In this episode, Mike Collette (Founder of Prototype Training Systems) sits down with Brendan Sheehan, owner of Waymark Wealth Management, to talk about navigating financial market volatility — and how our emotions can impact decision-making during uncertain times.
-Brendan shares valuable insights on:-How political views shape market perceptions
-Why market pullbacks are normal and expected-The importance of emotional control in investing
-Why staying consistent with your health & fitness routine is critical — especially during stressful times
This is a real-world conversation about money, mindset, and maintaining focus when things feel uncertain.Connect with Brendan SheehanWaymark Wealth
Managementhttps://waymarkwealth.com/
Learn more about Prototype Training Systemshttps://prototypetraining.com/
Topic: Market Volatility, Emotional Decision-Making, & Health
(00:01 - 01:00)
Mike Collette introduces Brendan Sheehan (Waymark Wealth Management) to discuss emotional decision-making during market volatility, not from a political or technical standpoint but human behavior and psychology.
(01:00 - 03:26)
Brendan highlights that people’s reaction to market downturns is largely emotional and often politically influenced — Democrats and Republicans perceive the economy differently depending on who is in office.
(03:26 - 05:13)
Market pullbacks (5-10%) happen about 3x per year, and 10-20% drops occur roughly once per year — this isn’t unprecedented. History shows crises come and go (9/11, 2008 crisis, COVID).
(05:13 - 06:58)
Emphasis on controlling emotions during volatility — avoid echo chambers of negativity (social media, like-minded friends). Routine and surrounding yourself with stable influences is crucial.
(06:58 - 09:47)
Fitness parallels: People tend to cut health and fitness expenses first during stress — but exercise, routine, and community support are essential antidotes to stress, anxiety, and poor decision-making.
(09:47 - 13:56)
Human behavior during market downturns mirrors fear responses (fight/flight). Selling investments during panic requires being "right twice" — timing exit and re-entry perfectly, which is rare.
(13:56 - 16:53)
Brendan uses active listening with clients — letting them vent first, then guiding them with calm logic and perspective to avoid irrational financial decisions.
(16:53 - 19:57)
Strategy for handling fear/anxiety: Seek more information before making brash decisions. Routine and positive community support can break negative thought cycles.
(19:57 - 22:18)
Final takeaway: Health, fitness, and community are “medicine” for uncertainty and emotional stress — maintaining your routine (especially gym/training) is key to resilience in volatile times.
(22:43 - End)
Contact info for Brendan Sheehan and Waymark Wealth Management is provided for those seeking financial guidance.