In this episode of Financial Behavior Thought Leaders, host Dr. Mary Bell Carlson welcomes Carl Richards—a celebrated author, sketch artist, and financial behavior keynote speaker—to the show. Known for his long-running New York Times column and his iconic “simple sketches” that distill complex money issues into clear, visual insights, Carl pulls back the curtain on his journey from financial professional to internationally sought-after thought leader. Whether you’re a financial advisor looking to inspire your clients, or an event planner hoping to land a powerful keynote, this episode provides an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at what makes Carl’s work and presentations truly unforgettable.

The conversation spans from Carl’s quirky and humble beginnings (think: grocery store talks and launching T-shirts into crowds) to his thoughts on the not-so-comfortable moniker of “thought leader.” Carl opens up about the philosophy that drives his keynotes and writing, discussing why his new book—Your Money: Reimagining Wealth Through Simple Sketches—was designed not just as a book but as a spark for deeper, ongoing money conversations. Mary and Carl dig into the real heart of what makes great financial events resonate with advisors, clients, and even the “non-interested spouses” in the room. Carl also shares how his global travels have shaped his perspective on money, human connection, and the stories we tell ourselves about both.

Meet Carl Richards

Carl Richards started The Sketch Guy column in The New York Times from the hills of Utah, crafting clear, relatable insights about money with just card stock and a Sharpie. The column ran weekly for a decade. This journey began when Carl applied for what he thought was a job as a “security guard,” only to find out the ad actually said “securities.” That slight misstep sparked a lifelong dedication to reshaping how we think about money.

Since then, Carl has become a Certified Financial Planner™, built and sold a successful investment firm, and spoken at financial and investment events worldwide—from Australia to South Africa, the UK, and major economic centers across Europe, Canada, and the United States. His bestsellers, The Behavior Gap and The One-Page Financial Plan, have been translated into over ten languages and continue to resonate globally.

Through his daily podcast, Behavior Gap Radio, which now has over 1,000 episodes and over one million downloads, Carl shares new perspectives on aligning our resources with what truly matters. His latest audio project, 50 Fires, backed by executive producers Chip and Joanna Gaines, explores the intersections of money and meaning with guests like Pete Holmes, David Whyte, Krista Tippett, and his favorite guest by far, his wife, Cori.

Carl founded The Society of Advice, a community of financial planners dedicated to the craft of advice. They gather for a monthly online workshop and frequent retreats in Park City, Utah.

In 2025, Carl will release a new book that, true to form, will be unlike anything seen in the personal finance section—and you better believe there will be sketches (97 of them, to be exact).

When he’s not exploring ideas about money, Carl, a Wilderness First Responder, can be found navigating Utah’s high mountain ridges on foot, skis, or bike. Married to Cori since 1995, they have four kids, whom they consider their best friends.

Key Takeaways:

1. There’s No Straight Path to Speaking Success: Carl’s journey to the stage was anything but linear. From failed in-store talks with zero attendees to playful stunts like tossing T-shirts at conferences, he emphasizes that “there’s nothing about my career people should try to follow exactly.” His story is a reminder that embracing originality, risk, and failure builds authenticity and resilience—the very qualities that make a speaker unforgettable.
2. Redefining ‘Thought Leadership’: Carl shares his discomfort with the label “thought leader,” preferring to let others use it as they see fit. Instead, he centers his identity on doing meaningful “work” rather than self-promotion. He suggests that impact comes when speakers and professionals focus on contributing genuine value rather than chasing labels or ego. The applause, he notes, is for the work and its effect, not just the person delivering it.
3. Conversation is at the Core of Financial Change: With his upcoming book and speaking style, Carl advocates for sparking conversations rather than providing one-size-fits-all answers. His “conversation grenades”—simple sketches paired with provocative questions—invite participants to reflect deeply and honestly about their money narratives. Real financial planning, Carl argues, is born from these open and sometimes messy dialogues, not just perfectly prepared plans.
4. Every Audience, Every Event is Unique: Rather than relying on standard keynotes, Carl favors a collaborative and tailored approach. He works with organizers to select the most relevant sketches and stories for their audience, ensuring the message resonates with their goals and culture. Whether for industry conferences or intimate client workshops, this approach leads to “scalable intimacy”—impactful moments that feel personal, even in large settings.
5. Travel and Perspective Fuel Personal and Professional Growth: Carl’s experiences living abroad and traveling for speaking gigs have profoundly shaped his views on money and life. He recounts how living in New Zealand challenged his American assumptions, and how international events broaden his horizons as much as his audiences’. The message: get comfortable being uncomfortable, ask more questions, and let new perspectives shift your own story around money and meaning.