth.' They reflect on the origins of the podcast, which began as a casual lunch-and-learn session at Amazon's Brave Horse restaurant, where they aimed to make discussions about money more approachable and less stressful. Over time, they realized that their conversations have evolved to focus more on how money impacts life, rather than just the numbers themselves. This shift is driven by feedback from their clients, who are more interested in how...
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In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the challenges and strategies associated with over-concentrated stock positions, particularly in the context of tech companies and other large firms. They explore the risks of having a significant portion of one's wealth tied to a single stock, the emotional connections that can complicate decision-making, and the importance of coordinated financial planning. The conversation covers various strategies for unwinding concentrated positions, including selling shares, tax implications, and alternative methods such as options...
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In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses the common misconception of financial progress, particularly among high earners who may feel stressed despite increasing net worth. He emphasizes the importance of building confidence in financial planning, understanding cash flow, and having clarity about one's financial situation. The conversation highlights the need for proactive financial management and the value of working with a financial advisor to navigate uncertainties and optimize financial outcomes. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net Find us on YouTube:...
info_outlineBuilt For Life, Not Just Wealth
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses the complexities of financial planning, emphasizing the ever-changing nature of financial goals due to various life factors. He highlights the psychological barriers that prevent individuals from engaging in financial planning and stresses the importance of understanding personal goals. Ryan outlines the necessity of a comprehensive financial plan that accommodates market volatility and provides peace of mind. He encourages listeners to take proactive steps in their financial planning and offers resources for further assistance....
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In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the significance of the holiday season as a time for reflection on family, values, and financial planning. They explore the emotional aspects of spending time with loved ones, the expectations that come with hosting, and the importance of having meaningful conversations about legacy and future planning. The hosts encourage listeners to take actionable steps towards what truly matters in their lives, emphasizing that money is merely a tool to facilitate a fulfilling life. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net Find...
info_outlineBuilt For Life, Not Just Wealth
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the complexities of financial planning, emphasizing the importance of organization, prioritization, and clarity in achieving financial goals. They explore common misconceptions clients have about their financial situations and provide a structured framework for effective financial planning. The conversation highlights the need for income protection, cash flow organization, and the automation of financial decisions to ensure a smooth planning process. Additionally, they address common mistakes made in financial planning and...
info_outlineBuilt For Life, Not Just Wealth
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the common pitfalls of linear financial planning, emphasizing the importance of understanding personal values and future aspirations. They advocate for a future-first approach to financial planning, which allows individuals to align their financial decisions with their life goals, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and less stressful financial journey. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beerandmoney Subscribe to our newsletter: Check out our Instagram: Ryan...
info_outlineBuilt For Life, Not Just Wealth
In this episode of Beer and Money, Alex Collins discusses how to find a financial advisor, what to look for in an advisor, and the key questions to ask during the selection process. He emphasizes the importance of understanding advisor credentials, the advisor's process, and the value they can bring to clients. The conversation aims to equip listeners with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions when seeking financial advice. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beerandmoney Subscribe to our newsletter: Check out our Instagram: ...
info_outlineIn this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses the contrast between small thinking and big thinking in financial planning. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on larger financial goals rather than getting caught up in minor savings habits, such as cutting out small luxuries like Starbucks. By analyzing the impact of lifestyle choices on savings and the power of incremental changes, Ryan illustrates how a small adjustment in spending can lead to significant wealth accumulation over time. He encourages listeners to adopt a big picture mindset to enhance their financial well-being.
Check out our website: beerandmoney.net
For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/RyanBurklo
Takeaways
Small thinking focuses on minor savings, like cutting out Starbucks.
Big thinking involves understanding the larger financial picture.
Saving $50 a week may not significantly impact long-term wealth.
A household income of $300,000 can lead to substantial savings if managed well.
Incremental changes in lifestyle can have a dramatic effect on savings.
A 1% difference in lifestyle spending can lead to millions in savings over time.
It's essential to capture savings automatically to build wealth.
The wealth building account can help manage finances effectively.
Small adjustments can lead to significant financial outcomes.
Thinking differently about money can change your financial future.
Chapters
00:00 Small Thinking vs. Big Thinking
03:01 The Impact of Lifestyle Choices on Savings
06:03 The Power of Incremental Changes in Financial Planning