The Best Interest Podcast

Why is personal finance so complicated?The internet is flooded with personal finance “experts” sharing short-sighted, error-prone advice. But long-term financial success requires thoughtful, patient, and well-researched strategies.Hosted by Jesse Cramer, a former aerospace engineer turned fiduciary financial advisor in Rochester, NY, Personal Finance for Long-Term Investors simplifies complex financial topics. With relatable stories, in-depth research, and practical tips, Jesse helps you master financial planning for families, make smart decisions about tax-efficient investing, and build strategies for retirement planning and beyond.Formerly known as The Best Interest Podcast, and inspired by Jesse’s award-nominated blog The Best Interest, this podcast is your trusted resource for comprehensive financial planning and smart investing.Whether you're looking for optimal investment allocations, retirement planning advice, or generational wealth transfer ideas, this show makes personal finance approachable, enjoyable, and actionable.A richer tomorrow starts with learning today. Invest in your knowledge with Personal Finance for Long-Term Investors.

Go Roth Now Before It’s Too Late? And Other Listener Questions | AMA #7 - E108
Jun 4, 2025 – 01:22:17
19 Questions to Uncover Good, Bad, and Ugly Financial Advisors | Don McDonald - E107
May 21, 2025 – 59:25
Retirees’ Mistakes and Wake-Up Calls: Expectations vs. Reality - E106
May 7, 2025 – 28:14
It’s Not Too Late: Smart Money Moves After 50 | Bill Yount - E105
Apr 23, 2025 – 58:38
Tariffs, Turbulence, and the Harsh Truths We Must Now Face - Bonus Episode
Apr 14, 2025 – 44:22
"Tax-Free Retirement" - Smart Strategy or Overhyped Gimmick? And Other Listener Questions | AMA #6 - E104
Apr 9, 2025 – 57:50
Life Expectancy, Caregiving Costs, & Retirement Planning | Christine Benz - E103
Mar 26, 2025 – 52:58
The Truth About the U.S. National Debt (And How It Impacts You Personally) - E102
Mar 12, 2025 – 41:25
Do Long-Term Investors *Need* to Invest in Real Estate? | Chad “Coach” Carson - E101
Feb 26, 2025 – 53:12
Favorite Moments, Shoutouts, and a Name Change?! …From Our First 100 Episodes - E100
Feb 12, 2025 – 01:07:29
Will They Claw Back My Tax Breaks? Should I “Buy, Borrow, and Die?” And More - AMA #5 - E99
Jan 29, 2025 – 43:38
What Do You Mean By “little p purpose”?! | Jordan Grumet - E98
Jan 15, 2025 – 39:26
The Bad “Money Scripts” Someone Else Wrote for You | Brad Klontz - E97
Jan 1, 2025 – 52:03
But is NOW the Right Time to Invest in the Stock Market?! - E96
Dec 18, 2024 – 55:44
Tax Loss Harvesting Myths Debunked: What You Need to Know Now | AMA #4 with Jesse - E95
Dec 4, 2024 – 59:45
Silly Hacks, New Rules, & Unpopular Opinions - E94
Nov 20, 2024 – 47:01
Instructive and Surprising Questions to Ask Before You Retire | Joe Saul-Sehy - E93
Nov 6, 2024 – 01:11:18
Why Teachers Need to Be Careful | Dan Otter - E92
Oct 23, 2024 – 46:06
What No One Tells You About Early Retirement | Steve Adcock - E91
Oct 9, 2024 – 53:33
No Diversification = Deep Trouble?! | AMA #3 with Jesse - E90
Sep 25, 2024 – 54:10
Societal Challenges and the “Money World” Don't Always Mix | Katie Gatti Tassin - E89
Sep 11, 2024 – 01:12:28
Practical Reasons Why "Retirement Success" Can Still Be Painful | Rob Berger - E88
Aug 28, 2024 – 43:48
How To Secure an Edge Against “Sequence of Returns” Risk | Tyler of Portfolio Charts - E87
Aug 14, 2024 – 52:18
Should I Drain My 401k to Pay Off My Mortgage? | AMA #2 with Jesse - E86
Jul 31, 2024 – 48:23
Red Flag Finance Scams on the Big, Scary Internet | Rachael Camp - E85
Jul 17, 2024 – 01:03:37
How New Parents Can Avoid Money Mistakes | Andy Hill - E84
Jul 3, 2024 – 53:47
Fight, Flight, and Friction: Being Smart in Your Volatile Portfolio | Carl Richards - E83
Jun 19, 2024 – 55:07
“Truth: We Are Very Bad At Anticipating What We Want” | Jonathan Clements - E82
Jun 5, 2024 – 47:08
"Is My 100% S&P 500 Portfolio Wrong?" | AMA #1 with Jesse - E81
May 22, 2024 – 37:43
Beware! Don’t Fall Into “The College Money Pit Trap!” | Evan Giokas - E80
May 8, 2024 – 01:11:34
Health = Money = Time | Phil Pearlman - E79
Apr 24, 2024 – 50:17
An Informative Debate: The Most Important Rules of Personal Finance | Justin Peters - E78
Apr 10, 2024 – 01:12:29
A Market Crash is Coming! (…Eventually) | Peter Lazaroff - E77
Mar 27, 2024 – 56:18
Don’t Make Your Own Pizza?! | Jared Dillian - E76
Mar 13, 2024 – 53:02
Growth Mindsets to Afford Anything | Paula Pant - E75
Feb 28, 2024 – 52:39
Picking Stocks - Does It Ever Work?! | Brian Feroldi - E74
Feb 14, 2024 – 57:59
People Need Informative Straight-Talk About Money (And Jokes, Too) | Joe Saul-Sehy - E73
Jan 31, 2024 – 01:04:51
When Scary Career Risks Get Remarkable Results | Doug Cunnington - E72
Jan 17, 2024 – 01:04:35
The Unspoken Strain of F.I. | Diania Merriam - E71
Jan 3, 2024 – 54:08
The 7 Sins of Investing | Jeremy Schneider aka Personal Finance Club - E70
Dec 20, 2023 – 01:02:36
529 Plans Aren’t Worth It?! (And Other Important Tax Thoughts) | Sean Mullaney aka The FI Tax Guy - E69
Dec 6, 2023 – 55:10
Minimalism: How Much is Enough? | Rose Lounsbury - E68
Nov 22, 2023 – 48:16
The Mindset of a Millionaire Next Door | Andrew Giancola - E67
Nov 8, 2023 – 38:23
Marriage, Kids and Money | Andy Hill - E66
Oct 25, 2023 – 51:09
Credit Card and Parenting Hacks | All the Hacks - E65
Oct 11, 2023 – 59:36
A Guide for the DIY Investor | Measure Twice Money - E64
Sep 27, 2023 – 53:53
Saving Less to Live More. Should You Do the Same? | Carl Jensen aka Mr. 1500 - E63
Sep 13, 2023 – 01:06:29
The Reality of Retirement Beyond the Numbers | The Retirement Manifesto - E62
Aug 30, 2023 – 53:49
Are You Living a Regret Free Life? | Jordan Grumet aka Doc G - E61
Aug 17, 2023 – 54:26
Are You Saving Too Much? | with Nick Maggiulli - E60
Aug 2, 2023 – 52:07

