No Strings Podcast with Rell Simon

With Klarna (a layaway/buy now, pay later company) reporting profit losses - due to no one committing to their payment plans - it's time to discuss delayed gratification.

Which camp do you fall in? Which path will you take? Let's break down the meanings between wealth and status to determine how they shape our human nature.

A fracture or break in your physical armor forces you to slow down and gain new perspectives. I share what I have been up to lately, and provide insight into what lies ahead…

I read news articles about each major airplane incident that has occurred so far in 2025. From DC, to Pennsylvania, Houston, Toronto, Chicago, and Denver. What is truly happening? Is there now a sudden fear of flying? Cover art: Unsplash (credit: Ryuno)  and Canva.

I react to articles and TikTok videos regarding layoffs due to this new administration. These sudden changes have left many unprepared & bewildered. What does the future hold for our economy?

I listen and react to eight financial TikTok videos that deal with: “birthday months”, high rents, high apartment vacancies, splurges, credit card debt, debt loops, being broke, and working to escape the madness. (Audio used from the TikTok accounts: wealth.mindset2024, thinjectorsyd, corinthia_1, reventureconsulting.us, wylderwytch, lana.linge, laniilovee2, and kenzidanel)

Gone are the “resolutions”. The reset and recalibration has arrived. I offer insight into how I am recalibrating financially this year, and provide tips you can take advantage of. Articles to read available on my Medium.com page. Season 5, Episode 01. Cover art designed using OpenArt.ai and Canva.com.

A recap of all the podcast episodes from this year. Plus, reflections on everything else that occurred in 2024. Ghana, Toronto, Philly, New York. WrestleMania, ComicCon, and more. Onward to setting new goals for 2025! Season 4, Episode 17 Cover art designed using Canva.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Addictions can wreck your mental, physical, and financial peace. On this episode, I speak on the financial impact of addiction. Why? Because my trap right now is TikTok “Breaks” and Sports Memorabilia.Season 4, Episode 16Cover art designed using Canva.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

The American Dream has various meanings and interpretations. Given the socioeconomic, racial, and climate challenges we face in this country, it's not easy to achieve. I provide random thoughts & opinions on the topic. Season 4, Episode 15 Image credit: OpenArt.ai and Canva.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

No one is safe out here. I read and react to different articles regarding the mass layoffs affecting many sectors of the workforce in 2024. What steps should you take before (yes, before) and after a layoff occurs? Let's get into it. Season 4, Episode 14 Image credit: Gavin (Unsplash.com), Christina @ wocintechchat.com (Unsplash.com), Canva.com, and Google Search. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

I deep dive into the many powerful functions numbers have in our lives. How do they affect our daily life, social status, historical context, and financial success? The class is now in session. Season 4, Episode 13 Image generated using Openart.ai; cover art created using Canva. Audio Credit: PixaBay ("Atlanta (Interlude)", by hyppodrome) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Falling for the tricks & traps can leave you running endlessly. I define what a “debt loop” is, give stats/examples, and provide motivation to escape the cycle. Season 4, Episode 13 (Image created using OpenArt.ai) Audio Credit: PixaBay ("Atlanta (Interlude)", by hyppodrome) Note: the CNBC YouTube video referenced changed from being titled Why Monthly Home Payments are Skyrocketing Right Now to Why Homeowners Are Struggling To Afford Monthly Expenses. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

I share social media stories from people who have the most outrageous car payments. The dealerships are doing some crazy work. Also, wheel and rim thefts are on the rise in the DC/MD/VA area. It's chaotic out here, folks. Audio Credit: - @theblaiseyarnold on TikTok - PixaBay ("Atlanta (Interlude)", hyppodrome) Image Credit - Erik McLean, Unsplash.com **Sorry for the fire alarm heard in the distant background (first part of audio) - it came from the apartment building a block over.** --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Isn't life a crazy box of fireworks? Get smacked with all types of mess, and you ain't even eat yet. Let's talk about it. Article-based version of this episode now available on Medium.com (Image created using OpenArt.ai and Canva) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Fifty episodes of the podcast completed. What better way to celebrate than during my birthday weekend in Toronto. Eatin', Drinkin', Wrestling, Chillin'. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

