Michael and Brady dig deep into a paradox affecting a generation: Millennials and Gen Z are planning their finances more than ever, yet still feel financially stuck. If you’ve ever felt like you’re checking all the boxes—budgeting, saving, investing—but still can’t shake the feeling of falling behind, this episode is for you. It’s not just about numbers—it’s about perspective, purpose, and progress. This isn’t your parents’ financial playbook, and that’s exactly why you need a new approach.

Key Takeaways:

• Why do younger Americans feel financially behind despite taking more proactive steps with their money?

• How have rising costs, shifting responsibilities, and social comparisons reshaped what financial success looks like today?

• What mindset and planning strategies can help Millennials and Gen Z find clarity, reduce stress, and build lasting financial momentum?

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Gen Z and Millennials: DIY financial planning trends

(05:00) - Major stressors: housing, student loans, and rising costs

(10:00) - Behavioral finance and anxiety-driven decision-making

(13:00) - Wage growth vs. cost of living: the uphill financial battle

(16:00) - Retirement savings shift: from pensions to 401(k)s

(19:00) - Rethinking the “standard” financial script

(22:00) - How to set goals that actually fit your life

(24:00) - The role of liquidity and flexibility in your financial plan

(27:00) - Why working with a coach or advisor makes a difference

(33:00) - Climbing the financial mountain: accumulation vs. decumulation

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, Stock Market Crashes, Millennial Financial Planning, Gen Z Money Struggles, Overcoming Financial Stress, Building Financial Confidence, Modern Financial Goals Strategy

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value.

Michael Acosta is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 6115 PARK SOUTH DRIVE, SUITE 200, CHARLOTTE NC, 28210, 704-5528507. Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Genesis Wealth Planning is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License # 0M50974. 7237198.9. Expiration 6-27.