Recent Reviews

MJV92314

Clear Straightforward Personal Finance Info

Thank you Jesse for your excellent podcast! I just discovered it and have listened to about 5 episodes. What I appreciate: - No chitchat and superfluous dialogue about your dog, your breakfast or anything not related to your topic! - no fake / forced laughter during dialogue with your guests. - No unrelated banter with your guests. - your excellent speaking skills. Thank you for not excessively saying “like”, “sort of” and “kind of.” - keeping in clean. Cursing adds nothing to an informative topic. Topics are timely, informative and helpful. I listen to informative podcasts for the topic and appreciate you keeping the conversation focused! Thank you.
NicF..

Finance info for the everyday person

Jesse brings the whole package in his episodes, hitting all the crucial info the average person needs for their financial literacy that we were never taught in school. All with the perfect voice for podcasting and while keeping an easy to understand approach!
Marv8383

You’ll love it

Great show. Jesse had an amazing way of explaining concepts. Highly recommend
ShaneImler

The Complete Package

I found Jesse through another finance-themed podcast, and I’m glad I did. He has a way of breaking down complex financial topics into digestible, easy to understand conversations. His humor and personality make him likable, and more importantly, relatable. Whether you’re a finance pro or a new investor, you should subscribe to his podcast, but don’t forget to check out all the articles on his blog.
spidey314

Outstanding Voice of Reason in a crowded market of Finance Podcasts

Jesse’s podcast is an excellent resource for both beginners and experienced folks alike in the realm of personal finance. Not only does he give solid and well thought out advice but he also shares his evidence so you can draw your own conclusions. He takes the time to give well rounded responses to his listeners questions as well as bringing in other industry experts to discuss various topics. I have learned something new from every episode even if it’s a topic I’ve heard discussed before!
cdstewart

