Ep. 200 – Paul Fenner – Finding Harmony in Life, Work, and Family: Reflections on 200 Episodes
I recently spent some time away on vacation, which got me thinking deeply about retirement, purpose, and the ongoing challenge of finding meaning in our everyday lives. While watching some older couples spend hours together on their boats, I found myself questioning not just what they talked about, but also how I view my own future and the idea of slowing down.
From leaving a corporate career I couldn’t stand to building a financial advisory firm that truly fulfills me, I share my ongoing struggle with the gap between knowing we want change and actually taking the necessary steps. I’ve learned, both as a podcast host and advisor, that self-awareness is just the first step; turning that awareness into action is often the hardest part, especially without a dramatic wake-up call pushing us forward.
As we celebrate 200 episodes, I wanted to pass along three key takeaways from this milestone episode that might spark some reflection in your own life and career:
Awareness is the First Step, But Action is Hardest
Financial Planning is (Mostly) Emotional
Strive for Harmony, Not Balance
Thank you to everyone who has tuned into the podcast, whether it’s been for one episode or 200. Here’s to continuing the conversation and helping more people find their own version of harmony.
Connect with Paul
Contact Paul here or schedule a time to meet with Paul here.
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And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES YOU MAY LIKE
1 Big Idea to Think About
While awareness of wanting change - whether in career, finances, or life - is important, the real challenge lies in taking action. Finding harmony (rather than perfect balance) between work, family, and personal happiness is essential for a fulfilling life.
1 Way You Can Apply This
When contemplating a career or life change, create space for self-awareness and intentional reflection, then set a small, concrete action - even if it’s just taking an afternoon to brainstorm next steps. By pairing self-reflection with actionable movement, you’ll overcome inertia and gradually build the habit of moving toward greater harmony between your personal, career, and financial goals.
1 Question to Ask
Am I truly aware of what I want in my career or life right now, and if so, what’s holding me back from taking action toward it?
Key Moments From the Show
00:00 Noticing retired couples talking for hours sparks reflection on purpose and retirement plans.
01:16 Paul shares his passion for financial advising and why he has no set retirement plan.
02:13 Awareness versus action—Paul discusses how awareness of what you want is only the first step.
03:34 Life events like job loss or relationship changes often force people to take action.
04:55 Paul reflects on hating his old corporate career and the importance of following what you want.
05:43 Early work experiences with entrepreneurs instilled a strong work ethic and planning.
06:24 Many families struggle to find time to reflect on career due to busy lives with kids and relationships.
07:39 Acknowledges the challenge of helping people move from awareness to action for change.
09:06 80% of financial advising is about emotions, 20% about money—hence, the podcast name.
09:56 Pursuing harmony rather than balance between work and family is key to happiness.
11:03 Paul thanks listeners for supporting the 200th episode and reflects on the podcast journey.