10 Best FREE Personal Finance Audiobooks
Warren Buffet called the day he picked up a copy of legendary Wall Street investor Benjamin Graham's book "The Intelligent Investor" one of the luckiest moments of his life. Many extraordinarily wealthy individuals swear by these books, and now they are available in a convenient audiobook format.
"To invest successfully over a lifetime does not require a stratospheric IQ, unusual business insights, or inside information" - Warren Buffett
Listening to personal finance audiobooks can improve your life in a number of ways. Firstly, it can help you gain a better understanding of how to manage your money and make informed financial decisions. This can lead to better financial stability and security, allowing you to save for the future and achieve your financial goals.
Additionally, listening to personal finance audiobooks can provide valuable insights and strategies for managing your debts and reducing expenses. This can help you avoid financial pitfalls and stay on track with your budget, leading to improved financial well-being.
Furthermore, listening to personal finance audiobooks can help you develop good money habits and a healthy financial mindset. This can lead to improved self-confidence and peace of mind, allowing you to focus on other areas of your life and pursue your goals with greater clarity and determination.
Overall, regularly listening to personal finance audiobooks can be a powerful tool for improving your financial literacy, making better money decisions, and achieving your financial goals.
Check out these 10 FREE financial audiobooks that you can listen to on your drive, on the train, or any time you want to start taking the steps to financial freedom.
Top 10 free personal finance audiobooks
Updated November 2023
1.) The Intelligent Investor The Classic Text Annotated to Update Graham's Timeless Wisdom for Today's Market Conditions
The greatest investment advisor of the 20th century, Benjamin Graham taught and inspired people worldwide. Graham's philosophy of "value investing" - which shields investors from substantial error and teaches them to develop long-term strategies - has made The Intelligent Investor the stock market Bible ever since its original publication in 1949.
"The Intelligent Investor" by Benjamin Graham is a timeless guide to investing that emphasizes the principles of value investing and the importance of a rational, disciplined approach to the stock market. Graham emphasizes the difference between investment and speculation, urging investors to focus on the long-term intrinsic value of a company rather than short-term market fluctuations. He introduces the concept of a "margin of safety," advising investors to buy stocks when they are priced below their intrinsic value to minimize risk.
The book outlines various investment strategies, such as defensive investing and enterprising investing, tailored to different risk tolerances. Graham also discusses the psychological aspects of investing, highlighting the role of emotions and behavioral biases in decision-making.
Additionally, the revised editions of the book, updated by Jason Zweig, offer contemporary insights and perspectives while maintaining Graham's core principles. Overall, "The Intelligent Investor" serves as a comprehensive guide for both novice and experienced investors, emphasizing the importance of a patient, disciplined, and analytical approach to investing in the stock market.
2.) Think and Grow Rich The World's Greatest Book on Successful Living - in a Compact Special Edition!
Here is the complete experience of Think and Grow Rich in an exquisitely brief and faithful condensation. In 40 minutes, you will learn all 13 of Napoleon Hill's famous steps to wealth and achievement.
"Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill, not Mitch Horowitz, is a classic self-help book that delves into the philosophy of success and personal achievement. Hill's book explores the mindset and principles that lead to wealth and success, drawing insights from interviews with over 500 successful individuals, including Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, and Andrew Carnegie.
The book emphasizes the power of one's thoughts, beliefs, and desires in shaping their reality. Hill introduces the concept of the "Law of Attraction" and discusses the importance of setting clear, definite goals, backed by a burning desire to achieve them. He outlines a step-by-step formula for success, highlighting the significance of perseverance, faith, and a positive mental attitude.
Through anecdotes, Hill illustrates the principles of success, including the mastery of one's thoughts, effective decision-making, and the creation of a supportive network or "mastermind" group. The book aims to inspire readers to cultivate a success-oriented mindset and take proactive steps toward achieving their dreams and financial goals.
Mitch Horowitz is an author and speaker known for his writings on self-help, metaphysics, and personal development. He might have written about or discussed "Think and Grow Rich" in his works, offering insights or commentary on Hill's principles of success, but the original book itself is authored by Napoleon Hill.
The incredible national bestseller that is changing people's lives -- and increasing their net worth!
Get the answers in The Millionaire Next Door, the never-before-told story about wealth in America. "The Millionaire Next Door" by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko provides a revealing look into the lives and habits of America's wealthy individuals. Contrary to popular belief, the book argues that many millionaires aren't living extravagant lifestyles. Instead, they tend to be ordinary, hardworking individuals who have amassed wealth through frugality, disciplined saving, and smart financial choices.
The authors conducted extensive research and interviews to uncover common traits among millionaires. They emphasize that most affluent individuals live well below their means, prioritize saving and investing, and are cautious about excessive spending. The book outlines the importance of budgeting, living modestly, and avoiding the trappings of materialism.
