In this follow-up episode of Ditch the Suits, Travis continues his conversation with Dr. Paul Gould, PhD, LICSW, founder of Kindred Spirits Counseling and Wellness. Together, they dig deeper into the emotional toll political uncertainty and federal job instability are having on workers—and what can be done about it.

With tensions rising across political lines and anxiety driven by job insecurity, Dr. Gould helps us understand how emotionally charged environments, cognitive distortions, and toxic media cycles can compound stress. They explore the difference between stress and anxiety, the importance of recognizing when you're caught in unhealthy thought patterns, and how a growth or "survivor" mindset can offer a pathway forward.

Whether you’re a federal employee facing changes, someone supporting a loved one through uncertainty, or just feeling overwhelmed by the constant barrage of bad news, this episode offers powerful, actionable insight into how to take back control of your mental health, career, and future.

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🅿️ For more DTS content check out our Patreon

Thanks to our sponsor, S.E.E.D. Planning Group! S.E.E.D. is a fee-only financial planning firm with a fiduciary obligation to put your best interest first. Schedule your free discovery meeting at www.seedpg.com

You can get Ditch the Suits highlights, and other great content produced by NQR Media at https://youtube.com/@NQRMedia

📧 For more information or to get in touch with us, visit https://www.ditchthesuits.com

👍🏼 You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @nqrmedia

About Your Host:

Travis Maus has been in financial services for over fifteen years. He is a Senior Wealth Manager and Chief Executive Officer at S.E.E.D. Planning Group. Travis also hosts the Unleashing Leadership Podcast, where he dissects some of his favorite books on leadership and how you can apply it to your business or life.

In this episode of Ditch the Suits, host Travis Maus sits down with Dr. Paul Gould, PhD, LICSW, a licensed clinical social worker and expert in anxiety and trauma, to unpack the mounting stress experienced by federal employees amid sudden funding cuts and workforce changes.

With nearly 35% of all U.S. jobs tied in some way to federal funding, these shifts are rippling across the economy—impacting individuals, families, and financial futures. Travis and Dr. Gould dive into the differences between stress, anxiety, and trauma, and explore the real emotional toll these changes are taking on people. They discuss why common reactions like “toughen up” may be more harmful than helpful, and how political polarization and media overload are intensifying people's sense of fear and uncertainty.

Most importantly, Dr. Gould offers practical, thoughtful advice on how to recognize and manage anxiety, maintain emotional well-being, and support others through challenging transitions. Whether you're directly affected or simply trying to make sense of the current climate, this episode delivers insights that are both grounding and empowering.

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🅿️ For more DTS content check out our Patreon

Thanks to our sponsor, S.E.E.D. Planning Group! S.E.E.D. is a fee-only financial planning firm with a fiduciary obligation to put your best interest first. Schedule your free discovery meeting at www.seedpg.com

You can get Ditch the Suits highlights, and other great content produced by NQR Media at https://youtube.com/@NQRMedia

📧 For more information or to get in touch with us, visit https://www.ditchthesuits.com

👍🏼 You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @nqrmedia

About Your Host:

Travis Maus has been in financial services for over fifteen years. He is a Senior Wealth Manager and Chief Executive Officer at S.E.E.D. Planning Group. Travis also hosts the Unleashing Leadership Podcast, where he dissects some of his favorite books on leadership and how you can apply it to your business or life.

In this episode, Travis and Steve delve into the complexities of tariffs, egg prices, and the broader implications for financial futures. They challenge common narratives surrounding these topics, emphasizing the importance of understanding the underlying factors affecting prices and regulations.

The conversation highlights the role of supply issues, regulatory policies, and the misconceptions surrounding tariffs, ultimately advocating for a more informed perspective on economic issues.

One key is Travis stating, "Awareness of the media agendas is essential for clarity and olitical conversations should be rooted in intelligence, not vitriol."

They explore how tariffs serve as a mechanism for realigning competitive balance and discuss the importance of supporting local economies.

The conversation also touches on investment strategies in a changing market and the broader implications of U.S. economic policies on global relations.

Key Takeaways

• Egg prices are high due to supply issues, not tariffs.
• Panic buying during crises can exacerbate price increases.
• Regulatory policies often dictate agricultural practices.
• Tariffs are a common tool used by many countries.
• The U.S. is not unique in its use of tariffs.
• Free trade, as commonly understood, does not exist.
• Understanding tariffs is crucial for informed financial decisions.
• There are opportunities in economic downturns.
• Emotional responses to economic news can cloud judgment.
• Sleeping on an issue can provide clarity and reduce emotional reactions.
• Tariffs are often misunderstood; they are not a direct tax on consumers.
• Local economies benefit when consumers prioritize local products.
• Investment strategies should consider the shifting dynamics of global trade.
• The U.S. economy is a significant player in the global market.
• Understanding tariffs can help consumers make informed choices.
• Consumer behavior is influenced by pricing and product quality.
• Economic policies can create opportunities for local businesses.

_________________________________________

🅿️ For more DTS content check out our Patreon

Thanks to our sponsor, S.E.E.D. Planning Group! S.E.E.D. is a fee-only financial planning firm with a fiduciary obligation to put your best interest first. Schedule your free discovery meeting at www.seedpg.com

You can get Ditch the Suits highlights, and other great content produced by NQR Media at https://youtube.com/@NQRMedia

📧 For more information or to get in touch with us, visit https://www.ditchthesuits.com

👍🏼 You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @nqrmedia

About Your Host:

Travis Maus has been in financial services for over fifteen years. He is a Senior Wealth Manager and Chief Executive Officer at S.E.E.D. Planning Group. Travis also hosts the Unleashing Leadership Podcast, where he dissects some of his favorite books on leadership and how you can apply it to your business or life.