Building Your Money Machine

40 Episodes
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By: Mel H Abraham, CPA, CVA, ASA

Welcome to 'Building Your Money Machine,' (fka The Affluent Entrepreneur Show) hosted by Mel Abraham, CPA, a renowned financial expert and author of USA Today Bestseller, 'Building Your Money Machine: How to Get Your Money to Work Harder For You Than You Did For It!.' On this podcast, Mel shares his insights and experiences from over 30 years in the field of wealth-building, entrepreneurship and mentorship to financial freedom. Each episode provides actionable strategies to master your money, remove financial stress, and live a life by choice, not chance. Whether you work for a company, are a seasoned entrepreneur...

40 Years as an Accountant - This is What Rich People Regret Most
#329
Yesterday at 11:00 AM

Welcome to a powerful and reflective episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on four decades of experience sitting across from millionaires, billionaires, and business owners. I’m sharing the real regrets I’ve witnessed at the top—not the sort about money lost, but the much deeper kind: moments missed and lives only half-lived.

Over 40 years as an accountant, advisor, entrepreneur, cancer survivor, and single father, I’ve seen firsthand what genuinely matters when it comes to building wealth. It’s not about accumulating the biggest number in your bank ac...


Why You Need To Start Automating Wealth Creation
#328
Last Monday at 11:00 AM

Welcome to another powerful episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, we’re tackling a critical reason why so many people struggle to build wealth—even when they know what to do: they rely on willpower instead of automation. If you ever feel like growing your money is a constant uphill battle or that you’re playing catch-up no matter how hard you work, this episode is designed just for you.

In this episode, I dive into the truth behind wealth creation: the wealthiest people don’t work harder for their money. Instead, they use systems...


10 Things Worth Buying EVEN If You're Short On Cash
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05/22/2025

Welcome to a special episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I’m flipping the script a bit—we’re not just talking about cutting costs or scrimping and saving. Instead, I’m sharing 10 things that are actually worth spending money on—even when money is tight. I know, it might sound counterintuitive, but hear me out: some expenses aren’t really expenses at all. They’re investments in your protection, your earning power, your health, and your peace of mind.

I walk you through each of these 10 life upgrades—things that don’t just take money out of...


8 Signs You're Not Ready For Retirement
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05/19/2025

Welcome to another eye-opening episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today we’re tackling a topic that’s crucial for anyone looking to retire with real confidence and peace of mind. What if I told you that most people are planning for retirement all wrong? That’s right—many of us believe we’re set until reality hits and the money runs out, unexpected expenses pop up, or we end up living a lifestyle we never truly prepared for.

In this episode, I walk you through the eight biggest signs you’re not ready for retirement...


How to SURVIVE and THRIVE During a Recession
#325
05/15/2025

Welcome to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, we’re confronting one of the most anxiety-inducing topics out there: recessions. If you’ve ever felt uneasy about market crashes, job losses, or just wondered how you can truly safeguard your money and lifestyle when the economy takes a hit, this episode is for you.

I walk you through how to shift your mindset—seeing a recession not as a threat, but as your greatest opportunity to grow stronger, wealthier, and more secure than ever before. With experts predicting a 35–60% chance of a recession in the n...


Money Principles I Know At 63 But I Wish I Knew At 40
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05/12/2025

Welcome to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today’s episode is all about the money principles I know at 63—but honestly, I wish I’d understood them back when I was 40. If you’ve ever felt behind, overwhelmed, or unsure whether your hard work will actually bring you financial freedom, then you’re in the right place. I’m opening up about my real-life experience navigating through four recessions, overcoming cancer, and raising my son solo from the age of six. Now, decades later, I’m financially free and living a life that’s truly rich—not just in...


If You're Thinking Of Retiring Early... Watch This
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05/08/2025

Welcome to another powerful episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I’m tackling one of the most common questions—and dreams—I hear from so many of you: Is it really possible to retire early without sacrificing your lifestyle? If you’ve ever felt trapped in the grind, wondering if freedom is out of reach before that magical age of 65, or worried you may have already missed your window, this episode is for you.

