ChooseFI

Justin David Carl shares his remarkable journey from being $80,000 in debt and working in Hollywood nightlife to achieving financial independence and impressive fitness goals. He discusses key principles that guided his transformation, including the importance of environment, community, accountability, tracking metrics, and embracing a growth mindset.

Key Topics and Takeaways

00:02:44 Justin's Awakening Moment

Discovering financial independence through Mr. Money Mustache and ChooseFI. Justin shares his early struggles with debt and the turning point that launched his journey.

Overcoming Debt and Personal Challenges

Justin candidly discusses his past, including addiction and the shame spiral from unresolved financial issues. He emphasizes that confronting these struggles was key to his transformation.  "Depression can serve as a reset for your psyche." 

The Role of Coaches in Growth

The impact of hiring coaches for guidance in both fitness and financial success.

Tracking as a Tool for Success

Justin emphasizes the importance of tracking both financial metrics (expenses, savings rate) and fitness metrics (nutrition, workouts). Key Quote: "What gets measured gets managed." 00:48:40 "Boost your savings rate to build wealth faster." 00:32:49

Principles for Continuous Growth

Justin shares three core principles:

You are the average of the five to ten people you spend the most time with. You are a product of your environment. You are what you consume.

Action Item: Evaluate your current environment and the people you are spending your time with.  Additional Resources Fit Rich Life Coaching: fitrichlifecoaching.com Savings Rate Tracker: fitrichlifecoaching.com/tracker Workout Program: fitrichlifecoaching.com/workout

Tim Ferris Article on Mr Money Mustache The Shockingly Simple Math of Early Retirement

Social Media Follow Justin on Instagram: @JustinDavidCarl "It's never too late for a second chance." 00:18:03 "Your consumption shapes who you are." 00:56:02 Discussion Questions How can tracking financial habits influence our spending? 00:32:33 What strategies can we implement from a growth mindset perspective? 00:20:38

TJ shares his financial journey and experience reaching financial independence, focusing on intentional savings and the joy of family life. Early influences and educational backgrounds shaped his approach to finance, leading to a strategic path that included tracking net worth and undertaking regular financial meetings with his wife.  The episode dives into the challenges they faced, especially when dealing with unexpected medical circumstances and highlights the delicate balance between enjoying life and making prudent financial decisions, ultimately aligning with their core values. 

 

Key Takeaways:

Intentional Savings: Be proactive in saving and planning for financial independence. 00:03:37

Tracking Net Worth: Regularly evaluate your financial progress.00:10:02

Community Support: Rely on your community during tough times. 00:29:16

Flexibility in Planning: Adapt financial strategies as life changes occur. 00:36:02

Maintain a Positive Mindset: Approach challenges with optimism and agency. 00:42:08

Actionable Takeaways:

Implement regular financial meetings with your partner to track and discuss financial health.

Consider unexpected medical costs when planning for financial independence.

Maintain a positive and adaptable mindset when facing life challenges.

Action Items:

Start tracking your net worth regularly to understand your financial progress.

Set aside time for financial discussions with your partner every few months.

Plan for unforeseen medical costs in your financial independence calculations.

Related Resources:

The Simple Path to Wealth  FaithFi (formerly CompassOne) 

Discussion Questions:

What aspects of financial planning do you think are most important?

How can community support impact your personal finance journey?

What strategies can you adopt to maintain a positive mindset during challenges?

How can tracking net worth change your financial perspective?

 

Episode Summary

Clint Murphy returns to ChooseFI, sharing his transformative journey labeled "FI and Choose," emphasizing the importance of choosing a lifestyle that values personal growth and meaningful connections. The hosts discuss their experiences at financial independence events, highlighting how these gatherings foster deep conversations that extend beyond finances. They explore the contrast between accumulating wealth and Pursuing a simpler, more intentional life filled with enriching experiences, including joy from low-cost activities and being present in relationships.

Key Topics Discussed

Connection Through FI 00:02:20

The importance of community in financial independence events. Shared experiences and personal growth discussions among participants.

The Power of Vulnerability 00:06:00

Opening up in conversations to foster deeper connections. Embracing quirks and eccentricities to enhance relationships.

Simplicity and Enjoyment 00:10:30

Finding joy in low-cost activities, such as playing pickleball. The realization that enjoyment doesn’t require significant spending.

FI and Choose Philosophy 00:46:00

The idea that achieving financial independence offers choices about how to live life. Aligning personal ambitions with the simplicity of life. Actionable Takeaways Explore Joyful Activities: Engage in activities that bring joy without high costs 00:10:30. Build Deeper Relationships: Foster relationships through open and vulnerable conversations 00:06:00. Related Resources The Growth Guide Podcast: thegrowthguide.com

Maximize Your Wealth: Understanding Capital Gains Tax Strategies | With Cody Garrett

This episode dives into the strategy of capital gains harvesting, explaining how it can help individuals minimize taxes on investments and potentially realize tax-free income. We break down how this approach fits into financial independence planning, including key comparisons between capital gains and ordinary income, real-life scenarios, and important health insurance considerations for early retirement.

What strategies can you use to reduce your tax burden during retirement? How can understanding capital gains impact your long-term financial decisions? What role does income management play in health insurance planning for early retirement?

 

Chapter Markers: [00:00:00] Introduction to Capital Gains Harvesting [00:01:38] Understanding Income Tax and Capital Gains [00:05:22] Tax Rate Comparisons: Ordinary vs. Capital Gains [00:20:07] Real-Life Case Studies [00:49:34] Key Takeaways and Best Practices Key Takeaways: Understand your capital gains tax rates to optimize when to sell investments. Use capital gains harvesting to realize profits without tax penalties. Plan retirement income carefully to maintain eligibility for health insurance subsidies. Links & Resources: Measure Twice Money Measure Twice Money YouTube Channel

 

 

In this episode: building muscle for health, sacropenia, consistency and proper form, routines, and recovery.

This episode is a deep dive into muscle-building strategies, with actionable advice for beginners and experienced fitness enthusiasts alike. Brad and Dean Turner share practical tips on workout programming, nutrition, and recovery, making it a perfect masterclass for anyone looking to improve their health and strength.

Dean Turner: Website: deanturnertraining.com Twitter: @DeanTTraining 🔑 Key Themes Discussed: The importance of building muscle for health, longevity, and independence in later life Overcoming age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia) through resistance training Simplifying muscle-building techniques for beginners and experienced individuals The role of proper form, progressive overload, and consistency in muscle growth Common misconceptions about muscle growth and the science behind it Customizing workout routines based on individual schedules and goals The importance of recovery, rest, and nutrition in maximizing gains Practical advice on workout programming and exercise selection 🕒 Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction: The Importance of Muscle Building 02:00 – Age-Related Muscle Loss and Why Muscle Matters 06:00 – Customizing Workouts: 3-Day vs. 5-Day Programs 09:00 – Exercise Selection: Upper/Lower Body, Push/Pull 13:00 – How Muscle Growth Actually Works: The Science Explained 18:00 – Importance of Progressive Overload and Rep Ranges 22:00 – Common Workout Mistakes and How to Avoid Them 27:00 – Listener Questions: Setting Goals for Muscle Growth 33:00 – Understanding Rest Times and Recovery 40:00 – Importance of Nutrition: Protein and Macronutrients 45:00 – Creating a Sustainable Workout Routine 51:00 – Final Tips: Staying Consistent and Tracking Progress 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: Update: Healthiest Year Ever | Dean Turner | ChooseFI Ep 480 “The Simple Path to Wealth: Your road map to financial independence and a rich, free life” by J.L. Collins Hevy Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: social engineering, pig butchering, cryptocurrency risks, scammer tactics, and avoiding being a victim.

This week Brad speaks with cyber security expert Tom who will be giving some updates on the landscape of cybersecurity, what targeted scams look like, as well as some actionable steps you can take to avoid these scams. Though it may seem that cybersecurity attacks are ever-evolving and may be harder and harder to avoid, there are ways to make yourself less vulnerable to attacks. Making sure you’re having open conversations about this topic with your friends, and especially your older family members is crucial and can make sure you avoid falling for these scams! 

🔑 Key Themes Discussed: The rise of social engineering scams and how they manipulate victims “Pig Butchering” scams: how scammers build trust, then steal your money How cryptocurrency is used in scams and the risks involved Recognizing investment scams and protecting yourself from fraud The emotional and psychological tactics scammers use to isolate victims The role of AI and fake profiles in advanced scams Actionable steps to avoid becoming a victim The importance of spreading awareness to protect your family and friends Reporting scams and what to do if you’ve been a victim 🕒 Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Overview of Cybersecurity Threats 02:00 – What is Pig Butchering and How it Works 04:00 – Investment Scams and Social Engineering Explained 06:00 – How Scammers Build Relationships and Gain Trust 08:00 – Examples of Scams: Dating Apps, Fake Profiles, and Social Media 12:00 – Cryptocurrency in Scams: What to Watch Out For 16:00 – The Role of AI and Deepfakes in Cyber Scams 18:00 – Personal Stories: Victims Who Lost Everything 22:00 – Action Steps: How to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones 27:00 – How to Report Scams and Recover Funds 29:00 – Recognizing Scams in Everyday Life: Red Flags and Signals 34:00 – Final Thoughts and Preventative Tips 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: Securing Your Financial Life | ChooseFI Ep 397 Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: simplifying your financial life, Jeremy’s journey, dividend versus reinvesting, and automation.

This week we are joined by Jeremy Schneider of Personal Finance Club and co-founder of Nectarine, where we will be discussing the beginnings of his personal investment journey and what that looks like now, striving for simplicity while adding value to your life, as well as discuss the ins and outs of his platform Nectarine. Part of the journey to FI is about finding hacks and ways to make your life a little easier in order to add value, sometimes by keeping it simple. Whether with your finances or in other areas of your life, it is the best option in order for you to thrive! 

Jeremy Schneider: Website: personalfinanceclub.com Instagram: @personalfinanceclub 🔑 Key Themes Discussed: The pitfalls of overcomplicating personal finance and investment strategies The power of simplicity in financial management and investing Mistakes made in early investing: complex ETFs vs. simple index funds Jeremy’s journey from selling his company to managing a $2M windfall The surprising truth about target date funds and why simplicity often wins The concept of “the more I tinker, the worse it gets” in investment strategies Personal finance habits that persist from childhood and their impact on adult financial decisions Dividends vs. reinvesting: pros, cons, and psychological aspects Understanding the differences between fiduciary financial advisors and those incentivized to sell products Why financial simplicity and automation can lead to better outcomes 🕒 Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Jeremy Schneider 02:00 – Simplicity vs. Complexity in Financial Decisions 03:30 – Jeremy’s $2M Windfall and Early Investing Mistakes 06:00 – Complex ETFs vs. Target Date Funds 08:00 – How Tinkering Can Lead to Worse Financial Outcomes 12:00 – Personal Finance Habits from Childhood 14:00 – Dividend Reinvestment: To Reinvest or Not? 18:00 – Simplifying Financial Life: Automating Investments 22:00 – The Dangers of Chasing Dividends 26:00 – Real-Life Examples of Bad Financial Advice 33:00 – The World of Financial Advisors: Fiduciary vs. Salespeople 39:00 – The Importance of Finding Unbiased, Advice-Only Financial Guidance 46:00 – Jeremy’s Key Takeaways on Simplicity and Financial Independence 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: The 7 Sins of Investing Nectarine Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: getting started early with FI, the 4% rule, retirement accounts, real estate, and safe withdrawal rates.

This episode is packed with actionable information that can help with maximizing your financial future, from house hacking to Roth conversions, and strategies for living off your investments. Brad and Rachael dive into real-world listener questions to help you navigate your FI journey with confidence.

Rachael Camp offers advisory Services through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600. Camp Wealth is not affiliated with the CFD companies.

🔑 Key Themes Discussed: The benefits of getting started early with financial independence (FI) Evaluating the 4% rule and how to live off investments in retirement Understanding the difference between Roth vs. Traditional retirement accounts Tax strategies for early retirement and avoiding penalties House hacking as a way to reduce housing costs and boost savings Real estate as an investment: risks, rewards, and misconceptions Maximizing income while keeping expenses low for young professionals Safe withdrawal rates, dividends, and managing investments post-retirement The psychological aspects of early retirement and maintaining financial health 🕒 Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Mailbag with Rachael 01:00 – Starting Early with FI: Gabby’s Journey 03:00 – Roth vs. Traditional Retirement Accounts for Young Investors 06:00 – House Hacking and Real Estate Strategies 09:00 – How the 4% Rule Works for Early Retirement 12:00 – Income Maximization for Young Professionals 18:00 – Managing Dividends and Withdrawal Strategies in FI 24:00 – Safe Withdrawal Rates and Creating Your Own Dividend 31:00 – Listener Questions: Roth IRA Conversion Ladder 36:00 – Tax Strategies and Avoiding Penalties in Early Retirement 43:00 – Rethinking Real Estate and House Hacking Risks 51:00 – Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts on Financial Independence 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: Mailbag: Getting Started with FI, Debt vs. Investing, Dividends, 4% Includes Taxes?, Roth 401k | Rachael Camp | ChooseFI Ep 505 Mailbag: Roth vs. Trad, $35k Roth to 529, Combining Finances | Rachael Camp | ChooseFI Ep 496 How to Access Your Retirement Accounts Before 59.5 | Sean Mullaney | ChooseFI Ep 475 Drawdown Strategies: Karsten vs. Fritz | ChooseFI Ep 427 House Hacking With Coach Carson | ChooseFI Ep 16 Scott Trench | Set For Life | ChooseFI Ep 63 Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: downsizing, coastFI, redefining your goals, overcoming material attachments, and building community.

This week Ginger is joined by community member Anne, to discuss her process of downsizing and navigating the physical and emotional attachments we associate with objects, places and people. Additionally, the pair discuss the importance of taking mini-retirements, cultivating gratitude, as well as share some podcasts and books that have helped them on their journey. We often say FI allows you the freedom and space to discover what more you want out of life, but that doesn’t mean you should wait until you reach your goal to actually start making the moves to get there! Whether you’re near the finish line or just beginning, don’t wait to explore other possibilities that can elevate not only your FI journey but your life. 

🔑 Key Themes Discussed: The emotional journey of downsizing and letting go of possessions Achieving CoastFI and the realization of financial independence The significance of mini-retirements and experimenting with lifestyle choices Personal growth and redefining goals in mid-life The psychological effects of decision-making in early retirement Creating space for joy and gratitude in life transitions Overcoming attachment to material possessions and past dreams Building community after major life transitions, such as moving and career changes 🕒 Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction: Ginger and Anne’s Journey 01:00 – Anne’s Recent Move and Downsizing 03:00 – Discovering Financial Independence Through the FI Formula 07:00 – Defining CoastFI and the Big Epiphany Moment 10:00 – Reflecting on Personal Goals and Letting Go of Past Dreams 13:00 – Experimenting with Mini-Retirements: Learning from the FI Community 16:00 – Downsizing: The Emotional Process of Letting Go 22:00 – Influence of Family Illness and Death on the FI Journey 27:00 – The Challenge of Winter Depression and Its Role in Change 31:00 – Selling the Family Home: Closure and Moving Forward 36:00 – Gratitude and the Practice of Being Present 40:00 – Taking the Leap: Early Retirement and What Comes Next 46:00 – Finding Community and Building a New Life After Moving 51:00 – The Courage to Try New Things and Embrace Discomfort 55:00 – Final Reflections on Joy, Curiosity, and Living Without Regret 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: Contact Anne:  anne.andrew907@gmail.com “Disrupt Yourself, With a New Introduction: Master Relentless Change and Speed Up Your Learning Curve” by Whitney Johnson “The Artist’s Way: 30th Anniversary Edition” by Julia Cameron Retire Often Podcast Famous Failures “Think Like a Rocket Scientist: Simple Strategies You Can Use to Make Giant Leaps in Work and Life” by Ovan Varol Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: doing the hard things, travel rewards, the gap and the gain, health and wellness, and real estate.

This week we are back with another listener Mail Bag featuring Ginger. Listen along as we cover a range of topics from recents trips we’ve taken, facing and overcoming challenges, The Gap and the Gain, taxes in retirement and a realistic outlook on how much you’ll be paying, the rule of 72, as well as shout out some of your FI wins! So much to cover and much more to learn in this week’s episode.

🔑 Key Themes Discussed: Financial Independence (FI) journey and making big life transitions The importance of experiencing challenging tasks to build resilience (“doing hard things”) Insights on taxes in retirement: why you may pay less than expected Travel hacks: optimizing family cruises and travel rewards points The psychological approach to financial success: The Gap and The Gain concept Personal health and wellness: Brad’s journey with hiking, saunas, and cold plunges Community wins: listener success stories on saving, investing, and achieving FI Health insurance strategies for early retirees Real estate strategies and long-term capital gains tax advantages Addressing common FI misconceptions and how to optimize your finances 🕒 Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Recent Trips 01:30 – Travel Rewards and Cruise Optimization 06:00 – Family Vacations and Cruise Hacks 08:30 – Colorado Trip and Doing Hard Things 10:00 – Hiking Challenges: Lessons from FI and Fitness 17:00 – Financial Independence Journey: Overcoming Obstacles 21:00 – The Gap and The Gain: Mental Shifts for Success 27:00 – Understanding Taxes in Retirement 35:00 – Health Insurance and Early Retirement Strategies 40:00 – Capital Gains Tax and Real Estate in FI 48:00 – Listener Questions and Real-Life Examples 55:00 – Community Wins: Listener Success Stories 59:00 – Travel Rewards Victory: Booking Free International Trips Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: “The Gap and The Gain: The High Achievers’ Guide to Happiness, Confidence, and Success” by Dan Sullivan and Dr Benjamin Hardy The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early Retirement BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast “Set for Life: Dominate Life, Money, and the American Dream” by Scott Trench Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: the lock in effect, renting vs buying, househacking in 2024, interest rate, and real estate investment.

In this episode, Scott Trench of BiggerPockets shares invaluable insights into the 2024 real estate market, breaking down everything from housing supply to interest rates, syndications, and investment strategies. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just curious about real estate, this episode provides a window into the current state of real estate investing the FI way!

