Be Smart by Jared Dillian
381 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 1 month ago - ★★★★★ - 68 ratingsMoney is hard to make, keep, and control—and almost everyone gets it wrong sometimes. Now, ex-Wall Street trader Jared Dillian is here to talk to you about money: from sorting out your personal finances to killing it on the stock market and everything in between. If you want to own your life—instead of borrowing or renting it—you need to start listening today.
Music: Rylan Taggart - Lost Secret
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Episodes
Episode 378: Do You Create Wealth?
March 08, 2024 11:00 - 8 minutes - 15.4 MBHaving money in stocks and mutual funds that perform well doesn’t mean you’re creating wealth. In that case, you’re just a passenger along for the ride on the back of someone else. Creating wealth could mean starting a business or showing up to work and producing value that exceeds what you are paid. In episode 378, Jared discusses the difference between creating and destroying wealth, as well as the president’s impact on the US economy.
Episode 377: The Three Biggest Financial Decisions You Will Ever Make
February 01, 2024 11:00 - 7 minutes - 14.1 MBNo, it’s not choosing the right mutual fund to invest in or opting for a 15-year mortgage instead of a 30-year one. Not even paying off all your credit cards cracks the top three. The three biggest financial decisions you will ever make include choosing the right person to marry, your career, and where to live. In episode 377, Jared breaks down why these choices are so crucial to get right—because getting them wrong can do serious damage in the long run.
Episode 376: Stop Complaining About Fees!
January 18, 2024 11:00 - 7 minutes - 14.5 MBMutual funds let you pool your money with other investors to buy stocks, bonds, and other securities. They’re run by professional money managers who decide which securities to buy (stocks, bonds, etc.) and when to sell them. Here’s the thing, though: Mutual funds are not free. That said, they’re inexpensive, but that doesn’t stop people from getting worked up over fees. In episode 376, Jared explains why we should stop complaining about fees… especially when they’re near zero already.
Episode 375: Does It Bother You That Some People Are Richer Than Others?
January 11, 2024 11:00 - 11 minutes - 22.2 MBIn episode 375, Jared maps his evolution from “class warrior” as a kid in Connecticut to his college years when he dabbled in objectivism to his present-day views on the likes of Jeff Bezos. He breaks down the philosophical basis for the revolution that swept through the world in the 1970s and ’80s (influenced by prominent figures such as Ayn Rand, Margaret Thatcher, Ronald Reagan, Friedrich Hayek, and Milton Friedman) and discusses how people’s thinking on economics is totally backward the...
Episode 374: ABC: Always Be Closing
December 28, 2023 11:00 - 12 minutes - 22.5 MBIn episode 374 of the BE SMART podcast, Jared demystifies the key to deal negotiation for a home and why, as a buyer, you should be making a series of negative comments to your realtor to bring the price of a house down. Everything in real estate is negotiable, and it’s a bit like playing cards—meaning it’s helpful to know which cards a seller is holding. You don’t want to be a “people pleaser” when negotiating for a house. It never hurts to ask for something you want included, whether it ...
Episode 373: Elasticity vs. Inelasticity of Demand
December 21, 2023 11:00 - 11 minutes - 22 MBThere are points in time when producers have pricing power, and there are other times when they don’t. This concept is known as demand elasticity. If something has elastic demand, companies can’t raise prices much or else demand will go down. On the flip side, if something has inelastic demand, it doesn’t matter how much prices increase because people will still pay for it. In this episode of the BE SMART podcast, Jared discusses how demand elasticity impacts consumer spending habits, peopl...
Overcome Catastrophic Thinking
December 07, 2023 11:00 - 12 minutes - 22.2 MBCatastrophic thinking is when you believe that something terrible is always going to happen, like a divorce, a fatal illness, or devastating financial hardship. A lot of people suffer from it and are susceptible to this mindset, which can cripple your relationships and personal goals. What it boils down to is fear, but the possibility that something earth-shattering will happen to you is lower than you think. Bad things happen, of course, but there is one key solution to overcoming a negati...
Blue Chips Are Usually the Best Stocks to Be In
November 30, 2023 11:00 - 8 minutes - 16.1 MBNo stock is “safe,” but blue-chip stocks tend to be the safest. That’s why, if you go to a financial advisor, they’re likely to load you up on stocks found in the Dow Jones Industrial Average—the Boeings and Microsofts of the world—because it’s a strategy that’s much harder to screw up than others. In this episode, Jared discusses risk, growth, the sad reality of the brokerage industry, and the key to financial success as an investor.
