On this episode of Growing Money with Sean Trace, I sit down with Michael Rodriguez, CFP, the founder of Equanimity Wealth, to talk about bringing real calm and clarity to our financial lives.

We unpack why so many of us avoid money conversations, how that fuels constant low-grade anxiety, and why financial planning is really life planning. Michael explains equanimity, mental calmness and composure during turbulent times, and how education plus a simple plan can replace panic with confidence. We dig into money scripts, the unconscious beliefs from childhood that drive our choices, and we walk through practical wins anyone with a job can grab right now, employer benefits, 401k matches, HSAs and FSAs, even discounted legal help.

I share how the envelope method changed my own spending awareness, why language with our kids matters, and why an emergency fund is emotional insurance as much as financial. We also cover market mindset, why time in the market beats reactionary moves, and when a human coach can keep you steady where robo tools cannot. If you want accessible, advice-only guidance, less stress, and a plan that fits your real life, this conversation is for you.