SMPL Money

About SMPL Money

Join John and David Thompson as they bridge the generational gap in finance. With John’s decades of experience and David’s fresh insights from his first five years in the industry, ”SMPL Money” delves into the complexities of financial planning, investment strategies, and economic trends through a dual lens. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting out, tune in to gain valuable perspectives that span generations. Get ready to enhance your financial wisdom and prepare for a prosperous future with every episode.

Publisher

SMPL Team

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

9 May 2024

Latest episode

2 Apr 2025

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   2 Apr 2025

   Fun With Charts

   Hosts: John and David Thompson Episode Summary: In this episode of SMPL Money, John and David take a unique approach to discussing finance by analyzing fun and interesting charts related to real estate, market trends, and even the Tooth Fairy Index. They explore how data can tell compelling financial stories and provide insights into topics like homeownership rates, insurance costs, stock market movements, and generational wealth shifts. Whether you're a numbers person or just enjoy seeing trends visually, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on financial patterns and how they impact our daily lives. What You'll Learn: How U.S. home values have grown to nearly $50 trillion The surprising percentage of millennials who own homes Why homeowners insurance costs are rising and what it means for you How the stock market and the wealth effect influence spending habits The staggering number of people turning 65 daily in the U.S. The Tooth Fairy Index—does it really track with the stock market? Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction – A new approach to discussing finance with charts [00:01:00] Chart 1: The total value of U.S. homes hits $50 trillion [00:02:30] Chart 2: Millennials now own over 20% of U.S. homes [00:04:00] Chart 3: Rising homeowners insurance costs and what it means [00:06:30] Chart 4: The stock market’s impact on consumer spending [00:08:00] Chart 5: The number of people turning 65 daily and its financial impact [00:10:00] Chart 6: The Tooth Fairy Index – Does it mirror stock market trends? [00:14:00] Final thoughts – The power of data in financial decision-making Resources Mentioned: U.S. Home Value Data – Understanding real estate trends Millennial Homeownership Stats – Breaking down generational wealth shifts Homeowners Insurance Costs – Why premiums are skyrocketing Stock Market & Wealth Effect – How market trends shape financial behavior Tooth Fairy Index Study – A lighthearted look at economic sentiment Connect with Us:Reach out to John and David with your questions or feedback. SMPL Mortgage Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to SMPL Money for more insightful discussions. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to unravel the complexities of finance in our lives.

2. 

   21 Mar 2025

   All About Volatility

   Hosts: John and David Thompson Episode Summary: In this episode of SMPL Money, John and David dive into the topic of volatility—not just in financial markets, but in everyday life. They explore how market fluctuations, mortgage rates, and stock movements can impact decision-making, and why volatility is often an opportunity rather than a threat. John shares insights on how younger and older investors should approach volatile markets differently, while David provides key takeaways on managing emotions, dollar-cost averaging, and making smart investment choices. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on handling uncertainty. What You'll Learn: What volatility really means and how it applies beyond finance How mortgage rates, stock markets, and crypto are affected by volatility Why younger investors have an advantage during market downturns The importance of time horizons when making investment decisions The psychology behind fear-driven selling and market dips Practical strategies like dollar-cost averaging and portfolio diversification Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction – What is volatility and why does it matter? [00:01:00] Volatility in markets, mortgage rates, and beyond [00:02:00] How financial volatility creates opportunities [00:04:00] The impact of volatility on younger vs. older investors [00:06:00] The connection between volatility and recessions [00:08:00] Why investors panic and how fear drives market drops [00:10:00] Strategies for handling market swings (dollar-cost averaging, diversification) [00:12:00] Final thoughts – Zooming out and staying consistent Resources Mentioned: Japanese Candlestick Charting – Understanding market movements Dollar-Cost Averaging – A proven investment strategy Keith Fitzgerald's Advice – "Zoom out, the market always goes up" Stock Market & Crypto Volatility – Navigating investment swings Connect with Us:Reach out to John and David with your questions or feedback. SMPL Mortgage Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to SMPL Money for more insightful discussions. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to unravel the complexities of finance in our lives.

3. 

