85: How Trade Schools Prepare Students for Successful Careers with Jason Altmire

85: How Trade Schools Prepare Students for Successful Careers with Jason Altmire

The future belongs to skilled workers. In this episode, Keith and Doug interview Jason Altmire, author of Trade Up, who explains why skilled trades are becoming one of the most important pathways to career stability, entrepreneurship, and long-term financial success. As the cost of college continues to rise and the demand for skilled labor grows, more families and young adults are reconsidering what career preparation should actually look like. Jason discusses how trade schools and certificate programs are equipping students with practical skills, entrepreneurial training, and real-world opportunities in fields like electrical work, plumbing, HVAC, welding, and construction. This conversation explores why the trades are no longer just an “alternative path,” but a strategic option for young people looking to build meaningful, well-paying careers without massive student debt. Whether you're a parent helping your child plan for the future, a Gen Z student exploring career options, or someone questioning the traditional corporate route, this episode offers a thoughtful look at the future of workforce development and skilled labor in America. 👉 Work with us: https://www.gimbalfinancial.com

84: Why This Compliance Officer Loves Taking Risks

Regulatory compliance is usually treated like the most boring part of business, but this conversation proves it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of the Up Your Average podcast, Doug sits down with Gimbal Financial’s compliance officer, Sue Mitchell, to talk about what regulatory compliance actually looks like behind the scenes, why compliance matters more than most people realize, and how businesses can stay compliant without losing their personality. Sue brings a refreshing perspective to compliance by mixing practical insight with humor, real-world stories, and a willingness to challenge the stereotype of the “boring compliance officer.” From handling regulatory requirements to discussing risk, discipline, and professional responsibility, this episode explores how strong compliance can actually support growth and confidence. Whether you work in financial services, own a business, or simply want a better understanding of compliance and regulatory compliance, this episode delivers practical insight in a way that’s engaging and easy to follow. 👉 Work with us: https://www.gimbalfinancial.com

83: Home Maintenance Tips Every New Homeowner Needs with Expert Repairman Micah Langmaack

Buying a home is exciting—but many new homeowners quickly realize there are hidden responsibilities and unexpected expenses nobody prepared them for.  In this episode of the Up Your Average Podcast, Doug sits down with expert repairman Micah Langmaack to break down a practical homeowner checklist designed to help first-time buyers and aspiring homeowners avoid costly mistakes. From home maintenance basics to common repair issues, this conversation covers the real-world things every homeowner should know before problems become expensive emergencies. Whether you recently bought a home, are preparing to buy one, or simply want to stay ahead on home improvement projects, this episode delivers straightforward, actionable advice. You’ll learn about: • Common home repairs homeowners overlook • Easy maintenance habits that save money • Small issues that turn into major expenses • Interior home improvement priorities • What to expect after buying a house • How to prepare financially for homeownership If you want a simple homeowner roadmap that makes owning a home less overwhelming, this episode is for you. 👉 Work with us: https://www.gimbalfinancial.com

82: Simple Brain Science That Can Change Your Life with Dr. Lee Warren

What if the biggest thing holding you back isn’t your past, but how your brain learned to respond to it? In this episode, neurosurgeon Dr. Lee Warren breaks down how neuroscience, trauma, and mental health intersect and why lasting change doesn’t come from rewriting your story, but from rewiring your brain. We explore a powerful idea: you don’t need a different life, different parents, or different circumstances to heal. You need to learn how your brain actually works and how to operate it differently. Dr. Warren shares practical insights from years in the operating room and his work helping people overcome depression, anxiety, and trauma. This includes a fresh perspective on antidepressants, emotional resilience, and what he calls “self-brain surgery”—a process of intentionally reshaping your thinking patterns. If you’ve ever felt stuck in cycles of anxiety, depression, or reactive thinking, this conversation offers a grounded, science-backed path forward. Key Topics: • Neuroscience and mental health explained simply • Trauma vs. coping: what really drives your struggles • Rethinking antidepressants and brain chemistry • How to rewire your brain through daily habits • The connection between thoughts, behavior, and identity If you’re ready to think differently and take control of your future, this is where it starts. 👉 Work with us: https://www.gimbalfinancial.com

81: How to Enjoy Your 40s and Still Retire Strong

Your 40s are a unique season of life, full of energy, opportunity, and motion. In this episode, Keith and Doug talk through why this decade can feel like a “sweet spot.” You have more experience, more discernment, and often more financial stability, but at the same time, life is moving faster than ever. Your kids are growing up, your responsibilities are expanding, and your time and attention are being pulled in multiple directions. One of the biggest ideas we unpack is simple but powerful: nothing gets better without attention. That applies to your finances, your health, your relationships, and your family life. And in your 40s, when everything is in motion, it becomes critical to step back and ask: What actually needs my attention right now? We also walk through what this decade often looks like in real life, especially for families. From youth sports to changing family dynamics, your role begins to shift. You’re no longer just leading your family, you’re often following where your kids’ interests and lives are taking you. This conversation is about recognizing that reality, taking inventory, and being intentional with how you move forward.  If you want help bringing clarity and structure to your 40s so you can enjoy it and stay on track financially, we’re here to help. Work with us at https://www.gimbalfinancial.com.