Fantastic Podcast

I have been listening to Jesse for the last year or so and absolutely love this podcast! Jesse is fantastic at breaking down complex topics into easily digestible pieces, along with the use of great metaphors. I like that he discusses the mindset and emotional side of finance while also providing practical “nuts and bolts” information that I can act on. I recommend this podcast to beginners and money nerds alike!
The Doctor’s Orders

The Right Prescription

I am a semi-retired, almost 70-year-old physician who listens to a lot of retirement, investment and economics podcasts. I actually don't recall how I stumbled on your podcast a few months ago. However, you are amongst the top few in terms of clear and efficient communications giving both broad concepts and applicable practical points. You are able to distill complicated topics without making it unrealistically simple. Keep up the good work.
nyrak111

Straight forward and easy to understand

Fantastic! I’ve been listening to this podcast for quite some time and even if I don’t think a subject directly relates to me I find great nuggets of information each time. He explains things clearly and concisely. I would recommend this podcast to anyone wanting to learn more or gain a variety of perspectives!
That Ritz

Great voice in personal finance

I was introduced to Jesse through Stacking Benjamins and I’m so grateful. He has a refreshing, well-balanced and informed point of view. I appreciated his balanced discussion on the implications of student loan forgiveness. As a fellow U of R alum, I’m impressed.
mxxxhxx

Great job explaining retiree issues

I recently spent a fair amount of time finding and educating myself on Roth conversions. Today I listened to Jesse’s podcast #99 and it was all there in a few minutes of discussion!
MGTaylor615

Love this pod

Jesse does a great job relaying high quality personal finance info. I’ve really enjoyed listening- from hosting quality guests, AMAs, deep dives on technical concepts, or the psychology of money/saving/investing. You da man Jesse! Keep it up!
Ashby Daniels

Excellent Pod!

Jesse does an incredible job breaking down complex financial topics into easy to understand language. I’m a big believer in that successfully navigating financial planning and investing is a relatively simple process…it’s Wall St. that wants us all to believe it’s so complicated. Jesse does a nice job cutting through the noise!
Lse587

Love this podcast

I listen to podcasts at the gym and on walks. Jesse makes the time fly by! He is knowledgeable and very easy to understand … and I’ve sent him a few questions via email. Not only has he replied back but has incorporated my questions in his blog and podcast Thank you Jesse
JBeadle3

Episode 96 is required listening

I listen to a lot of personal finance content and Episode 96 is the best explanation of why index, long term investing is the most effective path to wealth. I love this podcast’s reasonable and measured tone and explanations.
bluehorizonking

A Crisp Overview to your Personal Finance queries

I got introduced to The Best Interest podcast by another great one ‘The Long Term Investor’ hosted by Peter Lazaroff. I love Jesse’s simple yet thorough analysis of complex financial topics which helped me a lot ( I am sure many others!) to answer some of my long standing queries on ideal investment portfolio, retirement planning, safe withdrawal rates, tax optimization and many more. I love your show, it’s content, the style of delivery and thankful that you share your great knowledge with us. Kudos to your passion and all the very best to The Best Interest!
LJB :)

Great listen!

This is a podcast I’m glad I finally stumbled onto. Jesse does a great job of taking the every day mundane and common topics and making them applicable to his listeners. This is an easy ad to queue every time a new episode pops into my feed.
Man from Tondo Manila

American dream found

Thank you Jessie as an immigrant from a third-world country. My American dream is to work and work and buy things to make me look so successful. Your podcast changes that view. Now I have a great vision for my finance
PivotPointsMD

Best Interest at Heart

Jesse is a change maker. He really does take tricky or complex topics in the personal finance arena and boils them down into digestible bites. He shows us how to eat the elephant in the room. I have had the good fortune to meet Jesse and the content he produces. They are both top notch. I am an avid fanboy and urge you to become one too. He really does have your best interest at heart.
MatthewPE

Wonderful

Just found this great podcast. I’m a lover of most investing and personal finance content. I’ve listened to a lot of it and have my own podcast. I can spot a good one when I find it. This is one of those podcasts!
Lane’s Dad

Refreshing and easy to listen to

Although there are many dozens upon dozens of finance/investing podcasts out there, Jesse’s is refreshingly easy to listen to. The wisdom he shares is often on topics I’ve heard many, many times before, yet his perspective and the method he uses to explain topics simply makes them easier to understand. When it comes to teaching, he’s a natural.
shaqandkobe

Definitely a must-add to your weekly finance podcasts.