Finance Is Full of Conspiracy Theories
November 16, 2023 11:00 - 12 minutes - 22.2 MBFun fact: Most people in the finance business believe in crazy, ridiculous conspiracy theories. It’s astounding the type of stuff people believe in—like, for instance, that a shadowy government organization buys large quantities of stocks or futures to bleed short sellers and turn a profit. In this episode of the Be Smart podcast, Jared discusses why so many people perpetuate conspiracy theories and how their mentality seeps into everyday situations.
FIRE Is Impractical and Objectively Wrong
November 09, 2023 11:00 - 11 minutes - 21.7 MBFinancial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) is a movement defined by frugality and extreme savings and investment. It’s also a dumb philosophy. Why? Because it is a perfectly normal human desire to accumulate material positions. Consumption is not immoral, and depriving yourself for several years only to continue living in deprivation doesn’t make any sense. The FIRE followers have it backwards: You don’t gain self-esteem and happiness from no stress. You get these things from overcoming st...
How to Deal from a Position of Strength
November 02, 2023 10:00 - 11 minutes - 21.5 MBNot having a lot of debt, minimizing your exposure to risk, and having financial security are all ways to deal from a position of strength. Sure, having more money often helps, but not always. There’s more to it than that, which we’ll dive into, along with six key things you must do to eliminate financial stress and put yourself in a position of strength.
We Have Money Coming out of Our Ears
October 26, 2023 10:00 - 11 minutes - 21.4 MBThere’s a lot of money out there. We have printed trillions of dollars. Let’s put it this way: There is no shortage of money. Really, there’s a surplus, and it’s not that hard to come by. You don’t need to starve yourself or keep the thermostat at 60 degrees in the winter to save money. What it comes down to is a change in attitude. Instead of thinking that money is hard to come by, you need to embrace the idea that it’s easy to get… you just need to know how to do it.
It’s Hard to Be Rich and Live a Simple Life
October 19, 2023 10:00 - 12 minutes - 22.2 MBA lot of people say they want to get rich, but most of the time, these people are full of it. Being rich is a lot harder than it seems—a rich person’s life gets much more complicated once they become rich. More houses, cars, bank accounts, greater investments, and rising taxes… it’s a lot to keep track of, and it can create a lot of added stress. Truth is, if you like leading a simple life, you won’t like being rich. Let’s talk some of the complications that come with more money…
Should You Go to College?
October 12, 2023 13:19 - 12 minutes - 22.2 MBIf you get into a top-tier school, like Harvard, you must go. But what about second- and third-tier schools? It’s not always a no-brainer based on the cost. Student loans can be crushing, and you need to factor in your return on investment via earnings potential, especially in a world where student graduates are netting $55K a year for sales jobs while high school dropouts receive offers for $110K for trucking jobs. Luckily, I have a rubric to help you determine whether you can (and should)...
Falling A$$-Backwards into Money
September 28, 2023 10:00 - 12 minutes - 22.2 MBThere’s an old saying: “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.” If you want to make money, you must take the risk… because sitting idly and wishing to make money is not going to yield positive results. In today’s episode of the Be Smart podcast, Jared discusses the ways people fall backwards into money, what you should do if you come into a windfall, and the value of cash.
Should Billionaires Exist? How Much Is Enough?
September 21, 2023 10:00 - 11 minutes - 21.6 MBJohn C. Bogle, the founder and chief executive of Vanguard who is credited with popularizing the index fund, was only worth about $20 million when he died in 2019. Sure, that’s nothing to sneeze at, but he created something so revolutionary that he could have been a billionaire many times over. His idea transformed the entire asset management industry, and it’s still transforming it to this day. Yet he was only worth $20 million? In today’s episode, Jared reemphasizes the idea of choosing ...
Hedge Funds Are Not Magic Money Machines
September 14, 2023 10:00 - 12 minutes - 22.1 MBWhat is a hedge fund? In today’s episode of the Be Smart podcast, Jared discusses the ins and outs of hedge funds (including the different types), why they are not magic money machines despite rich people’s inclination to invest in them, and the distinction between absolute returns and relative returns.
Every Day Is a Competition
September 07, 2023 13:48 - 9 minutes - 16.7 MBCapitalism doesn’t suck just because you’re bad at it. Capitalism is a competition. Life is a competition. But that’s what’s so great about the US: There are so many opportunities if you want to take advantage of them. Are you ready to compete in the free market? Dive into today’s episode of the Be Smart podcast, where Jared discusses how to better position yourself in a capitalist society and succeed.
