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The Energetic Investor: Nurturing Mind, Body & Investment Mastery for Lasting Prosperity

The Energetic Investor is Kevin Bambrough’s deeply personal and unconventional guide to mastering wealth, health, and mindset. Blending memoir with self-help and investment strategy, the book is structured into three sections: Discover, Diagnose, and Deploy. It begins with a gripping and emotional account of a traumatic event that catalyzed Bambrough’s transformation. From there, he explores how burnout, biology, trauma, and ingrained behaviors sabotage our ability to thrive, not just financially, but mentally and physically. By treating the body like a complex investment portfolio and focusing on energy management at the cellular level, Bambrough challenges readers to align mind, body, and money for lasting prosperity.

What struck me immediately was how raw and real this book felt. It’s not some cookie-cutter investment guide sprinkled with generic life advice. Bambrough doesn’t hold back—he dives headfirst into his personal struggles with addiction, loss, and burnout. That honesty gives his ideas serious weight. His writing veers from high-intensity financial breakdowns to soul-searching reflections, which makes for an unexpected and powerful rhythm. I appreciated that he didn’t talk down to the reader or sugarcoat the truth. Whether he’s discussing dopamine hijacks by modern marketing or the role of trauma in our financial decisions, he keeps things direct, urgent, and human.

The book jumps across biology, psychology, economics, and life philosophy without much handholding. At times, it feels like drinking from a firehose of insight, anecdotes, and science-backed strategies. But oddly enough, I liked that. It kept me on my toes. The passion behind his words is undeniable. He’s not just giving advice, he’s living the transformation he preaches. His investment insights, especially his contrarian thinking and analysis of herd behavior, are gold for any investor who’s tired of shallow market noise. But it’s the blend of personal healing and financial intelligence that makes this book stand out.

The Energetic Investor isn’t for the faint of heart or someone looking for a tidy ten-step plan to get rich. It’s for those who are ready to do some soul-digging and gut-checking. If you’re a driven professional, a burned-out entrepreneur, or someone chasing success but feeling stuck, this book might just knock the wind out of you—and then teach you how to breathe again.

Pages: 236 | ASIN : B0F6D3T26Z

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Value Chain of Wealth

Author Interview
Adrian Cui Author Interview

Financial Freedom in 100 Months is a step-by-step guide to escaping financial dependence in just over eight years while exploring happiness, simple living, and long-term fulfillment, making it more than just a wealth-building manual. What inspired you to write this book and share your knowledge?

In today’s world, many people are struggling with money and don’t know how to build wealth. As a CPA, management consultant, and value investor, I would like to share my knowledge to help people succeed. Financial Freedom is not just a dream. With proper knowledge, everyone can achieve financial freedom.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

To achieve financial freedom, firstly, people need to understand the value chain of wealth. This is a very important concept for building wealth. This value chain of wealth begins with education, followed by career development and culminating in personal finance, including retirement planning. The more you earn, the more you save, the more you can invest your money and achieve financial freedom.

There are 2 ways to achieve financial freedom: the easy and slow way is index investing; the hard and fast way is active investing.

For successful active investment, people need to look for value and have a deep understanding of the investment opportunities. Stock investing is the easiest one to start with, you need to have a good understanding of macro analysis, fundamental analysis, technical analysis, and cycle analysis. There is really a lot to learn for successful investment. I have recommended some must-read books in Chapter 8.

In this book, I have also shared a hidden gem stock investment opportunity. Since the book was published in October 2024, the stock has already appreciated more than 100% in just 3 months. This shows the power of value investing. This stock still has lots of room for growth.

What is one thing people point out after reading your book that surprises you?

One reader mentioned that he liked the sections on building happiness and the importance of a well-balanced lifestyle. I’m glad to see that people are interested in a balanced life instead of just focusing on money. The whole purpose of financial freedom is to enjoy a better life. So I have included some chapters specifically for achieving a better life.

Another reader thinks there is too much on living healthy, diet, happiness, friendships, and psychology. I have tried my best to include only the most critical ideas in the book. I believe they are very important ideas that can help people achieve financial freedom while living a more balanced life.

What is one thing you hope readers take away from Financial Freedom in 100 Months?

To achieve financial freedom in 100 months is hard, but achievable. You need to have a positive mindset and believe in yourself. The book has laid out a foundation for your success, but you need to put in great efforts and try your best. Good luck to your financial freedom journey!

Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon

Financial Freedom in 100 Months offers a step-by-step guide to transforming your financial life, showing you how to break free from the daily grind and achieve independence in just over eight years. This book isn’t about complicated strategies or get-rich-quick schemes; it’s a practical plan anyone can follow, no matter where they are on their financial journey.

This book will answer the most important questions about financial freedom:
1. How much do you need?
2. Cost of living and quality of life.
3. The value chain of wealth.
4. The best investment vehicles and how they work.
5. The untold truth and secret weapons about money, that only the rich people understand.
6. How to live a balanced life and enjoy ultimate happiness?

In the bonus chapter, the book will introduce a hidden gem stock that can pave the way to your financial success.

Imagine waking up each day without the stress of money controlling your life—this book shows you how to make that dream a reality. You’ll learn to set clear financial goals, save and invest wisely, and protect yourself from common financial pitfalls. With chapters that break down everything from understanding the cost of living to mastering the art of simple living, this guide offers a complete roadmap to financial independence.

Whether you’re looking to retire early, build a safety net, or simply live a more secure, comfortable life, Financial Freedom in 100 Months is your blueprint for success. Backed by proven methods, this book is filled with actionable advice, real-world examples, and secrets used by millionaires. Start your journey today, and in just 100 months, you could redefine your future, living life on your own terms. Your path to financial freedom starts now!

Financial Freedom In 100 Months

Imagine waking up with zero financial stress, no nine-to-five grind, and the freedom to live life on your terms. That’s the promise of Financial Freedom in 100 Months, a step-by-step guide to escaping financial dependence in just over eight years. The book walks you through defining financial freedom, calculating your personal “freedom number,” building savings, and investing wisely in stocks, real estate, and even cryptocurrency. It doesn’t stop at money; it explores happiness, simple living, and long-term fulfillment, making it more than just a wealth-building manual.

What I appreciated most was the book’s no-nonsense approach to saving and investing. The chapter Set Your Target and Start Saving for Investment really drives home a critical point: financial freedom isn’t about luck, it’s about discipline. The author emphasizes saving as a non-negotiable habit, cutting unnecessary expenses and making strategic sacrifices early on to enjoy a wealthier future. It’s practical and motivating. The investment advice is solid, especially the sections on stock market fundamentals and real estate investing. The BRRRR Strategy (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) stood out as a particularly insightful approach to building wealth through property investment. It’s clear, actionable, and realistic.

The chapter on cryptocurrency investment felt overly optimistic. While it acknowledges the risks, it leans too much into the idea that crypto is a must-have asset. For someone new to investing, the volatility and uncertainty of crypto could be overwhelming. The book also introduces broad philosophical ideas about happiness, simple living, and career fulfillment, which, while interesting, feel a bit disconnected from the core financial roadmap. These sections could have been tied back to the central strategy more effectively.

I really liked how the book doesn’t just focus on getting rich but also on staying financially free. The chapter Live a Decent Life When You Get Old is a refreshing addition. Many financial books stop at retirement, but this one considers longevity, health, and maintaining happiness in later years. It reminds you that financial freedom isn’t just about having money; it’s about living well with that money. The final chapters tie everything together with timeless wisdom about habits, creativity, and the power of simplicity, which makes the book feel holistic rather than just another “get rich quick” guide.

This book is great for those who are serious about financial independence, especially beginners who want a structured plan. If you struggle with saving or don’t know where to start with investing, this book lays it out clearly. But if you’re already financially savvy, some sections may feel a bit basic. Financial Freedom in 100 Months is an engaging, practical, and motivating read for anyone ready to take control of their financial future.

Pages: 112 | ASIN : B0CZ795H5D

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The Hidden Power of Rising Dividends: How to Produce Security, Income & Growth

Greg Donaldson plunges into the stormy seas of the stock market, uncovering the deep wisdom that emerges from navigating its unpredictable currents. He offers a firsthand account of Black Monday, the infamous crash on October 19, 1987. The Hidden Power of Rising Dividends thrusts readers into the eye of a financial storm that forever altered the global economy and left a lasting impact on his life, both personally and professionally.

The Hidden Power of Rising Dividends stands out for its ability to be both thorough and approachable. It turns the complexities of the stock market into something intriguing, even for those who typically find financial jargon overwhelming. Donaldson starts strong, painting vivid pictures of a day that has no equal in financial history. His storytelling grips the reader, capturing the sheer panic and uncertainty that swept through Wall Street as the Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeted nearly 23%. The chaos feels almost tangible—markets crumbling, data lagging behind, and phones ringing non-stop with frightened clients on the other end.

