The Money Insights Podcast

“The 50-Year Mortgage: Tool, Trap, or Something in Between?”

The idea of a 50-year mortgage sounds wild at first—almost like we’ve officially given up on ever owning our homes outright. In this episode, Christian and Rod unpack what’s really behind the proposal, why it’s even on the table, and how it fits into a housing market where affordability feels out of reach for a lot of families.

They walk through the bigger picture: home prices rising faster than wages, first-time homebuyers now averaging around age 40 instead of 29, and 80% of existing mortgages locked in un...

It’s one thing to have a healthy balance sheet. It’s another thing entirely to feel like you can actually use your money. In this episode, Christian and Rod unpack what it means to be “rich on paper, tight on cash flow” and why so many high-income earners quietly feel like they’re living paycheck to paycheck despite impressive incomes and net worth.

They introduce the idea of dead equity—wealth that boosts your net worth but quietly strangles your flexibility and options. From home equity you can’t touch, to overstuffed retirement plans, to illiquid bu...

Money can buy just about anything — except the one thing that matters most. In this episode, Christian Allen and Rod Zabriskie dive into the concept of time as the ultimate wealth multiplier. Together, they unpack how truly wealthy people don’t just grow their money — they also buy back their time through leverage, liquidity, and intentional living.

Christian and Rod explore what it means to live life on your terms, sharing stories and strategies for creating time freedom. From “time arbitrage” to automation, access, and the art of letting go, this conversation reframes how high-income earners can shift from...

What if “retire early” isn’t the real goal—and financial autonomy is? In this episode, Christian and Rod take a clear-eyed look at the FIRE movement (Financial Independence, Retire Early). They start by giving credit where it’s due: FIRE’s discipline, community, and the courage to question traditional retirement timelines all matter.

Then they peel back the layers. Christian and Rod explain why an over-fixation on net worth and the 4% rule creates a fragile plan—especially if you’re trying to stretch it across decades. They contrast FIRE’s accumulate-then-deplete approach with the Money Insights “Invest With Benefits...

If wealth building is a marathon, not a magic trick, this episode is your next few miles. Christian and Rod pick up Part 2 of our “Best & Worst Advice” series and get real about real estate, business growth, personal development, and legacy. No hype, no gimmicks—just field-tested ideas and a few hard-won scars.

We start by dismantling one of the most seductive traps in real estate: timing the market. Then we pair it with what actually compounds results—smart tax planning and dependable cash flow. From there, we move into business and income, where “just work harder” gets replace...

This week, Christian and Rod open the vault on the best and worst advice they’ve ever heard around money, investing, debt, and taxes. From “all-in on one asset” to “zero debt forever,” they separate rules that build wealth from rules that box you in. If you’ve ever wondered which principles actually scale for high earners, this one’s for you.

Christian shares a candid story about buying gold—and the surprise costs hiding on the exit. Rod lays out why cash flow beats mere accumulation, and why the smartest leverage is conservative, liquid, and boring on purpose. Toge...

This week, Christian and Rod open the vault on the best and worst advice they’ve ever heard around money, investing, debt, and taxes. From “all-in on one asset” to “zero debt forever,” they separate rules that build wealth from rules that box you in. If you’ve ever wondered which principles actually scale for high earners, this one’s for you.

Christian shares a candid story about buying gold—and the surprise costs hiding on the exit. Rod lays out why cash flow beats mere accumulation, and why the smartest leverage is conservative, liquid, and boring on purpose. Toge...

What actually changes as you move from high income to high net worth? In this conversation, Christian and Rod map out the nine natural evolutions of success they’ve observed after years of advising ambitious earners across the country.

Kicking off with a quick Kauai tale—open-door helicopters, sideways rain, and a hard-won raft tour—they pivot into the real lesson: wealth building is less a lottery ticket and more a trail you walk on purpose. Using two composite characters—Jethro (early career) and Danette (seasoned builder)—they contrast how perspectives shift on risk, time horizons, decision-making, learning...

