Episode #40
Interview with Michael Lewis (Part Two), CFA, MBA, author of Getting Out of Your Own Way
What happens when a family needs to make an important decision about an aging parent, but no one feels ready to have the conversation? In this episode of Not Ready Yet , Michael Lewis, CFA, MBA, author of Getting Out of Your Own Way joins me to talk about the human side of caregiving and financial decision-making. When emotions, stress, money, family dynamics, and an aging loved one’s wishes all collide, even simple decisions can become complicated. Michael explains why families often delay important conversations, how stress can influence the way we make decisions, and why waiting can sometimes leave families with fewer options. We talk about: • The emotional component of financial decisions during caregiving • Why families delay conversations about aging • How stress affects decision-making • The importance of knowing your loved one’s wishes • Building a team of professionals to help navigate complex decisions • Why timing matters when options are available • How to prepare for productive family meetings • The importance of understanding the interdependencies of caregiving One of the biggest takeaways? Start the conversation while you still have options. A good family decision isn't simply about the financial outcome. It considers the person, the family, the legacy, and the practical realities involved. If you are helping an aging parent, navigating caregiving, or wondering how to have some of these conversations before you're forced to, this conversation is for you. About Michael Lewis: Michael Lewis is an author and practitioner whose work focuses on decision reliability, governance under stress, and behavioral finance. © 2025-2026 Lisa M. Harper. All rights reserved. “Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey” is a trademark of Lisa M. Harper.
