As we close the chapter on 2025, Colin and Wheeler sit down for a candid reflection on a year that arrived like a "tantruming child". From the initial volatility of tariff shocks and technology fears to the eventual acceptance of a market that climbed a "wall of worry," this episode explores the intersections of finance, culture, and personal evolution. We pull back the curtain on our journey as business owners and podcasters, discussing how we’ve navigated the "most hated bull market in history" while staying grounded in our mission to help you think more clearly.

The conversation dives deep into the transformative role of AI, moving beyond simple chatbots to viewing technology as a "thought partner" for life design. We discuss the shift from search engines to "answer engines" and how small, nimble firms are using these tools to empower human strengths rather than replace them. Wheeler shares his surprising findings from an AI-driven "year in review" of his own thoughts, illustrating how technology can act as a modern mirror for our personal growth and intentionality.

Finally, we look ahead to 2026 with the introduction of "Guiding Words". Colin and Wheeler reveal their personal beacons for the coming year—Bravery and Decisiveness—and explain how shifting from resolutions to a singular guiding theme can help you navigate the unknown. Whether you are looking to "bombproof" your financial foundation or design a life that aligns with your true purpose, this episode provides the framework to transition from being risk-averse to risk-aware.

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

Welcome to our chaotic but festive episode, where we take a break from the usual financial deep dives to argue and rank our favorite Christmas movies! From the timeless charm of Elf to the highly debatable holiday status of Die Hard, Colin and Wheeler compare lists, only to realize that their disagreements start right at the bottom. Listen as we dive into the cultural context, generational divides, and, most importantly, the surprising financial and economic lessons woven into these classic holiday tales.

This isn't just about movie nostalgia; it's about seeing the world through the Compound Growth lens—curious, balanced, and growth-focused. We analyze the economics of Kevin McCallister's Chicago mansion and the shocking cost of Clark Griswold's Christmas light display, using each movie to explore concepts like consumerism, scarcity vs. abundance, and inflation across the decades. Ultimately, this episode explores how culture and commerce collide during the holidays, reminding us that growth isn't just about numbers, but about understanding our place in the evolving world.

Whether you're a Home Alone purist or a Family Stone hater, we hope this conversation leaves you thinking more clearly and feeling more grounded for the holidays. From financial growth to personal development, we explore how each layer builds on the next, compounding over time to shape who we become.

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

Colin and Wheeler unpack the profound meaning behind Rick Rubin's quote: "Great is better than now." They dive deep into the concept of deferred gratification and how prioritizing the "great" future over the "good enough" present influences major life decisions, from buying a house to building a successful business. Using real-life examples like the famous Marshmallow Experiment and the persistent engineering of the Porsche 911 , they explore the necessity of process, patience, and repetition in achieving true, lasting greatness. This discussion offers a balanced, thoughtful perspective, like a trusted friend, helping listeners think more clearly about their own goals.

The conversation then pivots to the practical struggles of recognizing when a goal is truly achieved—the tension between the "infinite horizon" of ambition and appreciating the "now great" things in your life. Colin and Wheeler introduce powerful tools like journaling and thought partnership (even with AI) as ways to break mental circles, process conflicts in core values, and define a clear end goal for major life changes, whether it’s a career shift or moving to a new location. The hosts emphasize that while instantaneous choices often lead to regret, true pride is built through a massive amount of sustained effort over time, creating a valuable legacy rather than something quick and fleeting.

Tune in to discover how embracing the journey and trusting the process is essential to personal and financial growth. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an investor, or someone seeking to live more intentionally, this episode will inspire you to pause, check your information diet, and commit to the ongoing evolution of making things great. It serves as a cornerstone for the Compound Growth community—a space where thinking people gather to stay curious, optimistic, and grounded in a noisy world.

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