The Wealth-Building Paradox: Why It’s Never Been Harder—and Never Been Easier—to Build Generational Wealth

Christian and Rod tackle a question most high earners feel in their gut: is building wealth getting harder or easier? Christian opens with a candid look back at buying his first home amid heavy pressure and rising costs, setting the stage for a grounded conversation about the real frictions people face today.

From taxes and regulation to runaway costs in housing and healthcare, the guys outline why getting started can feel like pushing a boulder uphill. They also spotli...

Private credit is everywhere right now. In this episode, Christian and Rod step back from the noise and lay out what it is in plain English: non-bank lending to mid-sized companies and real-asset portfolios, typically via a fund that aggregates capital from accredited investors. Think “not a bank loan, not a bond”—that middle lane where capital still needs to flow.

We walk through an A+B=C example so you can see the mechanics end-to-end—borrower, fund, investors, fees, and cash flow—then zoom out to why private credit is surging: the post-COVID cycle, higher rates, banks tigh...

Most wealth gets chipped away quietly—not by market crashes, but by the little leaks we don’t see. In this advanced, “201/301-level” conversation, Christian and Rod unpack 10 hidden wealth destroyers that high-income earners often miss until they’ve lived through them. From inflation silently eroding idle bank cash to the tax sting of phantom income, from illiquidity that forces bad sales to the way a loan’s terms can matter more than its size—this episode is a practical field guide to keeping more of what you build. We also dig into lawsuit and creditor exposure (and the simplest fix m...

Most investors are following one of two playbooks—often without realizing it. In this episode, Christian and Rod lay the cards on the table: the “Middle America” playbook (market-only, accumulate-then-spend) versus the “Wealthy Family” playbook (principle-driven, cash-flow focused). The conversation started with a simple question Christian gets all the time—“What do you actually do?”—and turned into a clear, practical framework for how high-income earners can build wealth with intention.

They unpack why a market-only approach creates timing risk, spending fear, tax drag, and asset depletion—and why rules of thumb like “age in bonds” and the 4% withdrawal rule c...

When a deal goes sideways, most investors get stuck staring at the wreckage. In this episode, Christian and Rod pull the camera back and show how the Investment Optimizer is designed to be the foundation—not a single bet. Think of it like a financial solar system: the policy is the sun, investments are the planets, and cash flow keeps the whole thing in orbit.

Prompted by a thoughtful listener note from Wayne, we walk through exactly what to do when an investment underperforms—or even fails—and how to handle policy mechanics without panic. Christian and Rod sh...

The Wealth Builder’s Playbook: When to Break Your Own Rules

Most of the time, wealth is built on bedrock—principles like leverage, velocity, cash flow, tax optimization, and staying inside proven guardrails. But sometimes the situation is the boss. In this episode, Christian and Rod flip the script: when does it actually make sense to step outside your own rules—on purpose?

We unpack six (okay… seven) exception patterns that show up for sophisticated investors: asymmetric risk, convexity (those momentum-building trigger stacks), forced advantage (rare, time-sensitive windows), strategic leverage (including partnerships), non-correlation opportunities, and irrevers...

The Ramsey Effect: Why Millions Follow Bad Financial Advice

Why do millions of smart, educated people still fall into the trap of bad financial advice? In this episode, Christian Allen and Rod Zabriskie dig deep into the psychology, sociology, and mindset behind what they call The Ramsey Effect—a shorthand for the incomplete, cookie-cutter advice pushed by mainstream financial gurus.

From debt and cash flow to taxes, liquidity, and leverage, Christian and Rod contrast the Invest with Benefits philosophy against Dave Ramsey’s accumulation model. More importantly, they explore why simplicity, certainty, and tribe loyalty pull...

When it comes to high cash value life insurance, most people only see the surface. They think it’s rigid, complicated, or just about the death benefit. But in this episode, Christian Allen, Rod Zabriskie, Blake Brogan, and Brenyn McConnell roll up their sleeves and dig deep into what every investor really needs to know.

