Welcome to Playbook of the Wealthy—a podcast where money talk gets a much-needed makeover. Hosted by financial advisors Dave Grant and Heather Townsend, this show skips the jargon and spreadsheet snoozefests to focus on what really matters: helping you make smart, real-world financial decisions with clarity and confidence.
Heather Townsend: A Mission Rooted in Life Experience
Heather didn’t grow up poor—but she didn’t grow up secure, either. Her childhood home was the smallest in a wealthy neighborhood. Her dad once got a $90,000 Christmas bonus, but never saved a dime. Sadly, he ultimately passed away with no savings.
She witnessed the sharp financial downturn her mom's financial life took after her parents’ divorce. Seeing her mom—and other women in her community—struggle sparked something in Heather. By age 19, she knew her purpose: helping people, especially women, take control of their finances before it’s too late.
She got serious right away, earning her CPA license and working for Ernst & Young. She gained hands-on experience in personal and business finance, including time with real estate developers. Eventually, Heather founded her own firm—Townsend Financial—with a clear mission.
“I like to help good humans become wealthier. That’s my little way of changing the world.”
Heather walked away from a potential $1M-a-year career in accounting because she craved more than money. She wanted balance. Freedom. Purpose. And now, she helps clients not just grow wealth—but use it to live meaningful, intentional lives.
Dave Grant: From Summer Camps to Financial Planning
Dave’s story starts in England, but it took a big turn in Illinois, where he came to work at YMCA summer camps. The plan was to teach. But fate had other ideas—he met his future wife (his boss at the camp!), stayed in the U.S., and ended up in financial planning.
His path wasn’t glamorous. He started as a receptionist, then worked his way up to paraplanner, and eventually earned his Certified Financial Planner™ designation. He even worked on an all-women advisory team through the chaos of the 2008 financial crisis.
In 2013, Dave launched his own firm. It wasn’t easy. He changed his niche several times. Thought about quitting. Nearly took a “safe” corporate job. But he stuck with it—and it paid off.
Today, Dave works primarily with pharmaceutical executives and successful professionals looking to live well and give generously.
“My job doesn’t define me. It gives me the income to live the life I want.”
He’s built a business—and a life—that prioritizes people over profits and balance over burnout.
Financial Planning: It’s Not Just About Investing
Heather and Dave share a key belief: financial planning is about far more than picking the right investments. That’s just one piece of the puzzle.
Real financial planning is about:
Seeing the big picture of your life
Setting goals and sticking to them
Staying ahead of changes in tax laws and market shifts
Avoiding costly mistakes
Coordinating all aspects of your financial life—from insurance to estate planning
Think of your financial advisor as your thinking partner—someone who helps you align your money with your values and vision for life.
“Advisors barely scratch the surface if they only talk about investing.”
No two financial plans are the same—because no two lives are. That’s why this podcast dives deep into the emotional and practical sides of money.
Smart Money Advice from Heather & Dave
Here are a few top tips from the hosts of Playbook of the Wealthy:
1. Diversify Your Money
Don’t rely on a single strategy or asset. Markets shift. Create multiple financial “lifeboats” to weather any storm—and don’t let too much cash just sit around losing value.
2. Balance Saving and Living
Saving is essential—but so is enjoying life now. A good plan balances today’s joys with tomorrow’s needs. Use money to support your life, not control it.
3. Avoid Debt Traps
Credit card debt can sabotage even the best intentions. Don’t fall into the trap of looking wealthy while living paycheck to paycheck. Keep spending in check and always make room to save and invest.
4. Build True Wealth
Wealth isn’t just about numbers in an account—it’s about freedom, purpose, and contentment. Be grateful for what you have. Chase what matters. Use your money as a tool, not a scoreboard.
Ready to Take Action?
Here’s what you can do today to start thinking (and acting) like the wealthy:
Check your investment portfolio. Are you properly diversified?
Move idle cash into productive accounts.
Make a debt reduction plan.
Set specific, meaningful financial goals.
Use your resources to make a positive impact in your life and community.
Dave and Heather are here to make financial planning feel human. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your strategy, Playbook of the Wealthy is your go-to for real conversations about money—and how it can serve the life you want to live.
New episodes drop regularly. Tune in, take notes, and start playing your own version of the wealth game—on your terms.