The Harder to Breathe Podcast18 Mar 2025

The Emotion at the Heart of a 'Finance Bro' | #11

On today's episode of "Harder to Breathe'', host, founding drummer of "Maroon 5", and licensed therapist, Ryan Dusick is joined by co-host and actor Brian "Duck" Maillard for a totally unexpected conversation with Shawn O'Malley– known as both a Podcast Host & Finance Professional.

On the "Harder to Breathe" Podcast we ask our guests to be open and vulnerable so that we can see the person behind the success. Shawn O'Malley took that concept and ran with it for the entirety of the podcast's duration.

In an incredible display of self-awareness and authenticity, Shawn sets aside his "Finance Bro" exterior in order to have a full discussion about his anxiety, his medical issues, the passing of his brother, imposter syndrome, and so much more. He fully commits to being open and vulnerable with us, and even his regular listeners will no doubt be amazed at how much he is willing to share.

No matter where you stand on investments and finance, I promise that you'll find common ground with Shawn. He's extremely likeable, extremely relatable, and his conversation with Ryan and Duck truly represents the essence of what the "Harder to Breathe" Podcast is all about.

0:00:36 Introduction & Little League Practice

0:02:06 A Precious Reminder

0:03:42 Receiving Our First Questions From the Fans

0:07:26 What is the Story Behind "This Love"?

0:15:54 What inspired Duck to be a Voice Actor?

0:19:11 How did Ryan & Duck Meet?

0:21:56 Who was Duck's Favorite Character to Voice?

0:25:40 Today's Guest: Shawn O'Malley

0:27:05 Shawn O'Malley Joins the Podcast & Talks About Feelings

0:30:08 The Intersection of Creativity and Finance

0:32:56 Quantitative Data AND Qualitative Data

0:37:54 Shawn's Health Diagnosis

0:51:52 The Mind/Gut Connection

0:58:21 Early Recognition of Anxiety

1:00:36 How Shawn Processed Grief & Loss as a Teenager

1:11:06 Resiliency & Accomplishment

1:15:27 Challenges Becoming Strengths (and vice versa)

1:21:06 Facing Imposter Syndrome & Burnout

1:26:24 College During the Pandemic

1:36:14 Wrap Up & Conclusion

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