From the front lines of working with clients, our team shares the misconceptions they hear most often—and the truths that transform how high-income earners can leverage policies inside the Investment Optimizer strategy. This isn’t theory. These are the practical insights that s...

In this episode of the Money Insights Podcast, Christian Allen and Rod Zabriskie reveal the five essential rules of alternative investing that can help you protect capital, maximize ROI, and build long-term wealth — plus a bonus rule every investor should know. Whether you’re new to alternative investments or a seasoned pro, these principles will help you invest smarter and avoid costly mistakes.

Money Insights is a strategic planning firm that is founded on the principle that "off-the-shelf" products and solutions often do not meet the needs of high-income earners. The Money Insights team works to c...

In this episode, Christian and Rod unpack whether annuities make sense for high-net-worth individuals. They explore how annuities work, why they’re heavily marketed, and when (if ever) they fit into a wealth-building strategy. If you're curious about annuities vs. alternative investments, this one's for you!

Money Insights is a strategic planning firm that is founded on the principle that "off-the-shelf" products and solutions often do not meet the needs of high-income earners. The Money Insights team works to collaboratively design customized financial solutions that will leave a lasting impact on each of their unique cl...

Is working with a fiduciary all it’s cracked up to be? In this eye-opening episode, Christian and Rod take a deep dive into the world of financial advisors, exploring the fiduciary fallacy — the widespread assumption that fiduciary status guarantees better advice, ethics, or outcomes.

They break down the difference between the fiduciary and suitability standards, expose the built-in conflicts of interest in the industry, and explain why relying solely on a designation may lead you down the wrong path. Through candid personal experiences, legal anecdotes, and hard-hitting insights, this episode reveals the real ways to evaluate inte...

In this thought-provoking episode of the Money Insights Podcast, Christian Allen and Rod “the Pod” Zabriskie are joined by veterinarian-turned-wealth-builder Phil Zeltzman to explore one of the most overlooked causes of the wealth divide in America today: a lack of financial education.

Despite high incomes, millions of Americans are stuck in the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle. Christian and Rod break down why this is more than a budgeting issue—it's a systemic gap in financial literacy. Together with Phil, they unpack how the traditional “accumulate and save” model often fails to deliver true financial freedom—and why acceleration through alternative...

This episode of the Money Insights Podcast with Christian Allen and Rod Zabriskie explores why the traditional financial planning model is often ineffective for high-income earners who want to build lasting wealth. They argue that traditional advisors focus on risk management and survival, not on thriving and building multi-generational wealth. They emphasize that true wealth builders must shift their mindset to prioritize cash flow, leverage, and opportunity over simple asset accumulation and tax deferral.

Money Insights is a strategic planning firm that is founded on the principle that "off-the-shelf" products and solutions often do not...

What if you could manage your wealth like a billionaire—without needing billionaire-level money?

In this episode of the Money Insights Podcast, Christian Allen and Rod Zabriskie break down how high-income earners can replicate the powerful family office structure used by ultra-wealthy families. Learn how to integrate key wealth-building principles—like strategic leverage, coordinated advisory teams, tax efficiency, and generational legacy planning—into your personal finances.

Plus, we introduce our Investment Insider Series (IIS), designed to help you expand your deal flow and access exclusive opportunities.

Money Insights is a strategic planni...

Ever wonder why high-income earners often still feel financially stuck—even when their paychecks are big? In this episode, Christian and Rod unpack the Financial Confidence Gap: the hidden disconnect between income and freedom. They dive into the flawed assumptions of traditional planning, the danger of over-relying on accumulation strategies, and how taxes quietly erode wealth. You'll hear real-life stories, including a mindset shift from a successful physician, and learn how to build true financial freedom using the six pillars of the “Invest With Benefits” philosophy.

Money Insights is a strategic planning firm that is founded on the pr...

