46. Finance: 3 Must-Read Books to Change Your Financial Trajectory
The Freq Show Podcast, Episode 46
Introduction: Why Financial Literacy Matters
Money isn’t just about numbers—it’s about mindset. In this episode of The Freq Show, Jaclyn and Sam Thurmond dive deep into the financial books that have reshaped their approach to wealth, budgeting, and investing. If you’re looking for a financial reset, these books will transform the way you think about money.
Breaking the Money Taboo
For many, discussing finances comes with a mix of shame, guilt, and scarcity. Jaclyn shares her personal journey—from graduating with massive student loan debt to becoming financially empowered. The shift came through education, mindset work, and practical strategies outlined in today’s must-read books.
Book #1: Secrets of the Millionaire Mind by T. Harv Eker
Key Takeaways:
✅ Adopt a Wealth Mindset – The rich think differently about money. This book reveals the thought patterns that set financially successful people apart.
✅ The Budgeting System That Works – Eker outlines a multi-account budgeting strategy that simplifies money management:
Necessities Account (50-60%) – Rent, utilities, and essential expenses.
Fun Fund (10%) – Guilt-free spending for experiences & relaxation.
Long-Term Savings (10%) – Big purchases, emergencies, or major life goals.
Giving Account (10%) – Charitable donations and supporting others.
Education Account (10%) – Investing in learning and personal development.
💡 Jaclyn’s Take: “The Fun Fund was life-changing! Instead of feeling guilty about small luxuries, I now spend money intentionally—knowing that I’ve budgeted for joy.”
Budgeting for Entrepreneurs & Freelancers
Sam highlights how budgeting looks different when your income fluctuates. The key? Start with any percentage—even if it's 2%—and develop the habit of allocating money.
Book #2: The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas J. Stanley & William D. Danko
Key Takeaways:
✅ Wealthy People Don’t Always Look Wealthy – Most millionaires don’t drive luxury cars or live in mansions. They build wealth by spending less than they earn.
✅ Financial Habits Over Time = Millions – Even those earning modest incomes can become millionaires through consistent saving and smart investing.
✅ Avoiding Lifestyle Inflation – The key to long-term wealth isn’t earning more—it’s keeping more and letting compound interest do its work.
💡 Jaclyn’s Take: “One of the wealthiest people I know highly recommended this book. It’s a reminder that financial freedom isn’t about looking rich—it’s about being rich.”
💡 Sam’s Take: “It really reinforced the importance of discipline. Most of the millionaires in this book had regular jobs but made smart, long-term financial decisions.”
Daily Budgeting Hack for Financial Awareness
Jaclyn shares her daily budget trick—taking the remaining monthly budget and dividing it by the days left in the month. This method keeps spending intentional and leaves more for investments.
Book #3: Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
Key Takeaways:
✅ Assets Pay for Liabilities – Instead of trading time for money, invest in cash-flowing assets that generate income.
✅ Good Debt vs. Bad Debt – Not all debt is bad! Strategic real estate investments, for example, can generate wealth instead of depleting it.
✅ Real Estate as a Wealth Builder – Investing in rental properties allows passive income to cover expenses.
💡 Jaclyn’s Take: “This book flipped traditional financial advice on its head. Instead of saving every penny, Kiyosaki teaches you to invest wisely and make money work for you.”
💡 Sam’s Take: “The biggest lesson? Have your assets pay for your luxuries. Instead of working harder to afford things, build investments that generate income to cover them.”
The Power of House Hacking
Sam explains the house hacking strategy:
Buying a duplex and renting out one side to cover the mortgage.
Investing in rental properties that generate passive income.
Using real estate cash flow to pay for personal expenses.
Investment Hacks: Start Small, Start Now
If you think you need thousands of dollars to start investing, think again! Jaclyn shares simple ways to start building wealth with any budget:
✅ Micro-Saving Apps – Apps like Acorns & Qapital round up purchases and invest the spare change.
✅ Stock & Crypto Apps – Use Robinhood or Public to invest small amounts into stocks, ETFs, or crypto.
✅ Daily Budgeting Strategy – Leftover budget money? Invest it instead of spending it.
💡 Jaclyn’s Take: “I started with just $50 a month in my Roth IRA, and over the years, it’s grown significantly. Consistency matters more than the amount you start with.”
Final Thoughts: Your Next Steps to Financial Independence
You don’t have to be wealthy to start building wealth. The key is financial literacy and consistent habits. Start today by:
1️⃣ Picking one of these books and reading it.
2️⃣ Setting up a simple budget (try the Secrets of the Millionaire Mind system!).
3️⃣ Making your first small investment—even if it’s just $20.
💬 Question for You:
How can you start creating your own investment plan today? Could you take $20 and invest it using one of the strategies we shared?
🎧 Listen to the full episode on all streaming platforms!
🔗 Visit beckonliving.com for more insights, book recommendations, and financial tips.
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🚀 Cheers to high-frequency living!