Moreover, it sheds light on the misconception that high-income earners are necessarily wealthy. Instead, the book highlights that accumulating wealth is often a result of prudent financial habits and a mindset focused on long-term financial security rather than immediate consumption.
"The Millionaire Next Door" offers practical advice on how to cultivate the habits of the wealthy, emphasizing the value of financial independence, hard work, and consistent saving to achieve long-term prosperity. It challenges conventional notions of wealth and provides valuable insights into the lifestyles and behaviors that lead to financial success.
4.) Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money - That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! Rich Dad Poor Dad will explode the myth that you need to earn a high income to become rich
Robert Kiyosaki has challenged and changed the way tens of millions of people around the world think about money. With perspectives that often contradict conventional wisdom, Robert has earned a reputation for straight talk, irreverence, and courage.
"Rich Dad Poor Dad" by Robert Kiyosaki is a personal finance classic that contrasts the financial mindsets and teachings of two father figures: the author's biological father (referred to as "Poor Dad") and the father of his childhood friend (referred to as "Rich Dad").
Kiyosaki highlights how "Poor Dad" represents traditional views on money - focused on education, job security, and working for a paycheck. In contrast, "Rich Dad" embodies a different approach, emphasizing financial education, investing, entrepreneurship, and creating assets that generate passive income.
The book stresses the importance of financial literacy, teaching readers about assets and liabilities. Kiyosaki introduces the concept that assets put money in your pocket (like real estate, stocks, or businesses), while liabilities take money out (such as mortgages, car loans, or excessive expenses). He encourages readers to acquire assets that generate income, rather than solely relying on a salary or wage.
Kiyosaki also emphasizes the value of taking calculated risks, learning from failures, and developing a mindset geared towards financial independence and wealth creation. He advocates for questioning conventional financial wisdom and seeking out alternative paths to financial success.
Overall, "Rich Dad Poor Dad" challenges the traditional approach to money and provides a framework for understanding how to achieve financial freedom by adopting the principles and mindset of the wealthy. It's a book that aims to change perspectives on wealth and financial management, urging readers to think differently about money and investing.
No matter your salary, your stage of life, or when you started, this book will provide the tools to help you achieve your financial goals more rapidly than you ever thought possible.
After interviewing 50 of the world's greatest financial minds and penning the number-one New York Times best seller Money: Master the Game, Tony Robbins returns with a step-by-step playbook, taking you on a journey to transform your financial life and accelerate your path to financial freedom.
"Unshakeable: Your Financial Freedom Playbook" by Tony Robbins is a comprehensive guide to achieving financial stability and independence, particularly in the realm of investing and navigating the volatility of the stock market.
Robbins distills the wisdom of some of the world's most successful investors and financial experts, offering practical advice and strategies to help readers navigate economic downturns and market fluctuations with confidence. He emphasizes the importance of understanding market cycles, staying disciplined during market turbulence, and focusing on long-term investment strategies.
The book covers key principles of successful investing, such as diversification, compound interest, and the power of minimizing fees and taxes. Robbins also delves into the psychology of investing, highlighting the impact of emotions and behavioral biases on financial decisions, and provides techniques to overcome these challenges.
Moreover, "Unshakeable" aims to empower readers to take control of their financial future by providing actionable steps to build a robust financial portfolio, protect investments, and prepare for retirement.
Overall, Robbins' book serves as a practical and motivational guide to financial security, offering insights and strategies to help readers create a solid financial foundation and navigate the complexities of the investment world with confidence.
6.) Your Money or Your Life: 9 Steps to Transforming Your Relationship with Money and Achieving Financial Independence Join this acclaimed author for hands-on tools and insights that will help you reach new levels of comfort, competence, and consciousness around your personal finances.
Now more than ever given today's uncertain economic climate a transformed relationship with money is the key to a healthy and happy life. Vicki Robin offers Your Money or Your Life, an original audio adaptation of the New York Times bestselling book that has helped more than 600,000 people worldwide gain greater financial freedom
"Your Money or Your Life" by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez presents a holistic approach to achieving financial independence and transforming one's relationship with money. The book introduces a nine-step program designed to help readers rethink their attitudes toward money, align their spending with personal values, and attain financial freedom.
At its core, the book encourages readers to evaluate the true cost of their expenses by considering the hours worked to afford those purchases. This "life energy" approach challenges individuals to assess whether their spending aligns with their life goals and values.
The authors emphasize the significance of tracking expenses, creating a clear picture of income and spending patterns, and developing a budget that prioritizes essentials and brings greater fulfillment. The book advocates for simplicity, conscious spending, and reducing materialism to regain control over finances and time.
