Most people know they should have an emergency fund—but how much is enough, where should you keep it, and why does it matter so much? In this episode of Compound Growth, Wheeler and Colin dive deep into the psychology and strategy behind building an emergency reserve that actually works.

From high-yield savings accounts to the myths about tapping into retirement funds, they break down why liquidity matters, how to decide between 3, 6, or even 12 months of expenses, and the real math behind savings versus stock market returns. Along the way, they share stories, stats, and the often-overlooked psychological benefits of simply knowing you’re covered.

They also tackle the changing financial landscape—from the wild returns of the 1980s, to the rise of Robinhood and crypto, to why so many Americans still struggle to cover even a $400 emergency. The message is clear: before chasing the “next big thing,” it pays to lock in your financial foundation.

Follow Us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compoundgrowthpod
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CompoundGrowthPodcast
• TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@compoundgrowthpod
• Wheeler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wheeler-crowley-0a63933b/
• Colin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-walker-mba-6099a038/

Credits:
Created By: Wheeler Crowley and Colin Walker
Production Assistance: Tori Rothwell
Editing and Post-Production: Steven Sims

In this episode of Compound Growth, Wheeler and Colin welcome a familiar face who’s usually behind the scenes—Tori Rothwell. From coordinating client outreach and marketing to keeping the team running smoothly, Tori wears many hats. Today, she steps up to the mic to share her story, her perspective on money, and what drives her both personally and professionally.

The conversation starts with a wild insurance sales story before shifting into Tori’s upbringing, earliest money memories, and how her family taught her lessons about responsibility without ever making money the centerpiece of life. She reflects on saving habits, working from a young age, navigating college loans, and what it feels like to handle large financial transactions for clients after growing up with a very different perspective.

Tori also dives into the Gen Z outlook on money, work, and happiness—why experiences sometimes outweigh retirement savings, how she balances living in the present with preparing for the future, and why flexibility matters more to her generation than the traditional “white picket fence” life plan. It’s an honest, refreshing conversation that sheds light on a different way of thinking about financial growth.

Follow Us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compoundgrowthpod
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CompoundGrowthPodcast
• TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@compoundgrowthpod
• Wheeler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wheeler-crowley-0a63933b/
• Colin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-walker-mba-6099a038/

Credits:
Created By: Wheeler Crowley and Colin Walker
Production Assistance: Tori Rothwell
Editing and Post-Production: Steven Sims

In this new monthly recap series, Wheeler and Colin break down the biggest stories shaping markets, technology, and culture. August was packed with surprises — from Taylor Swift’s engagement shattering internet records to markets continuing their hot streak despite political noise and seasonal headwinds.

The hosts dive into what’s driving stock performance, including international markets outperforming, the Magnificent 7’s continued dominance, and why AI remains at the center of investor enthusiasm. They also unpack political influence on economic data and central bank independence, explaining how tariffs and leadership shake-ups are playing into the current investment landscape.

Beyond the markets, Wheeler and Colin explore the future of tech — from Apple’s AI gap to Google’s push for ecosystem dominance — and what shifting strategies mean for consumers and investors alike. This is the first of their monthly “What Just Happened?” wrap-ups, designed to give you a clear, engaging look at how news, markets, and culture intersect to shape growth.

Follow Us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compoundgrowthpod
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CompoundGrowthPodcast
• TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@compoundgrowthpod
• Wheeler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wheeler-crowley-0a63933b/
• Colin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-walker-mba-6099a038/

Credits:
Created By: Wheeler Crowley and Colin Walker
Production Assistance: Tori Rothwell
Editing and Post-Production: Steven Sims