My thoughts and reaction from attending The Money Guy show book tour event (Sat. June 8th, 2024, Washington, D.C.). Cover Art created using OpenArt.ai and Canva. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Here are some ways to save some coin because you're awesome & I believe in you. (Plus: a brief reading from Morgan Housel's The Psychology of Money) Cover art created using Openart.ai and Canva. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Today, let's pray, create affirmations, and learn from scripture - to increase our financial well-being. Image created using OpenArt.ai --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Bobby Rountree, also known as “Dapper Data”, is a seasoned data scientist specializing in modernizing data science capabilities for various organizations. Through his business, Dapper Data, he assists companies in harnessing and gaining insights from their data. His professional journey has led him to collaborate with notable entities such as the Department of Agriculture, NASA, and the intelligence community. Currently, he is furthering his expertise by pursuing a PhD in Data Science, focusing on cutting-edge data strategies and solutions. Together, we discuss our backgrounds, data, artificial intelligence, finance, assets, and Ghana. You can follow him on IG @mrdapperdata. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Don't be foolish. Save some coin by investing in alternatives for the eight (8) things I highlight on this episode. (Episode image created using openart.ai) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Eleven (11) years after attending WrestleMania 29, here I am again. I recap my experience at WrestleMania 40 (Night 1) in Philly (04.07.2024). --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

The trip of Ten Lifetimes as my Bishop would say. This episode is an audio diary compiled with clips reflecting on each day. An amazing journey full of faith, fellowship, discovery, culture, history, closure, and inspiration. Many thanks to the Bishop, First Lady, travel agents, Away to Africa team, tour site hosts, vendors, and many others for being so coordinated & hospitable. (Perhaps the pod. should be renamed to No Strings Podcast with KWEKU ABAYIE!) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Life gets dirty. You always have to clean the kitchen & bathroom, do laundry, tidy the bedroom, cleanse the mind, and so on. The same applies to your financial life. I provide tips and reminders so you can declutter for the better. It's time for the Mr. Clean/Pine-Sol/Clorox/Swiffer/Fabuloso treatment. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

The 80/20 Rule asserts that a minority of causes, inputs, or efforts usually lead to a majority of the results, outputs, or rewards. (Source: theangelfirm.com). On this episode I refer to articles that provide background to this rule (as to how it can apply to your finances, relationships, and more). I then ask you (the listener) random questions about 80/20 that may or may not apply to your life. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

A recap of the podcast episodes I've published in 2023 - along with a summary of my year in general. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Don't panic - or get yourself in a tizzy. We live in a more bold and ambitious society where normal is old news. Always remember that steady income is reliable income (and reliable income is steady income). I provide thoughts on the positives with having a "9 to 5 Job". --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Lists are created to be criticized. That's what I do to the first date list that circulated around the internet in Fall 2023. I agree, disagree, and try to make sense of all twenty-eight (28) date ideas/locations on this list. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Organized retail crime (ORC) has occurred across the country over the past few months. From the northwest to the midwest and east coast, no retailer is safe from it. This new trend of committing crimes in packs is often fueled by social media. I dive into what has occurred in certain cities, plus the ramifications of such actions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

I took day trip to New York City. My first NYCC exceeded expectations. What a memorable experience that requires multiple days to soak in everything. The art. The memorabilia. The cosplay. The crowds.

Being frugal is to become more economical and thrifty regarding your money, food, and resources. I read and reacted to two articles from MoneyTalksNews.com that list the items and habits that frugal people tend to adhere to. 17 Things Frugal People Never Buy begins at the 3:40 mark. 24 Things Frugal People Do begins at the 24:05 mark. (Image Credit: Donna Spearman, Unsplash.com) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

It may be tedious, but learning how to budget will help cover your bases worry-free. It also helps to sharpen the skill of foresight. Living as you are in the present while being active in your future is massively beneficial. I provide opinionated advice on how to budget. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

"Tipping Culture" is hotly debated, but neccessary. How much you decide to offer is ultimately your personal preference. I react to three different articles (adapting to change, business structures, and racism) regarding the matter. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Time (Literally). Trusting the One you have Faith in. Intelligence. Investing. Money. Making a Difference. Everyone You Love. Enjoyment. Eight solid pillars to pay attention to throughout your life. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

I've learned much during my financial journey, with one tidbit coming from Dave Ramsey. Ensuring your “Four Walls” are covered is crucial before trying to tackle anything else with your finances. Food, utilities, shelter, and transportation are the components covered in this episode. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

...may keep the the doctor away, but that's not even my angle here. An Apple a Day keep the COMPETITORS away. I touch on Apple's dominance into the technology market; gauge how loyal you are willing to be for them; wonder if the company has taken over many aspects of our lives yet; and ask about one asset you may not even own yet from them. A brief, "No-Strings" dive into the nearly $3 Trillion dollar company. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