I like to try lots of new finance podcasts to see if I like them. Sometimes I have to listen to 3/4/5 episodes to get a true feel of if the podcast will be beneficial to me. But with this podcast, I could tell after just the first episode I chose to try. I followed immediately after and now this podcast is part of my weekly routine.
rvguyedsanbcdtubcc

My favorite personal finance podcast

I listen to a lot of personal finance and retirement podcasts and I was blown away by The Best Interest. Jesse has a really solid understanding of finance and investing principles. He is thus able to explain issues in full, rather than taking a position and presenting as the only truth. The Best Interest has helped me to understand issues that I had never really felt I understood before. Keep up the good work, Jesse—your podcast has made a big difference in my financial journey.
Ugh bing

Clear thinker. Clear communicator.

I'm not a fan of financial adviors because in my own 30 year experience, their self interest, in every case, resulted in collecting abusive fees, pitching inappropriate products, or providing dismal analysis. But I like Jesse. I have no financial involement with him. Yet he has resonded to my email questions with thoughtful and actionable ideas. He thinks clearly, cutting through the muddle of information to provide clairity and understanding.
TeeMoe56

Solid, practical personal finance advice

This is one of the “must listen to” podcasts about personal finance. I’ve been listening for several months now and Jesse’s advice is solid, thorough and well researched.
wrbsuperman

Excellent

Concise, easy to understand, responsive. My (multi)millionaire friend recommended it and it is my go-to on my drive into work!
yeirs

Very Helpful

I came across the podcast ~a week ago and have since listened to ~8 episodes (in no particular order). As a newbie, I find it immensely helpful & easy to follow, which is exactly what I needed. The variety of guests on the show discussing different topics have also been very helpful. I look forward to discovering more valuable content in the content library, blogs and future episodes to come.
ppearlman

Strong & Practical Podcast

This is a strong and practical podcast for those who want to learn more about how to manage their finances. I endorse.
Gkling50

Jesse took my call!

After listening to Jesse’s podcast about the 5 Golden rules, I was interested when he spoke of most of his listeners being DIY people. So I had personal questions. I emailed him and he asked me to call. He spent over 30 minutes with me answering all my questions, sent me reading materials, as well as forwarded names to me who could further help me. I have heard him say several times on the podcast to reach out to him if you have questions, and I was pleasantly surprised to realize it is true. He is the real deal. Thanks Jesse!
Frankie Ravs

Compound Handsome

Jesse’s 5-Star podcast is appropriate for the nascent investor or the hardened dollar-cost averaging acolyte. Come for the practical wisdom, remain for the dulcet tones, and convert dollars into long-term soldiers. Like the Heaven’s Gate cult, you soon be drinking the 401Kool-Aid and accelerating your net worth faster than the Hale-Bopp comet. I’ll hang up and listen.
Kells123321

Underrated and educational!

I’m ~30 episodes in. I love the relevant topics, how easy it is to understand. Jesse has a real skill for making digestible breakdowns of complex topics. As good as any finance podcast out there! Flies under the radar, deserves to get famous!
longbch99

One of the best

I listen too several retirement and investing podcasts, and this is one of the best. Jesse does a great job explaining things, has interesting guests and has an excellent and informative website. Recommend!
Dennis in Vermont

Easy listen for any audience

I have spent my entire career working in the financial services industry. Like Jesse, I'm a fiduciary investment professional with a real passion to deliver financial guidance and education to not only clients, but friends, family, and anyone who will listen. In today's day and age, there is no shortage of easy to access financial information, most of which is heavily jargon and filibuster. I discovered the Best Interest Podcast while searching for content to share with retirement plan participants who I regularly consult with. What I like most about the Best Interest Podcast, is that the information is relevant to everyone, and can be easily comprehended by everyone. For this reason, I highly recommend subscribing to the pod if your looking to improve your financial wellbeing, or if you're an investment professional like me who needs help communicating complex concepts in simple terms. I appreciate what you do Jesse, keep up the good work.
Doug Cunnington

Actionable Advice for Improving Your Finances

The world of personal finance can seem super complicated and even a bit intimidating. But the Best Interest Podcast breaks it all down in a way that's actually enjoyable to listen to! The host, Jesse Cramer, doesn't just talk about making money – he talks about how to use your money to actually make your life better. That's what keeps me coming back. I've learned so much from this podcast. But what I love most is that the advice is clear and it feels doable. Jesse has a great way of explaining things using real-life examples, making even the trickier concepts easy to understand. If you're ready to get control of your money (and who isn't?!), give this pod a try. It's the perfect mix of fun and super useful information.
jeremyschneiderdotcom

Knows his Stuff!

