In this episode of Everyday ABA, Paola, Brittanny, and Leslie are joined by Northwestern Mutual financial advisor, Tommy Smith, to break down retirement planning through a behavioral lens. Using principles from Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), the conversation demystifies 401(k)s, IRAs, Roth vs. traditional accounts, employer matches, and target date funds in a way that feels practical rather than overwhelming. The group explores the psychology of money, including why saving feels restrictive for some people and empowering for others, and how automation, habit formation, and reducing response effort can make long-term financial behavior more sustainable.
The episode also covers common barriers that prevent people from investing, such as fear of market fluctuations, lack of early financial education, and decision paralysis. Listeners learn how concepts like delayed reinforcement, shaping, and antecedent strategies apply directly to saving for retirement. Additional topics include pensions versus defined contribution plans, spousal IRAs, risk tolerance, working with a financial advisor, and why women—especially working mothers and stay-at-home parents—need to think differently about retirement and life insurance. This episode is ideal for clinicians, professionals, and families who want to understand retirement planning without jargon and learn how small, consistent behavioral changes can lead to long-term financial security.
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