The Above Board Podcast

The Man in the Arena

In this episode of The Above Board podcast, hosts Rich and John get into the timeless wisdom of Theodore Roosevelt's 'The Man in the Arena' speech. They discuss the importance of courage over criticism, valuing effort over perfection, and the significance of showing up every day. Along the way, they share the challenges of facing naysayers, and the inspiration drawn from observing and supporting others. Listen in for motivational insights, practical advice, and the drive to dare greatly in all aspects of life.

• 01:47 Theodore Roosevelt's 'Man in the Arena' Speech
• 03:48 Dealing with Critics and Social Media Trolls
• 05:44 The Importance of Effort and Resilience
• 08:11 Courage Over Criticism and Personal Reflections
• 15:53 Turning Negative Energy into Positive Motivation
• 23:17 Encouraging Young Financial Advisors
• 24:01 Embracing Competition and Legacy
• 24:54 Effort Over Perfection
• 25:59 The Importance of Trying and Failing
• 26:37 Legacy
• 27:35 The Power of Showing Up
• 32:28 Supporting Others and Atomic Habits
• 37:38 Balancing Criticism and Praise

You Don't Outgrow the Basics

In this episode of The Above Board Podcast, John Kennedy gets real about something most people overlook—the basics. You can’t build wealth if you don’t know where your money’s going. You can’t stay fit if you stop showing up for the small stuff. Whether it's tracking your spending, sticking to a simple routine, or just being consistent, John shares why the fundamentals aren’t just for beginners—they’re for anyone who wants lasting progress. This episode is your reminder that real growth isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters, and doing it well.

• 00:30 The Importance of Basics
• 02:40 The 10,000 Hours Rule
• 05:01 Mastering Financial Basics

You're Not Unmotivated, You're Just Tired of Deciding

Feeling mentally drained by the end of the day? It might not be a motivation problem—it could be decision fatigue. In this episode of The Above Board Podcast, John Kennedy shares how the daily pressure to make constant choices adds up, and what you can do to protect your energy. From setting daily priorities to creating decision boundaries, this episode offers simple ways to feel more focused, less overwhelmed, and back in control.

• 01:01 Decision Fatigue
• 03:00 Decision Fatigue in Financial Matters
• 04:10 Prioritizing Your Decisions
• 05:30 Creating Decision Boundaries
• 06:16 Simplify, Delegate, or Delete

Why "Staying the Course" Isn't Always the Answer

In this episode of The Above Board podcast, John chats about the significant changes in markets and life over recent weeks, reflecting on episode 154 (Tariffs, Trade Tension, and the Economic Outlook). The discussion centers around the concept of not just 'staying the course' but instead staying aligned, informed, and intentional. John examines the pitfalls of blindly following the 'stay the course' advice and emphasizes the importance of proactive course corrections in response to life changes, market conditions, and evolving goals. We encourage you to re-evaluate your approach, aligning your strategies dynamically and purposefully in various aspects of your life.

• 00:00 We Missed You!
• 00:27 Reflecting on Episode 154
• 01:36 Challenging the Status Quo
• 02:12 The Importance of Course Corrections
• 03:36 Staying Aligned vs. Staying the Course
• 04:11 Proactive Market Strategies
• 04:55 Applying Financial Lessons to Life

Part 2: I'm Learning to "Let Me"

In this episode of The Above Board Podcast, we delve into the 'Let Them Theory' by Mel Robbins, exploring the often overlooked but powerful concept of 'Let Me.' Learn how to stop managing others’ reactions and focus on prioritizing your own happiness, health, and peace. John shares personal experiences and tips for implementing this mindset shift in various aspects of life, including leadership, family, and career. Tune in for practical advice on setting boundaries, handling overcommitment, and making self-care a priority. Don't miss this enlightening conversation!

• 00:08 Introduction to the 'Let Them Theory'
• 01:49 The Importance of 'Let Me'
• 02:16 Learning to Say No
• 03:52 Leadership and Letting Go
• 05:12 Practical Applications of 'Let Me'
• 05:32 Weekly Challenge and Final Thoughts

Part 1: I'm Learning to "Let Them"

In this episode, John Kennedy opens up about learning to let go of people-pleasing and the pressure to be understood by everyone. Inspired by The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins, he shares how this mindset shift is helping him show up with more peace—in parenting, leadership, and everyday life. If you’re ready to stop carrying what isn’t yours, this episode is for you!