Donaldson doesn’t just recount the financial impact of the crash; he bares his soul, sharing the psychological toll it took on him and those around him. He invites readers into his mind, revealing how a timely scripture from Isaiah became a beacon of hope amid the turmoil. His journey is deeply introspective. The solace he found as his small investment firm wavered on the edge of collapse is nothing short of inspiring. Donaldson’s talent for storytelling shines brightly, particularly when introducing key figures who shaped his thinking during this tumultuous period. One major lesson here is recognizing the potential in companies not just for quick returns but for their long-term resilience and value. Donaldson’s knack for drawing parallels between the tangible qualities of prime farmland and the intrinsic strengths of companies with solid brands, consistent earnings, and strong reputations makes complex financial ideas accessible to a wide audience.

The Hidden Power of Rising Dividend is a testament to the virtues of patience, perspective, and prudence. Donaldson’s evolution from a frantic trader to a calm, long-term strategist offers lessons that are as timeless as they are valuable. With an exceptional blend of historical narrative, personal reflection, and financial strategy, Greg Donaldson has crafted a book that is a must-read for everyone—from experienced investors to beginners, and even for those who simply enjoy a well-told story.

Pages: 380 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D722DHC8

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Black On Madison Avenue

Mark S. Robinson recounts his experiences as an African American professional in the US advertising sector for over 40 years in his compelling memoir, Black on Madison Avenue. Through his writing, Robinson raises much-needed awareness of an industry that, despite some improvements over time, remains entrenched in racial prejudice and structural discrimination.

Robinson’s natural storytelling flair shines throughout the book. Each anecdote is engaging and rich with details about the advertising world. His impressive roster of clients, including Unilever, HBO, and Coors, and encounters with numerous celebrities add a captivating layer to his narrative.

Despite the serious underlying message, the book maintains an optimistic and humorous tone. The heart of the book lies in Robinson’s critique of the advertising industry’s systemic racism. He does not shy away from discussing the obstacles he faced, such as the challenges of proving minority ownership and dealing with passive-aggressive behaviors from colleagues. These experiences are eye-opening and serve as a powerful indictment of the industry’s failures. Robinson’s decision to push back against these injustices, even when it could potentially harm his career, showcases his resilience and integrity.

One of the most striking aspects of the book is Robinson’s emphasis on the importance of mentorship and community. His involvement with the Minority Advertising Internship Program (MAIP) and his continuous support for upcoming black professionals in advertising highlight his commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion​​. These sections of the book are particularly inspiring, as they show how individual efforts can contribute to broader social change.

Black on Madison Avenue, by Mark S. Robinson, is a must-read for anyone interested in the advertising industry, racial dynamics in professional settings, or personal stories of overcoming adversity. Robinson’s memoir is both a historical document and a guide for future generations. It is especially valuable for young Black professionals seeking inspiration and for industry leaders who need to understand the importance of diversity and inclusion.

Pages: 285 | ASIN : B0C1QWS2C9

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Moral Compass

In her evocative memoir, Moral Compass, Susan Berger masterfully chronicles her journey from a quintessential 1950s Massachusetts upbringing to a trailblazing career in the male-dominated financial sector, spanning an impressive five decades. Berger’s narrative is a poignant reflection on a bygone era, filled with warm recollections of home-cooked meals and familial festivities, untainted by the complexities of modern technology. Yet, her idyllic childhood is abruptly disrupted by personal tragedies: the loss of her mother, her father’s descent into alcoholism, and the ensuing financial turmoil.

Berger’s memoir is not just a personal story but a mirror reflecting the broader societal changes in America. Her unyielding resilience in the face of pervasive discrimination, substance abuse, and poverty is nothing short of inspiring as she navigates and ultimately triumphs over these formidable challenges.

As a reader initially unfamiliar with the intricacies of investment analysis and wealth management, I found Berger’s clear and accessible explanations particularly enlightening. Her ability to balance professional insights with personal anecdotes ensures that Moral Compass maintains a compelling narrative without being overshadowed by financial jargon. Author Berger confronts sensitive topics such as drug abuse and mob influence with commendable candor.

Berger’s prose occasionally adopts a disjointed style, which lends the book a relatable, conversational quality. I feel enhancing the memoir with a deeper dive into Berger’s personal experiences could further enrich its emotional resonance, adding depth to an already impactful narrative.

