Most financial advice assumes the best-case scenario — stable income, predictable markets, life going according to plan. In 2022, as inflation spiked, interest rates doubled, and crypto platforms imploded, Brad and Jonathan ask a different question: What if you planned for the worst instead? Brad and Jonathan dissect what it means to truly afford a house when rates and job security can shift overnight, and why the crypto crash exposed a fundamental misunderstanding about ownership. The conversation centers on calculating mortgage affordability using after-tax income, stress-testing financial decisions against life's curveballs, and the critical difference between holding crypto on an exchange versus self-custody. Key Topics Discussed: [00:01:02] Current Financial Climate Rapid rise of inflation and its impact on financial planning Assessing personal financial limits amidst market volatility [00:14:18] Understanding Mortgage Payments Evaluating affordability based on after-tax income rather than gross income Planning for worst-case scenarios instead of assuming the best [00:22:05] Housing Market Analysis Current state of mortgage rates and housing affordability Strategies for maintaining home affordability despite rising rates [00:55:08] Crypto Market Update Recent events in the crypto market, including the collapse of Luna and Celsius The significance of self-custodying assets to avoid counterparty risk Key Quotes: "Identify your fears and manage the risks effectively." [00:00:00] "Ensure your ability to maintain home affordability." [00:24:14] "If you don't control your keys, you don't truly own your crypto." [00:56:30] "Always prepare for the worst-case scenarios." [00:15:28] "Adapt your financial plans to life's uncertainties." [00:18:08] Related Resources: The Tail End by Tim Urban [00:02:07] Episode on Housing Affordability (Episode 381) [00:13:30] Episode on Cryptocurrency Basics (Episode 323) [00:56:30] Key Insights: Consider your financial stability and long-term planning when buying a house amidst rising interest rates The current crypto market environment highlights the necessity of managing risk and understanding asset custody Calculate mortgage payments against after-tax income to ensure manageable debt levels [00:20:10] Self-custody your crypto assets for greater control and security [00:56:30] ▶ Listen Next: Ep. 385 — Time is Your Ultimate Luxury | Essential Listening