I break down exactly what it takes to retire five, even ten years earlier than you thought possible. I’m sharing ho...


I've been through 4 recessions, here's what always happens...
#322
05/05/2025

Welcome to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on one of the most anxiety-inducing topics out there: recessions. If you’re worried about what happens when the economy takes a nosedive or you’re not sure how to prepare, this episode is absolutely for you. I’ve personally lived through four recessions—and as some are saying, we might be on the doorstep of a fifth. I’m here to share what I’ve learned through every downturn, what always happens, and—most importantly—how you can not just survive, but actua...


How To Make Money In An Economy That Hates You
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05/01/2025

Welcome to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! In today’s conversation, I’m tackling a topic that’s front and center for so many of us—how to make money in an economy that feels like it’s working against you. Maybe you’re dealing with rising prices, stagnant wages, or the sense that no matter how hard you work, financial security keeps slipping farther from reach. If you’ve ever thought the system was rigged or wondered why it's so hard to just get ahead, this episode is for you.

Here’s the raw truth: t...


Understanding The Impact Tariffs Have On Your Finances
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04/28/2025

Welcome to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I’m unpacking a topic that hits home for all of us: tariffs—and the impact they have on your wallet, your shopping cart, your investments, and ultimately, your ability to build lasting wealth and financial freedom.

If you’re feeling like your money isn’t stretching as far as it used to, and you’ve noticed those grocery bills, gas prices, even your Amazon orders creeping up, then you’re not imagining things—and you’re definitely not alone. Yes, we’ve all felt inflation, but the...


The Only Thing That Stopped Me From Overspending
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04/24/2025

Welcome to another powerful episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! If you’ve ever looked at your bank account and wondered, “Where did all the money go?” or felt regret after an impulse buy, this episode is for you—because, honestly, it was for me too. Today, I dig deep into my own experience with overspending—how I got caught up in mindless purchases, emotional triggers, and comparison traps, and, most importantly, the game-changing shift that finally helped me get my spending under control.

I share the real cost of overspending—how it’s never just about the...


5 Simple Habits For Building Wealth (as a self made millionaire)
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04/21/2025

Welcome to another compelling episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, we're tackling a question that often plagues many of us: Why does building wealth feel so overwhelming? Together, we'll debunk the myths that wealth is built on luck or secret formulas and dive into five simple habits that can jumpstart your journey to wealth as a self-made millionaire.

In this episode, I share personal insights from my own path to financial freedom. Growing up, I wasn't handed wealth. In fact, I had to develop and rely on these foundational habits myself. And guess what...


Major Money Milestones To Achieve in Your 40s
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04/17/2025

Welcome to another crucial episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, I’m exploring major money milestones you need to hit in your 40s, but don’t worry if you’re in your 20s or 30s — these strategies will propel you towards financial security no matter your age. Whether you’re feeling behind or just looking to ensure a prosperous future, this episode is your guide to building wealth and prioritizing financial freedom.

Reflecting on my own journey, I’m sharing the 11 money milestones I would tell my 40-year-old self, encompassing actions from automating your wealth-build...


How To Save More in 6 Months Than Most People Do in 6 Years
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04/14/2025

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, we're tackling a topic that's on everyone’s mind: how to save more money in six months than most people do in six years. If you’ve ever felt like saving money just isn’t happening fast enough or seems too hard, you’re not alone. But here’s the good news — it’s not about how much money you make, but how you manage and prioritize it.

In this episode, I’m going to reveal the mindset shifts and actionable steps you need to take to accel...


Why The PERFECT Retirement Is Actually A Huge LIE
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04/10/2025

Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, we're tackling the myth of the perfect retirement and uncovering why the idea of a flawless, predictable retirement is actually a huge lie. If you've followed the traditional retirement script, saving diligently and planning meticulously, only to feel uncertain about the future, this episode is for you.

In this deeply personal episode, I share my own experiences and challenges—facing cancer, navigating financial schemes, and realizing that life often has its own unpredictable plans. The truth is, no matter how carefully you plan, life ca...