How to Spot a Bad Investment Before It’s Too Late

In part 3 of our Alternative Investment Series, Christian and Rod reveal the red flags every investor needs to watch out for—before committing capital. Learn how to distinguish between deals that are risky, misguided, or even outright scams. This episode is packed with lessons learned, real examples, and smart strategies to help you invest with confidence.

Money Insights is a strategic planning firm that is founded on the principle that "off-the-shelf" products and solutions often do not meet the needs of high-income earn...

In Part 2 of the Money Insights Podcast alternative investing series, Christian and Rod help listeners create their own alternative investment strategy. They start by explaining how to identify your “why” and build a personalized plan around it. You’ll learn how to structure a portfolio using core investments (like real estate or business) and satellite assets (like crypto, private lending, or private equity). They share personal stories—both wins and failures—and offer practical advice on avoiding common mistakes. You’ll also hear how they use high-cash-value life insurance to boost returns and maintain liquidity. Whether you're new to alternatives...

Welcome to the first episode of our 3-part series on alternative investing! In this kickoff conversation, Christian Allen and Rod Zabriskie dive into why alternative investments matter more than ever—especially in today’s volatile market and shifting economic landscape.

Christian shares how AI (aka “Jarvis”) prompted a reflection on past episodes, revealing the need to go deeper into one of Money Insights’ core topics. The result? A focused exploration of why the traditional financial playbook—401(k)s, pensions, and retiring at 67—often falls short for high-income earners seeking faster, more strategic wealth building.

Rod unpacks the po...

In this episode, Christian Allen and Rod Zabriskie break down the top 10 life insurance misconceptions that are misleading high-income earners and everyday investors alike. From “life insurance is a terrible investment” to “it’s only for the ultra-wealthy,” the hosts cut through the hype and half-truths to provide practical, experience-backed answers. Along the way, you’ll find out:

- How the right policy design makes all the difference

- Why life insurance isn’t just about death benefit—but a powerful living asset

- Where industry mantras and marketing (like ‘Infinite Banking’) get it wrong

- Whe...

In this episode of the Money Insights Podcast, Christian Allen and Rod Zabriskie put their economist hats on to unpack a historic financial event: the downgrade of the U.S. credit rating by Moody's.

What does this mean for investors, entrepreneurs, and high-income earners focused on building lasting wealth?

Christian and Rod dive deep into the ripple effects of the downgrade—exploring its impact on the U.S. dollar, interest rates, gold, treasuries, life insurance returns, and alternative investments. Through thoughtful analysis and personal anecdotes, they provide a clear framework to help you navigate economic un...

In this episode, Christian Allen and Rod “The Pod” Zabriskie take a refreshingly positive approach to a familiar figure—Dave Ramsey. While they’ve been critical of Ramsey’s one-size-fits-all advice in the past, today’s conversation focuses entirely on the six core financial and life principles where they align with him.

From rethinking higher education to the power of entrepreneurial grit, and from teaching kids about money to purposeful retirement, Christian and Rod unpack the timeless wisdom behind Ramsey’s more practical takes.

Whether you're a fan, critic, or somewhere in between, this episode reveals that f...

In this insightful episode, Christian Allen and Rod Zabriskie dive into what it really means to be wealthy—beyond just dollars in the bank. From Parker's post-grad bird-tracking adventures to rethinking traditional investing, they explore how high-income earners can enjoy life now while strategically building long-term wealth. Christian breaks down how shifting your mindset around liquidity, cash flow, leverage, and control leads to freedom, flexibility, and abundance—today and in the future.

If you’ve ever felt torn between living for today and saving for tomorrow, this episode is your blueprint to do both.

Mone...

This podcast episode was inspired by the game show Jeopardy! However, Jeopardy! is a registered trademark of Sony Pictures Television Inc. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with Jeopardy!, Sony Pictures Television, or any of their affiliates. This content was created for educational and entertainment purposes only.

