In this episode of Compound Growth, Wheeler and Colin take a deep dive into the complicated advice of "follow your passion." From personal stories to philosophical frameworks like ikigai, they explore what it really means to find meaningful work and a fulfilling life. Through conversations about everything from the Mona Lisa's rise to fame to job satisfaction among farmers, they challenge the idea that passion alone leads to purpose or success.

They also tackle the economic realities young people face today: college debt, shifting career paths, and the pressure to "find yourself" early. Drawing on both lived experience and client conversations, they unpack why the most satisfying work is often the hardest, and how skill development can lead to long-term joy and stability. Whether it's cooking rice for four years or grinding through a failed business, they suggest the journey itself is the point—and often the most rewarding part.

Ultimately, they argue that fulfillment lies not in choosing between passion or skills, but in finding where the two overlap. Growth happens not in the neatly balanced moments, but in the tension and grind. This episode is a reminder to slow down, explore widely, and trust that clarity comes with time—and effort.

Follow Us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compoundgrowthpod
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CompoundGrowthPodcast
• TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@compoundgrowthpod
• Wheeler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wheeler-crowley-0a63933b/
• Colin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-walker-mba-6099a038/

Credits:
Created By: Wheeler Crowley and Colin Walker
Production Assistance: Tori Rothwell
Editing and Post-Production: Steven Sims

In this episode of Compound Growth, Wheeler and Colin take a sweeping yet grounded look at the intersection of artificial intelligence, personal finance, and long-term security. What starts as a casual conversation about “Back to the Future” quickly accelerates into a high-stakes discussion on what the real future holds—from AI-generated films to autonomous companies and personalized virtual realities. With reports from top thinkers like Mary Meeker, they lay out the trajectory of AI over the next decade and unpack what it means for careers, investing, and human relevance.

The duo then shifts into practical mode. Using insights from recent economic data and their own experience as advisors, they outline what it means to truly “bomb-proof” your finances. That means more than just having a rainy-day fund—it’s about reassessing what financial resilience looks like in a world where jobs can vanish, inflation persists, and markets swing fast. Real stats, real risks, and real talk.

Wheeler and Colin finish by offering actionable advice: build an emergency reserve that lasts, invest in your skills (especially those that complement AI), and avoid the false confidence that tech alone can solve all problems. Whether you're already feeling prepared or starting from scratch, this episode provides the clarity and motivation to take the next right step.

Follow Us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compoundgrowthpod
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CompoundGrowthPodcast
• TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@compoundgrowthpod
• Wheeler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wheeler-crowley-0a63933b/
• Colin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-walker-mba-6099a038/

Credits:
Created By: Wheeler Crowley and Colin Walker
Production Assistance: Tori Rothwell
Editing and Post-Production: Steven Sims

In this wide-ranging and introspective episode, Colin and Wheeler explore the concept of unintended consequences—how innovations meant to improve life can subtly change behavior, expectations, and even our bodies. From the impact of cars and air travel on urban sprawl and health to the way apps like Robinhood have altered generational investing habits, they dig into how compounding effects aren’t always financial—they’re cultural, physical, and deeply personal.

The second half of the conversation zeroes in on the pair’s personal "money principles"—not rules, but values and frameworks that help guide intentional financial choices. Colin shares his "life equation," allocating income to long-term security and freedom spending, while Wheeler expands on the idea that “great is better than now,” drawing from Rick Rubin and personal experience. Together, they offer a grounded but optimistic look at building a life (and portfolio) aligned with who you are and who you want to become.

It’s not just about budgeting or saving—it’s about asking the deeper questions: What does great look like for you? Why are you spending money the way you are? And what trade-offs are you willing to make in pursuit of meaning? With real-life anecdotes and candid reflection, this episode is a reminder that personal finance is more personal than financial.

Follow Us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compoundgrowthpod
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CompoundGrowthPodcast
• TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@compoundgrowthpod
• Wheeler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wheeler-crowley-0a63933b/
• Colin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-walker-mba-6099a038/

Credits:
Created By: Wheeler Crowley and Colin Walker
Production Assistance: Tori Rothwell
Editing and Post-Production: Steven Sims