🔑 Key Themes Discussed: The impact of rising interest rates on real estate markets in 2024 The “lock-in effect” and how low-interest mortgages affect housing supply Rent vs. buy decisions in today’s market The rise of multifamily and single-family housing supply, especially in regions like Austin House hacking in 2024: Is it still viable? The state of commercial real estate and multifamily investments How interest rate trends impact real estate investors Opportunities for investors in a downturn: Finding deals amidst crisis Syndications: Potential pitfalls, bad actors, and lessons learned for 2024 Real estate investment strategies: What to do with your mortgage and how to balance risk 🕒 Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction: Welcoming Scott Trench 01:00 – Rising Interest Rates and Market Effects 03:00 – Housing Supply and the Lock-in Effect Explained 04:30 – Rent vs. Buy: How the Calculus Has Changed 09:00 – The Build-to-Rent Industry and Single-Family Rentals 12:00 – House Hacking in 2024: Is It Still Worth It? 16:00 – Multifamily Housing Supply and Regional Trends 17:00 – Commercial Real Estate: What’s Happening Now? 20:00 – How Interest Rates Are Crushing Commercial Investors 24:00 – Opportunities Amidst a Crisis: Where to Find Deals 27:00 – The Real State of Syndications: Risks and Rewards 33:00 – Evaluating Syndicators: How to Find Good Deals in 2024 36:00 – Real Estate Investment Strategies: Notes, Funds, and Lending 43:00 – Pay Off Your Mortgage or Invest? 50:00 – Long-Term Real Estate Bets and Holding Strategies 56:00 – Wrap-Up: Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: BiggerPockets The BiggerPockets Money Podcast Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: surpriseFI, minimalism, frugality, emotional and psychological aspects of FI, and alternative lifestyles.

We often get a lot of great ideas and questions from the FI community, and what better way to answer some as well as inspire than bring in one of our own to discuss their journey! In this special Friday episode, Ginger is joined by member of the FI community, Kim, to discuss how she found herself on her “surpriseFI” journey. Together, the pair talks about balancing frugality and minimalism, the importance of designing the life you want, as well as share some resources and recommendations that helped her on her journey!

🔑 Key Themes Discussed: The journey to achieving Financial Independence (FI) through surprise and discovery Minimalism, frugality, and living below your means as a path to freedom Transitioning from work life to financial independence and early retirement Personal reflections on housing, relationships, and travel in post-retirement life Emotional and psychological aspects of financial independence Strategies for aligning personal values with financial decisions Exploring alternative lifestyles: hatchback camping, Peace Corps, and low-cost living 🕒 Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and How Kim and Ginger Met 02:00 – Kim’s Journey to Surprise Financial Independence 06:00 – Experimenting with Early Retirement: Leave of Absence Strategy 09:00 – Living Frugally: Kim’s Minimal Spending Habits 12:00 – Kim’s Unique Housing Situation and Thoughts on Real Estate 15:00 – The Role of Minimalism in Achieving Financial Freedom 17:00 – Life After Retirement: Adventure, Travel, and Hatchback Living 23:00 – Challenges and Opportunities in Dating After FI 27:00 – Personal Growth, Goals, and the Desire for Meaningful Projects 33:00 – Financial Planning Tools and Resources for FI 35:00 – Balancing Frugality and Enjoyment: Traveling on a Budget 40:00 – Final Thoughts: Kim’s Recommendations for an Extraordinary Life 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: “Your Money or Your Life: 9 Steps to Transforming Your Relationship with Money and Achieving Financial Independence” by Vicki Robinson, Joe Dominguez, and Mr Money Mustache. Contact Kim:  kimisonfire@fastmail.com “Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not!” by Robert Kiyosaki Rich, Broke, or Dead? Post Retirement FIRE Calculator Go Curry Cracker | Capital Gains, Losses and The Roth Conversion Ladder | ChooseFI Ep. 18 Afford Anything with Paula Pant | Vicki Robin: Financial Independence After 70 [GREATEST HITS WEEK] Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: 5% safe withdrawal rate, the three stories, psychology and personal finance, and community.

In this insightful episode of the ChooseFI Podcast, Brad chats with Frank Vasquez, a well-known figure in the financial independence community and the voice behind Risk Parity Radio. They delve into Frank’s journey from a career in law to becoming a personal finance expert, and explore topics like the 5% safe withdrawal rate, revealed preferences, and Frank’s three defining life stories. This conversation offers insight on approaching personal finance, investments, and life after achieving financial independence. Frank shares his unique blend of academic rigor, personal curiosity, and his thoughtful approach to living with purpose in the post-FI world.

🔑 Key Themes Discussed: Understanding the 5% Safe Withdrawal Rate (SWR) and its practical application. How revealed preferences shape financial and life decisions. The three stories Frank lives by: the Curious Child, the Starfish Thrower, and the Mexican Fisherman. How narrative psychology impacts our personal finance decisions. Personal experiences in managing life post-financial independence. The intersection of economics, personal finance, and storytelling. Practical insights on podcasting, community engagement, and sharing financial knowledge. 🕒 Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Frank Vasquez and Risk Parity Radio. 03:00 – Frank’s Journey: From Law to Personal Finance Expert. 07:30 – Understanding the 5% Safe Withdrawal Rate. 15:00 – The Three Stories Frank Lives By. 25:00 – Revealed Preferences: What Do We Really Want? 35:00 – Narrative Psychology and Personal Finance Decisions. 45:00 – Post-FI Life: Teaching, Relationships, and Purpose. 55:00 – Frank’s Thoughts on Podcasting and Community. 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: Risk Parity Radio Big Think video on Narrative Psychology with Jane Goodall and Terry Crews “Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier” by Arthur Brooks and Oprah Winfrey The Role Of Bonds In A Portfolio with Frank Vasquez | ChooseFI Ep 194 Find Your Local ChooseFI Group More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: overcoming fears, the importance of community, community wins, reaching FI goals, and ripple effects.

This week Brad is re-joined by Ginger for another installment of the round-up, where we will be discussing topics such as new 529 plans, the importance of making connections within your community, and actionable steps for overcoming anxieties while on your FI journey! Additionally, it wouldn’t be a round-up episode without as well as shouting out some frugal wins from our wonderful community! While these episodes are not only a great way for us to give you personal updates and perspectives, it’s an even better way for us to highlight some of the tips and tricks you’ve picked up on your respective FI journeys! 

🔑 Key Themes Discussed: The psychological aspects of financial independence and overcoming fear. Building a fulfilling life by focusing on fulfilling days. Strategies for maximizing benefits from 529 plans. The importance of community and connection in the FI journey. Overcoming anxiety and embracing serendipity in life choices. Practical steps for financial checkups and optimization. Leveraging travel and experiences for personal growth and connection. Exploring frugality and financial prudence in everyday decisions. 🕒 Chapters: Introduction to the Episode with Brad and Ginger Highlighting Community Wins and Stories Embracing Challenges and Overcoming Fears in Personal Growth Listener Voicemail – Updates on Reaching FI Goals New Rules and Tips for 529 Plans Frugal Wins of the Week Big Financial Moves and Their Ripple Effects Conclusion and Reflections on Building Community and Connection 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: Update: Healthiest Year Ever | Dean Turner | ChooseFI Ep 480 Making FI Fun Again | ChooseFI Ep 502 Subscribe To The FI Weekly More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: entrepreneurship, side hustles, overcoming fear, community, sharing and maintaining passion projects.

This week we are joined by Kyle Nolan, creator and founder of ProjectionLab, where we will be discussing how he left his 9 to 5 to pursue a passion project, some of the challenges and realizations he’s faced while creating his software, as well as the importance of investing in your interests regardless of the risk or self-doubt you may feel. The journey to FI offers many things, such as freedom and autonomy to pursue new things, but it’s important to remember that you don’t have to wait until you reach FI to start investing in things that are of value to you! By pouring yourself into something that interests you will always guarantee a payback! 

🔑 Key Themes Discussed: Kyle’s journey from traditional employment to entrepreneurship. The development and impact of ProjectionLab in the FI community. The role of personal passion in creating and growing a side hustle. Overcoming fear and indecision when launching a new venture. The importance of a supportive community in achieving financial independence. 🕒 Chapters: Introduction to Kyle Nolan and ProjectionLab Kyle’s background and the start of his FI journey The motivation behind creating ProjectionLab The challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship The pivotal moment of launching ProjectionLab on Hacker News The significance of mental headspace in pursuing side projects Brad’s reflections on proof of concept and personal finance journey How to encourage children to explore their passions in technology 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources:

 

ProjectionLab (Use Code "CHOOSEFI" for 10% off!) Richmond Savers Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: debt and investing, the 4% rule, Roth 401k and traditional 401k, and total return investing.

This week we are back with a listener Mail Bag featuring returning guest Rachael Camp! Together, we will be answering questions and giving our feedback on nuanced topics asked by the community! Listen along for discussions about the 4 percent rule, how taxes are factored into your FI number, investing in dividends, paying down debt versus investing, and finally a shortlist of actionable steps one could take if they are young and beginning their FI journey. There is much to discuss and so much more to learn this week as we tackle your FI questions! 

Rachael Camp offers advisory Services through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600. Camp Wealth is not affiliated with the CFD companies.

🔑 Key Themes Discussed: Introduction to Financial Independence Debt vs. Investing The 4% Rule and Taxes Roth 401k vs. Traditional 401k Dividends vs. Total Return Investing Second Generation FI 🕒 Chapters: Getting Started with FI Debt vs. Investing 4% Rule and Tax Implications Roth 401k vs. Traditional 401k Dividends vs. Total Return Investing Second Generation FI 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: Find Your Local ChooseFI Facebook Group Preparing for the Cost of College | Brian Eufinger | ChooseFI Ep 460 How To Test Out of College While You’re Still In High School | Millionaire Educator | ChooseFI Ep 238 How to Access Your Retirement Accounts Before 59.5 | Sean Mullaney | ChooseFI Ep 475 Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

This week on ChooseFI, Brad welcomes Devon, a 22-year-old National Guard member and aspiring mechanical engineer, to discuss the power of intentionality and personal finance! Together, Brad and Devon explore how small, deliberate actions can create a domino effect in shaping one's financial future. Devon shares his journey from joining the National Guard at 17 to discovering financial independence through ChooseFI, and how his disciplined approach to life has led him to save for his first home, maximize military benefits, and even inspire his peers.

🔑 Key Topics Discussed:

The Domino Effect: How Small Actions Lead to Big Changes Financial Independence: Starting Young and Staying Disciplined Maximizing Military Benefits: Tuition Assistance and Beyond Real Estate Goals: Saving for a Down Payment with Intentionality Mentorship and Networking: Learning from Industry Professionals Practical Financial Tips: Budgeting, Saving, and Investing Wisely

🕒 Chapters:

Introduction to Devon's Story and His Early Start in FI The Domino Effect: How Devon Visualizes His Financial Future Navigating College and Military Life: Tuition, Benefits, and Budgeting Saving for Real Estate: Devon's Plan to Buy His First Home Mentorship and Networking: Building a Successful Career Path Practical Financial Tips for Young Adults and Military Members Intentional Living: Balancing Work, School, and Personal Goals Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

🔗 Devon's Links and Resources Mentioned in the Show:

Devon's Website: Freedom By the Day Liberated Mind Library Instagram Contact Devon via Email: Freedombytheday@gmail.com

In this episode: Roth IRA conversion ladder, starting with the end in mind, investing for growth or stability, and retirement planning.

While we have covered Roth IRA Conversion Ladders on ChooseFI before, we have never in the past taken such a deep dive into the subject like we do in this week's episode! Once again, we are joined by friend of the show Cody Garrett from Measure Twice Money, as we cover a high-level-FI approach to the Roth IRA conversion ladder and ways one could approach propelling themselves into a FI fueled retirement!

Cody Garrett:

Website: Measure Twice Money YouTube: @MeasureTwiceMoney

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Measure Twice Money ChooseFI Podcast Resources The Roth IRA Conversion Ladder | A Case Study | ChooseFI Ep. 17R Roth IRA Conversion Ladder Case Study | ChooseFI Ep. 163R Find Your Local ChooseFI Group Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: travel rewards, frugality, companion passes, international travel, intentional spending, and listener questions.

This week Brad is re-joined by Ginger as together they go back to basics during our returning round-up segment! This time around, the pair will be talking about recent travels and hacks they’ve used, travel rewards tips, answering some community questions, and shouting out some of your FI wins of the week! This episode is a great way to crowd-source new tips for people just beginning their FI journey, from learning how to navigate companion passes when traveling, to learning how to both save and spend your money with intentionality!

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Friday Roundup | Huge Announcement | ChooseFI Ep. 22R Travel Rewards ChooseFI Living Frugal Frugalwoods | Save 75% Of Your Take Home Pay | ChooseFI Ep. 12 The True Cost Of Car Ownership | ChooseFI Ep. 22 Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: travel rewards, IRA conversions, working with FAFSA, health insurance, and the FI journey.

This week we are joined by community member and listener Connie to discuss the beginning of her FI journey, and the transformative steps she’s taken to further maximize her journey for her and her family. With so many resources available to learn and assist you while on the path to FI, the influx of information may seem overwhelming. Knowing how to organize the information will allow you to utilize the hacks and tricks that take some of the pressure off, and grant the opportunity for you to adapt and create the life you want! 

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Abundo Wealth Advice-Only Network Nectarine Point.me Seats.aero PointsYeah The $100K Glorified Sleepaway Camp | Millionaire Educator | ChooseFI Ep 386 How To Test Out of College While You’re Still In High School | Millionaire Educator | ChooseFI Ep 238 Mailbag: Breaking up with your Advisor, I Bonds, 4% Rule, Accounts for Kids, Roth IRAs | Sean Mullaney | ChooseFI Ep 447 Find Your Local ChooseFI Group The Courage to Take Action | EconoMe LIVE with Doc G | ChooseFI Ep 488 Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: FI numbers, financial independence, approaching problems differently, and adjusting spending to accommodate FI.

This week join our host Brad in celebrating 500 episodes of Choose FI, as he talks about the start of his FI journey, and highlights topics and episodes from the last few years. The path to FI isn’t just about simplifying your life, but empowering yourself and taking action to design and create the life you want to be living. And while the list is endless for how FI can improve your life, the community you find while on this journey is just as rewarding. Thank you to our listeners and supporters for being on this journey with us! 

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: “The Simple Path to Wealth: Your road map to financial independence and a rich, free life” by JL Collins The Safe Withdrawal Rate Series The Side Hustle | The Unspoken Lever of FI | ChooseFI Ep 30 How to Negotiate Your Salary Without Burning Bridges | Financial Mechanic | ChooseFI Ep 211 Negotiate Your Salary With Tori Dunlap | ChooseFI Ep 147 The Roth IRA Conversion Ladder | A Case Study | ChooseFI Ep 17R Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: limiting beliefs, flipping the script, looking for evidence, empowering beliefs, and imposter syndrome.

This week we are rejoined by Jessica from The Fioneers, to discuss the idea of limiting beliefs, from knowing how to identify and define them, to learning to work through and overcome them using her six strategy method. To put this method into practice we workshop two examples of limiting beliefs from FI community members, Samantha and Kyle. While having fears is natural and part of what makes us human, it’s important to be able to distinguish what fears are valid and what limiting beliefs are just holding you back. Whether it’s believing you’re not doing enough on your FI journey, or having a fear of failure, making sure you are continuously working to empower yourself and sift through the self doubt will ensure you live your life with more power and confidence! 

The Fioneers: Website: thefioneers.com YouTube: @fioneers Free eMail Course: Overcoming Limiting Beliefs Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: The Cure for the Boring Middle | Fioneers | ChooseFI Ep 472 “The Simple Path to Wealth: Your road map to financial independence and a rich, free life” by JL Collins “Wherever You Go There You Are: Time-Tested Principles To Get Unstuck, Expand Your Influence, and Illuminate Your World” by Kyle Collins Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

 

In this episode, exercise, sleep, nutrition, mind body activities, social relationships, heat and cold exposure.

This week we are joined by Dr. Bobby DuBois author and host of Live Long and Well podcast, where we will be discussing health optimization and wellness by deep diving into each of what he calls the 6 pillars: Exercise, Sleep, Nutrition, Mind-Body Work, Heat and Cold Exposure, and Social Relationships, while also providing some actionable takeaways you can do in order to live your healthiest life! The best part of the FI journey is you can create and live the life the way you want, but neglecting your physical and mental health may not allow you to thrive the way you want as you inevitably age. Taking the time and the space to prioritize your health, whether it be big or small, can make such a difference over time, and can ensure you’ll be living long into your retirement and well after! 

Dr. Bobby Dubois: Website: drbobbylivelongandwell.com Website: Madrone Springs Ranch Podcast: Live Long and Well with Dr. Bobby Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Update: Healthiest Year Ever | Dean Turner | ChooseFI Ep 480 The Matt Walker Podcast Yoga Nidra – Guided Meditation to Relax | 10min InsightTimer Deep Healing by davidji Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: full retirement age, earnings, spousal benefits, survivor benefits, filing for benefits, and the earnings test.

This week, Mike Piper joins the show to talk all things social security and answer listener questions that arose from our last social security related conversation back in episode 474! Whether it is discussing the full retirement age, discussing when to file for benefits, and different situations and their correlating differing types of benefits, Brad and Mike cover your burning questions so when the time comes you can catapult yourself into retirement confident and comfortably. While the topic of social security can often be confusing, being informed and prepared based on you and your families situation can make approaching it a lot less formidable, so listen along now to be ready down the line when it is your time to file!

Mike Piper:

Website: opensocialsecurity.com Book: "Social Security Made Simple: Social Security Retirement Benefits and Related Planning Topics Explained in 100 Pages or Less" by Mike Piper

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Social Security Deep Dive | Denis Shapiro | ChooseFI Ep 474 SSA.tools Social Security Calculator Why Are ETFs (Sometimes) More Tax-Efficient Than Mutual Funds? Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: roth versus traditional IRA, second generation FI, FI and newlyweds, and retirement planning optimization.

This week we are diving back into the listener Mail Bag with our returning guest Rachael Camp to answer questions from the community! Today we will be discussing the differences between Roth and Traditional IRAs and the future variables and factors you should consider, as well as discuss the new rules and considerations surrounding 529 plans and how to best financially plan when considering your children and your spouse. Listen along as YOU, the community, dictate the conversation with your hot-button FI questions! 