   20 Feb 2025

   All About Insurance

   Hosts: John and David Thompson Episode Summary: In this episode of SMPL Money, John and David discuss the various types of insurance—why it is essential, how it works, and how to choose the right coverage based on your needs. They break down the misconceptions surrounding insurance and explain why having the right policies in place is a crucial part of financial planning. What You’ll Learn The purpose of insurance and why it is necessary Common misconceptions about insurance and how to view it as an asset rather than an expense Key differences between term life insurance, whole life insurance, and investment-based life insurance The importance of health insurance, employer-sponsored plans, and selecting the right policy How homeowners and renters insurance works and why coverage should be reviewed regularly The role of umbrella insurance and who should consider it When to start thinking about long-term care insurance and how it fits into financial planning The importance of disability insurance for income protection Timestamps [00:00] Introduction – Discussing public perception of insurance[01:30] Misconceptions about insurance – Why people often see it as unnecessary[03:00] Life Insurance – Types, benefits, and when to consider getting it[07:00] Health Insurance – Employer-sponsored plans, HSAs, FSAs, and choosing the right policy[10:00] Homeowners and Renters Insurance – Ensuring adequate coverage and avoiding common mistakes[14:00] Umbrella Insurance – What it covers and why it is beneficial[16:00] Long-Term Care Insurance – Why it matters and when to start considering it[18:00] Disability Insurance – How it protects your income and why it is often overlooked[19:00] Final Thoughts – Reviewing policies annually and seeking professional guidance Resources Mentioned Insurance Comparison Tools: Policygenius, NerdWallet, The Zebra Government Resources: Healthcare.gov for health insurance, National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) for general insurance guidelines Books on Insurance and Financial Planning: The Truth About Money by Ric Edelman The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey Connect with Us:Reach out to John and David with your questions or feedback. SMPL Mortgage Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to SMPL Money for more insightful discussions. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to unravel the complexities of finance in our lives

4. 

   12 Feb 2025

   All About Interest Rates

   Hosts: John and David Thompson Episode Summary: In this episode of SMPL Money, John and David break down one of the most important and often misunderstood financial topics—interest rates. They explore how interest rates impact borrowing, saving, and investing, and why understanding both sides of interest (paying vs. earning) is crucial for making smarter financial decisions. They also discuss the Federal Reserve’s role in setting interest rates, the effects of rate changes on mortgages, car loans, credit cards, and even savings accounts. What You'll Learn: The fundamentals of interest rates and how they influence personal finance. How the Federal Reserve affects interest rates and what that means for everyday consumers. The difference between borrowing rates (mortgages, car loans, credit cards) and earning rates (high-yield savings accounts, investments). The concept of arbitrage and how banks make money on interest rate spreads. The Rule of 72: A simple formula to estimate how long it takes for money to double at a given interest rate. Why interest rates fluctuate and how they impact long-term financial planning. Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction to interest rates and why they matter [01:30] The Federal Reserve’s role in setting rates [03:00] Common misconceptions about interest rate changes [05:00] How banks use arbitrage to profit from interest rate spreads [07:00] The Rule of 72: Understanding how money doubles over time [09:00] Interest rates on savings vs. market investments [12:00] The importance of risk tolerance when earning interest [14:00] Borrowing money: When does it make sense? [16:00] Final thoughts on navigating interest rate changes Resources Mentioned: The Rule of 72 – A simple financial formula to estimate investment growth Articles on how the Federal Reserve sets interest rates Mortgage and investment rate calculators Connect with Us:Reach out to John and David with your questions or feedback. SMPL Mortgage Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to SMPL Money for more insightful discussions. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to unravel the complexities of finance in our lives

5. 

   25 Oct 2024

   All About Refinancing

   Join John and David Thompson in Episode 13 of SMPL Money as they break down the ins and outs of mortgage refinancing. Discover how refinancing can improve your financial situation, learn about common refinancing pitfalls, and find out when refinancing might not be the best option. Whether you’re looking to lower your interest rate, improve cash flow, or consolidate debt, this episode provides practical advice and real-world examples to guide your decisions.

6. 

   10 Oct 2024

   Should You Buy or Rent?

   Join John and David Thompson in Episode 11 of SMPL Money as they dive into the age-old debate: “Should you buy or rent?” Discover why owning a home might not always be the best financial decision and learn alternative strategies for entering the real estate market. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home or considering renting as a long-term option, this episode will help you weigh the pros and cons based on your personal goals and finances.

7. 

   26 Sept 2024

   FIRE Movement

   Join John and David Thompson in Episode 11 of SMPL Money as they explore the principles behind the FIRE movement and how the book Your Money or Your Life inspired a new way of thinking about financial independence. Discover how to align your finances with your ideal lifestyle, whether you want to retire early or simply prioritize time over material wealth.

8. 

