In this episode of Academics and Their Money, hosts Neeka Miremadi and Inga Timmerman talk with Pieter De Jong, who shares his unconventional journey from physical therapist to finance professor. Pieter reflects on growing up poor in the Netherlands, moving to the U.S. with nothing, and pursuing an MBA and PhD while raising a family, all driven by a deep desire for freedom and security.

He discusses what money has meant to him (“freedom, not happiness”), the lessons he learned about investing, and what shocked him most about academia. From navigating politics and inefficiency in faculty meetings to learning how to negotiate for research resources instead of salary, Pieter’s insights are both blunt and refreshingly candid.

The conversation also dives into emotional realities: retirement, identity, and what truly matters beyond professional success. As Pieter puts it, the goal isn’t to be remembered as a great professor but as “a good father and a good husband.”

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Any product or financial recommendations provided by Academics and Their Money, Inga, or Neeka are made solely in the author’s opinion and do not constitute professional financial or legal advice. All content is for educational purposes only.