The 3rd Decade Podcast

Same Game, Different Stakes: What Pro Athletes Teach Us About Everyday Financial Planning

In this episode, Nikita is joined by former professional athlete turned CFP®, Jeff Locke, to explore a surprising truth: when it comes to money, pro athletes and everyday earners are playing the same game—just with different stakes. From locker rooms to living rooms, the financial challenges are more alike than you might think. Jeff shares firsthand stories from his time in professional sports, revealing how even high earners struggle with overspending, credit, family expectations, and the pressure to “keep up.” Along the way, he and Nikita break down the core financial principles that apply to everyone—no matter your income. They dive into the fundamentals that never change: building an emergency fund, following a smart investing order, and avoiding lifestyle creep. They also unpack the unique realities athletes face—like short career windows, sudden wealth, and high-risk investment pitches—and what those extremes can teach the rest of us. At the heart of the conversation is one key idea: financial success isn’t about how much you make—it’s about behavior, discipline, and systems that support your goals. Whether you’re managing a steady paycheck or navigating more variable income, this episode offers practical, actionable lessons to help you build a more secure financial future—without getting caught up in comparison or complexity. Resources: * Jeff Locke's LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jefflocke9/] * Start here: Build your financial foundation  [https://www.letsmakeaplan.org/financial-topics/topics-a-z] * Protect yourself first: Emergency fund basics  [https://www.finra.org/investors/investing/investing-basics/financial-foundations]

Building First-Gen Wealth with Uziel Gomez

Nikita Wolff is joined by Uziel Gomez, CFP®, AFC®, and founder of Primeros Financial, as he shares the personal experiences that inspired his mission to serve communities traditionally left out of the financial conversation. Together, they explore what makes “primeros” such a powerful and overlooked demographic, why advisors should be paying attention, and the importance of grace, celebration, and embracing the strengths that come from a first-gen upbringing. Tune in for a thoughtful, energizing conversation between two changemakers tackling financial inequity from different angles.  Find Uziel on Social Media: * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/uziel-gomez/] * Website [https://primerosfinancial.com/] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/primerosfinancial/]

Money Talk for Couples: Finding What Works for You

Money can bring couples closer—or quietly build tension over time. In this episode, Nikita & Adam Van Deusen dive into one of the biggest relationship questions: Should we combine our finances? And if so, what's the best approach for us? They explore the three main approaches couples take (fully combined, partially combined, or fully separate), break down the pros and cons of each, and share tips for navigating this conversation with curiosity and mutual respect. You’ll also hear practical tools and ideas—from budget apps to financial agreements—to help you and your partner stay on the same page. Whether you’re just moving in or years into a long-term partnership, this episode is your guide to building trust and making money work together. Resources: * Common Cents: Bank Account Structure and Couples’ Relationship Dynamics [https://academic.oup.com/jcr/article-abstract/50/4/704/7077142?login=false] * Money for Couples (By Ramit Sethi) [https://www.amazon.com/dp/1523523689/]

Can Money Buy Happiness?

They say money can’t buy happiness… but is that really true? In this episode, Nikita & Adam Van Deusen explore the complicated relationship between money and well-being — from what the research says to how our everyday spending choices shape our joy. They break down findings from landmark studies, explore the difference between emotional well-being and life satisfaction, and ask a deeper question: Are you spending your money in a way that aligns with the life you actually want? You’ll also hear how money can reduce stress and increase freedom—but only if you’re intentional with how you use it. From prioritizing experiences over stuff to giving generously and buying back your time, they share practical ways to use money as a tool for more meaning and happiness. Resources: * Income and emotional well-being: A conflict resolved [https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2208661120] * Happy Money: The Science of Smarter Spending [https://www.amazon.com/Happy-Money-Science-Smarter-Spending/dp/1451665067]

Scarcity Mindset and Trauma Around Money

In this episode, Nikita & Katherine Chatmon (3rd Decade Volunteer Mentor), discuss how a scarcity mindset & trauma around money impact our financial beliefs, progress, and wellbeing. This discussion includes: how it shows up, root causes, and ways to heal/rewrite your money script. Resources: * "Money Story [https://www.hartfordfunds.com/dam/en/docs/pub/prospectingmaterials/Workbooks/MAI259.pdf]" worksheet download * Financial Archetype Quiz [https://abacuswealth.com/quiz/]