   11 Sept 2024

   Mortgages Part 3

   Episode Description: Join John and David Thompson in Episode 10 of SMPL Money as they conclude their series on Ric Edelman’s 10 Reasons to Carry a Big Long Mortgage. Learn how a mortgage can offer greater liquidity, flexibility, and long-term financial benefits. Plus, discover why you’ll always have housing costs, even after your mortgage is paid off, and how to use that knowledge to build wealth.

9. 

   29 Aug 2024

   Buy Now, Pay Later

   Episode Description: Join John and David Thompson in Episode 9 of SMPL Money as they explore the rise of ”Buy Now, Pay Later” services and the psychology behind debt. Learn about the potential risks of BNPL, the difference between good and bad debt, and strategies to manage and avoid unnecessary debt. Whether you’re dealing with debt or trying to avoid it, this episode offers valuable insights to help you make better financial decisions.

10. 

    15 Aug 2024

    Mortgages: Part 2

    Join John and David Thompson in Episode 8 of SMPL Money as they continue exploring Ric Edelman’s ”11 Great Reasons to Carry a Big Long Mortgage.” Learn about the changing benefits of mortgage interest tax deductibility, how inflation can make your mortgage payments easier over time, and how you can access your home equity without selling your property.

11. 

    1 Aug 2024

    Mortgages: Part 1

    Hosts: John and David Thompson Episode Summary: In this episode of SMPL Money, John and David discuss the first three reasons from Ric Edelman's article, "11 Great Reasons to Carry a Big Long Mortgage." They provide insights from their generational perspectives on why carrying a mortgage can be beneficial, challenging conventional wisdom that encourages paying off mortgages quickly. What You'll Learn: Reason 1: Your mortgage doesn't affect the value of your home. The appreciation of your home is determined by the market, not by the presence or size of a mortgage. Reason 2: A mortgage doesn't prevent you from building equity in your home. Equity is primarily built through home appreciation and paying down the mortgage with your own funds. Reason 3: A mortgage is cheap money. Mortgages typically have low interest rates, especially fixed-rate mortgages, which can be advantageous in the long term due to inflation and increasing earning potential. Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction to the episode and hosts [01:00] Overview of Ric Edelman’s article and its relevance [02:00] Discussion on why people generally avoid mortgages [03:00] Reason 1: Your mortgage doesn't affect the value of your home [04:00] How home appreciation works independent of the mortgage [05:00] Reason 2: A mortgage doesn't stop you from building equity [07:00] The concept of equity and its relationship with home value [08:00] Reason 3: A mortgage is cheap money [10:00] The benefits of long-term fixed-rate mortgages [12:00] The concept of liability asset gap and financial arbitrage [14:00] Importance of understanding opportunity cost in financial decisions [16:00] Wrap-up and preview of the next episode Resources Mentioned: 11 Great Reasons to Carry a Big Long Mortgage by Ric Edelman (https://www.edelmanfinancialengines.com) Books by Ric Edelman: "The Truth About Money", "Ordinary People, Extraordinary Wealth" Connect with Us: Reach out to John and David with your questions or feedback. SMPL Mortgage (https://smplmortgage.com/) Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage (https://www.instagram.com/smplmortgage/) If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to SMPL Money for more insightful discussions. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to unravel the complexities of finance in our lives.

12. 

    18 Jul 2024

    Goal Setting and Discipline

    Hosts: John and David Thompson Episode Summary: In this episode of SMPL Money, John and David discuss the importance of goal setting and discipline from their generational perspectives. They explore why goal setting is crucial for personal and professional success, the common challenges people face when setting goals, and practical tips for maintaining discipline to achieve those goals. What You'll Learn: The concept and importance of goal setting Different perspectives on goal setting across generations Common reasons why people fail to achieve their goals The role of discipline and habits in achieving goals Practical tools and techniques for effective goal setting The concept of time blocking and its benefits Insights from notable books on goal setting and discipline Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction to the episode and hosts [01:00] Initial thoughts on goal setting from John and David [02:00] Generational differences in goal setting [03:00] The fear of setting and failing at goals [05:00] The definition and importance of discipline [07:00] The role of habits in maintaining discipline [08:00] Strategies for realigning with your goals [09:00] The 90-day priority setting method [11:00] Tools and techniques for daily and weekly goal tracking [12:00] Overcoming resistance to time blocking [15:00] The concept of "white time" and its importance [16:00] Final thoughts and a quote on goal setting Resources Mentioned: Traction by Gino Wickman (https://www.amazon.com/Traction-Get-Grip-Your-Business/dp/1936661837) The Rockefeller Habits by Verne Harnish (https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Rockefeller-Habits-What-Business/dp/0978774949) The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy (https://www.amazon.com/Compound-Effect-Darren-Hardy/dp/159315724X) Connect with Us: Reach out to John and David with your questions or feedback. SMPL Mortgage (https://smplmortgage.com/) Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage (https://www.instagram.com/smplmortgage/) If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to SMPL Money for more insightful discussions. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to unravel the complexities of finance in our lives.