• 00:16 Personal Impact of 'The Let Them Theory'
• 01:38 Key Lessons from the Book
• 03:25 Real-Life Application
• 05:29 Leadership and Letting Go
• 07:08 Call to Action

Tariffs, Trade Tension, and the Economic Outlook

In this episode of The Above Board Podcast, Michael Scott, CFA, and Matt Marcoux, EA, CFP® share a timely replay of their recent client webinar focused on the economic impact of newly announced tariffs. They break down what the headlines actually mean, how markets are reacting, and what it all could signal for investors. You'll also hear tailored strategies for individuals at various stages of retirement planning—whether you're 10 years out, just about to retire, or already enjoying it. With a focus on facts over fear, this episode offers practical guidance to help you navigate market volatility with clarity and confidence.

• 04:47 Current Market Conditions and Economic Data
• 08:00 Tariff Impacts and Market Reactions
• 09:40 Understanding the Why and How of Tariffs
• 19:49 Potential Outcomes and Future Projections
• 26:19 Diversification Strategies
• 27:31 Rebalancing Portfolios
• 28:50 Market Timing and Adjustments
• 34:48 Client Group Strategies: 10+ Years to Retirement
• 37:52 Client Group Strategies: 5 Years to Retirement
• 39:59 Client Group Strategies: 1 Year to Retirement
• 41:37 Client Group Strategies: Newly Retired
• 43:11 Client Group Strategies: Comfortably Retired
• 45:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Should Market Volatility Change Your Retirement Plans?

John shares a personal story about a neighbor struggling with financial stress due to stock market volatility. Through this anecdote, he emphasizes the importance of controlling what we can in life, preparing for uncertainties, and the benefits of discussing financial anxieties with trusted individuals. This episode aims to provide perspective on market corrections, volatility, and living a balanced life despite economic challenges.

Join our next economic update webinar for a more in-depth conversation regarding the current market environment!

 

01:47 Understanding Market Volatility

03:15 Controlling What You Can

04:36 Aligning Money Strategy with Goals

06:08 Perspective on Market Corrections

07:47 Upcoming Economic Update Event

Leadership, Impact, and Pursuing Your Passion with Dawn Hooper, CPA

In this episode of The Above Board Podcast, Dawn Hooper, CPA shares her incredible journey from a successful career in the private sector to finding purpose and impact in the nonprofit world. Dawn opens up about what motivated her to make the shift, the challenges and rewards of leading in the nonprofit space, and how impact investing became a driving force in her work and personal life. If you've ever thought about aligning your career with your passion or wondered what it takes to lead with purpose, this conversation is for you.

 

Dawn is the President and CEO of Dawn Advisory Services, LLC, where she helps nonprofits drive transformational change and empowers teams to reach their full potential.

 

 

Helpful resources from today's episode:

 

Connect with Dawn

GuideStar 

Charity Navigator

A Guide to Impact Investing

 

 

Episode Timestamp: 

 

• 01:03 Dawn's Career Journey
• 03:01 Transition to Nonprofit Sector
• 07:08 Challenges in Nonprofit Financial Management
• 09:45 Leadership Insights and Evolution
• 14:16 Generational Differences and Leadership
• 17:59 Diversity in Leadership
• 19:45 Impact Investing and Personal Growth
• 23:36 Dawn Advisory Services and Interim CFO Role
• 28:56 Advice for Aspiring Nonprofit Professionals
• 35:25 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

 

 

Wealth That Is Given Is Not a Gift - It's a Curse

In this episode of the Above Board podcast, John Kennedy discusses the alarming statistic that 70% of generational wealth is lost by the second generation and 90% by the third. He shares his thoughts on why wealth often vanishes and how to prevent it, emphasizing the importance of preparation, accountability, and the transfer of values. This conversation is aimed at ensuring that wealth becomes a meaningful and lasting gift for future generations.

• 00:00 Shocking Statistics on Generational Wealth
• 00:42 The Burden of Inherited Wealth
• 01:19 The Importance of Responsibility and Values
• 03:20 Strategies for Effective Wealth Transfer
• 05:13 Final Thoughts and Call to Action