Rachael Camp: Website: rachaelcampwealth.com Twitter: @camp_wealth YouTube: @CampWealth Instagram: @campwealth

Please note:

Rachael Camp offers advisory Services through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600. Camp Wealth is not affiliated with the CFD companies.

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Mailbag: Spending Down to Zero, High Fee 401(k), Mini Retirements | Rachael Camp | ChooseFI Ep 485 Limits Of Tax Diversification And The Tax Alpha Of Roth Optimization Love, Loss, and Money: The Shocking Financial Aftermath of a FI Spouse’s Death | Amy | ChooseFI Ep 476 Becoming Work Optional Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: real estate, lazy landlording, attracting the right tenants, finding ideal situations, and traveling.

This week we are joined by returning guest James Lowery to discuss his “lazy landlord” concept to streamline and simplify real estate investing as well as set processes in place that not only make your life easier as a landlord but make it easy for your tenets as well! If you are on the FI journey and curious about adding real estate into your portfolio, whether it be long or short term rental properties, there are ways to make it a more simple process than you might think. With some planning and intentional action, the lazy landlording life could be well within your grasp!

James Lowery: Website: rethinktheratrace.com eBook: Tenant Proof Your Property Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Vegan Path To FI | ChooseFI Ep. 90 EconoME Conference “The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich” by Tim Ferris “The 4-Hour Body: An Uncommon Guide to Rapid Fat-Loss, Incredible Sex, and Becoming Superhuman” by Tim Ferris BiggerPockets James Lowery: How to Become a Lazy Landlord Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: financial freedom, starting your own business, you can't sprint forever, buying vs renting, and investing.

This week we are rejoined by host of Financial Feminist podcast and creator of Her First 100K, Tori Dunlap, to fill us in on her journey with FI over the last few years, discuss what financial equity and the importance of building financial foundation and literacy among marginalized groups, as well as discuss how financial advice can differ for men and women. While money can be linked with stability and ease in one's life, the real power that comes from personal finance and independence is the freedom it allows you to not only change your life, but instill change in the communities around you. Although there can be times you feel guilt or shame when discussing financial literacy, there are endless resources at your disposal to educate and have you feeling confident.

Tori Dunlap:

Website: herfirst100k.com Book: “Financial Feminist: Overcome the Patriarchy’s Bullsh*t to Master Your Money and Build a Life You Love” Podcast: Financial Feminist Instagram: @herfirst100k Where to Start: Her First 100k Quiz Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Negotiate Your Salary With Tori Dunlap | ChooseFI Ep 147 Marriage Kids and Money The Impact of Fees on Your Investment “The Simple Path to Wealth: Your Road Map to Financial Independence and a Rich, Free Life” by JL Collins RENTING VS. BUYING: WHAT’S RIGHT FOR ME? Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: doing everything but not at once, building your extraordinary life, optimizing your time, and what to do after FI.

This week we are joined by Alan and Katie Donogan as well as my guest co-host Ginger live from the Design Your Extraordinary Life Weekend event in Las Vegas, where we will be discussing their exercise of envisioning what an extraordinary life can look like in designated areas of your life, as well as learning how identify and overcome limiting beliefs that can hold you back from achieving your dream life. Reaching your FI goal can radically change your life and usher in new freedom, but it doesn’t necessarily mean all your problems go away. While you may be focused on taking actionable steps to to hit your FI number, it's just as important to take actionable steps to build and create the life you want to be living! By taking account of certain areas of your life and identifying the areas and mindsets that need to be changed in order to achieve your extraordinary life, you will not only be on track to living your best life on your FI journey, but continuing to live it well after you reach the finish line!

9 Life Snapshot Categories (Explained here.)

Love and Relationships Career or Business or Mission Finances Physical Environment Friends and Family Fun, Adventure and Passion Health and Wellness Personal Growth and Development Spirituality

Alan and Katie Donegan:

Website: alandonegan.com YouTube: The Donegans

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

The Cure for the Boring Middle | Fioneers | ChooseFI Ep 472 EconoME Conference "The Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living" by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman Viola and Dan’s YouTube Channel General Donegan update Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: RRTTLU, actual risk, actual return, balancing portfolios, understanding your timeline, taxes, and legal situations.

This week we are joined by Jesse Cramer of the “Best Interest" blog and podcast to discuss “RRTTLLU”, an acronym that provides a framework and guide of some of the factors one should consider when they start investing. While investing on your own can seem complex with many factors to consider such as your risk tolerance, the potential tax liabilities, and returns; being realistic about what you want to get out of your investment and what timeline you are on will only ensure your success. Considering some of these factors before you start investing can help you to choose your investments smartly, and give you the confidence and self-assurance for when changes or uncertainties come and go! 

Jesse Cramer: Website: bestinterest.blog Podcast: The Best Interest Podcast Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Join ChooseFI’s Facebook Group! Investor Policy Statement | ChooseFI Ep 189 Bucket Your Money The Safe Withdrawal Rate Series “Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life” by Bill Perkins How to Access Your Retirement Accounts Before 59.5 | Sean Mullaney | ChooseFI Ep 475 Answering Your Questions on How to Access Money Before 59.5 | ChooseFI Ep 491 RRTTLLU: That’s Not a Typo, Investors Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: 72t, Roth 401k’s, Roth IRA’s, The Pro Rata Rule, PUQME, HSA’s, Retirement and Education, and Roth Conversions.

In one of our faster update episodes ever, friend of the show Sean Mullaney re-joins Brad to follow up on the episode we published back in February, “How to Access Your Retirement Accounts Before 59.5,” as well answer some of the questions our community had around the subject. We in the FI community know that retiring is an option way sooner than we were originally led to believe, so listen along as Brad and Sean shed some light on ways you could potentially access your retirement savings before facing the edge of your golden years.

Sean Mullaney: Website: fitaxguy.com Website: mullaneyfinancial.com Twitter: @SeanMoneyandTax YouTube: @SeanMullaneyVideos Timestamps: 1:05 – Introduction 1:58 – Optimizing for 72t 10:25 – Roth Conversions and Premium Tax Credits 22:21 – Roth 401k and Roth IRA 27:08 – The Pro-Rata Rule 36:17 – PUQME and HSA’s 45:39 – Using Retirement Withdrawals for Education 50:40 – The Rule of 55 and Solo 401k’s 55:11 – Marriage and Taxes 61:32 – IRA and Health Insurance Premiums 64:13 – Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: How to Access Your Retirement Accounts Before 59.5 | Sean Mullaney | ChooseFI Ep 475 Forget About Money Podcast Accessing Retirement Accounts Prior To Age 59.5 Do You Have a Hidden Roth IRA? Retirement topics: Exceptions to tax on early distributions Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: events, community, travel rewards, medidations, mini retirements, travel wins, and travel points.

This week we are back with friend of the pod Ginger to discuss a mixed bag of topics, such as attending FI events, travel rewards and companion passes, as well as the idea of a “mini” retirements and what that can look like while on the path to FI. However, this episode isn't titled "The Ultimate Random Show" for nothing, as we branch off in quite a few different directions as we cover those topics. As opposed to having us try and describe it for you, it may be best to go ahead and hit play so you can see for yourself!

Timestamps: 0:47 – Introduction 1:42 – Events and Community 11:59 – Travel Rewards 21:41 – Meditation 24:46 – Brad’s Phoenix Trip 31:40 – What We Are Listening To/Mini Retirements 45:11 – Travel Points/Wins 51:32 – Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: The Donegans Afford Anything EconoME Conference Insight Timer Mile High FI Coach Carson Mr. Money Mustache & Car Free Living at Culdesac | MHFI 207 Forget About Money How to Access Your Retirement Accounts Before 59.5 | Sean Mullaney | ChooseFI Ep 475 Mindy On Money Retire Often Best Tools for Booking Hotels with Points & Miles with Greg the Frequent Miler Points Yeah Points.Me Seats.Aero Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: connecting points, the power of FU money, the early retirement era, and enjoying the journey.

This week we are joined by returning guests, Steven and Lauren Keys from Trip of a Lifestyle, to update us on their FI journey and “early retirement era,” as well as discuss the importance of finding the courage and freedom to make radical lifestyle changes in the present. We all know that money can open up new opportunities in your life, whether it’s having the flexibility to leave your job for a better one or even relocating to a dream country, but most of us forget that these opportunities can be achieved sooner than you think! The journey to FI is about taking actionable steps to build and achieve the life you want, and you don’t have to wait until you’re fully retired to do it! While you’re starting to save and spend less, remember that you’re getting closer and closer to your goal, but even still that it’s not a poor decision to spend money on things that are important to you and can improve your life! 

Trip of a Lifestyle: Website: tripofalifestyle.com Instagram: @tripofalifestyle Crambetter: crambetter.com Timestamps: 0:46 – Introduction 3:12 – Connecting Points 6:39 – Taking Money Out of the Equation 13:14 – The Power of FU Money 23:39 – Getting to The Early Retirement Era 33:27 – Investing 44:59 – Paying Yourself Last? 48:39 – Enjoying the Journey/Setting Yourself up for Success 58:13 – Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Trip of a Lifestyle to All US National Parks | ChooseFI Ep 226 We Took a 3-Month Vacation and Came Home $26,000 Richer How We Saved $100k in 2 Years on Teacher Salaries We Vacationed Our Way to $1 Million by Age 33 (and You Can Too) Inside the Investment Portfolio of Early Retirees Pay Yourself Last: Why You Don’t Need A Budget Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: courage from community, what to do next, overwhelm, finding community, and the evolution of FI.

Live from the EconoMe Conference in Cincinati Ohio, Brad is joined by Jordan "Doc G" Grumet and a room full of passionate members of our community to discuss finding the courage to take action in your FI journey. While we understand money can be a north-star for many early in your venture towards FI, what happens once money is no longer the root of your goals? Where do you shift your focus to next? Well, sometimes finding answers to these questions is a little easier when you have help from some of your friends. Listen along as Jordan, Brad and our community speculate on their ideas for what their next steps are.

Doc G:

Website: earnandinvest.com Podcast: The Earn and Invest Podcast

Timestamps:

0:41 - Introduction 1:41 - Courage From Community 7:40 - Roger and What To Do Next? 20:31 - Allison and Finding Community 30:15 - What/Where is the Overwhelm 34:49 - The Evolution of FI/Being The Change You Want To See 41:11 - Reconciling With Social Responsibilities 44:34 - Charitable Giving 47:21 - Interacting Outside of The Community 51:55 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Retire Often FI Freedom Retreat Mr Money Mustache CampFI FinCon "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill Perkins Josh Overmeyer EconoMe Alan Donegan Find Your Local ChooseFI Group Effective Giving for the FI Community | Rebecca Herbst & Jack Lewars | ChooseFI Ep 483 Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: survivor benefit plans, VA benefits, VSO's disability benefits, tax planning, healthcare, and blended retirement systems.

This week we are joined by Daniel Kopp, founder of Wise Stewardship Financial Planning, to outline ways you can best prepare for military retirement. Together we cover pensions, navigating the Survivor Benefit Plan and additional benefits, healthcare and disability resources, as well as other financial decisions you can consider as you begin to transition out of the military. When dealing with any kind of retirement planning, taking actionable steps to prepare and get a plan in place for you and your family is essential. While everyone's circumstances may be different as they transition out of the military, there are many resources available and benefit programs you are entitled to before and after you leave duty!

Daniel Kopp, CFP

Website: wisestewardshipfp.com Podcast: Military to Financial Planner Timestamps: 1:26 – Introduction 2:32 – Approaching Military Retirement/Blended Retirement System 9:38 – Military Benefits/Healthcare 15:36 – VA Benefits/Term Life Insurance 22:12 – Disability Benefits/VSO’s 30:17 – Survivor Benefit Plans 43:13 – SBP Contingencies and Child Coverage 50:41 – Tax Planning 56:26 – Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Blended Retirement VA education benefits for survivors and dependents Everything About The Military’s Survivor Benefit Plan SBP Financial Analysis Tools Daniel Kopp Estate Planning for Military Families | Military Money Manual Podcast Episode 83 Accredited VSO Representatives Transition Planning from a Military Career on the Path to FI | ChooseFI Ep 296 “Military in Transition’s Guide to The Survivor Benefit Plan: Navigating the SBP” by Forrest Baumhover How VA Disability Compensation Affects Military Retirement Pay Income Tax and Rental Properties When You’re in the Military MFAA ChooseFI US Military Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: public service accounts, side hustles, making FI possible, frugality, giving yourself freedom, and side hustles.

This week we are joined by Chris Travers, a New York City public school teacher and FI community member, to discuss his journey from being a natural saver to becoming a savvy investor, talk advantages and disadvantages of some of the retirement accounts provided to teachers, as well as discuss some ways he has been able to grow his net worth in the last 10 years. Frugality is a term that often comes up while on the FI path, and finding a balance of saving and spending is crucial to reaching your financial goals. Remember that where you decide to save and spend and how you do so will evolve throughout your FI journey! While it can be hard to cut costs of the things you enjoy in the present, being willing to cut out what you don’t need can set you up for success in the future! 

Chris Travers: Book: “TL;DR: Financial Literacy for New York City Public School Teachers: Optimizing Financial Decisions Based On Your TRSNYC Benefits” by Christopher Tavers and Karl Fisch Instagram: @thewealthyeducator Timestamps: 0:54 – Introduction 6:47 – Public Service Accounts 11:38 – Diving Into FI 15:08 – Side Hustles/Making FI Possible 22:17 – Renting vs Buying 26:43 – Frugality and Loosening the Purse Strings 32:25 – Giving Yourself Freedom 37:53 – Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Join ChooseFI’s Facebook Group! “The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America’s Wealthy” by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko “Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not!” by Robert Kiyosaki “Smart Couples Finish Rich, Revised and Updated: 9 Steps to Creating a Rich Future for You and Your Partner” by David Bach The Unfair (FI) Advantage Of Teachers | 457b | ChooseFI Ep 13 The Happy Body Millennial Revolution Karl Fisch Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: spending down to zero, the ratcheting rule, the guardrails approach, high fee 401k's, and mini-retirements.

This week we are diving back into the listener mailbag with Rachael Camp to address the pressing questions our community has! Whether it's curiosity towards the concept of dying with zero, determining whether it is a good time to take a mini-retirement, or working with high-fee 401k's, Brad and Rachael tackle it all! Listen along as YOU the community dictate the conversation with your hot button FI questions!

Rachael Camp:

Website: www.rachaelcampwealth.com Twitter: @camp_wealth

Please note:

Rachael Camp offers advisory Services through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600. Camp Wealth is not affiliated with the CFD companies.

Timestamps: 0:55 – Introduction 1:38 – Spending Down to Zero 10:15 – The Ratcheting Rule and The Guard Rails Approach 20:38 – Flexible Spending Strategy 27:01 – Does Everything Need to be Optimized? 31:15 – High Fee 401k’s 41:48 – Mini Retirement Considerations 49:54 – Roth IRA Contributions and Faze Out Limits 55:57 – Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: “Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life” by Bill Perkins “Thinking in Bets: Making Smarter Decisions When You Don’t Have All the Facts” by Annie Duke The Ratcheting Safe Withdrawal Rate – A More Dominant Version Of The 4% Rule? The guardrails approach is a flexible retirement withdrawal strategy: Here’s how it works Early Retirement Now The Problem with the 4% Rule (and Why You Could Retire Even Sooner) The Roth IRA Conversion Ladder | A Case Study | ChooseFI Ep 17R Roth IRA Conversion Ladder Case Study | ChooseFI Ep 163R Retire Often Mini-Retirements to Accelerate Your Path to FI | Jillian Johnsrud | ChooseFI Ep 451 Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: wants vs needs, side hustles, tax planning, college hacking, travel rewards, mindset, and living your values.

This week we are joined by Joel and Emily Allen, a married couple with children based out of Iowa who truly embody what the FI movement is all about! Not only have they seized control of their life and finances, but have also managed to start a successful side hustle, provide incredible resources to the community around them, travel the world, and so much more! While the FI movement is about financially freeing yourself and your family, it is also important to remember why we want that freedom. Not stressing about money is just one piece of a fulfilling life, once you have that freedom, take advantage of it like the Allen’s have!

Timestamps: 1:25 – Introduction/The FI Mindset 9:02 – Budgeting/Wants and Needs 14:59 – Side Hustles 21:02 – Financial Literacy to FI 23:29 – Tax Planning/Travel Rewards 29:11 – College Hacking 42:05 – Living Your Values and Taking Time Off 48:39 – The Importance of Knowing the Rules 53:48 – Traveling Like a Pro 69:25 – Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Dave Ramsey Travel Rewards | ChooseFI Preparing for the Cost of College | Brian Eufinger | ChooseFI Ep 460 The 10 Pillars Of FI Modern States The $100K Glorified Sleepaway Camp | Millionaire Educator | ChooseFI Ep 386 All the Hacks Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

In this episode: building a giving framework, the giving pledge, compound impact, donor advised funds, and different ways to give.

Is it better to give to charity in a lump sum versus incrementally? What are the tax implications of donating? What are the benefits of using donor advised funds? This week we answer these questions and more with the help of Rebecca Herbst and Jack Lewars as we discuss charitable donations and effective giving while on the FI journey. A large part of FI is taking actionable steps to improve your life, but this journey also opens up opportunities to improve the life of others. While navigating donations while on the path to FI can seem tricky because we are so focused on attaining our FI numbers, there are still many ways you can give back and make a difference. Creating the habit of effective giving can help you leave an impact on yourself and the world at large! There are many resources available that can help calculate what you can give while remaining on the FI track, as well as help you see how your donations are making a difference! 

Rebecca Herbst & Jack Lewars: Yield and Spread: yieldandspread.org Rebecca’s Coaching Program: Coaching for do-gooders 1 For The World: 1fortheworld.org Jack’s LinkedIn: Jack Lewars Timestamps: 1:37 – Introduction 4:24 – The Giving Pledge 11:59 – Building A Framework And Effective Giving 23:20 – Should You Get To FI Before You Give? 33:12 – Compound Impact 39:48 – Feedback From Giving And Fun Funds 51:08 – Different Ways To Give 61:09 – Donating Appreciated Stocks 66:59 – Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Join Your Local ChooseFI Group “The Life You Can Save: How to do your part to end world poverty” by Peter Singer School of Hard Knocks “Practical Ethics” by Peter Singer GiveWell The Life You Can Save “Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life” by Bill Perkins Yield & Spread’s DAF Series “Doing Good Better: How Effective Altruism Can Help You Help Others, Do Work that Matters, and Make Smarter Choices about Giving Back” by William MacAskill Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: salesforce, lifestyle design, testimonials and verification, the hidden job market, and talentstacking.