"Your Money or Your Life" also addresses the importance of saving and investing wisely to create passive income streams. It guides readers in exploring alternative income sources and pursuing investments aligned with their values and long-term financial goals.
Moreover, the book delves into the concept of financial independence, providing a roadmap for achieving it by cultivating a frugal lifestyle, reducing debt, and building savings. It aims to empower readers to break free from financial burdens and live a life driven by purpose and fulfillment rather than excessive consumerism.
Overall, the book offers a comprehensive framework for transforming one's relationship with money, fostering financial awareness, and pursuing a path toward financial independence and greater personal fulfillment. 7.) The Richest Man in Babylon A modern-day classic, The Richest Man in Babylon dispenses financial advice through a collection of parables set in ancient Babylon.
This inspiring book began in 1926 as a series of informational pamphlets distributed by banks and insurance companies. By 1927, several of these pamphlets had been compiled into a book and this collection has been in print ever since. It has helped millions of people and has been hailed as the greatest of all inspirational works on the subject of thrift, financial planning, and personal wealth.
"The Richest Man in Babylon" by George S. Clason is a classic personal finance book set in ancient Babylon that imparts timeless financial wisdom through a collection of parables and stories.
The book revolves around the character of Arkad, the richest man in Babylon, who shares his principles of wealth accumulation with a group of eager learners. Through these tales, Clason presents simple yet powerful financial lessons that remain relevant today.
The core principles conveyed in the book include the importance of saving a portion of earnings, living below one's means, and making money work for you by investing it wisely. One of the key teachings is the "Seven Cures for a Lean Purse," which includes advice such as saving at least 10% of earnings, making money multiply through prudent investments, and seeking counsel from knowledgeable experts before making financial decisions.
Additionally, the book emphasizes the significance of taking calculated risks, avoiding debt, and continuously increasing one's financial education to attain wealth and prosperity. Clason illustrates these principles through relatable stories set in a time and place that make the lessons easily understandable and applicable.
Overall, "The Richest Man in Babylon" is a compelling and accessible guide to personal finance, offering timeless principles of wealth-building, frugality, and investment that are as relevant in today's world as they were in ancient Babylon.
8.) Passive Income: 14 Ways to Make $5,000 a Month in Passive Income Passive income opportunities have exploded and there is money to be made!
It is an exciting time to delve into the world of residual income. The Internet has exploded with countless opportunities from self-publishing books to online courses and from e-commerce to robo-investing. It is no longer a matter of where to look, but what to choose from a plethora of options.
"Passive Income: 14 Ways to Make $5,000 a Month in Passive Income" by Chad Tennant is a guidebook that outlines various strategies and approaches to generating passive income streams.
Tennant explores multiple methods individuals can employ to create sources of income that don't require constant active effort. The book covers 14 different passive income avenues, providing insights into each method's potential, benefits, and practical steps to get started.
These methods encompass a range of options, including real estate investments, dividend-paying stocks, creating and selling digital products, affiliate marketing, creating an online course, starting a YouTube channel, and more. Tennant emphasizes the importance of choosing passive income streams aligned with individual skills, interests, and resources.
Each chapter delves into a specific passive income method, offering guidance on how to set it up, market it effectively, and sustainably grow the income generated. Tennant provides examples, case studies, and actionable steps to help readers understand and implement these strategies.
Moreover, the book stresses the long-term commitment and effort required to establish successful passive income streams. Tennant encourages readers to be patient, persistent, and willing to invest time and resources to reap the rewards of passive income over time.
Overall, "Passive Income: 14 Ways to Make $5,000 a Month in Passive Income" serves as a practical guide for individuals seeking to diversify their income sources and establish streams of revenue that can generate money while minimizing active involvement.
9.) Why Didn't They Teach Me This in School?: 99 Personal Money Management Principles to Live By Why do high schools and colleges require students to take courses in English, math and science, yet have absolutely no requirements for students to learn about personal money management?
Unlike many of the personal money management books out there, this book is a quick, easily digested listen that focuses more on the qualitative side than the quantitative side of personal money management.
"Why Didn't They Teach Me This in School?: 99 Personal Money Management Principles to Live By" by Cary Siegel is a practical and straightforward guide to personal finance essentials that are often overlooked in traditional education.
Siegel presents 99 key principles focused on money management, covering various aspects of financial literacy and responsible money handling that are crucial for success in the real world. The book is structured into short, digestible chapters, each addressing a specific principle or concept.
The principles discussed range from budgeting and saving techniques to understanding credit, investing wisely, and planning for retirement. Siegel emphasizes the importance of cultivating good financial habits early on and offers actionable advice to help readers make informed decisions about their money.