13. 

    4 Jul 2024

    Money: Past, Present, & Future

    Hosts: John and David Thompson Hosts: John and David Thompson Episode Summary: In this episode of SMPL Money, John and David explore the evolution of money from its origins in bartering to modern-day digital currencies like Bitcoin. They discuss the fundamental properties of money, their personal experiences with money growing up, and speculate on the future of money and financial transactions. What You'll Learn: The essential functions of money: store of value, unit of account, and medium of exchange. John and David's personal histories with money, from physical cash to digital transactions. The potential future of money, including cryptocurrency and digital banking. The impact of technology on financial transactions and the possibility of a return to barter-like systems through digital means. Insights into the rise of digital wallets and online banking, and the potential for blockchain technology to revolutionize financial data security. Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction to the episode and hosts [01:00] What is money? Fundamental properties explained [02:00] John’s relationship with money growing up [03:00] David’s early experiences with money and transitioning to digital transactions [05:00] The evolution of financial transactions: from cash to checks to digital [07:00] Future of money: cryptocurrency, blockchain, and digital wallets [10:00] The impact of inflation on money and potential alternative transaction methods [12:00] Skepticism and adoption of new financial technologies [14:00] Modern money features and the importance of digital security [16:00] The role of open banking and blockchain in future financial systems [18:00] Introduction to Savology: a financial planning tool Resources Mentioned: Savology (https://app.savology.com/landing/niofe) Connect with Us: Reach out to John and David with your questions or feedback. SMPL Mortgage (https://smplmortgage.com/) Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage (https://www.instagram.com/smplmortgage/) If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to SMPL Money for more insightful discussions. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to unravel the complexities of finance in our lives.

14. 

    20 Jun 2024

    What is Financial Health?

    Hosts: John and David Thompson Hosts: John and David Thompson Episode Summary: In this episode of SMPL Money, John and David explore the concept of financial health and what it means to different generations. They discuss the importance of having an emergency fund, understanding personal cash flow, and setting financial goals. They also share practical tips and tools to help listeners achieve financial well-being. What You'll Learn: The definition of financial health from different perspectives. The importance of having an emergency fund and how much you might need. Setting financial goals and the impact on financial health. The significance of understanding your personal cash flow. Awareness and habits that contribute to financial health. The role of education and seeking advice in maintaining financial health. Introduction to the Savology tool for financial planning. Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction to the episode and hosts [01:00] David’s perspective on financial health [02:00] The importance of an emergency fund [03:00] John’s insights on financial health and reducing stress [04:00] Setting financial goals and habits [05:00] Understanding and managing personal cash flow [07:00] The role of awareness in financial habits [08:00] Recognizing financial triggers and influences [09:00] Sources of financial information and education [11:00] Seeking advice and different perspectives on finance [12:00] Managing risks and being prepared for financial setbacks [13:00] Introduction to Savology and its benefits [13:30] The Four Steps to Financial Freedom [14:00] Conclusion and final thoughts Resources Mentioned: Savology (https://app.savology.com/landing/niofe) Connect with Us: Reach out to John and David with your questions or feedback. SMPL Mortgage (https://smplmortgage.com/) Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage (https://www.instagram.com/smplmortgage/) If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to SMPL Money for more insightful discussions. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to unravel the complexities of finance in our lives.

15. 