Once again joined by friend of the show Bradley Rice, the owner and creator of TalentStacker, to update us on the value of SalesForce and career pivoting in 2024. While on the FI journey, you are actively creating the life you want to live. For many that means transitioning out of their life-long careers and opting for ones that offer something different and more accustomed to the life you’re creating. Learning a new skill or starting a side hustle can be the first step to finding that new career, and finding a program that works for you should offer more than just a certification, but assist you in finding new opportunities and a community that supports you!

Bradley Rice: Website: talentstacker.com Facebook: Salesforce for Everyone Salesforce 5 Day Challenge: Take the FREE 5-Day Challenge Podcast: Salesforce for Everyone Timestamps: 1:38 – Introduction 4:17 – Work, Lifestyle Design, and Talentstacking 10:15 – Testimonials, Doing Your Research, and Verification 14:55 – The Hidden Job Market 19:36 – Entering a Salesforce Career with Talentstacker 26:39 – Salesforce Security 32:25 – Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: The Hidden Job Market | ChooseFI Ep 379 CampFI Making The Case For Part Time With Bradley Rice | ChooseFI Ep 117 Trailhead Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: caregiving and FI, retirement planning, reverse mortgages, long-term care, and long-term care insurance.

This week we are joined by Danielle Miura to discuss how her experience as a caregiver has impacted her FI mindset, as well as answer listener questions pertaining to planning for your own long-term care while on the path to FI. As you and your loved ones get older, it’s important to start considering what additional finances they may require. From long-term healthcare to assisted living, there are many factors that not only impact their life financially, but could impact you and your FI plans. While it may be uncomfortable to have conversations with loved ones about their finances and expenses, it is imperative to have these discussions early and create a plan that works for you and your family.

Danielle Miura: Website: spark-fin.com LinkedIn: Danielle Miura Twitter: @Daniellemiula Timestamps: 1:19 – Introduction 2:22 – Caregiving and FI 7:28 – Dealing With Poor Retirement Planning 15:38 – Reverse Mortgages and Viability of Selling The Home 21:41 – Having The Uncomfortable Conversation 24:40 – Planning For Your Final Years 32:41 – Long-Term Care and FI 36:10 – Long Term Care Insurance 45:30 – Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: optimized exercise, recovering, machine use, increasing your healthspan, and long-term thinking.

This week we are joined by Brad’s friend and personal trainer, Dean Turner, to discuss the changing landscape of strength training, and how principles such as consistency and adherence coupled with rest and recovery can also be applied to both your fitness and FI journey. We often talk about how the path to FI is not just about working towards a monetary goal, but rather creating a better life for yourself. For some this can mean taking a personal account of your health, and taking actionable steps to improve it. Just as making financial changes requires consistency, making physical changes requires the same. While these changes don’t happen overnight, these actions continuously build off of one another and make you stronger!

Dean Turner:

Twitter: @DeanTTraining Website: deanturnertraining.com

Timestamps:

2:30 - Introduction 3:41 - Optimized Exercise 9:13 - Recovering and Machine Use 20:51 - Increasing Your Healthspan 27:44 - Long-Term Thinking 29:48 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Your Bold Move for 2023 | Dominick Quartuccio | ChooseFI Ep 419 The New Science of Muscle James Clear, Atomic Habits — Simple Strategies for Building (and Breaking) Habits, Questions for Personal Mastery and Growth, Tactics for Writing and Launching a Mega-Bestseller, Finding Leverage, and More (#648) Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: FI in your 20s, the boring middle, compounding, fat FI, compounding, checkpoints, and building a life.

This week we are joined by Doug and Carl from the Mile High FI podcast to talk about their respective FI journeys and answer a listener question about pursuing FI in your 20s; as well share some tips for enjoying the experience and navigating times in the journey that can feel a bit slow. While figuring out your FI goal requires you to do some work to figure out your FI number, that number and the steps you take to reach that goal are all unique to the individual. That being said, it can be tricky at times to know if you are on the right track when the journey to FI is different for everyone. Remember, although this journey is about reaching financial independence, it’s also about changing and creating the life you want and joining a community that will always inspire you when times feel slow. 

Mile High FI:

Podcast: milehighfi.com Newsletter: Join the Mile High FI Club

Timestamps:

1:13 - Introduction 2:41 - Analyzing Finances In Your 20s 9:31 - Compounding Power 13:25 - The Boring Middle 21:01 - FI Role Models 26:41 - Building A Life On The Journey 35:01 - Fat FI 45:37 - Saving Versus Life Enhancement 54:21 - FI Checkpoints 57:52 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

The Cure for the Boring Middle | Fioneers | ChooseFI Ep 472 Mr Money Mustache JL Collins "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill Perkins The Spectrum of Financial Independence and Tools to Track Your Progress with Brad Barrett Mini-Retirements to Accelerate Your Path to FI | Jillian Johnsrud | ChooseFI Ep 451 The Stages and Checkpoints of FI | ChooseFI Ep 324 Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: buy and hold, macroeconomics, interest rates, bond investing, when to sell, mindset, and thinking differently.

This week we are joined once again by friend of the show Brian Feroldi to discuss the stock market and investing as we head into 2024. As most of you know by now, keeping your head down and staying the course is a pretty typical investing strategy in the FI community, but it is important to remember personal finance is personal. Depending on your situation, life may require you to mold that strategy into something else as your mindset and seasons of life change! Make sure your are not only optimizing your financial situation, but also your life in the process!

Brian Feroldi:

Website: stockinvesting.school Website: longtermmindset.co Twitter: @BrianFeroldi LinkedIn: Brian Feroldi

Timestamps:

0:33 - Introduction 3:42 - Buy and Hold 8:36 - "Macroeconomics" 15:17 - The Impact of Interest Rates/ Bond Investing 20:36 - High Yield Savings Accounts 27:18 - 2024 Investing 33:19 - When to Sell 38:05 - The Evolution of Your Mindset 43:40 - Thinking Differently 47:52 - VTSAX 51:21 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

The Motley Fool "Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not!" by Robert Kiyosaki The Role Of Bonds In A Portfolio with Frank Vasquez | ChooseFI Ep 194 Risk Parity Radio "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill Perkins Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: the wonderful ChooseFI community shares advice by taking the hot seat through listener voicemails.

Ginger joins the podcast this week for a special “Hot Seat” episode to listen to some voicemails set in from our listeners, in which our community answered questions that we typically ask our guests when they take the Hot Seat! From discussing favorite books and podcasts, to learning some new tricks and takeaways that have helped you on your FI Journey, it’s incredible to hear the ways you are taking action and creating habits that are making your journey to FI meaningful and motivational! We often stress that living FI isn’t about chasing a number, but rather building up the life you want in the process of working towards your goals, and while there may be mistakes made, there are many learning opportunities and new perspectives of success that make this journey incredibly rewarding. 

Timestamps: 1:45 – Introduction 2:29 – Ashley and Atomic Habits 10:17 – Tyler and Opportunity Cost 19:09 – Amanda and Mental Wellbeing 25:17 – Caesar and PSLF Forgiveness 30:56 – Aaron, House Hacking, and DIY 37:17 – Ginger Takes The Hot Seat 59:33 – Brad Takes The Hot Seat 76:19 – Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: “Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones” by James Clear Atomic Habits | James Clear | ChooseFI Ep 157 “Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life” by Bill Perkins “Just Keep Buying: Proven ways to save money and build your wealth” by Nick Maggiulli BitWarden “The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative” by Florence Williams I Will Teach You To Be Rich Book your custom student loan plan “Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It” by Chris Voss and Tahl Raz “Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience” by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi Risk Parity Radio “Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams” by Matt Walker The Matt Walker Podcast Peter Attia Ginger’s New Sheets My First Million Podcast Prof G Show Pivot Podcast Todoist Dean Turner Training Send Us A Voicemail Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: what follows tragedy, the importance of wills and beneficiaries, intestate succession, and probate.

This week we are joined by Amy to discuss her personal account and experience with estate planning in the event of an unexpected passing, and what this can look like when plans aren’t in place. While death can be an uncomfortable topic to think about, it’s important to take time to garner a plan in place so that your loved ones are both prepared and not overwhelmed in the event of your passing. A large part of FI is about taking actionable steps to make your life easier, and estate planning is no different. From designating beneficiaries and setting up wills, to utilizing password verification methods on your accounts, there are many actionable steps you can take in order to make the process of passing easier for your family and loved ones. Amy’s story is not meant to be a cautionary tale, but rather a reminder to not ignore or avoid a personal subject matter just because it’s uncomfortable.

Timestamps:

1:23 - Introduction 2:45 - Amy's FI Journey 9:03 - Income Planning and FI 17:24 - What Follows Tragedy 28:33 - The Importance of Wills and Beneficiary Designation 36:23 - Preparing in Advance and Considering The Possibility 44:27 - Immediate Access and The Ancillary Things 48:15 - Probate 59:09 - Setting Up Your Estate 65:09 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early Retirement Intestate Succession The Family Emergency Binder | ChooseFI Ep. 125 (Promo Code "ChooseFI") Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: taxable accounts, the 72(T), inherited retirement accounts, 457B's, roth conversion ladders, and the rule of 55.

This week we are joined by the “FI Tax Guy” Sean Mullaney to walk through examples and discuss some strategies you could use when accessing your retirement funds early. No matter where you are on your FI journey, there can come a time where retiring early becomes a feasible option, but there can be many stipulations and tax implications that come with withdrawing your funds before the age of retirement. Tune in as we discuss several different options you can pursue in order access your money without having to wait until the 59 and a half year old threshold.

The discussion is intended to be for general educational purposes and is not tax, legal, or investment advice for any individual. Brad and the ChooseFI podcast do not endorse Sean Mullaney, Mullaney Financial & Tax, Inc. and their services.

Sean Mullaney:

Website: fitaxguy.com Website: Mullaney Financial and Tax Twitter: @SeanMoneyandTax YouTube: @SeanMullaneyVideos

FIRE in Vegas:

Join Brad Barrett from ChooseFI, the Donegans from Rebel Finance School and other FI enthusiasts for a weekend of inspiration, education and fun in Sin City.

Timestamps:

0:47 - Introduction 3:39 - Taxable Accounts 19:03 - Inherited Retirement Accounts 25:30 - The Rule of 55 28:39 - 457B's 30:46 - Roth IRA Conversion Ladder 39:12 - The 72(T) 54:52 - Paying the Penalty 57:25 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Mailbag: Inflation and FI, ACA Subsidies, Roth vs. Trad and More | Cody Garrett | ChooseFI Ep 471 The Roth IRA Conversion Ladder | A Case Study | ChooseFI Ep 17R Roth IRA Conversion Ladder Case Study | ChooseFI Ep 163R Retire On 72(T) Payments 72(t) Payments in Google Sheets Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: social security, disability, calculating social security, claiming social security, and due diligence.

This week we are joined by listener and owner of Financial Security Advocates Dennis Shapiro, to talk thru some of the insights and misconceptions surrounding Social Security Benefits, and what factors and resources you should consider while approaching retirement. The beauty of FI is that it opens up opportunities for you to retire early, but oftentimes we don’t consider how retiring early or even starting your own small business can impact your Social Security. While there is no true way of mastering the system to get the most benefit, there are many ways to prepare and plan in order to get the most out of your social security benefits! Remember, these benefits are not just safety nets when it comes time to retire, but can be an additional tool for investment that keeps you comfortable in your FI. 

Denis Shapiro:

Website: fsadvocates.com

Timestamps:

1:16 - Introduction 5:10 - What Pays for Social Security? 11:13 - Social Security and FI/Disability Insurance 17:30 - What Earnings Go Towards Social Security? 23:19 - Disability, Work Subsidies, and Income Related Work Expense 29:03 - How Social Security Benefits Are Calculated 37:05 - Claiming Social Security 39:59 - Social Security and Medicare 44:28 - Social Security and Due Diligence 56:27 - Working and Disability Benefits 59:59 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

SSA.gov Social Security Fact Sheet Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: calculating when you retire, tracking expenses, health insurance, the importance of planning, and health spanning.

This week we are rejoined by Teresa as well as Fritz Gilbert of The Retirement Manifesto to walk us through a case study of how to approach retirement while on your FI journey. It’s a common question to ask when you can retire or when you can stop working? Luckily there are plans of action and resources available covered in today's episode that will leave you feeling better prepared to proceed with a plan for retirement, no matter what part of your FI journey you are on. While there are many factors to consider when planning for retirement, such as savings versus spending rate and repositioning your portfolio, all these factors are manageable when you have a good plan in place. Take the time now to feel confident for what life will be like leading up to and after you retire!

The Retirement Manifesto:

Website: theretirementmanifesto.com Book: "Keys to a Successful Retirement:  Staying Happy, Active and Productive in Your Retired Years" by Fritz Gilbert Case Study: From Food Stamps to FIRE: A Case Study on Retirement Planning

Timestamps:

1:33 - Introduction 2:37 - Calculating When You Can Retire 7:46 - Does Retiring Early Effect Social Security? 15:06 - Tracking Spending and Expenses 20:55 - Health Insurance in Retirement 29:49 - The Importance of Planning/Changing Your Assumptions 40:17 - One More Year Syndrome/Your Health Span 45:00 - The Second Phase of Retirement 49:51 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

From Food Stamps to FI | Theresa | ChooseFI Ep 453 New Retirement SSA Tools Open Social Security SSA.gov How To Determine When To Claim Social Security (Retirement Manifesto) The Retirement Manifesto Net Worth Template "Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity" by Dr. Peter Attia with Bill Gifford What Happens When The Paycheck Stops? – Keys To A Successful Retirement With Fritz Gilbert (Part 1) | ChooseFI Ep 206 Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: the boring middle, lifestyle design, flow states, moving towards purpose, experiments, and experiences.

This week we are rejoined by friend of the podcast Jessica from The Fioneers to the discuss the point of your FI journey known as the “Boring Middle,” and how through actionable steps and lifestyle design you can turn what feels like a stagnant stage in your FI journey, into one filled with growth and change! When you are well on your path towards reaching your FI goal, it is easy to feel like you’re not doing enough. But what feels like a waiting game can actually be an important time for self growth and experimentation. Taking the time to do some introspection to figure out what your core motivations are can allow you to begin opening yourself up to newer experiences that bring value into your life. So if you feel like you are currently on autopilot, there are steps you can take to shake up your routine and usher in new opportunities into your life. While you may have to quiet your own limiting beliefs in this process, you will learn more about yourself and what you want out of your life! 

The Fioneers:

Website: thefioneers.com YouTube: The Fioneers

Timestamps:

1:12 - The Boring Middle/Lifestyle Design 7:19 - Determining Your Version of Success 18:41 - Finding Your Flow State 28:16 - Implementing Your Designed Lifestyle/Moving Towards Purpose 36:09 - Questions, Experiments, and Experiences 46:59 - Making Dreams Actionable 52:09 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Living Without Regret w/ Hospice Doctor (Slow FI Meetup) Find Your Local ChooseFI Group Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: inflation, coast FI, early retirement planning, future tax liability, IRA's and 401k's, and diversification.

This week we are rejoined by founder of Measure Twice Money Cody Garrett for another installment of the Mail Bag, where we will be talking through questions from our listeners covering topics ranging from inflation and its implications on your FI number, ACA subsidies and early retirement, as well as the similarities and differences with Roth accounts and future retirement tax liabilities. Listen along while we dip into the listener mailbag this week and discuss topics chosen from YOU the listener!

Cody Garrett:

Website: measuretwicefinancial.com LinkedIn: Cody Garrett

Timestamps:

1:02 - Introduction 1:35 - Inflation and Your FI Number 11:41 - Early Retirement Planning 21:55 - Calculating Future Tax Liability 30:15 - Distinctions Between IRA and 401k 33:37 - Diversification and Tech Stocks 44:26 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

The DIY Financial Plan | EP 352 Find Your Local ChooseFI Group Measure Twice Financial Calculator See Healthcare Plans and Prices Measure Twice Planners Preview: How to Review a Federal Tax Return Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: FI versus FIRE, coast FI, lean FI, tools for FI, the skill of spending, dying with zero, and prioritizing health.

This week we are joined by our friend and host of the “All the Hacks” podcast, Chris Hutchins to discuss the “spectrum” of FI, and all that falls in between. From the evolution of FI over the years, to the changes we’ve made on our respective journeys, and even differentiating terms such as FI versus FIRE and Coast FI, we cover it all! We also found some time to share some tools and resources that can be beneficial to you and your FI journey. While the path to FI allows you to take control of your financials and future, this journey can usher in so many new perspectives and changes that affect all areas of your life! Allowing yourself flexibility and remembering that what you are working towards isn’t just a number or early retirement, but rather a more fulfilling life! 

Chris Hutchins:

Podcast: All The Hacks Newsletter: All The Hacks Newsletter

Timestamps:

1:16 - Introduction 3:19 - FI Versus FIRE 10:11 - Lean FI 17:11 - Coast FI 30:20 - Tools for Tracking FI 41:48 - Optimizing Accounts 47:56 - The Skill of Spending and Dying With Zero 60:12 - Prioritizing Health 70:01 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Silicon Valley FI | Chris Hutchins | Grove | ChooseFI Ep. 71 Financial Independence Without a Six Figure Salary Reflecting on All the Hacks, Valuing Time and Focusing on the Year Ahead Early Retirement Now Safe Withdrawal Rates Series Copilot Kubera ProjectionLab Die With Zero: Net Fulfillment Over Net Worth Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: real estate, upskilling, taking action, tracking your expenses, setting goals, getting on the same page, and the hot seat.

This week we are joined by listener Navish Bahl to discuss his journey on the path to FI, the actionable steps he’s taken in order to maximize his life, answer some questions in the HotSeat, and navigating your FI journey while your significant other or family may not be on board. There are many avenues you can utilize in order to achieve FI, and while it may be overwhelming at times to figure out what works for you and your journey, remember that the goal is to learn and go through life with more freedom and balance, not stress and burnout trying to chase a number. The path to FI is a personal one, and as you embark on your journey allow yourself some patience but also some flexibility, and don’t forget to extend some patience to others in your life who may not be on the same path. 

