This video examines the story of Cliff Young, an older ultramarathon runner who won a race by consistently shuffling rather than sprinting. The hosts use his experience to discuss the importance of persistence, challenging perceived limitations, and ignoring comparisons when pursuing long-term success.

Watch Now

Key Takeaway

Perceived weaknesses can often be turned into unique advantages.

Explore

The Ten Money Centers

Organized around the real financial decisions Americans face — from budgeting basics to retirement and legacy planning.

Money Foundations

Budgeting, cash flow, emergency funds, and banking basics.

"Before you can build wealth, you need a solid foundation. Let's start with the basics — budgeting, saving, and banking done right."

Explore

Debt & Credit

Credit scores, utilization, interest, and becoming debt-free.

"Debt doesn't have to be a life sentence. Understanding how credit works is your first step toward financial freedom."

Explore

Saving & Building Wealth

High-yield savings, compound growth, and investing fundamentals.

"Saving isn't just about putting money away — it's about making your money work for you. Compound growth changes everything."

Explore

Housing & Real Estate

Renting vs. buying, mortgages, affordability, and refinancing.

"Your home is likely the biggest purchase you'll ever make. Let's make sure you're making the right call for your situation."

Explore

Career & Education

College ROI, career demand, student loans, and certifications.

"The best investment you can make is in yourself. Let's talk about how to maximize your earning potential."

Explore

Cars & Transportation

New vs. used, depreciation, financing, and total ownership cost.

"Cars are where a lot of Americans lose money. Let me help you avoid the common traps."

Explore

Taxes & Income

Tax efficiency, types of income, withholding, and side hustles.

"Nobody likes talking about taxes, but understanding them puts money back in your pocket."

Explore

Retirement & Healthcare

Retirement readiness, Social Security, Medicare, and long-term care.

"Retirement isn't an age — it's a financial state. Let's figure out where you stand."

Explore

Family, Kids & Legacy

Teaching kids about money, estate planning, and wealth transfer.

"The financial habits you teach your kids today will shape their entire future. Let's set them up right."

Explore

Money & Life

Financial stress, money mindset, habits, and major decisions.

"Money isn't just numbers on a page. It's stress, freedom, and peace of mind. Let's tackle the human side."

Explore

Money Tools

Calculators That Help You Decide

Free, practical tools that turn financial questions into clear next steps. No sign-up required to use them.

Emergency Fund Calculator

Find your target emergency savings range based on your expenses, income stability, and household situation.

Try it

Debt Payoff Comparison

Compare snowball and avalanche methods to find the best debt payoff strategy for you.

Try it

Compound Growth Calculator

See how consistent contributions and time can grow your savings with the power of compound growth.

Try it

Major Purchase Affordability Check

Check the real monthly and long-term impact of a major purchase before you commit.

Try it

Net Worth Snapshot

Track your assets and liabilities to see the full picture of your financial position.

Try it

Financial literacy isn't about how much you make — it's about understanding the money you already have.

Benjamin Adams

Banker · Educator · Founder of American Money 101

Latest From Benjamin

Fresh Financial Lessons

New videos, infographics, and Money Briefs from Benjamin's YouTube channel and Facebook content.

"I'm always creating new content. Here's the freshest stuff — pick whatever speaks to you."

Video25 min

The 61-Year-Old Farmer Who Beat the World’s Best Runners

Beginner

Video25 min

The 61-Year-Old Farmer Who Beat the World’s Best Runners | S3E34

This episode uses the legendary story of Cliff Young, an ultramarathon runner, to discuss the importance of consistency and persistence in achieving long-term goals. The hosts connect his unconventional 'shuffling' technique to broader lessons in business, real estate, and building personal success.

Beginner

Video12 min

Stop Negotiating With Yourself: The Discipline to Do What You Already Decided

This episode explores the psychological traps that cause us to renegotiate our own decisions, undermining our personal discipline and progress. It provides actionable advice on how to stop making excuses and build confidence by keeping promises to yourself.

Beginner

Video12 min

Stop Negotiating With Yourself | S3E33

This video explores the psychological traps of motivation and why we often talk ourselves out of important goals. It introduces the concept of non-negotiables as a tool to eliminate decision fatigue and improve personal discipline.

Beginner

Browse All Content

About Benjamin

A banker on a mission to make financial literacy accessible to every American.

Benjamin Adams has more than 20 years of banking experience and has worked with consumers across all 50 states. He believes financial-literacy challenges affect people at every income level — and that practical education is the foundation of financial independence.

20+ years experience

All 50 states

Read Full Story YouTube Facebook

"Everyone deserves to understand their money."

Founder

"Let's do this together."

Ready to take control of your financial future?

Create your free Money Roadmap and get personalized recommendations, or subscribe for new financial lessons from Benjamin.

Build My Money Roadmap Subscribe for Updates