    6 Jun 2024

    Generational Perspective on Investing

    Hosts: John and David Thompson Episode Summary: In this episode of SMPL Money, John and David discuss the essentials of investing, focusing on stocks and the equities market. John shares his extensive experience, while David brings a fresh perspective on how younger generations approach investing. They delve into the accessibility of investment tools today, the concept of dollar-cost averaging, and the importance of long-term investment strategies. What You'll Learn: The evolution of investing and how accessibility has changed over generations. The concept of dollar-cost averaging and its benefits. Long-term investment strategies and the importance of consistency. The roles and benefits of financial advisors. Key investment principles: safety, liquidity, and return. The importance of starting early and being disciplined in investment habits. Recommended reading: "The Richest Man in Babylon" by George S. Clason. Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction to the episode and hosts [01:00] Early experiences and understanding of investing [02:00] The impact of accessibility and technology on investing [03:00] Common misconceptions about younger investors [04:00] Explanation of dollar-cost averaging [06:00] Long-term investment perspectives and goals [07:00] The role of financial advisors and their impact on investment performance [09:00] Key investment principles: safety, liquidity, and return [11:00] Lessons learned from John about investing [12:00] Recommended reading: "The Richest Man in Babylon" [13:00] Managing and checking your investments: How often is enough? [15:00] Final thoughts and advice for investors Resources Mentioned: "The Richest Man in Babylon" by George S. Clason (Amazon Link (https://www.amazon.com/Richest-Man-Babylon-Original-Classics/dp/B0C1J5ML66/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10WXDD8305DR7&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.9ZbxWVUjtTHefHJkQ8SrCnbPk-nvheEwKGjhlI55A5yVbqoDSd-Q5KhM-C5XEM-xB7a4UhfDlM1MySQvvkB45LSriY7YePYx3H8J6f8laJkR1cSwVeLgPZmeB7zlv4x6PYzT-4mCaeX5RQ14M-DTFQoXuKcOmdorwwRcTWBDMnE9JwF9RX45dKTgQ7611JWwXQAPM8RyOQ3onsdddtT5PI9iEWyNU4nP9f0iTc3KMRU.0lXO5pr13KRPLafDTnwHNzubxgV6QqGGglrpnn9486M&dib_tag=se&keywords=richest+man+in+babylon&qid=1717522639&sprefix=Richest+man%2Caps%2C132&sr=8-1)) Connect with Us: Reach out to John and David with your questions or feedback. SMPL Mortgage (https://smplmortgage.com/) Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage (https://www.instagram.com/smplmortgage/) If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to SMPL Money for more insightful discussions. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to unravel the complexities of finance in our lives.

16. 

    23 May 2024

    Generational Perspective On Retirement

    Hosts: John and David Thompson Episode Summary: In this episode of SMPL Money, John and David delve into the concept of retirement, exploring it from their generational perspectives. John brings insights from his extensive career in finance, while David offers a fresh viewpoint from the early stages of his career. They discuss the meaning of retirement, the impact of economic downturns, and strategies for preparing for this significant life transition. What You'll Learn: John and David’s personal definitions of retirement and what it means to them. Reflections on the 2008 financial crisis and its impact on perceptions of retirement. The importance of planning and discipline in preparing for retirement. Insights into investment strategies, including the concept of dollar-cost averaging. Discussion on semi-retirement and alternative retirement lifestyles. Advice for both younger and older individuals on starting early and making the most of their financial situation. Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction to the episode and hosts [01:00] First experiences and understanding of retirement [02:00] The 2008 financial crisis and its impact [03:00] Definitions and different perspectives on retirement [05:00] Investment strategies and the concept of dollar-cost averaging [07:00] The idea of semi-retirement and alternative retirement lifestyles [09:00] Final thoughts and advice for planning retirement Connect with Us: Reach out to John and David with your questions or feedback. SMPL Mortgage (https://smplmortgage.com/) Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage (https://www.instagram.com/smplmortgage/) If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to SMPL Money for more insightful discussions. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to unravel the complexities of finance in our lives.

17. 

    9 May 2024

    What is Money?

    Hosts: John and David Thompson Episode Summary: In this inaugural episode of SMPL Money, John, a seasoned finance professional with over three decades in the mortgage industry, and his son David, who brings a fresh, younger perspective from his recent entry into the field, explore the multifaceted concept of money. They delve into how different generations understand and interact with money, influenced by varied upbringing and societal changes. What You’ll Learn: How John’s journey in finance and lessons from his parents shaped his understanding of money. David’s insights on how education and generational perspectives influence financial attitudes. The fundamental question: What is money? Exploring its essence beyond the physical to include effort, time, and discipline. Perspectives on real estate as an investment and its role in building wealth, contrasted by the challenges it presents. Anecdotes from both hosts about learning from successes and failures in their financial paths. Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction to the show and hosts [01:00] John’s introduction and the goal of the podcast [02:00] David’s background and his take on money and education [03:00] Deep dive into what money really means [05:00] Discussion on the discipline required in managing money [07:00] Exploring real estate as a cornerstone of financial strategy [09:00] Real-world examples and advice on real estate investment [11:00] Concluding thoughts and what to expect in future episodes Connect with Us: Reach out to John and David with your questions or feedback. SMPL Mortgage (https://smplmortgage.com/) Follow us on social media for updates and more insights. @smplmortgage (https://www.instagram.com/smplmortgage/) If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to SMPL Money for more insightful discussions. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to unravel the complexities of finance in our lives.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 19 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

25

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32

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Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.