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John Kennedy explains the “Arrival Fallacy;" the belief that happiness will come once you reach a milestone like a certain net worth, retirement, or business success, only to find the feeling quickly fades. He breaks down hedonic adaptation (happiness returning to a baseline) and how dopamine is more tied to anticipation and pursuit than achievement, which is why many high achievers and retirees can feel lost after “arriving.” John argues that lasting fulfillment comes from valuing the process, consistent progress, and meaningful pursuits rather than a single outcome. 00:33 What Is Arrival Fallacy? 01:35 Hedonic Adaptation Explained 02:21 Dopamine and Pursuit 03:20 Success After the Summit 03:56 Retirement and Identity Shift 04:35 Value the Process 04:58 Softball Story Lesson 06:53 Redefining Success 07:33 Keep Your Brain Moving

On this episode of The Above Board podcast, John welcomes back Brandon Hatcher to discuss how to be “retire ready” beyond just finances, building on Brandon’s recent retire-ready checklist event and their earlier “Power of Positive Aging” episode. They explore how retirement can trigger boredom or an identity crisis, why today’s longer, healthier retirements require purpose, routine, and continued growth, and how to use the “what it’s not” exercise to define an ideal retirement (e.g., not endless TV, not doom-scrolling, not wasting time). They highlight the importance of community, family and grandkids, health, and aligning expectations with a spouse, including trying a sabbatical or “soft retirement” before fully stopping work. They also briefly cover key financial basics: defining desired lifestyle and cash flow, building income sources, using tax-diversified accounts (taxable, IRA, Roth), and keeping taxes low.   "Your Retire Ready Checklist" Webinar: https://youtu.be/aW8zxVFUpM4 02:08 Beyond Money Retirement 03:13 Identity Crisis After Work 07:43 'What It's Not' Game 10:04 Build a Daily Routine 15:16 Try a Retirement Sabbatical 16:26 Family and Grandkids Rhythm 19:30 Community Without Isolation 21:57 Money Enables Meaning 22:45 Financial Therapy Talks 27:39 Mindfulness Shelf Method 30:20 Learning And Growth Plans 34:07 Funding Your Retirement 39:06 Health And Partner Alignment 40:43 Try It Before Retiring 41:25 Closing Quote

We live in a world that pushes shortcuts: quick wins, fast answers, and surface-level thinking. In this episode, John and Rich talk about why that mindset shows up in your finances and lifestyle, how it leads to frustration, and why real progress comes from slowing down and building awareness first. If you’ve ever felt stuck or tempted to skip the basics, this conversation will help you reset and refocus. 01:45 Shorts vs Attention Spans 05:27 Brain Rot and Dopamine 06:17 News Extremes Example 11:12 AI Future and Jobs 14:52 Human Skills Still Matter 17:39 Life Hacks and Shortcuts 20:46 Motivation Content Trap 24:58 Viral Speed of Trends 26:37 Loneliness and Disconnection 29:48 Online Connection Paradox 32:23 Social Media Engagement Spiral 36:45 Shortcuts Versus Scenic Route 39:33 Hard Work and Saving Hurts 44:57 Dopamine and Steroid Shortcuts 46:53 Do More Than Watch!

In this episode, we sit down with Jess Jensen, founder of Co-Pilot Communications, to talk about building authentic leadership in a digital world. After nearly 20 years inside Fortune 100 companies like Microsoft and Qualcomm, Jess now helps executives and founders find their voice, clarify their message, and show up online in a way that actually reflects who they are. We unpack why differences sell, how vulnerability builds credibility (not weakens it), the real role of AI in content creation, and why LinkedIn and podcasting are powerful tools for modern leaders.   How to Stay Connected with Jess & CO-Pilot Communications: This April, Jess is launching ALTITUDE—a private LinkedIn branding cohort for small business owners on the rise. Only 8 spots. Registration opens in March.  Join the waitlist here: www.copilotcommunications.com/altitude-waitlist Or, connect with Jess on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicakjensen/   00:00 Guest Intro 01:32 Unreasonable Hospitality 04:03 Radical Candor and Trust 05:14 Digital Presence Funnel 11:03 AI and Authentic Content 20:21 Client Process and Storytelling 25:03 Setting Story Boundaries 25:45 Vulnerability Builds Credibility 31:23 Authenticity Shapes Team Culture 34:46 Dark Social Flywheel 37:36 Podcasting and LinkedIn Strategy

