Is the American Dream Dead? | Mark Matson

2025-11-10

Financial advisor and author Mark Matson joins Behavioral Grooves to explore what the American Dream means today—and whether it’s truly attainable for everyone. We dig into his view that fulfillment comes from mindset, not money, and examine how behavioral biases can sabotage our financial decisions. But as we discuss the tension between personal responsibility and systemic headwinds, we also ask: can discipline and optimism alone really guarantee success? Topics [0:00] A quick word with Kurt and Tim - Struggling with the American Dre...

Financial advisor and author Mark Matson joins Behavioral Grooves to explore what the American Dream means today—and whether it’s truly attainable for everyone. We dig into his view that fulfillment comes from mindset, not money, and examine how behavioral biases can sabotage our financial decisions. But as we discuss the tension between personal responsibility and systemic headwinds, we also ask: can discipline and optimism alone really guarantee success?

Topics

[0:00] A quick word with Kurt and Tim - Struggling with the American Dream

[5:08] Speed Round with Mark Matson

[9:20] Cognitive Biases in Investing

[16:00] Victimhood vs Agency

[23:58] Why Investors Are Their Own Worst Enemy

[27:12] Behavioral Economics and Bad Decisions

[38:45] The Three Rules for Smarter Investing

[44:58] Defining “Enough”

[51:13] How to Find Purpose and Find Your Groove

[58:50] Desert Island Music Picks

[1:01:12] Grooving Session: Nuance, Privilege, and Perspective