Funded Contentment and the Science of Better Financial Decisions with Neil Bage

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier welcomes Neil Bage, co-founder of Shaping Wealth, for a wide-ranging conversation on the human side of financial decision-making. They explore how neuroscience, behavioral science, and the pursuit of “funded contentment” intersect in personal finance. Neil shares his journey, the mission of Shaping Wealth, and frameworks like Ikigai to help individuals live more meaningful financial lives. A must-listen for advisors and investors alike addressing life’s transitions.

 

Topics covered:

• Neil Bage's career path from sports science to behavioral finance
• The founding and mission of Shaping Wealth
• The concept of “funded contentment” and what it means in practice
• How neuroscience supports the pursuit of a meaningful life
• The Japanese concept of Ikigai and its application in discovering purpose
• Why the human brain is poorly equipped for modern financial decision-making
• Behavioral tendencies and the challenges of delayed gratification
• The dangers of overstimulation and decision overload
• Misconceptions about “irrational” investor behavior
• The powerful role of financial advisors in reducing cognitive stress
• Brain scan research that validates the benefits of quality advice
• The emotional and relational value of guidance in uncertain markets

Useful Links:

• Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jeffberniercfp_the-money-and-meaning-show-activity-7202103509700227072-h0Qn/
• Neil Bage on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/neilbage
• Shaping Wealth: https://www.shapingwealth.com/
• TandemGrowth Financial Advisors: https://www.tandemgrowth.com/