Navish Bahl:

LinkedIn: Navish Bahl

Timestamps:

0:52 - Introduction 2:30 - The Inspiration to Start and Taking Action 11:44 - Real Estate and Rental Properties 18:42 - Upskilling, Getting New Jobs, and Making Connections 33:09 - Discovery, Education, and Action in FI 39:52- Tracking Your Expenses 46:34 - Getting on the Same Page 50:21 - The Hot Seat 55:18 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

"Millionaire Teacher: The Nine Rules of Wealth You Should Have Learned in School" By Andrew Hallam "The Simple Path to Wealth: Your road map to financial independence and a rich, free life" By J.L. Collins Small and Mighty Real Estate Investor | Chad Carson | ChooseFI Ep 446 CIT Bank Review: High Interest Rate Options Find your Local ChooseFI Group Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: checking boxes, supplementing income, life by design, taking action, the value of time, and year end wins!

This week we are re-joined by Johnathan for our 7th annual year-end-wins episode! Together we tune into voicemails sent by you the listener and celebrate your victories from 2023! From confidently investing in your future, to finding new friends and support systems within the FI community, we are proud to be a part of your journey towards reclaiming your freedom and your time! There are many small and large goals you all met that deserve to be celebrated! Listen along as we discuss and commend you for taking action and making the most out of your FI journey this year! 

Timestamps:

0:53 - Introduction 3:03 - Katie, Supplementing Income, and Checking Boxes 6:56 - Rakesh, Second Generation FI, and Investing 9:02 - Stephanie, Life by Design, and the Health Snowball 11:45 - Brian, Coast FI, Teaching FI, and Choosy Consulting 16:16 - Boyd and Emergency Funds 18:13 - International Coast FI, Taking Action, and Reclaiming Your Time 21:25 - Anthony, Skilling Up, and Chasing Your Dream With FI 25:35 - Donna, Helping Family, and Finding Peace Through FI 30:24 - Bryan, The Value of Time, and Deciding to Change 37:31 - Paul, FI Travel Wins, Healthcare, and College Hacking 42:01 - Sabrina, Breaking the Cycle, Marginal Gains, and Being 1% Better 47:52 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

From Vision Board to Action: A FI Success Story | Rakesh | ChooseFI Ep 436 Finding Your Locus of Control | Stereo Live Q&A | ChooseFI Ep 305 From Blood Cancer To The Boston Marathon | Boyd Dunleavey | ChooseFI Ep 394 Millionaire Educator House Hacking With Coach Carson | ChooseFI Ep 16 Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: community, structuring FI events, unstructured time, the energy in the room, and vulnerability.

We all know that the online FI community can help you along the journey in a variety of ways, but the abundance and ease of access to that community can lead to us forgetting the impact live FI events can have on your life. Our Guests Stephen, Amy, and Diania from CampFI, FI Freedom Retreats, and The EconoMe Conference respectively can attest to the power of in-person communities as they are the ones who work so hard to put them together! Together with Brad, the foursome talk about the different benefits that can come as a result of joining these conferences, and how “the energy in the room” can help you find value and take in information in ways you never thought possible!

Amy, Diania, and Stephen:

Stephen (CampFI): campfi.org Diania (EconoMe Conference): economeconference.com (10% off using code "choosefi") Amy (FI Freedom Retreat): fifreedomretreats.com Timestamps: 1:04 – Knowing Versus Doing/The Benefit of Events 8:32 – What Can Be Achieved Through Community 14:02 – Being Vulnerable/The Effect of Multiple Days 22:33 – The Evolution of FI Events 31:23  – Structuring FI Events/The Energy in the Room 43:00 – Attendees Finding Value 51:10 – Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Stacking Benjamins Find Your Local ChooseFI Group Join ChooseFI’s Facebook Group Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: finding a sustainable path to FI, adjusting your lifestyle, guac levels, mindset, and finding what you want.

Jamila Souffrant makes her long awaited return to the podcast to discuss building a sustainable path to FI, the importance of readjusting, financial freedom versus financial independence, as well as other topics detailed in her new book "Your Journey to Financial Freedom: A Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving Wealth and Happiness." While you may begin your FI journey with a set plan in mind, that doesn’t mean the actions you take along the trail of your journey won't serve you at different stages. On this journey, you should never feel like you are depriving or overindulging, but rather finding a balance that works for you and brings you happiness in the present. Remember, reaching your FI goal should never be at the cost of your happiness, and while making necessary changes is part of FI, you shouldn’t be sacrificing your happiness in order to reach your goal quicker.  Being mindful and willing to change your plans just as life can change will not only bring you more freedom, but allow you to make the necessary mindset changes that will serve you in ways well beyond your financial journey! 

Jamila Souffrant:

Jamila's New Book: "Your Journey to Financial Freedom: A Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving Wealth and Happiness" Podcast: Journey to Launch Website: journeytolaunch.com Socials: @journeytolaunch

Timestamps:

0:49 - Introduction/Update From Jamila 5:02 - Finding Your Sustainable Path to FI 11:55 - The Perks of Pursuing FI/Adjusting Your Lifestyle Levels 17:17 - Diagnosing Your True Area of Need 22:39 - Gaining Stability/Having Power From Your Money 27:23 - The Importance of Mindset/Believing it's Possible 31:10 - Finding What You Want 38:59 - Setting Financial Goals 41:18 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Jamila Souffrant | Fail Forward | Journey to Launch | ChooseFI Ep. 73 "The Tail End" by Tim Urban Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)

In this episode: lessons from failure, curiosity, mastering the small things, skilling up, and the value of time.

The return of Johnathan! Yes Jonathan is returning to the show to catch up on the work he’s been doing behind the scenes over the last year and a half, the value of freeing up your time, skill spending, and the importance of focusing on the little things while keeping the bigger picture in mind. Whether it’s when you’re just starting your FI journey or if it’s in other areas of your life, failure and mistakes can be inevitable. However, they should never keep you from trying to build and create the life you are working towards! One of the key lessons taught in FI is to change your mindset from one of scarcity to one of growth, and part of that challenge means identifying failures and taking action to learn from them. While you are working towards your own “big picture” on this journey, don’t forget to focus on the smaller things. Not only will it allow you to pay closer attention to what you are doing right and wrong, but it makes it easier for you to pivot and reevaluate when necessary! This journey is not just about reaching that final goal, but about using the knowledge and lessons learned along the way to make life a little bit freer and a little bit easier!

Timestamps:

0:22 - Introduction 1:26 - Update From Jonathan/Lessons From Failure 8:53 - The Curious Mindset 17:57 - Failing Forward and The Small Things 27:42 - The Importance of Skilling Up in Today's World 36:30 - Your Most Valuable Non-Renewable Resource 44:11 - Paying Off The Mortgage/Donor Advised Funds 59:19 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Beginning of a New Era | ChooseFI Ep 392 “Art & Fear: Observations On The Perils (and Rewards) of Artmaking” by David Bayles Creating Your Entrepreneurial Flywheel | Nathan Barry | ChooseFI Ep 455 CIT Bank Review: High Interest Rate Options Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Earn $1,050 or more with these 3 Cash Back Cards Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Find a new side hustle with one of our Educational Courses Commission-free investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the make whole mindset, budgeting, grace and space, automation, and splitting it before you get it.

This week we are re-joined by Tiffany Aliche better known as "The Budgetnista” to discuss her new book "Made Whole: The Practical Guide to Reaching Your Financial Goals" which details her 10 step system towards financial wholeness, the ease of automating payments, the importance of accountability partners, as well as designing separate accounts to reflect your needs. It can be intimidating to begin addressing your finances and planning your financial future, but your past mistakes or lack of knowledge should never be the thing holding you back from beginning your FI journey. Building a financial foundation for yourself doesn’t happen overnight. Everyday it requires you to make the necessary changes and instill new habits that get you closer and closer to your goals. And while personal finance is personal, there is no reason to go through it alone. No matter your background or what stage of life you begin FI, there is a large community of people on this journey that will embrace and celebrate the smaller milestones just as much as the bigger ones!

Tiffany "The Budgetnista" Aliche:

Website: thebudgetnista.com Get You Copy of Tiffany's New Book Coming Out on November 21st 2023: "Made Whole: The Practical Guide to Reaching Your Financial Goals" Tiffany's Last Book: "Get Good with Money: Ten Simple Steps to Becoming Financially Whole"

Timestamps:

1:00 - Introduction 2:06 - The Make Whole Mindset 8:19 - Automation 18:34 - Grace and Space For Learning 28:29 - Split It Before You Get It 37:43 - Splitting Your Saving Accounts 44:41 - Emergency Savings/Personal Finance is Personal 54:28 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Get Good With Money | Tiffany Aliche the Budgetnista | ChooseFI Ep 310 From Financial Imperfection to America’s Favorite Budget Expert | Tiffany Aliche | ChooseFI Ep 240 The Great Man Within The Emergency Fund…Is it a Bad Idea? | Big ERN The Reveal | ChooseFI Ep. 66 CIT Bank Review: High Interest Rate Options Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Earn $1,050 or more with these 3 Cash Back Cards Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Find a new side hustle with one of our Educational Courses Commission-free investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: frugality, value based spending, honoring your season, identity, budgets, financial goals, and minimalism.

When you think of the word frugal what comes to mind? To some it can mean spending on what you absolutely need and leaving little wiggle room for anything else, but to others frugality is not just a restrictive budget but a superpower! This week we are joined by Jen and Jill of the Frugal Friends podcast to discuss the intersectionality of frugality and the FI journey, as well as finding the balance between budgeting to invest in the future you want without depriving yourself in the present. Mindfulness and paying attention to the things you spend money on is an important part of the FI journey, but it is just as important to be mindful of the things that bring value and joy into your life. While budgeting and reducing your spending can help you reach the FI finish line a bit quicker, it should never be at the expense of cutting out the things in your life that are fulfilling! Implementing frugal habits and finding a budget that works and changes with your life can be an incredible tool while on the path to FI, because not only does it open up opportunities to invest monetarily, but also invest in yourself and the life you want to live! 

Frugal Friends:

Website: www.frugalfriendspodcast.com Podcast: The Frugal Friends Podcast Newsletter: The Friend Letter

Timestamps:

1:11 - Introduction 3:24 - Balancing Frugality 12:38 - Frugality, FI, and How They Fit Together 17:21 - Budgeting and Value Based Spending 26:43 - Honoring Your Season 29:22 - Financial Goals and Identity 36:50 - Examining Budgets and Sinking Funds 42:53 - The Intersection of Frugality and Minimalism 49:37 - Prioritizing Value Based Spending 53:44 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Why Everyone Needs Dave Ramsey and Why You Should Ignore Him | ChooseFI Ep. 5 Leave Us A Review Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Earn $1,050 or more with these 3 Cash Back Cards Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Find a new side hustle with one of our Educational Courses Commission-free investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the power of pursuit, FU money, index investing, investing the difference, and the simple path to wealth.

This week we are joined by the godfather of the FI movement himself JL Collins to discuss the themes of his new book "Pathfinders: Extraordinary Stories of People Like You on the Quest for Financial Independence―And How to Join Them." While there is no perfect blueprint to mastering your money, there can be confidence and motivation to be found in the stories of others who have been in your position regardless of what part of the path to FI you are on! Though this journey requires you to have to take action and make necessary financial changes, it is never about complexity and deprivation. But rather, this journey is about recognizing the freedoms gained while pursuing FI, not just when you reach your FI goal! The moment you begin to simplify your path to wealth, you will find yourself becoming a stronger and happier individual!

JL Collins:

Check Out JL's New Book "Pathfinders: Extraordinary Stories of People Like You on the Quest for Financial Independence―And How to Join Them" Website: jlcollinsnh.com Other Book: "The Simple Path to Wealth: Your road map to financial independence and a rich, free life"

Timestamps:

1:25 - Introduction 4:27 - The Power Of Pursuit And FI 13:48 - Buying Your Freedom 22:34 - There's No Secret To Money 30:35 - The Power Of Index Investing 43:29 - Spend Less, Avoid Debt, And Invest The Difference 51:27 - Following The Simple Path To Wealth 56:26 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

"Quit Like a Millionaire: No Gimmicks, Luck, or Trust Fund Required" by Kristy Shen and Bryce Leung 10 Reasons People Invest in Hedge Funds A Wealth Of Common Sense 32 Things to Know about Following The Simple Path to Wealth Time Machine and the Future Returns for Stocks Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and FI Resources:

Earn $1,050 or more with these 3 Cash Back Cards Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Find a new side hustle with one of our Educational Courses Commission-free investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: community, building fun into your life, college planning, fear, following threads, and travel rewards.

This week we are rejoined by Ginger for another installment of the Round-Up, where we catch up and discuss our favorite takeaways from this past month’s episodes. From learning how to best prepare your child for the college application process, to the importance of introspection to pinpoint and work with your fears, and finally to re-framing your fearing relationship with money. It’s been a great month with content full of information that all listeners can relate to, no matter what part of the FI journey they are in!

Timestamps:

0:37 - Introduction 3:23 - Community 12:45 - Building Fun Into Your Life 17:51 - Usage Of Travel Rewards 29:51 - College Planning 37:18 - Following the Threads, Fear, And Money 49:32 - Retirement Investing/The Mailbag 57:00 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

FI is Fun FinCon The Great Man Within EconoME Conference (Coupon Code "choosefi" for 10% Off!) CampFI FI Freedom Retreats Find Your Local ChooseFI Group "The Inheritance Games" By Jennifer Lynn Barnes "The Blade Itself" by Joe Abercrombie Mailbag: Cover Your Expenses | Rachael Camp | ChooseFI Ep 457 Preparing for the Cost of College | Brian Eufinger | ChooseFI Ep 460 A Healthy State of Panic | Farnoosh Torabi | ChooseFI Ep 458 Follow the Thread | Cory Muscara | ChooseFI Ep 459 Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and FI Resources:

Earn $1,050 or More With These 3 Cash Back Cards Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Find a new side hustle with one of our Educational Courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: financial aid, college planning, standardized tests, tests optional, need meeting, and preparation.

This week we are re-joined by Brian Eufinger to discuss ways to best prepare your children for college admissions, navigating the new changes to FAFSA and the CSS profile, and how you can maximize when prepping for your child’s higher education. While college prep can be stressful for students, from maintaining their GPA to taking multiple standardized tests, it can be just as stressful for parents to figure out financial aid and how to best set up their child for success before and after graduation. However, knowing the factors to consider early on and having the knowledge in advance can make this process far less daunting! While stressful as it may be, remember that there are many different resources available to you and your child that give you the knowledge that may alleviate the pressures that come with college prep and financial aid! 

Brian Eufinger:

Free diagnostic mock SAT and ACT tests (each weekend): www.edisonprep.com/mocks/ Free information sessions on college admissions (6-7x / year, including one on 11/14 @ 7pm EST): www.edisonprep.com/infosession/ How to self-prep for the SAT/ACT: www.gettestbright.com/self-prep-for-the-sat-act/ Edison Prep Bios: www.edisonprep.com/bio/

Timestamps:

1:06 - Introduction 4:53 - The Impact of Merit Aid 11:49 - When, Where, and How to Think About Standardized Tests 18:33 - The Intersection of The School, Price, Opportunity, and Comfort 25:20 - Standardized Tests and The Reality of Preparation 31:08 - Tests (Not) Optional 37:32 - Governmental Forms and Financial Aid 46:43 - The Variance of Need Meeting and Aid Changes 51:13 - Preparation and Knowledge With College Planning 55:23 - Non-Academic Path to Savings 58:14 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Demystify College Scholarships | Brian Eufinger | Edison Prep | ChooseFI Ep 114 Hacking The FAFSA | Brian Eufinger And Seonwoo Lee | ChooseFI Ep. 154 Major Financial Aid Changes Coming: What Families Need to Know FAFSA Changes Are Coming: What You Need To Know Big J’s Very Brief Guide to the FAFSA and CSS Profile How the FAFSA Simplification Can Impact Your Financial Aid Summary of Changes to the 2024-2025 FAFSA The $100K Glorified Sleepaway Camp | Millionaire Educator | ChooseFI Ep 386 Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and FI Resources:

Earn $1,050 or More With These 3 Cash Back Cards Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Find a new side hustle with one of our Educational Courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: spiritual bypassing, curiosity, fear, wellbeing, inflection points, and what the body stores.

This we are re-joined by Cory Muscara to discuss the benefits of practicing mindfulness while embarking on the FI journey, the concept of spiritual bypassing, and the positive benefits that come from being present. An important part of the FI journey is learning to take actionable steps to better your life, and a large part of this requires introspection and honest reflection of where you are in your life. Through the practice of meditation and setting intentions, it may allow you to recognize patterns that harm you or keep you from enjoying life in the present. While working through triggers or anxieties can be uncomfortable, mindful practices can be the vehicle to move you from discomfort to a place of control and confidence in your life. So while you may be putting all your mental energy into reaching your FI goal, remember that getting to the finish line is not what this journey is about, but rather the positive effects and changes that come from taking control of your life and being present! 

Cory Muscara:

To join Cory's daily text list text "choosefi" to 631-305-2874 Website: Practicing Human Book: "Stop Missing Your Life: How to be Deeply Present in an Un-Present World" Instagram: @corymuscara

Timestamps:

1:56 - Introduction 2:34 - The Cost of Relocation 6:28 - The Danger Of Spiritual Bypassing Through FI 16:52 - Curiosity and Fear 27:22 - What The Body Stores 33:18 - Money and Well-being/Inflection Points 40:46 - Taking Control and Following The Thread 48:12 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Mindfulness And FI | Cory Muscara | ChooseFI Ep 61 "Influence, New and Expanded: The Psychology of Persuasion" By Robert Cialdini Headspace "The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma" by Bessel van der Kolk MD Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and FI Resources:

Earn $1,050 or More With These 3 Cash Back Cards Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Find a new side hustle with one of our Educational Courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: fear, anxiety, FOMO, talking about money, endings, self development, exposure, and the fear of loneliness.

This week we are joined by Farnoosh Tarabi where we will be discussing the topic of fear and anxiety, reinterpreting FOMO, and how to recognize and use your fears and anxieties to work with you in order to reach your financial goals. While we can sometimes interpret our own fear as a weakness, many times these fears and anxieties can be a secret weapon, ones that motivate us and usher in necessary change that can make a difference in the path that we are on. In some cases, it can be a fear of missing out on opportunities. Other times it can be a fear of endings. But no matter the fears, learning to recognize the underlying feelings and meanings can ultimately help you on the path to FI! Remember, an important part of this journey requires introspection, and while it may be uncomfortable to sit with your fears and anxieties, working with them, rather than against them may just be the superpower you didn’t know you had. 

