In this episode of The Real Estate Playbook (REP), Shannon and James return for a candid and insightful conversation that’s all about money—how you handle it, grow it, and protect it. James opens up about his financial journey from growing up in a blue-collar household to building a strong, secure future through consistent habits, wise investing, and good old-fashioned discipline.
We dive into:
How tithing and budgeting from an early age shaped James’s financial mindset
Why avoiding credit card debt was one of the best decisions he ever made
Living below your means and what happens when your income rises but your lifestyle doesn’t
The value of home equity, mortgage mistakes, and leveraging real estate the smart way
How James and his wife built retirement security over decades of steady saving, SEP contributions, and investment choices
Why realtors—and anyone self-employed—must plan their exit from day one
Shannon and James also talk real about what today’s agents need to hear: don’t spend that commission check the minute it hits your account, and don’t wait until retirement is knocking to start planning. Plus, James shares personal stories from over 30 years in the same house, paying for cars in cash, and why he has a financial notebook dating back to 1996.
Whether you're a new agent, seasoned investor, or just someone trying to be more intentional with your money, this episode is packed with encouragement, wisdom, and practical advice for living a financially free life—without ever trying to “get rich quick.”
🎧 Tune in and learn how financial freedom starts with small, consistent choices and a long-term mindset.