Money Insights is a strategic planning firm that is founded on the principle that "off-the-shelf" products and solutions often do not meet the needs of high-income earners. The Money Insights team works to collaboratively design customized financial solutions that will leave a lasting impact on...

In this special live webinar edition of the Money Insights Podcast, Christian Allen and Rod Zabriskie are joined by mortgage industry innovator and AI expert Shashank Shekhar. Shashank shares his incredible journey — from launching a mortgage company during the Great Recession with just $1,900 in savings, to building one of the fastest-growing firms in the U.S.

But that's just the beginning.

This episode dives deep into how Shashank leverages AI tools to scale operations, enhance customer engagement, and create cutting-edge content — all while humanizing the client experience. Learn about his "AI Coach" philosophy, how to crea...

Is your 401(k) quietly sabotaging your financial future?

In this eye-opening episode, Christian Allen and Rod Zabriskie peel back the layers of conventional retirement planning and reveal why qualified plans like 401(k)s may not be the golden ticket for high-income professionals.

You’ll discover:

Are you building real wealth—or just following outdated advice? In this bold episode of the Money Insights Podcast, Christian Allen and Rod Zabriskie take on the traditional financial system by breaking down the 8 most common myths about alternative investing.

Sparked by Christian’s viral (and controversial) post—“Financial advisors are broke. Why are we listening to them?”—this conversation challenges conventional wisdom and highlights why thousands are choosing real estate, private equity, and entrepreneurship over 401(k)s and mutual funds.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

In this special twist on the fan-favorite format, Rod Zabriskie flips the mic and puts Christian Allen in the hot seat with a series of rapid-fire, real-world financial scenarios. From evaluating business partnerships to navigating oil and gas investments, and even advising his own kids—Christian shares candid, off-the-cuff insights shaped by years of financial expertise and personal experience.

In this episode, you’ll hear Christian’s take on:

Retirement is overrated—and in this episode, Christian and Rod explain why.

They challenge traditional retirement thinking and explore how true financial freedom comes from purpose and choice, not age. Learn why cash flow beats accumulation, and how the most successful people build lives they don’t want to retire from. Whether you're early in your career or planning your next chapter, this episode will help you rethink what "retirement" really means.

Money Insights is a strategic planning firm that is founded on the principle that "off-the-shelf" products and solutions often do not meet...

How do you stay human in a world of AI?

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jill Schiefelbein—AI educator, entrepreneur, and communication strategist—to explore how advisors can use generative AI to elevate their business without sounding like a robot.

We dig into:

Jill brings a re...

In this episode of the Money Insights Podcast, Christian Allen and Rod “The Pod” Zabriskie break down why they just made a major Bitcoin investment—and why they believe it’s one of the best wealth-building moves for the long haul.

Bitcoin is booming, institutional adoption is increasing, and traditional financial systems are facing growing uncertainty. But is now the right time to invest? We share 12 key reasons why Bitcoin remains a powerful hedge against inflation, a diversification tool, and a potential generational wealth builder.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

In this thought-provoking episode of the Money Insights Podcast, host Christian Allen is joined by guest co-hosts Blake "Never Takes a Break" Brogan and Brenyn "Babyface" McConnell to discuss a financial paradox that affects many investors: why the so-called "safest" investments can often be the riskiest moves you make.

Together, they break down common investment strategies such as cash reserves, bonds, 401(k)s, and fixed annuities, exposing the hidden dangers and opportunity costs associated with each. They also explore the importance of liquidity, diversification, and a cash flow-based mindset that can help you build true financial independence.<...

Christian and Rod break down the major flaws of 529 plans, including their lack of flexibility, investment limitations, and potential tax penalties, and offer a superior alternative that gives you more control, liquidity, and long-term financial benefits. If you're saving for your child's education—or considering better ways to build generational wealth—this is a must-listen episode.

Money Insights is a strategic planning firm that is founded on the principle that "off-the-shelf" products and solutions often do not meet the needs of high-income earners. The Money Insights team works to collaboratively design customized financial solutions that will...