Farnoosh Torabi:

Check out Farnoosh's new book "A Healthy State of Panic! Follow Your Fears to Build Wealth, Crush Your Career, and Win at Life"

Timestamps:

2:12 - Introduction 3:24 - The Other Side of Anxiety's Coin 8:23 - Fear and Finance/Talking About Money 16:41 - The Fear of Rejection 25:22 - The Fear of Missing Out/The Fear of Loneliness 39:33 - The Fear of Exposure 45:29 - The Fear of Endings 50:03 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

So Money Podcast "The Anatomy of Anxiety: Understanding and Overcoming the Body's Fear Response" by Ellen Vora "When She Makes More" by Farnoosh Torabi Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and FI Resources:

Earn $1,050 or More With These 3 Cash Back Cards Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Find a new side hustle with one of our Educational Courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the 4% rule, second generation FI, retirement saving, 529's, 401k's, and is it too late for FI?

This week we joined by Rachael Camp of Camp Wealth for another installment of Mail Bag, where we will be answering some questions sent in by our listeners. Together, we cover topics surrounding the 4 percent rule, starting the FI journey “late”, the importance of tax diversity in your retirement accounts, and the potential benefits and drawbacks to 529 plans. On the path to FI, the community this journey brings can be the best resource, and answering any questions you may have is our way to ensure you’re well on your way to FI, as well as help others in the community who may be navigating similar scenarios!

Rachael Camp:

Website: rachaelcampwealth.com Twitter: @camp_wealth

Please note:

Rachael Camp offers advisory Services through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600. Camp Wealth is not affiliated with the CFD companies.

Timestamps:

1:09 - Introduction 3:22 - Can It Be Too Late For FI?/Credit Card Debt 18:25 - The 4% Rule And Early Retirement 27:02 - Withdrawing Earnings 40:06 - Not Maxing Out Your 401k? 50:03 - 529's and Financial Aid 57:04 - Second Generation FI 72:10 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Subscribe to The FI Weekly! The Safe Withdrawal Rate Series "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" By Bill Perkins FICalc How and Why to Set up a Roth IRA Conversion Ladder

More Helpful Links and FI Resources:

Earn $1,050 or More With These 3 Cash Back Cards Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Find a new side hustle with one of our Educational Courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the importance of starting, everything is negotiable, talentstacking, building your flywheel, and Ginger!

As September comes to a close, it’s once again time for another Roundup episode! This week we are rejoined by Ginger, where we will be revisiting the topics of our September episodes and discussing our favorite takeaways and the talking points that stood out to us. From the importance of perseverance on your path to FI and embracing the community this journey brings, and negotiating salary with confidence, to finally skill stacking and the teaching opportunities it may bring for you and others! So lets look back on what FI can look like from the different points of view of our past month’s guests, and move into October better informed and better prepared! 

Timestamps:

0:35 - Introduction 2:02 - Taxes And After-Tax Brokerage Accounts 9:55 - The Importance Of Starting/Community 19:52 - Decision Making Strategy/Focusing On The Future 23:53 - Everything Is Negotiable/Being Prepared And Doing the Work 31:31 - Talentstacking And Building Your Flywheel 36:14 - What Your Money Can Do For You 41:55 - Reviews And Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

FI is Fun From Food Stamps to FI | Theresa | ChooseFI Ep 453 Find Your Local ChooseFI Group CampFI EconoME Conference "Widen the Window: Training Your Brain and Body to Thrive During Stress and Recover from Trauma" by Elizabeth A. Stanley Salary Negotiation & Early Retirement | Financial Mechanic | ChooseFI Ep 454 Creating Your Entrepreneurial Flywheel | Nathan Barry | Ep 455 Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and FI Resources:

Earn $1,050 or More With These 3 Cash Back Cards Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Find a new side hustle with one of our Educational Courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: it's not easy it's simple, the flywheel, being consistent, skilling up, the gift of time, and what money can provide.

This week we are joined by founder and creator of ConvertKit, Nathan Barry to discuss his entrepreneurial journey and how the fundamentals of FI helped drive him to create and build a successful business. We often discuss the importance of skill stacking when on the journey to FI, but we sometimes forget to touch on the trial and error that comes with learning and creating something new for yourself. While you can’t expect to start something new and be faced with little to no challenges, this leaves more opportunities for personal growth and important lessons! So whether it’s learning a new side hustle or starting a business, it’s important to remember that you may not always know how to do something perfect when you begin. You should not count yourself out or give up when you don’t see instant results, but rather reach out to new communities and take the lessons in stride! Though it takes time and effort, it’s worth it!

Nathan Barry:

Website/Newsletter: nathanbarry.com Twitter: @nathanbarry Business: convertkit.com

Timestamps:

1:23 - Introduction 3:24 - Nathan and FI 15:56 - Not Burning the Boats 22:26 - It's Not Easy, But it's Simple/Unique Messengers 33:00 - Being Consistent, Showing Up, and Skilling Up 44:22 - The Flywheel 58:01 - What Money Can Provide/The Gift of Time 70:16 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Mr. Money Mustache Physician on FIRE "The $100 Startup: Reinvent the Way You Make a Living, Do What You Love, and Create a New Future" By Chris Guillebeau "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill Perkins The Tail End School of Greatness Podcast Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and FI Resources:

Earn $1,050 or More With These 3 Cash Back Cards Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Find a new side hustle with one of our Educational Courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: salary negotiation, knowing your worth, doing your own research, anchoring, and facing job offers.

We often talk about the importance of shifting out of a scarcity mindset towards an abundant one, and this can mean leaving a job for a new one, or even asking for a higher wage. But how do you overcome the guilty feelings that can arise when wanting to level up? This week we are re-joined by the Financial Mechanic to discuss the art and steps to successful salary negotiating, from doing your research to collaboratively working with hiring managers, and learning to handle the discomfort and self doubt that can come when asking for more. While negotiating can make you feel uncomfortable or even intimidated, it’s important to remind yourself that asking for what you want does not mean you are begging. Rather, it means you know your worth and are advocating for yourself and your future! Though it takes practice, learning how to confidently negotiate can make a difference in your present but make all the difference in your future and your FI goals! 

Financial Mechanic:

Website: financialmechanic.com Twitter: @fimechanic

Timestamps:

1:05 - Introduction 5:21 - The Win-Win of Salary Negotiation 14:40 - Delay Talking About Salary 18:42 - Doing Your Research 25:33 - Knowing Your Worth 29:21 - The Negotiation 36:44 - Negotiation is About More Than Salary 41:10 - Accepting, Rejecting, and Making Your Decision 44:49 - Updates From The Financial Mechanic 53:25 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

How to Negotiate Your Salary Without Burning Bridges | Financial Mechanic | Ep 211 Glassdoor 1 Year of Early Retirement (With Numbers) Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and FI Resources:

Earn $1,050 or More With These 3 Cash Back Cards Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Find a new side hustle with one of our Educational Courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the importance of community, finding financial literacy, pulling the levers of FI, and the hot seat.

We’ve heard incredible stories of FI from many of our listeners, but this week we are lucky to hear from someone who overcame so much in order to achieve the life she always wanted. This week we are joined by one of our listeners Teresa, where we discuss her incredible story of navigating and overcoming debt as a single mother to building a strong foundation of financial literacy and knowledge for herself and her daughters! Some of us on the path to FI may not have grown up surrounded by great financial models, and maybe some of our listeners may feel overwhelmed with the new tips and knowledge that FI brings, but please remember that feeling unprepared is no reason to count yourself out on this journey! Your past failures or mistakes shouldn’t hold you back from building the life you want and the life you deserve, but rather they should motivate you to learn and grow into the best future version of yourself!

Timestamps:

1:06 - Introduction 2:52 - Theresa's Story 9:02 - Awakening 16:31 - Finding Financial Literacy and What Came With It 22:22 - The Importance of Community 31:36 - You've Recovered Financially, Now What? 39:43 - Pulling The Levers of FI 49:02 - The Opportunity FI Provides 55:37 - Theresa Takes The Hot Seat 64:41 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Dave Ramsey Coach Carson "Everyday Cheapskate's Greatest Tips" By Mary Hunt "Retire Inspired: It's Not an Age, It's a Financial Number" By Chris Hogan Financial Peace Graduates | What Next? | Andy Hill | ChooseFI Ep 68 Welcome To The FI Community | ChooseFI Ep. 100 "The Simple Path to Wealth: Your road map to financial independence and a rich, free life" By J.L. Collins Grumpus Maximus Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and FI Resources:

Earn $1,050 or More With These 3 Cash Back Cards Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Find a new side hustle with one of our Educational Courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: spending for value, mastering your finances, what nourishes you, limiting beliefs, and getting the best out of yourself.

The end of August is rapidly approaching which means it is time for another round-up episode. To close out the month this time we are joined by Katie Gatti from "Money with Katie" to discuss all the lessons we picked up from the last month of ChooseFI! Whether it's planning a mini-retirement, designing what your want your life to look like, or forming your identity statements, our wonderful August guests have provided some amazing blueprints for you to start becoming the best version of yourself. So now that the summer is ending, it seems like a great time to take action on what we have learned together!

Katie Gatti:

Website: moneywithkatie.com Podcast: The Money With Katie Show

Timestamps:

1:11 - Introduction 4:34 - Spending For What You Value 9:59 - Getting The Best Out Of Yourself 14:26 - Claiming The Life You Want 24:59 - Mastering Your Financials First 33:20 - Limiting Beliefs 44:48 - It's Not Too Late To Start/What Nourishes You? 50:42 - Identity Statements 54:38 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Why Decluttering Can Lead to Increased Brain Power "Goodbye, Things: The New Japanese Minimalism" by Fumio Sasaki Rubber Ducks and Systems for Land Investing | ChooseFI Ep 449 Mini-Retirements to Accelerate Your Path to FI | Jillian Johnsrud | ChooseFI Ep 451 Catching up to FI | Becky Heptig & Bill Yount | Ep 450 "Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals" by Oliver Burkeman "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill Perkins Miss Excel Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: mini-retirements, building fun into your life, structuring and planning mini-retirements, negotiating, and gaining momentum.

When pursuing your FI goal, it can feel like you are on a set trajectory, and picking up new habits or hobbies can seem overwhelming because you don’t have the time to focus on them. However, you should never feel held back from starting something new! This week we are joined by Jillian Johnsrud to define and discuss the mini-retirement strategy, and how taking a break to recover, relax, and re-strategize can propel you towards your FI goals! Sometimes the thought of taking a break can seem scary, or even the thought of relaxing can be more stressful than it's meant to be. But, taking the time and space away from your usual structure can allow you the space and bandwidth to pursue other avenues that you are passionate about! While the thought of a mini-retirement can leave you feeling unstructured from your usual 9-5, it can usher in more time for hobbies, side hustles, or even new jobs! So, while your journey to FI may be filled with rules and guidelines set in place to help you reach your FI goal, remember that there is no harm in taking an active rest in order to restructure your goals and re-motivate you! 

Jillian Johnsrud:

Website: jillianjohnsrud.com Podcast: Everyday Courage Book: "Fire the Haters: Finding Courage to Create Online in a Critical World"

Timestamps:

0:59 - Introduction 3:34 - Building Fun Into Your Life 12:25 - The Purpose of Mini-Retirements 19:35 - Structuring A Mini Retirement And Avoiding Mistakes 28:25 - Gaining Momentum In A Mini-Retirement 37:17 - Mini-Retirement Negotiation 45:55 - Planning A Mini-Retirement 50:42 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

"Influence : The Psychology of Persuasion" by Robert Cialdini Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: changing your mindset, starting FI at 50, the pros and cons of starting late, and facing your faults.

We always say on this show that FI is for everyone, but our guests Becky Heptig and Bill Yount really embody this message. As hosts of the "Catching Up to FI" podcast, Becky and Bill are a fantastic resource for those who have found FI later in life and still would like to give it a go despite the delayed start! While FI looks different for everyone and can be influenced by when you start, we agree with Bill and Becky in saying becoming intentional with your finances is always a positive decision, no matter when you do it in life. Although your path may look different from those who started earlier, you would still be taking steps to better your life inside and around your finances. Perfection isn't the goal, improvement is what we strive for, and a positive step is still a step in the right direction!

Becky Heptig & Bill Yount:

Website: catchinguptofi.com Podcast: Catching Up to FI Facebook: Catching Up to FI Facebook Group

Timestamps:

1:10 - Introduction 4:29 - Changing Your Mindset and Facing Your Faults 14:32 - Taking Late Action 21:34 - Getting Stuck and Overcoming It 24:28 - Starting FI at 50 33:25 - Is It Ever Too Late To Start FI? 40:00 - The Pros and Cons of Starting Late 44:45 - The Growth of Those Catching Up to FI 48:22 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Is It Too Late? | Becky Heptig | ChooseFI Ep. 152 The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early Retirement Mailbag: Breaking up with your Advisor, I Bonds, 4% Rule, Accounts for Kids, Roth IRAs | Sean Mullaney | ChooseFI Ep 447 Dave Ramsey JL Collins Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: determining your FI goals, real estate investing, land investing, liquidity, and proof of concept.

Whether you are new to FI or have achieved it, you have probably noticed a big change not only in how you live your life, but how you perceive yourself. You may be more intentional and strive to make changes in all areas of your life, not just financial ones. This week we are joined by our friend JT Olmstead to discuss the ins and outs of land investing, as well as talk about the importance of  having the right mentality to accomplish your goals and become the best version of yourself. While on the journey to FI, you may feel momentum and motivation to keep pushing towards your FI number, but oftentimes the journey doesn’t end when you get to the finish line. A large part of this journey is learning from failures, changing your goals, and changing your plans as you change!  Though your plans and goals may not always be accomplished the way you think, having the right mindset throughout this journey will be just as beneficial to you as having plans in place. 

Timestamps:

0:56 - Introduction 5:20 - Determining Your FI Goals 11:34 - The Top End of Your Capabilities/The Skill Of Saying No 22:01 - Real Estate Investing 27:43 - Transitioning to Land Investing 32:16 - The Intersection of FI and Real Estate Investing 42:12 - Personal Proof of Concept/Land Investing 48:17 - Liquidity/Structuring Buying and Selling Systems 59:52 - Resources For Land Investing/Where to Start 62:59 - The Hot Seat 72:12 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Camp FI Mr. Money Mustache Small and Mighty Real Estate Investor | Chad Carson | ChooseFI Ep 446 Biggerpockets FIRE Drill Podcast Seth Williams RE Tipster Annie Duke Casual Fridays Podcast "The Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort To Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self" by Michael Easter Join ChooseFI's Facebook Group! Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

As this month comes to a close, we think it’s only fitting to reflect on what July’s incredible guests have had to say, and what new knowledge and perspectives they’ve brought to the table. This week we are back with Ginger and introducing a more structured Round-Up, where we will be revisiting topics from this past month's episodes and discussing our favorite moments and takeaways. While the subjects of this month's episodes have varied from spending for happiness to understanding Roth conversions, there is still more to learn and unpack before moving onto August! 

Timestamps:

1:44 - Introduction 2:17 - Listener Updates/Travel Rewards 7:08 - Spending for Happiness 18:35 - Saving Addiction 22:01 - The Fundamental Truths of Investing 31:12 - The Small and Mighty Real Estate Investor 41:11 - Roth Conversions/Breaking Up with Your Financial Advisor 49:50 - Purposefully Not Optimizing 55:58 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

The Invisible Nature of Spending | Ginger Roundup | ChooseFI Ep 443 ChooseFI’s Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Cards Spending for Happiness | Carl Jensen & Doug Cunnington | ChooseFI Ep 444 Cometeer Fundamental Truths of Investing | Brian Feroldi | ChooseFI Ep 445 Small and Mighty Real Estate Investor | Chad Carson | ChooseFI Ep 446 Nick Magguilli Return on Hassle Mailbag: Breaking up with your Advisor, I Bonds, 4% Rule, Accounts for Kids, Roth IRAs | Sean Mullaney | Ep 447 FI is Fun

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: financial advisor breakups, I bonds, the 4% rule, second generation FI, Roth IRAs, and the listener mailbag.

Breakups are hard, but breaking up with financial advisor can be harder given the minutia that is often involved in doing so. It's good to have friends to lean on in times like this, which is exactly why we have the FI Tax Guy himself Sean Mullaney with us to help! Listen along as he and Brad dip back into the listener mailbag this week and discuss a plethora of topics submitted by YOU the listener!

Sean Mullaney:

Website: fitaxguy.com Sean's Roth IRA Blog Post: How I Learned To Stop Worrying About The Roth IRA 5 Year Rules

Timestamps:

0:43 - Introduction/Breaking Up With Your Financial Advisor 15:13 - The Taxable Nature of Financial Breakups 22:11 - I Bonds 29:12 - The 4% Rule and Age 35:40 - Second Generation FI and Accounts 43:48 - Early Roth IRA Conversions 48:18 - Roth IRA's and 5 Year Rules 57:24 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Early Retirement Now BiggerPockets Money Podcast Join ChooseFI's Facebook Group Make Your Kid a Millionaire: Roth IRA for Kids The Wealth Letters Jillian Johnsrud The Roth IRA Conversion Ladder | A Case Study | ChooseFI Ep. 17r Roth IRA Conversion Ladder Case Study | ChooseFI Ep. 163r Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: designing your life, real estate investing, pain points, working backward, and finding your sweet spot.

This week we are rejoined by friend of the podcast Chad Carson to discuss his new book "The Small and Mighty Real Estate Investor: How to Reach Financial Freedom with Fewer Rental Properties," as well as cover some strategies he’s picked up during his real estate investing journey. While investing in real estate can be a full time job, for many listeners it can also be seen as a way to generate additional income. Although getting started can seem a little daunting, Chad offers excellent insights on how to confidently begin real estate investing and stay motivated towards having your investments align with your personal goals and desired life!