Most financial mistakes aren’t math problems… they’re mindset problems. In this episode, John unpacks why knowledge alone isn’t what holds most people back. It’s not that you don’t understand budgeting, investing, or saving. It’s the emotions, habits, fears, and stories underneath your decisions that quietly drive the outcome. We talk about behavior vs. strategy, why self-awareness matters more than spreadsheets, and how to start making financial decisions that align with who you want to become, not just what the numbers say. 00:00 “Just Make $273/Day” Money Math Misses the Point 01:13 Hard Work Isn’t the Problem: The Real Causes of Money Stress 02:35 The 3 Gaps: Discipline, Awareness, and Identity 04:00 Gap #1 — The Discipline Gap (Knowing vs. Doing) 04:37 Gap #2 — The Awareness Gap (Measure Your Burn Rate & Savings Rate) 06:34 Gap #3 — The Identity Gap (Your Money Story Shapes Your Behavior) 07:58 Practical 4-Step Reset: Track, Automate, Cancel, Money Date 10:28 Share This + Get Help at YourMoneyStory.app

John sits down with Pia to explore the connection between creativity, conviction, and living with purpose. They talk about what it means to create from a place of clarity, how culture shapes expression, and the courage it takes to live authentically. It’s a thoughtful conversation about identity, purpose, and using your creativity in a way that reflects who you truly are. Resources from Pia and the Kollectiv Studio: Learn More about The Kollectiv Studio Welcome to the Creative Club: Make Life Your Biggest Art Project 01:20 Redefining Creativity 03:53 Pia's Personal Journey and Career Shift 06:03 The Impact of Creativity in Life and Work 07:46 Rediscovering Intuition and Overcoming Fear 14:49 Balancing Productivity and Presence 27:30 Embracing Peace and Self-Service 33:35 Unleashing Creativity: John's Journey 34:21 The Importance of Self-Integrity 39:04 The Power of Slowing Down 40:29 Creating Space for Creativity 42:50 Finding Flow State 58:32 'Welcome to The Creative Club'

Most money stress isn’t about income, it’s about how money flows. In this episode, John Kennedy, CFP® breaks down the difference between spending up and spending down, why budgeting often feels frustrating, and how small system changes can create real clarity. He shares a simple framework for managing cash flow and building habits that actually stick. If you’ve ever felt like you’re earning enough but still wondering where your money went, this episode will help you reset the way you think about spending.   Resources mentioned: Free Financial Online Course: YourMoneyStory.app Live Webinar on Feb. 17th - Your Money Flows: Bringing Order to Your Daily Budget    00:09 The Real Problem: Money Psychology 02:14 Spending Up vs. Spending Down 05:21 The Power of Cash Flow Management 05:57 Implementing the Three-Account System 08:15 Join Our Free Online Course

In this episode, John talks with Mitchell Osmond, founder of Dad Nation and host of The Dad Nation Podcast, about why success at work may not always translate to fulfillment at home. Mitchell shares practical takeaways for high-performing men who feel driven and capable, but disconnected in their relationships. It’s a grounded conversation about emotional presence, intentional leadership at home, and building real connection where it matters most. Resources mentioned in this episode: Dad Nation Coaching & Resources: www.dadnationco.com The Dad Nation Podcast: Available on all major podcast platforms Mitchell on Instagram: @dadnationco   01:20 Early Warning Signs of Misalignment 04:36 The Crazy Cycle in Relationships 11:47 Practical Tools for Emotional Presence 15:08 Active Listening Techniques 18:55 Preparing for Presence at Home 26:21 Balancing Work and Family Goals 28:07 Understanding Masculine and Feminine Dynamics 30:40 The Importance of Emotional Connection in Relationships 35:45 Modeling Healthy Relationships for Children 41:04 Encouraging Emotional Awareness in Men 42:06 Final Thoughts and Resources

John shares a simple moment that turned into a bigger lesson about growth, patience, and showing up when things don’t go perfectly. Using an everyday experience, he reflects on how frustration, mistakes, and missed expectations are often part of the learning process, and not signs to quit. It’s a reminder that progress is built through consistency, resets, and staying present, even when things feel messy! 00:08 A Game of Catch: Lessons from Softball Practice 01:41 Embracing Imperfection 02:37 Steph Curry: Practice and Perseverance 04:20 Applying the Lesson 05:31 Reflecting on Life's Blessings

In this episode, John sits down with Estate Planning & Probate Attorney, Jennifer Bondy, to talk about the often-overlooked emotional side of money, relationships, and decision-making. Jennifer shares how our past experiences shape the way we show up financially and personally, and why awareness is the first step toward real change. It’s an honest conversation about growth, clarity, and building healthier patterns that actually stick. Learn more about Jennifer and her work: Website: www.bondy.law Areas of Legal Practice: https://bondy.law/areas-of-practice/ 01:06 Jennifer's Career Journey 03:46 Estate Planning Basics 11:04 The Role of Trusts in Estate Planning 13:15 Understanding Probate 16:09 Avoiding Probate and Family Disputes 19:32 Disinheriting a Family Member 20:11 Will-Based vs. Trust-Based Plans 21:35 The Rise of AI in Legal Services 24:59 The Role of Financial Advisors in Estate Planning 26:44 The Importance of Proper Document Execution 29:28 State-Specific Legal Considerations