11 Timeless Habits To Survive Any Recession
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04/07/2025

Welcome to another empowering episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, I'm exploring the timeless habits that can see you through any recession without breaking a sweat. We've all experienced the anxiety of economic downturns, but here's the truth: recessions are inevitable, yet financial ruin is optional. This episode is your guide to thriving in any economy, not just surviving.

I speak candidly about how the right financial habits, not just income, can differentiate those who profit from recessions from those who fall victim to them. I share stories from the 2008 financial crisis and even...


What you need to know before retiring
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04/03/2025

Welcome to another transformative episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Are you worried about the biggest financial missteps you might make as you approach retirement? Many believe it's about running out of money, but I'm here to tell you that the real threat lurks beneath the surface — hidden risks that could deplete your wealth just when you need it most.

No matter your age or life stage — 30s, 40s, 50s, or beyond — it's vital to plan forward to ensure your money outlives you while supporting a life filled with choice and freedom. This episode is packed...


Are you ready for what's going to happen to the economy?
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03/31/2025

Welcome to another compelling episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, I'm challenging you to reconsider everything you think is stable about your financial life. What if what you thought was secure—your job, savings, and financial future—is actually at risk? In this episode, I break down the complex forces like recession, inflation, stagflation, and tariffs that could potentially impact your wallet, investments, and wealth-building journey.

I dive deep into understanding these economic threats and, more importantly, how you can prepare to stay ahead. Don’t expect fear-mongering or doomsday predictions. Instead, get ready for ac...


The Best Financial Strategy For Your Income Level: $30k, $67k. $100K+
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03/27/2025

Welcome to another engaging episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. This time, I’m diving into a conversation about crafting the best financial strategies tailored to your current income level, whether you're making $30k, $67k, or over $100k. If you've ever wondered why you're struggling to build wealth no matter your income bracket, this episode is for you. It’s all about finding the right strategies for where you are today to ensure you’re not leaving money or opportunities on the table.

I open up about the common misconception that merely earning more money will s...


The games and strategies of the rich. What I learned as a CPA for the ultra wealthy.
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03/24/2025

Welcome to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, we're exploring the intriguing world of the ultra-wealthy and the money games they play that often seem out of reach for the rest of us. But here's the secret — many of their strategies are actually accessible to you, and that's exactly what I'm going to uncover.

Having worked as a CPA for the ultra-wealthy, I've witnessed firsthand the key mindset shifts and financial strategies that set them apart. In this episode, I'll be breaking down those principles to help you bring them into your own li...


You Can Change Your Finances in 8 Weeks... Here's How
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03/20/2025

Welcome back to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! I'm Mel Abraham, and if you've ever felt financially stuck, overwhelmed by debt, or just tired of feeling like money is controlling your life, then you've come to the right place. In this episode, we're tackling how you can transform your finances in just eight weeks with practical, actionable steps.

I've been where you are—struggling with debt and feeling overwhelmed. But through experience and learning, I've discovered that you don't need complex strategies or extreme sacrifices. Instead, we'll focus on what truly matters: mindset, cl...


The #1 Finance Book Millionaires Won't Tell You About
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03/17/2025

Welcome to another captivating episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, we're unveiling the secrets millionaires hold close, with a focus on a finance book that often flies under the radar but holds immense power in shaping a truly rich life—both monetarily and in essence. It's not just about amassing wealth; it's about creating a fulfilled, purpose-driven life.

I walk you through Napoleon Hill's "The Master Key to Riches," elaborating on its timeless principles that extend beyond mere financial success. The book delves into the core of what it means to live richly, emphasizing th...


11 Tiny Habits That Made Me Rich
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03/13/2025

Welcome to another transformative episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, we're addressing a common feeling that many of us have experienced: working hard but not seeing the financial progress we desire. On this episode, I'm sharing the foundational concept I call "harbinger habits"—tiny yet powerful actions that act as predictors of your financial success long before the money shows up.

Through this episode, I break down 11 essential habits that silently shape your financial future. These aren't flashy, big-win strategies, but everyday practices that separate those who achieve true financial freedom from those who co...