Chad Carson:

Get 10% off Chad's book coming out on July 20th, "The Small and Mighty Real Estate Investor: How to Reach Financial Freedom with Fewer Rental Properties," with the promo-code "choosefi"

Timestamps:

1:02 - Introduction 4:34 - Designing Your Life 14:36 - Walkability and Location 23:39 - Buying Around Pain Points 28:08 - Working Backwards for Solutions 34:55 - Transition From Buying to Paying Off 43:52 - Working In Your Sweet Spot 52:02 - What You Can't Outsource 57:10 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

"The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich" By Timothy Ferriss Strong Towns Of Dollars and Data "Your Money or Your Life: 9 Steps to Transforming Your Relationship with Money and Achieving Financial Independence" by Vicki Robin, Joe Dominguez, and Mr. Money Moustache Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

 

In this episode: investing, losing money hurts, pessimism, optimism, index funds, psychology, history, and building wealth.

Whether you're a confident investor or weary of playing the market, there is still a lot to be learned when it comes to your investments. This week we are re-joined by friend of the podcast Brian Feroldi to discuss important truths and takeaways he’s learned as a decades-long investor, from navigating the psychology and history of the market, to focusing on longevity and simplicity rather than getting rich quick. When listening to this episode, remember that playing the market doesn’t have to be a complicated game, and no one should feel un-equipped to invest! Just be sure to understand that investing will never be a perfect journey, and preparing yourself for low points may help you make better decisions in the long run!

Brian Feroldi:

Website: brianferoldi.com Twitter: @brianferoldi Book: “Why Does The Stock Market Go Up?: Everything You Should Have Been Taught About Investing In School, But Weren’t” By Brian Feroldi

Timestamps:

0:41 - Introduction 4:27 - You Will Be Wrong 9:45 - Losing Money HURTS 12:54 - Humans Are Naturally Bad Investors 16:09 - Pessimism And Optimism 20:22 - The Power Of Index Funds 22:31 - The Power Of History And Psychology 24:45 - Avoiding Ruin Is A Skill 28:56 - Keeping It Simple 35:24 - To Build Wealth, You Need To Invest 37:50 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

"Poor Charlie’s Almanack: The Essential Wit and Wisdom of Charles T. Munger" by Charles T. Munger "The Psychology of Money: Timeless lessons on wealth, greed, and happiness" by Morgan Housel "Expectations Investing: Reading Stock Prices for Better Returns" by Michael J. Mauboussin Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the phases of FI, your spending framework, dying with zero, changing your anchor points, and the value of time.

This podcast offers insight to what the path to FI can look like for listeners, and while we usually speak broadly to our listeners who are all at different stages of FI, it’s important to look back, as well as look forward to see how this journey has changed for us. This week we are joined by Carl Jensen and Doug Cunnington of Mile High FI to talk about the evolution of the FI movement from when we all began this journey, as well as reflect and discuss the trends and important takeaways of where we see the FI movement going. While finding your own balance is important in all parts of life, finding balance while on the FI journey is just as important! Learning to become intentional with your spending is also important. It can be extremely beneficial to your life to learn healthier ways to spend rather than deprive yourself of some of the most important items or experiences that bring you joy! So remember, whether you are at the beginning or well on your way towards reaching your FI goal, you will evolve with FI over time and application, just as FI will evolve around you! 

Mile High FI:

Website: milehighfi.com Podcast: Mile High FI Newsletter: Join The Mile High FI Club

Timestamps:

1:25 – Introduction 4:41 – The Phases of FI 11:18 – Building Your Life-Spending Framework 18:31 – What’s Worth Spending On 26:16 – Re-Evaluating Anchor Points 33:43 – The Value of Saving Time 42:22 – Dying With Zero 51:02 – Why Wait For Death To Help Your Loved Ones Fiscally? 56:32 – Buying A Concert 59:30 – Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

The Skill of Spending | Mr. Money Mustache | ChooseFI Ep 432 The Tim Ferris Show Episode 661 The Mad Fientist “Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life” by Bill Perkins The Tail End “Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity” by Dr. Peter Attia Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI’s 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: travel rewards, credit cards, the true cost of buying a car, health, retirement, and community wins.

This week we are re-joined by Ginger for another Round-Up episode where we will briefly discuss travel rewards, updates on Ginger’s credit card journey, the value of implementing new habits, and also dip into the listener mailbag! Over the course of this podcast we often discuss the importance of taking action and making changes in your life to not only achieve FI but also improve your life overall. While we know changes don’t happen overnight, (just as no one can reach their FI goal overnight) it’s important to remember that sometimes the best thing you can do is take action little by little. Sometimes this means budgeting, and other times it can mean breaking free from an unhealthy frugal mindset in order improve your quality of life! Whatever the changes you wish to make or habits you want to create are, remember it's never too late to begin! 

Timestamps:

0:10 - Introduction 0:29 - Travel Rewards 6:52 - Global Entry/Credit Cards 16:30 - The True Cost Of Buying A Car 25:49 - Health, Fitness, and Habits 39:44 - Pensions and Retirement Numbers 48:22 - Community Wins 54:34 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Dollars and Sense | Clint Murphy & Ginger | ChooseFI Ep 438  “Dollars and Sense: How We Misthink Money and How to Spend Smarter” By Jeff Kreisler and Dan Ariely Featured Travel Rewards Articles Rewards Credit Card Offers From Our Partners Outside 365 | Greg Heil | ChooseFI Ep 433 "Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity" by Dr. Peter Attia The Valuist Returns | FI Roundup with Bo Loy | ChooseFI Ep 441 Atomic Habits | James Clear | ChooseFI Ep 157 "Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones" by James Clear The Golden Albatross | Grumpus Maximus | ChooseFI Ep 57 The Golden Albatross | Grumpus Maximus | ChooseFI Ep 227 Is Your Pension Healthy? | ChooseFI Ep 316 "The Golden Albatross: How To Determine If Your Pension Is Worth It" by Grumpus Maximus FI Is Fun Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the travelers triangle, booking early, flexibility, planning, hotels, and knowing you are getting a deal.

This week Suzy joins us for a new installment of travel rewards tips, where we will be diving deeper into how you can optimize your savings and travel points to get the most out of your travels. While the subject matter we are tackling today may be more useful to listeners who have already acquired the necessary credit cards and travel points, there is still a lot of helpful information you can use when planning your next trip! So whether that's learning to book early and play around with the sites mentioned on today's episode, or allowing flexibility to mitigate the stress of traveling, this episode is here to act as an additional resource to those learning to take advantage of what their travel points can offer.

Timestamps: 

1:24 - Introduction 6:09 - The Travelers Triangle 12:31 - Booking Ahead Of Time 23:28 - Tools For Travel Rewards 33:14 - Flexibility And Planning 45:10 - FI Booking Processes 57:57 - Taxes,Fees, And Knowing Your Getting A Deal 64:06 - Hotels 70:45 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

ChooseFI Travel Rewards CashFreely and Travel Freely Signup Links Seats.aero point.me BoundlessMiles Max Miles Instagram Max Miles Website GeoBreeze Travel Podcast Bens Big Deal Frequent Traveler University Frequent Miler On The Air Sonic Travelers Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the continuum of FI, skilling up, chasing true value, the power of connection, and second generation FI.

This week we are rejoined by friend of the podcast Bo Loy to talk about finding value on the FI journey, drowning out the "noise,"  and the importance of not depriving yourself of happiness in order to reach your FI goal. While the journey to FI does require you to make financial changes and pick up new habits that can launch you towards financial independence, the purpose of this journey is never to deprive or restrict yourself in order to reach your goal. No matter when you begin this journey, the goal in mind should be taking steps in order to improve your life both financially AND mentally. Not sacrificing the things that bring value to it! There's a lot to learn on the path to FI, but it’s important to remember that what you are working towards is more than just a number, it's personal happiness, fulfillment, and more! 

Timestamps:

0:58 - Introduction 4:37 - The Continuum of FI 11:51 - Skilling Up 15:44 - Life Updates 25:59 - Chasing True Value 34:55 - Meeting Your kids Where Their Interests Lie 41:17 - The Power of Connection 48:20 - Just Going For It 52:24 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

The Valuist | Bo Loy | ChooseFI Ep 396 Talent Stacker Dean Turner Training on Twitter "Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity" by Dr. Peter Attia The Peter Attia Drive Podcast "Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life" by Martin E.P. Seligman Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: money against mindset, fear setting, FI events, gap years, slow travel, and living intentionally.

Everyone’s relationship with money is different, just as everyones path to FI looks different, but how do you unlearn behaviors that could be holding you back? This week we are joined by Amy Minkley to discuss how finding FI changed her life while abroad, as well as the the importance of unlearning and breaking free of internalized stress when it comes to money. A large part of the FI journey is implementing new habits and the lessons you pick up along the way. However, an even larger and sometimes harder part of this journey requires you to be introspective and take an honest look at your relationship with money. While you can’t go back and change the past, the beauty of FI is that you learn to make changes to ensure the future you want! No matter what your background, the path to FI is one that benefits everyone, because it not only gives you control of your life, but allows for independence to create the future you desire. So while it may feel comfortable to approach this journey by thinking of all the ways things can go wrong, remember to think of all the ways things can go right! 

Amy Minkley:

Website: fifreedomretreats.com Mailing List: Get In Touch With Amy Here!

Timestamps:

1:01 - Introduction 4:29 - How Amy Found FI 8:47 - Money Against Mindset 16:24 - Making The Tough But Right Choices For You 22:18 - International Teaching 27:43 - Fear Setting 36:20 - Living Intentionally 42:25 - FI Events 46:56 - Gap Years And Slow Travel 52:19 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

EconoME Conference CampFI Exploring International Teaching Opportunities | Scott & Rob | ChooseFI Ep. 109 "Your Money or Your Life: 9 Steps to Transforming Your Relationship with Money and Achieving Financial Independence" by Vicki Robin, Joe Dominguez, and Mr Money Mustache The Milestones Of FI | ChooseFI Ep. 32 Camp Mustache Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: success after FI, finding purpose, owning your time, investing in health, and spiritual pursuits.

While reaching your FI number and subsequently retiring is an amazing achievement in itself, what are you supposed to do with yourself after getting there? Well, figuring that out is also a big step you are going to have to take on your FI journey. This week, we are once again joined by Chris Terrell to discuss the ways you can fill your time after achieving FI, and how to identify what gives you purpose in your post-work life. Earning back your time is only half the battle, putting that time to good use is up to you and you only!

Timestamps:

1:20 – Introduction 3:02 – Success After FI 9:01 – What Do You Want To Do In Retirement? 16:06 – Finding Purpose 22:02 – Prioritizing Important Relationships 27:46 – The Benefits Of Owning Your Time 31:28 – Investing In Your Health 41:24 – Spiritual Pursuits and Volunteer Work 47:09 – Unstructured Time, Calendar Tyranny, and Work? 56:59 – Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

FI Frugal Hobbies | Chris Terrell | ChooseFI Ep 429 The Happy Philosopher | The Happiest Man In The Room | ChooseFI Ep 49 Financial Samurai The Tail End Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI’s 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the pain of paying, anchoring, relative value, sunk costs, response to stimulus, and opportunity cost.

On this installment of the Book Club, we are joined by Clint Murphy and Ginger to discuss some of our favorite takeaways from Dan Ariely and Jeff Kreisler's "Dollars and Sense: How We Misthink Money and How to Spend Smarter," We often mention on this podcast the importance of actionable steps you must be willing to take while on the journey to FI, and this book is chalk-full of actionable tips and examples that could possibly be applied to many areas of your life, not just personal finance. While we know that personal finance is not unilateral and there are no correct steps and decisions that ensure success for everyone, we believe this book can help you better understand the decision making processes that goes into taking actionable steps on your FI journey! 

Book Club Selection:

"Dollars and Sense: How We Misthink Money and How to Spend Smarter" by Dan Ariely and Jeff Kreisler

Timestamps:

1:21 - Introduction 4:20 - Reducing The Pain Of Paying 11:42 - Anchoring 19:01 - Opportunity Cost and Saying No 25:40 - Relative Value 30:20 - Why We Don't Understand Fairness and Value 38:49 - Sunk Costs 46:31 - Overvaluing What Your Already Have 50:07 - Spreading The Gap Between Stimulus and Response 57:21 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

The Growth Guide Podcast Clint's Twitter: @IAmClintMurphy FI is Fun The Great Man Within "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill Perkins "Predictably Irrational, Revised and Expanded Edition: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions" by Dan Ariely Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

This week we are re-joined by friend of the podcast, Travis Hornsby, to discuss some critical updates and deadlines pertaining to student loan forgiveness.

While the thought of paying off student loans can feel daunting, there may actually be some ways to mitigate the stress entirely! Though this episode may not pertain to your situation specifically, we believe it can act as a resource for some you may know, or others on this journey who are looking to potentially have their loans forgiven.

Travis Hornsby:

Website: StudentLoanPlanner.com (link to discounted consult)

Timestamps:

1:14 - Introduction/Where Are We Today? 9:45 - Irreversible Decisions 11:55 - The PSLF and IDR Waiver 17:34 - $300 vs $1500 a month 23:30 - Searching and Patience, What Are The Action Steps? 31:33 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

The Student Loan Reset | The Student Loan Planner | ChooseFI Ep 391 Federal Student Aid Book a Consult with The Student Loan Planner (Discount through this link!) Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: getting comfortable investing, the vision boards, salary negotiations, and the skill of spending

Whether it's wanting to pay off your debts or get yourself set up for your future, there are many motivations for wanting to begin the path towards FI. This week we are joined by listener and fan of the podcast Rakesh to discuss how his journey to FI has been over the last 3 years, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. We often stress on the podcast the importance of bold moves and taking action as an important step to achieving FI, and Rakesh is the embodiment of just that! Everyone on this journey starts from a different place, just as everyone’s long term goals differ, but don’t allow yourself to be bogged down by the little hiccups that come with this journey. By pushing ahead and being mindful of your short and long term goals, you may find yourself stepping out of your comfort zone towards the life you want to be living! 

Timestamps:

1:15 - Introduction 4:50 - The Evolution Of The FI Journey 12:52 - Getting Comfortable Investing 22:09 - The Vision Board 30:39 - The Skill Of Spending And Future Planning 37:13 - Low Cost Of Living Areas 43:05 - Salary Negotiating And Job Transitioning 53:11 - The Impact Of Staying Put 56:06 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Finding Your Locus of Control | Stereo Live Q&A | ChooseFI Ep 305 How to Negotiate Your Salary Without Burning Bridges | Financial Mechanic | ChooseFI Ep 211 Negotiate Your Salary With Tori Dunlap | ChooseFI Ep 147 "Financial Feminist" By Tori Dunlap Community Building With Mr. Money Mustache And Mr. 1500 | ChooseFI Ep 131 JL Collins "Why Does The Stock Market Go Up?: Everything You Should Have Been Taught About Investing In School, But Weren't" by Brian Feroldi Alignment & Adjustments | Scott & Taylor Rieckens | ChooseFI Ep 403 Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

Oftentimes on our show, we talk to people on the FI journey with “regular” 9-5 jobs, and other times we talk to those who have achieved their FI goal and are able to retire from their careers. However, we rarely talk about money management and FI when it comes to those working in service industries, such as serving and bartending. This week we are joined by author Barbara Sloan to discuss taking control of your finances while in a variable income job, the importance of an emergency fund, and the attainability of retirement accounts and health insurance while in these types of industries. While it may seem unattainable to budget and financially plan for the long term when your income is non-fixed, you shouldn’t count yourself out from this journey! Creating your dream life is possible for all, with the right systems in place to ensure it, that is an option possible for those in all career types.

Barbara Sloan:

Website: tippedfinance.com Book: "Tipped: The life changing guide to financial freedom for waitresses, bartenders, strippers, and all other service industry professionals"

Timestamps:

1:03 - Introduction 2:54 - Sub Minimum Wage And Tipping 14:03 - The Importance Of Tracking 21:06 - Tips, Taxes, and Social Security 35:28 - Strategies For Health Insurance 41:18 - Lifestyle Design/The Financial System 48:44 - Emergency Funds 54:27 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

There can be points on the journey to FI where you feel that you may not be able to accomplish your goals, or even take advantage of some of the hacks we talk about on the show. But sometimes all it requires is for you not to limit yourself and just think outside the box. This week we are re-joined by friend of the podcast Ginger to discuss how the transtheoretical model of change can apply to those on the path to FI, as well as read your emails and answer some of your questions on this installment of Round-Up. Oftentimes, we forget how flexible and capable of change we really are, and its life's curveballs that make this journey different for everyone. While setbacks can put you off from pursuing your goals, or make you feel as if you don’t belong on this path, they shouldn’t deter you from attacking your goals.  When you can accept that changing and adapting does not equal failure, you not only open yourself up to new options and possibilities, but exceed your own expectations while on the path to FI!

Timestamps:

0:48 - Introduction/Economy Conference 9:43 - Travel Wins 21:23 - Ancillary Travel Rewards Benefits 26:20 - Bold Move Update And The Transtheoretical Model of Change 40:58 - Determining Your FI Number 51:22 - The FI Pre-College Approach 58:11 - Savings Account Interest Rates And Community Win 63:11 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Fees, Frugality, and 401K Fears | ChooseFI Ep 428 Find Your Local ChooseFI Group CampFI Chautauqua FI Freedom Retreat Learning to Leave | Diania Merriam | ChooseFI Ep 416 Catching Up To FI Bob Sharpe YouTube ChooseFI Travel Rewards Top Recommended Credit Card Offers From Our Partners Todoist Dominick Quartuccio How To Test Out of College While You’re Still In High School | Millionaire Educator | ChooseFI Ep 238 The $100K Glorified Sleepaway Camp | Millionaire Educator | Ep 386 CIT Bank FI Is Fun Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the power of outside, overcoming adversity, the value of streaks, building momentum, and van life.

As we’ve discussed many times on our show, creating and maintaining habits are an important part of the FI journey. Not only does it require you to prioritize what you value, but it can lead to success in many areas of your life. However, while we talk about the success that habits can lead to, sometimes we overlook that starting a habit can be stressful or overwhelming. This week we are joined by Gregg from Outside365 to discuss what your life can look like when you align with your habits, and the momentum and value that can be found when you start to prioritize your habits a little bit each day. While it may seem overwhelming at times to start something new, whether it’s saving more and spending less, or even just picking up a new hobby, you may find that the more you do it, the easier it comes! Remember, while you may feel a sense of urgency to instill habits in your life, remember to be patient, and take it a day at a time! 