Moral Compass stands as an emblem of inspiration, particularly for those pursuing seemingly unattainable dreams. Berger’s story is a testament to the virtues of determination, integrity, and independence, illustrating the remarkable capacity of human resilience to overcome even the harshest adversities. The memoir offers a powerful commentary on the evolution of feminism, presenting a stark portrayal of the challenges women faced, from unequal pay to sexual exploitation, in a not-so-distant past.

Moral Compass is more than a memoir; it’s a beacon of hope and a stark reminder of the relentless pursuit of equality and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Pages: 206 | ASIN : B0CBL333VT

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Level Up!: Your Strategy Guide to the Game of Investing

Level Up!: Your Strategy Guide to the Game of Investing is an invigorating read, particularly for the passionate video game enthusiast, but equally engrossing for those intrigued by the world of investing. The exceptional and innovative content within its pages illuminates the intricate complexities of investing, offering an unmatched perspective not commonly found in most finance and investment literature. Penned by Keenan Morris and other astute contributors, the book employs an inventive writing style that seamlessly merges the fantastical world of gaming with the pragmatic realm of business investment.

The core message of this transformative book can be encapsulated by its title— a compelling invitation to ‘level up’, offering readers the chance to enrich their mindset, bolster their financial acumen, and elevate their investment strategies to professional levels. The authors masterfully weave together the artistry of gaming with the rigor of business investment through engaging and relatable analogies that infuse gravity into otherwise complex subjects.

One might initially question the link between video gaming and wealth accumulation through investments. However, the authors swiftly dispel any doubts, articulating a fascinating correlation between the two domains. From the outset, they highlight shared aspects, including rules, strategies, secret weapons, adversaries, and achievements, while further delving into the intriguing contrasts and how gaming metaphors can be instrumental in understanding investment principles. The insights provided by Morris and his co-authors extend beyond mere investment shortcuts, exposing readers to real-world wisdom not typically found in conventional classrooms.

The book is divided into two substantive parts, with the first part holding a special place in my esteem. Each chapter of Part I resonates with the spirit of a video game, with eight engaging levels spanning from the Prologue (Level 1) to The Endgame (Level 8). These ‘levels’ provide an inclusive experience for all readers, irrespective of their gaming background. Part I offers invaluable lessons on applying gaming rules to enhance financial health, strategic investment planning, and the necessity for sharpness akin to a seasoned gamer. The discourse on debt management stands out, offering insights that are beneficial for a wider audience beyond aspiring investors. Though I wished for a more extensive discussion on this topic, it nonetheless left an indelible impact. Part II continues the enlightening journey, introducing a new array of thought-provoking topics.

Morris’s book is a great read— one that distinguishes itself through its unique blend of colorful graphics, succinct point-form explanations of specific topics, and the author’s engaging narrative tone. This book excels in delivering intricate and crucial points with clarity and depth, without overwhelming readers with excessive verbosity. As such, Level Up!: Your Strategy Guide to the Game of Investing emerges as one of the most outstanding resources for any budding investor preparing to embark on their financial journey.

Pages: 258 | ASIN : B0C443MZYK

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Gender-Focused Investing Is The Future

Ruth Shaber
Author Interview
Patience Marime-Ball Author Interview

The XX Edge: Unlocking Higher Returns and Lower Risk focus on the financial impact of gender-focused investing and why women need to have a greater role. Why was this an important book for you to write?

Our collective and extensive experiences in the financial sector, as well as in the field of women’s health, has shown us time and again that women have a transformative impact on the world when they are financial decision-makers.

As investors, we’ve seen firsthand the impact of integrating a gender analysis in financial decision-making. Patience has spearheaded the development of multi-billion-dollar financial platforms and the structuring of large global funds centered around women. On the other hand, Ruth’s experience as an Obstetrician and Gynecologist and founder of Tara Health Foundation gave her insights into the pressing need for innovative programs promoting the health and well-being of women and girls.

However, the mainstream financial sector, which could greatly benefit from more gender-focused investing, is largely not aware of the significant advantages it presents. This lack of awareness inspired us to share our insights in a more accessible and impactful way.

The XX Edge is our answer. We make a compelling data-driven case for investing with a gender and broader diversity focus. Specifically, across all asset classes, when women are central to financial decisions and apply their skills, the results are higher returns for investors leading to significant economic growth.