Turning Your Words Into Money & Wealth With Brandon Lucero
03/11/2025

Welcome to a special episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, I had an incredible conversation with a dear friend of mine, Brandon Lucero, who is one of the best in the field of communication. You might be wondering why we're discussing communication on a money machine show. Here's the secret: communication is key to unlocking dollars, sales, conversions, and even effective leadership within your team.

In this episode, I sat down with Brandon to explore the powerful impact of conversion messaging and how it can generate more income for you. Communication isn't just about...


It Took Me 30+ Years to Realize What I'll Tell You in 22 Mins
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03/10/2025

Welcome to this transformative episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, I'm sharing insights I've gained over three decades in the financial world—insights I wish I could have grasped earlier. Imagine saving decades of trial and error on your path to financial freedom. This episode is for anyone feeling stuck in the endless chase for financial milestones that never quite lead to security or happiness.

Through a deeply personal story, I reflect on a life-changing moment that forced me to rethink my relationship with money: a bike accident that taught me the essential question of...


The Benefits of Getting Rich Without Anyone Noticing
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03/06/2025

Welcome to another enriching episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, we're uncovering the transformative concept of building wealth unnoticed, a strategy that champions freedom, security, and peace of mind over the often misleading allure of status symbols. In a world dominated by social pressures and appearances, standing out quietly can be your biggest asset.

I pose the idea that true wealth isn't about flaunting Lamborghinis or designer threads. Instead, it's about living life on your terms, without the pressure of societal expectations. Throughout this episode, I show you how to master this balance by...


I Started A Business Because I Was Depressed (Now I'm Financially Free)
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03/03/2025

Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, I’m sharing a deeply personal journey, one that transformed my life from feeling stuck in a high-powered career to reaching financial freedom by aligning my passions with my values. If you've ever felt trapped in a life that you didn't design or yearned for a career filled with more meaning, this episode was made for you.

I take you back to 1989 when I stood on one of the tallest buildings in downtown Los Angeles, realizing that despite having the career and path I wa...


If You're Ambitious But Lazy, Watch This Video
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02/27/2025

Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, we're tackling a question that resonates with many: Why do so many ambitious individuals feel stuck financially despite having big dreams and a strong drive? If you're feeling like your ambition doesn’t match your bank account, this is your calling.

In this episode, I delve into how to escape the financial hamster wheel and why you're not lazy; you're simply following the wrong playbook. It’s time to discover a better way to achieve the life you've always dreamed of by implementing a prov...


9 Financial Goals You Must Hit By 60
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02/24/2025

Welcome to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, we're tackling an essential topic – the nine financial goals you must hit by 60 to secure the life you deserve. Whether you're in your 60s, exploring your financial journey, or a bit younger but eager to set a strong foundation, this episode is packed with invaluable guidance to help you navigate the path to financial security and freedom.

Join me as we explore these crucial goals that are necessary, regardless of where you are on your journey. At 63, I understand the importance of these strategies and ho...


Financial Advisor Reacts To Finance Tiktoks
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02/20/2025

Welcome to a uniquely exhilarating episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I’m diving into the world of financial advice across social media, specifically TikTok, and providing my seasoned reactions and perspectives. If you’re puzzled by the financial guidance popping up on your feed, this episode will be enriching.

I delve into a range of TikTok advice, focusing on understanding the language of money, and unconventional tips like game shows. We’ll explore which strategies truly empower wealth-building and which might leave you scratching your head. With decades of experience building millions and helpin...


Don't Tell People THIS About Your Finances
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02/17/2025

Welcome to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Have you ever shared financial details—your income, investments, or debts—only to later wish you'd kept things private? Then this episode is for you. Together, we're going to talk about the financial secrets we should keep to ourselves and why even the wealthiest choose discretion over disclosure.

I explore the reasons oversharing can be problematic, from creating envy to inadvertently inviting scams. Your finances are personal for a reason, and telling people too much can damage not only your financial health but also your peace of m...


13 Habits I Wish I Started In my 40s
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02/13/2025

Welcome to another transformative episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, I invite you to embark on a journey through the pivotal habits I wish I had adopted in my 40s — habits that could transform your life's trajectory, whether you find yourself in your 20s, 30s, 40s, or even beyond. This episode is your compass to enriching your life, enhancing your financial well-being, and making the most of your days as you navigate different life stages.