Financial Trauma
August 31, 2023 10:00 - 12 minutes - 22.4 MBGrowing up in poverty scars us for life and distorts our relationship with money. The good news: It helps us develop mindful financial habits. The bad: We often don’t experience life to the fullest because we’re always waiting for the next shoe to drop. In today’s episode of the Be Smart podcast, Jared discusses frugality, why so many people carry around financial trauma, and surviving versus thriving.
Don’t Be a Garbage Human Being
August 17, 2023 10:00 - 12 minutes - 22.4 MBThe mark of a good person is the ability to be genuinely happy for another person and their success. In today’s podcast, Jared discusses how envy often creeps into the DNA of garbage human beings, inspirational “rags to riches” stories, and what it takes to succeed.
You Have to Want Money to Get Money
August 10, 2023 10:00 - 12 minutes - 22.3 MBYou can’t just sit around and expect a million dollars to fall into your lap. It doesn’t work that way. The first step to getting more money is wanting it. And it’s okay to want more money; it doesn’t automatically make you a greedy person. In today’s episode, Jared discusses money-conflicted people and, conversely, ways to grow your wealth if you embrace earning more.
The Snobs vs. the Slobs
July 13, 2023 10:00 - 38 minutes - 71.3 MBLong-time guest David Mannen joins Jared Dillian to catch up on summer happenings, including writing short stories and the “just do it” mentality, student loans, how politicians often mirror TV evangelists, baseball, anti-intellectualism, the polarization of Donald Trump, and more.
Don’t Buy Cheap Crap
June 22, 2023 10:00 - 11 minutes - 21.9 MBIf you're going to spend money, spend money on quality stuff—not junk that’s destined to end up in the landfill in 12 months. Jared discusses buying items that last, ways to spend money on experiences that won’t break the bank, and certain types of irresponsible purchases to avoid.
Stop Worrying About the Little Stuff
June 15, 2023 10:00 - 9 minutes - 17.9 MBThe little stuff does not matter. If you want to buy the fancy name-brand Ziploc bags, buy the Ziploc bags. The accumulation of small decisions does not add up to a meaningful amount of money. It's not going to change your life. Remember, it's not the million little things that matter. It's the major expenses—the house, the car, and the student loans—that require vigilance.
Spending Money Is Worth It
May 18, 2023 10:00 - 12 minutes - 22.8 MBSpending money to try new things and experience new places is priceless. But people won't do it. They get stuck on the number in their bank account, which causes them to miss out on a lot of life. While excessive or frivolous purchases can be regrettable, a lot of the time you will regret not spending money on stuff.
Personal Finance in Las Vegas
April 27, 2023 10:00 - 11 minutes - 21.6 MBWhat role does gambling play in personal finance? Are you allowed to gamble if you want to lead a stress-free financial life? Jared answers these questions and more as he recaps his recent trip to Las Vegas.
Shit You Have to Pay For
April 20, 2023 10:00 - 9 minutes - 17 MBSeems like every time you turn around, there’s something you have to pay for. In this episode, Jared discusses the unforeseen expenses you’re never ready for, how they cause stress in your finances, and how to prepare for the unexpected.
How About Those Huskies?
April 13, 2023 10:00 - 43 minutes - 79.6 MBThe UConn Huskies dominating March Madness, weight gain, business updates, and more. Jared and long-time guest David Mannen discuss life, work, and hitting the gym.
Risk of Ruin
April 06, 2023 10:00 - 10 minutes - 14.1 MBIs it worth it to be paranoid with your money? Jared discusses the difference between spreading your money out and diversifying your assets, and shares how to avoid the grip of financial paranoia.
A Bunch of Complete Idiots
March 23, 2023 10:00 - 13 minutes - 24.3 MBWho is next after Silicon Valley Bank? After an unintentional hiatus, Jared is back, explaining what happened, trying to figure out which banks have exposure, and discussing how to avoid collapse.
Go In Through the Back Door
February 16, 2023 11:00 - 12 minutes - 23.7 MBHow do you get the job you really want? There is nothing more powerful than a personal connection. Jared talks about navigating the intricacies of the hiring process and how to draw on your industry contacts.
Socastee
February 09, 2023 14:18 - 22 minutes - 40.7 MBBefore going back to teaching at Coastal Carolina University this fall, Jared talks campus life, frat guys, professors DJing at college parties, turning 21, and making a statement vs. showing up clean cut for interviews with Logan Miller, intern and the man behind the magic at The Daily Dirtnap newsletter.