Jesse’s kind and thoughtful approach to personal finance and investing shines through in the Best Interest Podcast. If you want a voice of reason to cut through all the nonsense you hear in the world of finance definitely check it out.
Rose Lounsbury

Feels like you’re talking to a (wise) friend about money

Talking about money makes most of us nervous, which is why I appreciate Jesse’s friendly, calm approach to this subject. I feel like I’m talking to a (wise) friend that I trust. If you feel nervous about investing or budgeting, give Jesse a listen. He’ll make you feel better and know that, yes, you too can learn to manage your own money!
Steve Roll

The personal finance podcast you’re looking for!

Jesse gives the perfect mix of data-backed analysis about personal finances and conversations about how to use money and finances to build a fulfilling life. Too many podcasts only focus on the numbers and personal finance hacks, but miss the big picture. The purpose of improving personal finances and working towards financial independence isn’t to die with the biggest bank account, but to serve a life well-lived.
Ku_Cle

What a gem!

Jesse has a great approach to investing that he shares throughout his podcast. His calm and measured approach encourages basic investing fundamentals that can be easy to lose in this fast-paced world. He does a nice job pulling in data and examples without getting overly technical. This is a podcast that a new investor can easily pick up, and yet an experienced DIY investor can still learn from and find value in. Keep up the great work Jesse!
AHro827

Thoughtful and Helpful

Jesse takes his time to dive deep into financial topics and gives his audience a quality podcast each week. I’m excited to watch this show continue to grow!
Savannabanana6842

Consistently Solid

I originally found you several years ago on a financial subreddit giving advice to people in the comments, and from there subscribed to your newsletter. Finally, all this time later, I’ve subscribed to your podcast, and I can’t believe it’s taken me so long to do so! You’ve continued to put out such accurate, helpful info and give off such a genuine, caring demeanor. The effort you put into your work truly shows, and I can’t express how much I appreciate it. Thank you Jesse!
Financial Samurai

Wonderful podcast

Jesse, I enjoy your topics and your topics. Just started listening and reading your work. Hope you keep it up for the long term! -Sam, Financial Samurai
Jane1980727

Great podcast!

Jesse’s podcast is fantastic! I love the interviews, and Jesse also does a great job explaining complex financial topics. Really enjoy listening and definitely recommend it to anyone who’s looking to improve their finances and stay inspired along their journey!
kmp14617

Great podcast!

This podcast covers a wide range of investment topics that are informative and useful to the average investor. The show includes both 1 on 1 interviews and panel discussions that cover all sides of a given topic. If you are new to investing or maybe a seasoned investor that is open to new perspectives, this is a great podcast for you!
Fish677658

A+ Stuff

Super easy listen, super informative and all around good material. I also like the versatility Jesse brings to his podcast and I always learn something new after each listen. Whether you’re new to investing or a seasoned veteran, Jesse definitely provides value to all listeners. Good stuff! Keep it up!
addiction216

Rising Tide Raises All Ships

Love Jesse’s podcast. All relatable money stories and interviews. Just found the blog too. Great pod!
absolutekat

Best podcast on investing/personal finance with lots of variety!

Jesse's podcast is great and really pulls together information from so many great sources. From the interviews to the Twitter spaces episodes, there is so much variety that keeps the show exciting and fun! If you haven't had a chance yet, be sure to check out his blog as well!
KurtisWH

Great pod with good interviews!

I enjoy hearing the interviews and different perspectives. Definitely should give it a listen!!
whatreviews

Smart podcast

I just listened to my first podcast, I already learned a lot , thank you for the Efforts Jessie
j. oleary

Great guy, authentic advice!

Been a follower of the blog for a while, now I’m looking forward to more color commentary on the post content. Great first few eps! Cheers Jesse, big fan.
QuantNY

Zzzzzz

Dude’s voice is creepy AF. An Engineer turned macro/finance expert - what a time to be alive! Guarantee he was posting food pics last year prior to his newfound “expertise”
PlantBasedCyclist1

Solid, Timeless Advice w/ humor and entertaining writing style

I’ve been a long time reader of Jesse’s blog, and I am enjoying his podcast thus far. People are intimidated by finance, but Jesse is able to explain complex topics in simplistic ways while adding humor and a fantastic writing style. The time and elbow grease it takes to write these articles is apparent. He really enjoys what he does. He offers solid, timeless financial advice for the everyday man and woman. There are no whiffs of dodgy ‘get rich quick’ schemes. He’s as straight forward, relatable and down earth as they come. If you want to learn about various topics within the finances field, look no further.