Have you ever bought something and immediately wondered, "Why did I spend money on that?"

In Episode 58 of The Money Alchemist Podcast, Brent sits down with Dr. Bryan Buechner, marketing professor at Xavier University and expert in consumer psychology, to explore the hidden forces that influence our financial decisions every day.

Together they discuss how marketing shapes behavior, why self-control is more complicated than simply "spending less," and how consumers can make better purchasing decisions in a world filled with endless choices, targeted advertising, social media, AI recommendations, and subscription services.

They also dive into topics such as Costco's cult-like customer loyalty, the rise and fall of Peloton, the psychology of pricing, consumer biases, AI shopping assistants, decision fatigue, loyalty programs, and how understanding consumer behavior can ultimately help you become a better steward of your money.

Whether you're trying to spend more intentionally, improve your financial habits, or simply understand why companies market the way they do, this episode offers practical insights that can help you make better decisions with your money.

Managing Director, National Wealth Management Group www.nwmgadvisors.com Sign up for Ben’s newsletter at www.karatstick.com Follow him on X @thekaratstick https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-nwmg/

Founder & Advisor, Infinite Wealth Planning www.infinitewealthplanning.com https://linkedin.com/in/brent-gargano-cfp®-2067b573

Comments or questions? www.nwmgadvisors.com.

Is AI about to replace financial advisors?

In this episode of The Money Alchemist Podcast, we explore how AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Grok are beginning to influence investing, financial planning, and the way people search for financial advice online.

We compare how AI responds to both simple and complex financial questions and discuss where these tools may be useful — and where they can still fall short compared to experienced advisors.

We also dive into markets, inflation, rising interest rates, prediction markets, consumer spending, and the growing role technology is playing across finance and decision-making.

• Kevin Warsh confirmed by the Senate • Long-term Treasury yields spike above 5% • What higher bond yields could mean for mortgage rates • Consumer spending reaches new highs as inflation remains elevated • Bank of America insights on market behavior and spending trends • US-China summit developments and market implications • 60 Minutes segment on prediction markets and insider trading concerns

Managing Director, National Wealth Management Group www.nwmgadvisors.com Sign up for Ben’s newsletter at www.karatstick.com Follow him on X @thekaratstick https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-nwmg/

Founder & Advisor, Infinite Wealth Planning www.infinitewealthplanning.com https://linkedin.com/in/brent-gargano-cfp®-2067b573

Comments or questions? https://www.wsj.com/finance/investing/i-asked-chatgpt-to-manage-a-stock-portfolio-heres-how-it-did-0d62900b

Bank of America Insights: https://institute1.bofa.com/C/?q=e4SyKUJSHPg

The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. The views expressed here are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of National Wealth Management Group, LLC or its affiliates.

Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. There is no guarantee that any investment strategy discussed will be successful or profitable. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Economic discussions are based on current data and opinions, which are subject to change and may not accurately predict future events. We encourage listeners to conduct their own research and seek guidance from a certified financial advisor before making any decisions.

Advisory services are offered through National Wealth Management Group, LLC. For more information about National Wealth Management Group including Forms ADV and CRS, please visit www.nwmgadvisors.com.

What accounts do you actually need to build wealth?

In this episode of The Money Alchemist Podcast, Ben and Brent break down the idea that simplicity often beats complexity when it comes to financial planning and investing.

They discuss why many investors end up chasing gimmicks, opening too many accounts, and overcomplicating their finances....when in reality, only a handful of account types tend to do most of the heavy lifting over time.

The conversation walks through the core account structures they believe are most important for long-term wealth building and why understanding the purpose of each account matters more than constantly searching for the next strategy.

• Earnings growth accelerating across the S&P 500 • AI hardware demand surging with renewed focus on infrastructure • Micron, Intel, AMD, and Broadcom seeing increased attention • GameStop’s reported interest in eBay and why the market reacted negatively • PCE inflation coming in hotter than expected • 30-year Treasury bond hovering around 5% • Fed rate expectations and the outlook for future policy decisions

About Your Hosts

Ben Jones, CFP® Managing Director, National Wealth Management Group www.nwmgadvisors.com Sign up for Ben’s newsletter: www.karatstick.com Follow him on X @thekaratstick https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-nwmg/

Brent Gargano, CFP® Founder & Advisor, Infinite Wealth Planning www.infinitewealthplanning.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bmj2PaxX24E

FactSet Earnings Update: https://insight.factset.com/sp-500-earnings-season-update-may-1-2026

Comments or questions? Email us at: www.nwmgadvisors.com or contact us directly.

To connect with Ben Jones or Brent Gargano directly, email: comments@themoneyalchemistshow.com