Epsilon Theory Podcast

On this episode of the Intentional Investor, Matt Zeigler welcomes legendary investor and entrepreneur Jim O'Shaughnessy. Jim shares fascinating stories from his childhood, including memories of his influential grandfather, his early interest in magic, and how rejection shaped his mindset. The discussion covers Jim's journey into investing, his thoughts on education and critical thinking, and his experiences on Wall Street. Jim offers insights on topics like the power of journaling, the importance of empiricism, and his excitement for AI and new technologies.

Join Matt Zeigler as he sits down with Eben Burr, a financial professional with a fascinating journey from the D.C. punk rock scene to the world of behavioral finance. Eben shares his unique perspective on investing, shaped by his diverse experiences in music, architecture, and finance. In this episode, we explore: Growing up in Washington D.C. and its influence on Eben's worldview The parallel between punk rock and financial education Eben's transition from architecture to finance The importance of understanding client psychology in investing Strategies for effective risk management and client communication How music and finance intersect in...

In the latest episode of Breaking News, we are joined by Epsilon Theory Co-Founder Rusty Guinn. We cover the latest developments in the 2024 election and explore how narratives are shaping the political landscape. We delve into the transition from Biden to Harris and examine the strategic implications and how it's pushing us into what we're calling our first "vibe election." We also tackle the Fed's independence and the potential for rate cuts, regardless of who wins. In our Tweet of the Week, we examine how AI-generated images and rapid narrative formation are changing political discourse, potentially disconnecting us from factual...

In this episode of The Intentional Investor, Matt Zeigler talks with Grant Williams, a veteran of the finance industry and creator of the popular newsletter "Things That Make You Go Hmmm..." Grant shares fascinating stories from his career journey, from trading Japanese equities in the 1980s to founding Real Vision. He discusses his approach to writing and interviewing, emphasizing the importance of building trust with an audience and focusing on quality content rather than chasing numbers. Grant also reflects on his experiences living and working around the world, the challenges of moving his family internationally, and his passion for sports...

In this episode of Breaking News, we cover the recent developments in the Democratic party, with Biden stepping aside and Kamala Harris becoming the presumptive nominee. We discuss how reality seems to be proclaimed rather than acknowledged, and how both parties seem more interested in conflict than actual policy solutions. We also touch on the SEC's case against short-seller Andrew Left and the selective enforcement of rules in finance. We also debate the merits of giving green cards to foreign college graduates and how systems can be exploited by those with money. Finally, we explore the themes in Charlie XCX's...

In this episode of the Intentional Investor, Matt Zeigler speaks with Ryan Krueger, founder of Freedom Day Solutions. Ryan shares his journey from working at a baseball card shop as a child to becoming a successful financial professional. He discusses his philosophy on investing, which focuses on transparency, partnership with clients, and a unique approach to retirement planning called "Freedom Day." Ryan emphasizes the importance of trust, ethical practices, and long-term commitment in his business. He also touches on personal values, such as the influence of his family, his desire to make a positive impact, and his goal of continuing...

In this episode if Breaking News, we discuss the recent assassination attempt on former President Trump and explore its implications within the context of "The Great Ravine" - our term for the current period of political strife and violence. We analyze how media, technology, and politics intersect to shape public narratives, often transforming sadness into anger directed at opponents. We examine the rationality behind this behavior in closed political systems and discuss the challenges of maintaining critical distance. We also discuss the event's impact on the 2024 election and explore themes of nourishment and healing through an analysis of the TV...

In this episode, Matt Zeigler speaks with with Wes Gray, founder of Alpha Architect and ETF Architect. Wes shares his fascinating journey from growing up on a ranch to pursuing a PhD in finance at the University of Chicago, serving in the Marine Corps, and eventually building successful businesses in quantitative investing and ETF infrastructure. He discusses key moments that shaped his career, including early experiences with investing, his time in academia and the military, and how he identified opportunities in the ETF space. Wes provides insights into his entrepreneurial approach, the importance of community and collaboration in investing, and...

In this episode of Breaking News we look at the impact of the presidential debate and the role it played in changing the common knowledge about President Biden's fitness for office. We explore the concept of common knowledge and illustrate how public perception shifts when everyone knows that everyone else knows something. We discuss the implications for the 2024 election, the role of media in shaping these narratives, and the potential fallout within the Democratic Party. Intertwining serious political analysis with lighter anecdotes, including a story about the Beastie Boys' early days, we emphasize the importance of community and shared understanding...

In this episode, Matt Zeigler talks with Epsilon Theory co-founder Rusty Guinn. Rusty shares his life journey, from growing up in rural Texas to working on Wall Street and eventually co-founding Second Foundation Partners. He discusses his experiences in finance, including roles in investment banking, private equity, and asset management. Rusty reflects on the lessons learned throughout his career, emphasizing the importance of humility, earnestness, and agency. He also talks about his decision to move to a farm in Connecticut, where he now balances his work in finance with homeschooling his children and running an apple orchard. Throughout the conversation...