The Importance of the Number 7
January 26, 2023 11:00 - 43 minutes - 78.9 MBJared has the real estate financial experience, and realtor and friend David Mannen has the boots on the ground experience. They discuss the importance of the number seven when buying or selling a house, the ups and downs of the real estate market, and the playoffs for football and baseball.
Money is Important
January 19, 2023 11:00 - 8 minutes - 15.3 MBIf you’re being forced to choose between fixing the car and going on vacation, you’ve got a problem. In this episode, Jared talks about what it means to truly be financially comfortable in life.
When to Not Pay Down Your Mortgage
January 12, 2023 11:00 - 10 minutes - 19.8 MBIs this the year to take risks in the financial market? Jared discusses what you should do in 2023 to prepare for 2024 and saving college students from bankruptcy with personal finance.
Avoid the Major Screwups
January 05, 2023 11:00 - 14 minutes - 26.1 MBWhat are your investing goals for the new year? Jared talks about the realities of financial goals, avoiding big mistakes, and dealing with the unknown.
Don’t Go into Debt for Christmas
December 15, 2022 11:00 - 14 minutes - 26.4 MBPeople end up in credit card debt because they don’t want to have hard conversations. Jared discusses the quality and impact of truly meaningful gifts.
Underground & Making Dreams Reality
December 08, 2022 16:36 - 47 minutes - 87.7 MBJared and realtor David Manning talk about the profitability of Jared’s dream club, the evolution of reality TV, football career lengths, and more.
The IRS’s Spotlight on Venmo and PayPal
December 06, 2022 20:28 - 14 minutes - 25.8 MBFair warning: The IRS is now targeting third-party payment apps such as Venmo and PayPal, emphasizing the need to report income on transactions exceeding $600. Jared explains the importance of reporting your earnings, whether it be through part-time work, a side gig, or cashed-out winnings.
I Don’t Want to Die
November 24, 2022 11:00 - 12 minutes - 22.7 MBLife insurance doesn’t make any sense. Jared talks about the dichotomy of needing but not wanting life insurance.
Gold: The Most Beautiful Coin in the World
November 17, 2022 11:00 - 8 minutes - 16.4 MBGold is finally turning around. Jared takes a deep dive into the best way to invest in gold and how to buy physical gold.
Serious Threats to Global Markets
November 11, 2022 11:00 - 27 minutes - 38.4 MBAny one of the problems we face—energy prices, housing, inflation—by itself wouldn’t break our back, says John Mauldin, co-founder of Mauldin Economics and one of the most brilliant minds in macroeconomics. But all of them coming together could create a serious crisis. Show host Ed D’Agostino and John discuss what the looming global debt crisis could mean for your portfolio... the disconnect between energy policies and energy needs... and why the Fed needs to “drive a stake through the heart...
Inflation’s Dramatic Dive
November 10, 2022 11:00 - 16 minutes - 29.4 MBThe pandemic caused ripple effects still sloshing through the economy, including inflation, but it’s going to end. Jared takes a look in the crystal ball at the next six months and the psychological effect of inflation’s inevitable downturn.
The Wealth Effect Is Real
November 03, 2022 14:17 - 15 minutes - 27.5 MBPeople in the financial world are panicking, but people in the real world have the right perspective. Jared discusses the wealth effect and the invaluable hope of “normal people.”
Don’t Freak Out
October 27, 2022 10:00 - 9 minutes - 18.3 MBThe changes in the housing market all come down to this rate phenomenon. Jared gives his predictions on where the housing market is going and how inflation affects it.
What Did I Miss?
October 24, 2022 13:25 - 10 minutes - 19.5 MBThe bear market is getting old, and it’s time to get greedy while others are still paralyzed with fear. Jared reflects on the past year in the market and gives hope for the future.
Go to the Conference
September 29, 2022 10:00 - 10 minutes - 19.8 MBIt’s a disadvantage to be an introvert in this world. Jared shares how he broke out of being an introvert and what being “lucky” requires from you.
Loan Forgiveness Won’t Win Over New Voters
September 22, 2022 10:00 - 50 minutes - 92.1 MBStudent loan forgiveness, flipping houses, and the importance of trust in relationships… Jared Dillian talks to realtor David Manning about the harsh realities of life.
“Quiet Quitting” Makes You a Terrible Person
September 15, 2022 10:00 - 13 minutes - 25.3 MBIt takes guts to threaten to leave if you don’t get a raise. But when it works, you get more money—which is good! But it only works if you’re this type of employee…
Pretend You’re a Capitalist
September 08, 2022 10:00 - 11 minutes - 20.4 MBLending money to friends and family is almost never a good idea. Jared Dillian shares his rules for when you do it anyway.