Outside 365

Website: outside365.blog

Timestamps:

1:13 – Introduction 7:51 – The Power of Outside 12:53 – Overcoming Adversity 17:02 – Building Momentum 22:46 – Truly Being In Nature 28:52 – Plausible Outside Experiences 33:25 – The Value of Streaks 37:20 – Van Life 47:37 – Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Subscribe to The FI Weekly! “The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative” by Florence Williams “Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones” by James Clear “Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals” by Oliver Burkeman “Stolen Focus: Why You Can’t Pay Attention–and How to Think Deeply Again” by Johann Hari Huberman Lab Podcast Dave and Matt Vans

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI’s 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: tackling the big issues, the everywhere effect, change and discomfort, and getting the most from what you have.

On this Podcast in recent months, we have made a point to highlight the fact that FI isn't about deprivation. While we do think making a few cuts in some areas is a good thing, we believe in that idea because it acts as a means to an end, with the endpoint being living the most fulfilling life available to you. So how is it possible deprive ourselves in a manner that doesn't leave us feeling deprived? Well, we have to skill up out our spending abilities.! This week we have Mr. Money Mustache on the podcast to discuss the skill of spending and how to approach utilizing your resources to ensure your own happiness and wellbeing. Make cuts in your life where there us a lack of purpose so you can level up areas of importance and passion!

Mr. Money Mustache:

Website: mrmoneymustache.com

Timestamps: 

0:51 - Introdcution 4:15 - The Power Of Spending With Less Income 9:24 - Tackling The Big Issues First 17:06 - Change and Discomfort 19:55 - The Everywhere Effect 28:06 - The Power Of Community 31:45 - Getting The Most From What You Have 40:23 - Cost VS Comfort, Wheres The Line? 45:34 - Early Cutting Is Essential 50:53 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Mr. Money Mustache on Life After FI: The Truth About Retiring Early in Your 30s The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early Retirement How to Go from Middle-Class to Kickass Outside365 The California Effect Afford Anything With Paula Pant FIRE Dating "Die With Zero" By Bill Perkins Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: forming habits, fulfilling goals, routines, the importance of health, restriction without deprivation, and working on life.

While beginning your FI journey means having goals and taking necessary steps to achieve them, it may seem like you have to approach your life with discipline and absolute structure when it comes to money matters. While setting yourself up for success on this journey does mean creating different habits in regards to spending or investing, these habits should never seem absolute or deprive you from enjoying your life. This week we are joined by the Mad Fi-entist to discuss the evolution and the necessary changes he has made while on the journey to FI, and the beauty found with having a routine and creating meaningful habits. FI is a journey that requires you to experiment and change as the journey progresses. Not only will you learn about yourself on this journey, but you will pick up and exchange old habits for new ones that better suit the life you want to be living. Remember that while discipline is necessary for this journey, that does not mean you can’t evolve and change up your routine for the better! 

The Mad Fientist:

Website: madfientist.com Podcast: Financial Independence Podcast Album: Find The Album Here! Twitter: @madfientist

Timestamps:

0:57 - Introduction 3:25 - Fulfilling Goals And Forming Habits 10:16 - Routine 15:25 - The Importance of Health 23:01 - The Evolution Of FI For Us 31:34 - The Skill Of Spending 40:15 - Working On Life 52:17 - Restriction Without Total Deprivation 61:35 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

"Ultralearning: Master Hard Skills, Outsmart the Competition, and Accelerate Your Career" by Scott Young and James Clear "Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones" by James Clear Money With Katie "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life By Bill Perkins Mint Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: early financial conversations, what you truly value, house hacking, and the psychology of FI.

It can be scary to have to acknowledge the reality of your financial situation, especially if you feel you do not have the financial literacy to proceed with confidence. However, setbacks and failures can often be blessings in disguise. This week we are joined by The FI Couple to discuss the importance of perseverance and flexibility in the face of uncertainty, as well as the strength that can come from a united front. The journey to FI is deeply nuanced, and never perfect. While you may find yourself wanting to make your journey as optimal and expedited as you can, we know that life sometimes happens and your journey can be far from perfect. However, sometimes when we find ourselves at “rock bottom” and it seems like everything in our world is against us. Rather than feel defeated, allow the setbacks to act as momentum to charge ahead as you re-align and re-adjust! 

The FI Couple:

Website: theficouple.com Socials: @theficouple

Timestamps:

0:49 - Introduction/The Early Days 2:05 - Early Financial Conversations 11:03 - Discovering What You Truly Value 21:28 - Bouncing Back After A Layoff 26:06 - Entrepreneurship 30:10 - House Hacking 38:34 - The Off Market/Solving Problems 43:13 - The Single Family Home/The Psychology Of FI 48:29 - The Season Of Hustle 51:56 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Dominick Quartuccio Scott Trench Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

 

In this episode: finding your why, creating space, deprivation, board games, lesson learning, and decision making.

Whether you’re years into your FI journey or just beginning, evaluating your finances and spending, you may feel like you have to make some cuts into your favorite hobbies in order to reach your goal quicker. However, deprivation and cutting out the things that bring enjoyment into your life should never be the only option. This week we are joined by friend of the podcast Chris Terell to talk frugal hobbies, new experiences, and the parallels between strategies in board games and the strategies employed while on the journey to FI. While trying to optimize your experiences may mean changing hobbies and evolving, while doing so you may find new enjoyment, new communities, and values that come with these changes. Not everyone may have the same approach to a game, just as not everyone will have the same approach to achieving FI, but as long as you remember that being open to changes will allow you to not only optimize your experiences on that journey but optimize your FI. 

Timestamps:

1:14 - Introduction 3:02 - FI And Pickleball 7:54 - Finding Your Why 12:50 - Happiness Is How You Fill Your Time 18:40 - It's Not About Deprivation 25:28 - Creating Space 35:46 - Strategy Board Games And Why They Are Great 45:54 - Strategy Boards Games, Decision Making, And Life 54:38 - The Top Four Concepts Of Strategy Board Games 72:58 - Starting Strategy Board Games 82:28 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Mr Money Mustache The Motley Fool Board Game Geek Board Game Arena Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: personal investments, 401k contributions, FI is for everyone, travel rewards, task management, and taxes.

On what is considered a very personal journey, how do you handle changes that feel like setbacks? Whether its spending more when you feel you should be saving, or re-evaluating goals based on what needs immediate attention, do you feel equipped to handle it with confidence? This week we are having a weekly roundup, and are re-joined by Ginger to not only answer listener’s questions, but discuss travel rewards, retirement accounts, and breaking away from the ultra frugal caricature often depicted alongside FI. While saving is an important factor on this journey, the main purpose of FI is to learn and live your life with intention as it relates to your money, goals, and values. Remember that it’s okay if some of your goals and values will change along the way! Allowing yourself to be flexible as it relates to external factors, like market volatility and your investments, will give you more power and control to continue ahead with confidence and optimism! 

Timestamps:

1:04 - Introduction 3:31 - FI Is For Everyone 9:16 - Personal Investments 14:08 - Paying For Experiences 19:09 - An Introduction To FI 28:20 - Task Management 35:19 - Travel Rewards 47:06 - 401k Contribution Question 61:00 - Tax Season Hack 68:51 - The Content We Are Consuming 75:28 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Four Thousand Weeks | ChooseFI Book Club | ChooseFI Ep 415 "Dollars and Sense: How We Misthink Money and How to Spend Smarter" by Dr Dan Ariely and Jeff Kreisler "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill Perkins The Peter Attia Drive All The Hacks Taking Stock of Your Life | Jordan Grumet | ChooseFI Ep 390 Playing With FIRE Todoist Tim Ferriss Huberman Lab My First Million ChooseFI Travel Rewards Travel Rewards: How To Travel The World For Almost Free (The Easy Way) | ChooseFI Ep 9 A Guided Meditation for When the Stock Market Is Dropping Go Curry Cracker | Capital Gains, Losses and The Roth Conversion Ladder | ChooseFI Ep 18 "A Deadly Education" by Naomi Novik "The Premonition: A Pandemic Story" by Michael Lewis "The New New Thing: A Silicon Valley Story" by Michael Lewis "The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed Our Minds" by Michael Lewis Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the "average" withdrawal, Karsten's strategy, Fritz's strategy, fixed withdrawal rates, the bucket strategy, and refilling.

Preparing for retirement can look different for all on the journey to FI. All of our goals differ, but we are still in the mindset of positioning ourselves for the coming years. This week we are having a face-off between returning guests Karsten and Fritz, as they discuss their own receptive drawdown strategies, their advantages, and how you can best prepare yourself mentally and financially for your retirement. While a large part of preparing for retirement means saving, that does not mean you should be afraid to spend. Even in retirement, there are strategies that can allow you to not only spend comfortably within your means, but also spend confidently! 

Fritz & Karsten:

Fritz's Website: theretirementmanifesto.com Karsten's Website: earlyretirementnow.com

Timestamps:

1:35 - Introcution 2:09 - Karsten's Strategy 6:05 - Fritz's Strategy 13:28 - Fixed Withdrawal Rates 18:08 - Your Retirement Spending Mentality 23:01 - The Source Of The Bucket Strategy Debate 30:46 - Refilling The Buckets 40:40 - The Cheap Gimmick 45:13 - The Importance Of Rebalancing 51:03 - The Key Takeaways/The "Average" Withdrawal 59:06 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Our Retirement Investment Drawdown Strategy The Tail End "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill Perkins How to Calculate Your Safe Withdrawal Rate without using Simulations Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the 2.5 million dollar inversion, looking at the incentives, interest rates, your biggest asset, and potshots.

When you begin your FI journey, you may feel like you must follow a certain path or plan in order to achieve your desired outcome. However, the longer you are this journey the more you realize that it is a personal one that requires adaptability when so many factors can affect your bottom line. This week we are back with Scott Trench from BiggerPockets as he shares his insights on investing and looking at your portfolio from an “outset” perspective, as well as touch on the shape of the real estate market. It is important to remember that there is a lot of push and pull on this journey, and it is not meant to be perfect. While you may have expectations for your portfolio and your long term plans, there will be times where you will have to make tradeoffs. Just as the markets change and may signal uncertainties to come, remember that flexibility while maintaining your long term goals will allow you to feel more equipped to move through these times. 

Scott Trench:

Website: BiggerPockets Podcast: The BiggerPockets Money Podcast Instagram: @scott_trench

Timestamps:

0:57 - Introduction 2:05 - The 2.5 Million Dollar Inversion 8:52 - Always Look At The Incentives 12:49 - The Traditional Path To FI And PotShots 17:45 - Your Biggest Asset/Should You Be Inefficient? 25:52 - Executing The Concept 31:12 - The Impact Of Interest Rates Today 42:21 - The Commercial Impact 52:10 - Buying Properties With Cash 56:21 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Scott Trench | Set For Life | ChooseFI Ep 63 First-Time Home Buyer | BiggerPockets | ChooseFI Ep 312 "Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not!" by Robert Kiyosaki Mr. Money Mustache on Life After FI: The Truth About Retiring Early in Your 30s BiggerPockets Rental Property Calculator Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the value of time, what are you optimizing for, bold moves, increasing your kid's odds for success, and balancing deprivation.

Because we have put so many leaders, members, and experts in our community on the hot seat here at ChooseFI, we figured it was finally time we played fair and put Brad on the hot seat himself! With the assistance of Aaron Lee, a longtime listener, friend, and host of "The Next Generation Leader Podcast," we ask Brad all the burning questions related to his FI journey. If you've ever been curious how Brad discovered FI, what led Brad to begin his FI journey, or what lessons Brad learned along the way, listen along as we re-live the path that helped form this amazing community!

Aaron Lee:

Website: newgenerationleader.com Podcast: The New Generation Leader Podcast

Timestamps:

1:10 - Introduction 3:12 - The Value of Time 8:18 - Balancing Deprivation And The Burden Of FI 11:31 - Brad's Snowball Starter 16:13 - Brad's Childhood FI Vision 22:31 - What Are You Optimizing For? 28:45 - Helping Your Kids Increase Their Odds For Success 40:27 - All Of Us Are Working On Something 46:08 - Brads Bold Move Update 54:40 - What Else Fascinates Brad? 59:29 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Year End Wins 2022 | ChooseFI Ep 417 "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill Perkins The Peter Attia Drive, Episode #237 ‒ Optimizing life for maximum fulfillment | Bill Perkins All The Hacks | Die With Zero: Net Fulfillment Over Net Worth The Tail End "David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants" by Malcolm Gladwell Berkshire Hathaway Shareholder Letters Your Bold Move for 2023 | Dominick Quartuccio | Ep 419 Limitless Peter Attia & Beth Lewis on Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: budgeting, the power of FI, different funds, living in the present, and the power to make your choices.

No matter your background or the hardships you’ve endured, you should never rule yourself out for success! Ruminating over your past mistakes can make you feel undeserving of the life you want, but those same mistakes can actually serve as motivation to propel you further on your journey! This week we are joined by returning guest Deanna to discuss how her FI journey has progressed in the last 4 years, the freedom and power she gained from budgeting, and an update on her journey of overcoming adversity. Just because you feel you’ve hit a rock bottom doesn’t mean this journey isn’t for you. A large part of FI is making mistakes, learning, and changing. An even larger part of this journey is learning to forgive yourself and others and continue on! For those who do not think they are capable of achieving FI because of their past, let Deanna and this episode serve as an example of what this journey can look like when you act with forgiveness and intentionality! 

Timestamps:

1:35 - Introduction 2:16  - Deanna's Backstory 6:26 - Dave Ramsey and Budgeting 14:16 - The Emergency Fund 17:30 - Different Funds For Different Things 23:35 - The Power of FI 27:12 - It's Not All Unicorns And Rainbows 30:28 - Broken Vessels Made Whole 34:42 - Chronic Stress and Living In The Present 43:36 - Deanna Today 48:10 - The Freedom To Make Your Own Decisions 51:54 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

From Addiction To FI | Ms. Fiology | ChooseFI Ep. 106 "The Simple Path to Wealth: Your road map to financial independence and a rich, free life" by J.L. Collins and Mr. Money Mustache The Emergency Fund…Is it a Bad Idea? | Big ERN The Reveal | ChooseFI Ep. 66 "The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma" by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. "Brain Rules: 12 Principles for Surviving and Thriving at Work, Home, and School" by John Medina "Forgive for Good: A Proven Prescription for Health and Happiness" by Frederic Luskin The Art of Forgiveness Todoist Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

 

In this episode: what sparks goals, what are you optimizing you, valuing your time, and money prioritization.

Sometimes on the journey to FI, we ask ourselves the following; do I really need to spend money on this? Do I really have the time and resources for that? These questions may be easy to dismiss by saying no in order to stay on track with your financial goals, but by dismissing them, you could be missing out on something that is beneficial to your personal journey! This week we are joined by friend of the podcast, Chris Hutchins, to talk about the hacks for optimizing your life, the differences between cheapness and frugality, and the importance of valuing your time and what it can lead to. Saving money is an important part of achieving FI, but you should never feel so restricted that you miss out on investing your time and money in things that bring joy and value into your life. While saving is important, it’s okay to spend money. Whether it’s on a trip or investing in something new, there are ways to make it work without feeling guilt or shame. Prioritizing and valuing your time can introduce new experiences and provide happiness as well as perspective while on this journey! 

Chris Hutchins:

Website: allthehacks.com Podcast: All The Hacks

Timestamps:

2:27 - Introductions 6:12 - Full Time Podcasting 11:44 - What Sparks Our Goals 18:35 - What Are You Optimizing For? 23:36 - Managing Your Own Money 31:28 - Money Prioritization 39:03 - Valuing Time 50:53 - Real Estate Investing And Complexity 58:23 - The Once A Year Review 65:28 - Prioritizing Health 75:23 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

feedback@choosefi.com Die With Zero: Net Fulfillment Over Net Worth | All The Hacks Buy Back Your Time: Get Unstuck, Increase Productivity and Live the Life You Want | All The Hacks Playing With FIRE The Drive With Peter Attia Your Bold Move for 2023 | Dominick Quartuccio | ChooseFI Ep 419 Top Ways to Make This Year Amazing and Seven Simple Questions for Your Annual Review | All The Hacks My First Million Using an Investing Checklist to Improve your Portfolio | All The Hacks Paprika Delete Me Kubera Fancy Hands Eat Healthy and Save Money with the Laura Barrett Cookbook The 1% Rule in Real Estate: Is This a Realistic Way to Evaluate Rentals? House FIRE | ChooseFI Ep 414 Rocket Money Todoist Trustworthy Peter Attia DNS Huberman Lab Podcast Optimizing Your Health: Diagnostic Tests, Choosing a Doctor, Sleep, Longevity, Inflammation and More | All The Hacks Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: taking the unconventional path, the price of time, early entrepreneurship, talent stacking, and the pursuit of learning.

At least once in most of our FI journeys, we have pondered what our life would look like if we started earlier. Maybe you have even wondered what value could've been gained if you had started in your teenage years. Well, for some context into the possibilities decision that could provide, we decided to have 17 year old listener Devin on the podcast to discuss what life can look like when you go against the cultural norm of going to college, and instead opting for an entrepreneurial and FI friendly lifestyle. Oftentimes we mention that there are rewards that come with stepping out of your comfort zone, and the same can be said for going against the societal norm and carving out your own path! For our younger audience who may be interested in getting started with their FI journey, let this episode be a useful resource and reassurance that this journey can begin no matter your age!

Timestamps:

1:55 - Introduction 5:28 - Taking The Unconventional Path 11:58 - The Cost Of Time 16:36 - Early Entrepreneurship 30:45 - Building The Talent Stack And Real Estate Investing 36:56 - The Pursuit Of Learning 45:18 - Saving And Investing 51:53 - Early Retirement Planning 69:49 - Conclusion

Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:

Raising Voyagers TalentStacker House Hacking With Coach Carson | ChooseFI Ep 16 My First Million Podcast Dominick Quartuccio M1 Finance Review 2022: Commission-Free Automated Investing For Everyone "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill Perkins How And Why To Set Up A Roth IRA Conversion Ladder | ChooseFI Go Curry Cracker | Capital Gains, Losses and The Roth Conversion Ladder | ChooseFI Ep 18 "Why Does The Stock Market Go Up?: Everything You Should Have Been Taught About Investing In School, But Weren't" by Brian Feroldi Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and Resources:

Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance