Q&A: Why Do I Still Feel Anxious When I’m Clearly Doing Well?

Q&A: Why Do I Still Feel Anxious When I’m Clearly Doing Well?

From Afford Anything | Make Smart Money Choices by Paula Pant, Personal Finance Expert | Cumulus Podcast Network

June 9, 2026 · 50 min · Episode 722

About this episode

The episode explores the emotional aspects of financial security through listener questions about anxiety and investment experiences.

#722: Free lesson: affordanything.com/mistakes Ask us a question: affordanything.com/voicemail What happens when your financial plan is technically working — but emotionally, it still doesn’t feel secure? Caitlin and her husband have their core expenses covered, but her side hustle brings in an extra $600 a month. With young kids, daycare costs, and long-term retirement goals all competing for attention, she’s wondering where that extra money should go right now. Anonymous is in a strong financial position for retirement, with a pension, solid investments, and high savings rates—but is still constantly checking accounts, rerunning projections, and struggling to feel at peace with money. Charlotte is calling back several years after asking whether short-term rentals could fund her early retirement. After buying, renovating, and eventually selling two Airbnb properties—just before a devastating hurricane hit the area—she’s reflecting on what she learned about risk, hype, and investing with emotion. Resources mentioned: Charlotte's original call: affordanything.com/episode352 Paula interview on Emma Chamberlain's podcast: youtube.com/watch?v=VOP7S4w8s0I Midterm Rentals with Jeff…

People in this episode

Host: Paula Pant

Guest: Charlotte

Topics covered

  • financial anxiety
  • retirement planning
  • investing
  • side hustles
  • risk management

Keywords

  • financial plan
  • anxiety
  • retirement
  • side hustle
  • investing

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Airbnb, Cumulus Podcast Network

Books & works: Emma Chamberlain's podcast

More episodes of Afford Anything | Make Smart Money Choices

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Afford Anything | Make Smart Money Choices podcast page.