I share three mistakes and regrets I have made financially over the years and reflect on the lessons learned. I then opine on Giannis Antetokounmpo's response to a reporter's question on failure from the 2023 NBA Playoffs. The words "mistake, regret, and failure" allow for a larger commentary on viewing life from a different perspective. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Laissez les Bons Temps Rouler! Let the Good Times Roll! The CYAM (Connectional Young Adult Ministry) held its retreat this year in New Orleans. The slogan for the event was “W.T.F. 2023” (Word. Truth. Free). I interviewed the president of the CYAM, Ms. Tiffanie Thompson (at the 3:30 mark). She shared her thoughts on the state of the young adult ministry as a whole and the direction it should be headed.  I then give my overall impressions of the retreat (at the 43:00 mark). Enjoy! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Multi-plane and airport travel. A dope graduation ceremony. Multi-city and state travel. Even a sighting of some AEW Wrestlers. I recap my trip to Kentucky (with a splash of Indiana snuck in between). --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

I examine the dangers and consequences that comes with credit cards and debt. I also offer an optimistic take in regards to taking advantage of the perks and rewards that come with them. This is truly a Jekyll and Hyde episode. For those in that debt bubble, my monologue begins around the 3:55 mark; for those comfortably out of debt, I dive into more detail begining around 19:40. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

Twenty-Five episodes in the books. I reflect on the road this podcast has paved so far, along with anticipation for the future. Later in the episode, I leap into complete randomness and share whatever was on my mind at the moment. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

SNAP benefits are likely to decrease this year starting October 1st, 2023. I react to a New York Times article detailing this harsh reality. I provide personal perspective as someone who remembers the “food coupons” and EBT Card fondly. I also mention different organizations you may have interest in donating towards to help those in need survive. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nostringswithrell/support

It's no myth that millions of Americans are broke when nearing or at their retirement age. On this episode, I react to a CBS Evening News video that details this harsh reality. I then provide tools and guidance (from MoneyGuy.com and my own Medium.com article), on how you can prepare for retirement with no strings attached. *Note: Retirement is a broad topic; as such, expect future versions of the topic in later episodes. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nostringswithrell/support

On this episode, I read and react to an article (from MVEMNT.com) regarding the burden of living single. I elaborate on multiple scenarios and circumstances (example: “single” could also mean being the only source of income if you have people living with you). I offer guidance to navigate and survive in these tough times. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nostringswithrell/support

A typical night out watching that new release can hit your pockets hard. I give my opinion on the wise ways the movie theater business keeps you hooked in. I then offer some alternatives you can implement and still have a good time. Video version available on my YouTube Channel. Article available to read on Medium.com. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

A brief case study regarding the sandwich you either love, like, or hate. This is a window dressing of the bigger commentary at hand involving proper financial and human decision making. The audio & video was recorded using Riverside.fm, with the audio also imported into Anchor.fm. The audio is available on all podcast platforms; the video version is available on YouTube. (Article credits: Eater.com, TheRoot.com, The Dallas Morning News, and Wikipedia). --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Let's not commit to the "Resolutions" that we start in January and don't finish. Instead, it's time to "evolve". We will expand our minds, creativity, worldview, loving, and finances. On this episode, I share the five evolutions I plan to keep for 2023 and beyond. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Cutting back or modifying how much you consume these seven things can benefit your financial & emotional well-being: The Upgrade, The Subscription/Membership, The Wardrobe, The YOLO Ticket, The Literature, The Bad Investments, and The Impressions. I explain what each category means and provide insight into how you can operate moving forward. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Sixty-Three percent (63%) of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. With both inflation and housing interest costs skyrocketing, where is the relief? You cant even make a smooth $100K without feeling like you're drowning. I react to a few articles and provide insight into how you can break free. (Article and source credits from Forbes, CNBC, NerdWallet, Statista). --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

I took a solo trip to Minneapolis, MN over the October Holiday weekend. There was football, art, sightseeing, wandering, and becoming in awe of the Mall of America. I provide thoughts on the experience. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

United States President Joe Biden will enact a plan to forgive student loans (Federal Loans only; $10K forgiven if under a certain income level; $20K forgiven if your loan was a Pell Grant). Everyone is divided: from those who are thankful, to those who are appalled. On this episode, I react to news articles regarding the plan and offer my honest opinion. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app