The book stands out for its simplicity and clarity, providing practical tips and strategies that readers can immediately apply to their financial lives. Siegel's aim is to bridge the gap between formal education and practical financial knowledge, empowering readers to take control of their finances and make sound financial decisions.
Overall, "Why Didn't They Teach Me This in School?" serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking foundational knowledge in personal finance, offering essential money management principles to navigate the complexities of financial matters in everyday life.
10.) The Little Book of Common Sense Investing To learn how to make index investing work for you, there’s no better mentor than legendary mutual fund industry veteran John C. Bogle.
Investing is all about common sense. Owning a diversified portfolio of stocks and holding it for the long term is a winner’s game. Trying to beat the stock market is theoretically a zero-sum game.
"The Little Book of Common Sense Investing" by John C. Bogle is a concise yet impactful guide to investing that promotes a straightforward and passive approach to wealth accumulation.
Bogle, the founder of Vanguard Group and a pioneer of index investing, advocates for the simplicity and effectiveness of investing in low-cost index funds. He emphasizes the importance of adopting a long-term perspective and avoiding the pitfalls of active trading and high-cost investment strategies.
The book outlines the rationale behind index investing, explaining how market-weighted index funds offer diversified exposure to the market's overall performance. Bogle argues that by investing in these funds, which aim to replicate the performance of a market index like the S&P 500, investors can achieve market returns at a low cost, while minimizing risks associated with stock picking and market timing.
Bogle also addresses the impact of fees and expenses on investment returns, advocating for low-cost investing as a way to maximize long-term gains. He discusses the significance of asset allocation, the power of compounding, and the importance of staying disciplined and avoiding emotional reactions to market fluctuations.
Overall, "The Little Book of Common Sense Investing" serves as a compelling and accessible resource for both novice and experienced investors, advocating for a common-sense approach to wealth-building through low-cost, diversified, and long-term investment strategies. Bogle's insights challenge conventional wisdom and offer a practical blueprint for achieving financial success in the stock market.
Why personal finance audiobooks work.
Extend your learning time through multitasking: Learn about budgeting while you listen to audiobooks in the car, train, bus, while working, gardening, or doing chores! If you enjoyed this article, you may also want to check out the best free business audiobooks.
There are a variety of free audiobooks available depending on your particular financial interests - whether it be saving, investing, earning passive income, strategies to handle your money better, and more. Best of all, they lead to real, measurable results. Listening to even one of these audiobooks will drastically alter your perception of money - and improve how you handle your financial life. Listen to two or more, and you're well on your way to financial well-being. There's so much more you can learn from audiobooks if you know where to look. For example, check out these free Spanish audiobooks for beginners or free parenting audiobooks. Take the first step in investing - by investing in yourself! Your financial education starts here.
Learning through audio formats can be advantageous for several reasons:
Multi-Sensory Engagement: Audio engages auditory senses, allowing learners to hear information. For many people, hearing information in addition to reading or seeing it can enhance comprehension and retention. This multisensory engagement can reinforce memory and understanding.
Convenience and Flexibility: Audio formats provide flexibility in learning. People can listen while doing other tasks, such as commuting, exercising, or doing household chores. This flexibility allows for more frequent exposure to the material, which can aid in retention.
Engagement and Interest: Audio content often uses varied tones, accents, and even dramatization, making the material more engaging. Engaging content tends to capture attention better and can lead to better retention.
Repetition and Reinforcement: Listening to audio content repeatedly, such as through podcasts or audiobooks, allows for reinforcement of concepts. Repetition is a key component of learning and retention.
Portability and Accessibility: Audio formats are highly portable and accessible through various devices like smartphones, making learning available anytime and anywhere. This accessibility increases the frequency of exposure to the material.
Reduced Visual Strain: For some individuals, reading for extended periods can cause visual strain or fatigue. Audio formats provide an alternative that reduces this strain, potentially allowing for longer and more effective learning sessions.
Imagination and Visualization: Audio content often requires listeners to use their imagination to visualize scenarios or concepts being described. This active engagement of imagination can enhance understanding and retention.
However, it's important to note that individual learning preferences vary. While some people may find audio formats more effective for learning and retaining information, others may prefer visual or tactile methods. Combining different learning formats often leads to the most comprehensive understanding and retention of information.
Personal Finance Audiobooks are great because:
You can go at your own pace
You can multi-task (here's something constructive to do while commuting, washing dishes, or taking the dog out for a walk!)
You are more likely to continue to be motivated
And they're free*! Enjoy!
*Audiobooks are free with Amazon Audible Free Trial. Includes two free audiobooks, choose from 180,000+ titles, after 30 days, Audible is $14.95/mo. Cancel anytime. Affiliate links are utilized on this site, meaning that SmartCityMoney may be financially compensated for referrals. Your purchase price is not effected (still free!)