In this heartfelt conversation, I uncover 13 life-changing habits that will empower you to live a life filled with purpose an...


This Is What A Financial Plan SHOULD Look Like
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02/10/2025

Welcome to another transformative episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, we're exploring why a financial plan isn't just about the numbers; it's about crafting the dream life you've always envisioned. Have you ever found yourself feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just unsure about the financial steps needed to bridge the gap between your current situation and your desired life? Then this episode is for you, and I promise to guide you step-by-step in rethinking your financial approach.

I'm revealing why most conventional financial plans fall short and how to construct a plan that truly works...


My 12 Sources of Income at Age 63
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02/06/2025

Welcome to an eye-opening episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, we're taking a look behind the curtain as I reveal the 12 income streams I have built by the age of 63—streams that were actually established decades ago and have provided me with the freedom to live life on my own terms. In this episode, we delve into how you can achieve financial freedom by creating multiple income streams, understanding the necessity of diversification not only in investing but also in income.

I am going to walk you through each of my income streams, from th...


Finance Expert Ranks Best and Worst Investments
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02/03/2025

Welcome to another strategic episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, I'm breaking down the overwhelming world of investments to provide you with a clear roadmap to wealth-building. Ever wondered which investments you can trust, which to avoid, or which simply to laugh at? This episode's got you covered.

We start with the different tiers of investments, categorizing them from Wealth Champions all the way to Wealth Drainers. I'll rank various investments and explain each tier, from high-reward, reliable investments to those risky moonshot manias, and the ones that could drain your wealth.

...


Why Having Money Is Better Than Spending Money
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01/30/2025

Welcome to another impactful episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! Today, we’re tackling an issue that hits home for many of us: Why having money is better than spending it.

Have you ever felt the stress of living paycheck to paycheck or regretted an impulse buy? Or maybe you're wondering why financial freedom feels so unattainable? This episode is for you. I dive deep into why the real joy lies in having money, not just spending it, and how making a few simple shifts can set you on a path to financial security.

...


If You Can Spare 15 Mins, You'll Get 20 Years of Your Life Back
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01/27/2025

Welcome to another transformative episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. This time, I'm asking you to think deeply about the true quality of your life. What if you could not only add 20 years to your life but significantly enhance the quality of those years? If you've ever felt life slipping past you or questioned if you're truly living the life you were destined for, then this episode is tailor-made for you.

In my journey, I’ve discovered three primary life changes that have made an incredible difference: Swapping Retirement for Purpose—Forget traditional retirement. It’s all...


Why We Can't Save Money – And How to Fix It
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01/23/2025

Welcome to another episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show! If you've ever felt like saving money is impossible, like there’s always something pulling you to spend or life keeps getting in the way, this episode is for you. Today, we'll uncover exactly why most people can’t seem to save and the hidden traps that are keeping them stuck. And more importantly, I'll share powerful steps to change that so you can start building real financial freedom.

Financial freedom starts with saving, yet most people struggle with this simple but crucial step. Why? Because the...


9 Financial Habits Holding You Back In Your 40s
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01/20/2025

Welcome to another transformative episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Today, we're going to identify and dismantle the nine financial habits holding you back in your 40s — wisdom that’s not bound by age. Whether you're in your 20s, 30s, 40s, or beyond, this episode is laden with timeless advice to elevate your financial journey.

In your 40s, you’re at a crucial juncture where every financial decision holds more weight. From rising incomes to escalating expenses with kids, mortgages, and aging parents, the stakes are high. Are your habits setting you up for financial freedo...


The Real Reason Why You Feel Behind Financially
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01/16/2025

Welcome to another empowering episode of the Building Your Money Machine Show. Ever felt like everyone else is ahead of you financially? You scroll through social media and see the luxury vacations, new cars, and dream homes, and it leaves you wondering — why does it seem like everyone has more money than you do? If you've ever felt this way, this episode is for you.

In this episode, I break down why it feels like everyone else is financially ahead of you, and more importantly, how you can shift your focus back to your own financial journey. I...