Before you start setting goals for the year, this episode takes a step back. John talks about why goal-setting often feels exhausting, not because you’re bad at it, but because you’re overloaded, and why creating space matters more than creating a perfect plan. He shares a simple but powerful approach to slowing down, getting clear on what you actually want your days to feel like, and building goals that support your life instead of running it. A great listen if you’re feeling unsure of where exactly to start this year. 00:00 Introduction and New Year Reflections 00:32 The Struggle with Goal Setting 01:34 Creating Space for Clear Thinking 03:52 Collaborative Goal Setting 05:38 Life Design Before Goal Setting 08:39 Upcoming Episodes Preview

This episode is our version of a year-end wrap. We look back on the biggest themes from 2025, from money and markets to mindset, purpose, and growth, and reflect on what actually mattered most. It’s a highlight reel of the conversations that shaped the year, plus a look ahead at what’s coming next. If you’ve been with us all year (or you’re just jumping in), this one ties it all together. Thanks for spending this year with us!   Past Episodes Referenced in This Wrap-Up: - New Year, New Disciplines (EP 0145) – Kicking off 2025 with a focus on clarity, intention, and what deserves your energy - Everything Everywhere Fallacy (EP 0147) with Mitch Matthews – Why “being one place well” matters more than doing everything at once - Part 1: I'm Learning to "Let Them" (EP 0155) – Learning to release control and stop managing outcomes - Part 2: I'm Learning to "Let Me" (EP 0156) – Doubling down on what you can control - Loss Aversion: Losing Hurts More Than Winning Feels Good (EP 0162) – Understanding emotional decision-making during market uncertainty - Your Passion Doesn’t Retire with Brandon Hatcher (EP 0174) – Why purpose doesn’t end when your career does 00:00 Welcome to the Above Board Podcast Year-End Recap 00:09 Reflecting on 2025: Achievements and Inspirations 01:08 Key Themes of 2025: Financial Clarity and Personal Growth 01:31 Impactful Conversations: Focus and the Everything Everywhere Fallacy 02:44 Q2 Highlights: Embracing the Let Them Theory 04:30 Q3 Insights: Navigating the Financial Markets 05:37 Q4 Focus: People, Purpose, and Fulfillment 07:37 Looking Ahead to 2026: Exciting Plans and Gratitude

In this episode, John sits down with CandorPath's newest advisor, Brandon Hatcher, to talk about purpose, passion, and what fulfillment really looks like; long before and long after retirement. Brandon shares his journey to CandorPath, why knowing someone’s “why” matters, and how money can simply fuel the life you want to live. They also touch on family, coaching, community, and how to stay grounded in your identity as seasons change. A great conversation for anyone thinking about purpose, not just planning. 01:02 Brandon Hatcher's Background and Joining the Team 03:59 The Philosophy of Financial Advising 06:48 Building Client Relationships 14:53 Team Dynamics 20:57 Coaching Your Kids: Balancing Involvement and Engagement 23:06 The Influence of Simon Sinek's 'Start with Why' 26:13 Finding Purpose in Retirement 29:27 The Importance of Community and Routine 34:26 Your Purpose Doesn't Retire 38:03 Parting Words

John sits down with mental health coach, author, and speaker Judith Belmont to unpack why our thoughts shape so much of how we feel, and what we can actually do about it. Judy breaks down Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in a practical, down-to-earth way, from spotting cognitive distortions to managing anxiety, reframing stress, and building real resilience. It’s an encouraging conversation about self-talk, self-worth, and learning to see yourself with a little more compassion (and a lot less pressure). If you’ve been feeling stretched thin, stuck in your head, or just human…this one will land. Explore more of Judy’s work at BelmontWellness.com and her latest book 110 CBT Tips & Tools: https://a.co/d/f5SN67u   00:00 Guest Welcome 01:09 Understanding CBT: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy 02:13 Practical Tips for Positive Thinking 05:07 The Role of Self-Help Books in Therapy 08:28 Dealing with Anxiety: Real-Life Examples 15:35 Stress: The Spice of Life 20:59 Understanding Team Dynamics and Personality Types 21:50 The Mental Health of High Achievers 24:23 The Positive Side of Stress 26:13 Facing and Managing Emotional Avoidance 28:59 The Importance of Self-Worth and Self-Compassion 33:44 Building Resilience and Learning from Failure 38:07 Parting Wisdom

Retirement isn’t the finish line... it’s the start of a new financial chapter. In this episode, John explains why shifting from “getting to retirement” to “planning through retirement” is essential. He shares real examples, the impact of staying invested, and what long-term risk actually looks like for retirees. A clear, practical conversation to help you protect your lifestyle, keep your money working, and stay confident for the decades ahead. 00:00 Introduction to Retirement Misconceptions 00:25 The New Race: Finding Purpose in Retirement 01:21 Financial Strategies for a Secure Retirement 03:15 Retirement Journey 05:32 The Importance of Investing Through Retirement