The book is an invitation to embrace a new paradigm of gender-focused investing where women are not just beneficiaries but also key decision-makers and agents of change. We emphasize this role of women in the economy, as it holds the potential for a more inclusive and profitable future. This isn’t just a theoretical concept but an achievable reality, one that benefits everyone.

Writing The XX Edge has given us a platform to amplify this reality and, we hope, to inspire more individuals and institutions to harness the transformative power of gender-focused investing.

How much research did you undertake for this book, and how much time did it take to put it all together?

The research process for The XX Edge: Unlocking Higher Returns and Lower Risk was both extensive and rewarding. Given the depth of the financial analysis we were presenting and the critical nature of the social issues we were addressing, we knew it was essential to be thorough and meticulous in our research.

We combined our decades of professional experiences with a wide range of external resources. We analyzed the latest financial data, explored studies on gender-focused investing, and took a deep dive into economic and social impact research. We also held numerous discussions with experts in the field to ensure that we had a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape and potential future developments.

The research process took approximately 6 months. It was an exciting opportunity to consolidate the compelling data and insights that reinforced our message. The writing process went relatively well once we had a clear understanding of the data and could articulate the financial case for gender-focused investing.

We both cherished our partnership during this journey. We brought to the table our unique insights and experiences, and this collaboration enriched the book immeasurably.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

First, there is an irrefutable financial case for gender-focused investing. Our research shows that when women are at the table for business decisions and investments, enterprises are stronger and financial returns are higher. This is an underutilized strategy that can benefit individual investors and the global economy at large.

Second, we highlight the importance of women as economic agents. Too often, conversations about gender and finance focus solely on how women can benefit from financial resources. But women are more than just recipients; they are innovators, decision-makers, and leaders. When women apply their skills and insights across capital markets, we’ve seen firsthand that they drive significant economic growth. This means recognizing the potential of women to effect change in all areas, including economic, environmental, and social spheres.

Lastly, we wanted to present a vision for a new paradigm in investing – one where gender-focused investing is not seen as a niche strategy but is mainstream and central to financial decision-making. We envision a future where financial institutions and individual investors alike understand and capitalize on the benefits of gender-focused investing.

These ideas have the potential to transform how people think about finance and investment, and we hope that The XX Edge will inspire readers to explore these possibilities further.

What is one thing that you hope readers take away from The XX Edge?

If there’s one takeaway we hope readers will glean from our book, it is the understanding that gender-focused investing isn’t just a social or ethical choice, but a sound financial strategy that brings differentiated analysis to decision-making leading to higher returns and lower risk.

Readers will come to appreciate the transformative potential that lies in elevating women as key decision-makers in finance. When women apply their skills and insights across capital markets, it leads to more than just equitable representation; it catalyzes greater economic growth and fosters a more sustainable and inclusive financial ecosystem.

We envision a future where gender-focused investing is mainstream, and we hope that our readers will become ambassadors of this change, understanding its potential and carrying this knowledge into their own lives and communities. Whether they are seasoned investors, financial advisors, or individuals hoping to increase the balance in their retirement accounts, we hope they recognize that investing with a gender and diversity lens is essential for our collective future.

In The XX Edge, Patience Marime-Ball and Ruth Shaber envision a new paradigm of gender-focused investing where more women are placed in decision-making roles and able to optimize their skills across all capital markets—leading to higher returns for individual investors and greater economic growth.

There’s a simple but often overlooked investment strategy to earning higher returns—include women as financial decision-makers within your organization or team. That’s The XX Edge. 

Seasoned executives and investors Patience Marime-Ball and Ruth Shaber demonstrate the new paradigm where women are at the center of investing as agents and actors—not just as beneficiaries.

If you manage investments—either your own or others’—you’ll want to understand the data and discover the financial power of The XX Edge:
Gender-inclusive teams are 21% more likely to see outperformance in profitability relative to peers 
Female CFOs deliver a 6% increase in profits and an 8% stock performance bump compared to overall performance under male predecessors
New companies with a female founder performed 63% better than those with all-male teams over an observed ten-year period 
Women-run hedge funds outperformed the average of larger hedge funds by a margin of 6% over a six-and-a-half-year period

 

You’ll discover the inherent gender differences between women and men and why these differences make women excellent financial decision makers and investment collaborators. Patience and Ruth unpack the evidence that proves this point across all asset classes.

The XX Edge shows that when women make financial decisions and apply their skills across all capital markets, it leads to higher returns for individual investors and greater economic growth—a true win-win for all.