THE FINANCIAL COMMUTE

What Financial Advisors Think About "Die with Zero"

Chris Galeski Season 1 Episode 133

On this week's episode of THE FINANCIAL COMMUTE, Chris and Kevin discuss a book they recently enjoyed, Die with Zero by Bill Perkins. Are most of us over-saving and under-living?

Here are some key takeaways from their conversation:

  • Bill Perkins argues that most people die with too much money. He says wealth should be used to create meaningful experiences while we're healthy enough to enjoy them.
  • Kevin notes that life is made of seasons — in youth, you have time, energy, and health. Optimal planning aligns spending with life stages to maximize fulfillment.
  • Instead of waiting to pass on wealth after death, giving earlier can be more impactful — for kids, grandkids, or charities — while you're still around to see the results. 
  • Chris and Kevin agree it is important to prepare for the future and make wise financial choices while spending with purpose on things that bring the most value and joy. 
  • The book gives a new perspective to the FIRE movement (Financial Independence, Retire Early) and questions delaying enjoyment for a future that may never arrive or be as fulfilling.