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 - Introduction3:02 - FI And Pickleball7:54 - Finding Your Why12:50 - Happiness Is How You Fill Your Time18:40 - It's Not About Deprivation25:28 - Creating Space35:46 - Strategy Board Games And Why They Are Great45:54 - Strategy Boards Games, Decision Making, And Life54:38 - The Top Four Concepts Of Strategy Board Games72:58 - Starting Strategy Board Games82:28 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Mr Money MustacheThe Motley FoolBoard Game GeekBoard Game ArenaSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-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 - Introduction3:31 - FI Is For Everyone9:16 - Personal Investments14:08 - Paying For Experiences19:09 - An Introduction To FI28:20 - Task Management35:19 - Travel Rewards47:06 - 401k Contribution Question61:00 - Tax Season Hack68:51 - The Content We Are Consuming75:28 - 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 PerkinsThe Peter Attia DriveAll The Hacks Taking Stock of Your Life | Jordan Grumet | ChooseFI Ep 390Playing With FIRETodoistTim FerrissHuberman LabMy First MillionChooseFI 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 LewisSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-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.comKarsten's Website: earlyretirementnow.com Timestamps: 1:35 - Introcution2:09 - Karsten's Strategy6:05 - Fritz's Strategy13:28 - Fixed Withdrawal Rates18:08 - Your Retirement Spending Mentality23:01 - The Source Of The Bucket Strategy Debate30:46 - Refilling The Buckets40:40 - The Cheap Gimmick45:13 - The Importance Of Rebalancing51:03 - The Key Takeaways/The "Average" Withdrawal59:06 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Our Retirement Investment Drawdown StrategyThe Tail End"Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill PerkinsHow to Calculate Your Safe Withdrawal Rate without using SimulationsSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-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: BiggerPocketsPodcast: The BiggerPockets Money PodcastInstagram: @scott_trench Timestamps: 0:57 - Introduction2:05 - The 2.5 Million Dollar Inversion8:52 - Always Look At The Incentives12:49 - The Traditional Path To FI And PotShots17:45 - Your Biggest Asset/Should You Be Inefficient?25:52 - Executing The Concept31:12 - The Impact Of Interest Rates Today42:21 - The Commercial Impact52:10 - Buying Properties With Cash56:21 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Scott Trench | Set For Life | ChooseFI Ep 63First-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 KiyosakiMr. Money Mustache on Life After FI: The Truth About Retiring Early in Your 30sBiggerPockets Rental Property CalculatorSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-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.comPodcast: The New Generation Leader Podcast Timestamps: 1:10 - Introduction3:12 - The Value of Time8:18 - Balancing Deprivation And The Burden Of FI11:31 - Brad's Snowball Starter16:13 - Brad's Childhood FI Vision22:31 - What Are You Optimizing For?28:45 - Helping Your Kids Increase Their Odds For Success40:27 - All Of Us Are Working On Something46:08 - Brads Bold Move Update54:40 - 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 PerkinsThe Peter Attia Drive, Episode #237 ‒ Optimizing life for maximum fulfillment | Bill PerkinsAll The Hacks | Die With Zero: Net Fulfillment Over Net WorthThe Tail End"David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants" by Malcolm GladwellBerkshire Hathaway Shareholder LettersYour Bold Move for 2023 | Dominick Quartuccio | Ep 419LimitlessPeter 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 strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-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 - Introduction2:16  - Deanna's Backstory6:26 - Dave Ramsey and Budgeting14:16 - The Emergency Fund17:30 - Different Funds For Different Things23:35 - The Power of FI27:12 - It's Not All Unicorns And Rainbows30:28 - Broken Vessels Made Whole34:42 - Chronic Stress and Living In The Present43:36 - Deanna Today48:10 - The Freedom To Make Your Own Decisions51:54 - 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 MustacheThe 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 LuskinThe Art of ForgivenessTodoistSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-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.comPodcast: All The Hacks Timestamps: 2:27 - Introductions6:12 - Full Time Podcasting11:44 - What Sparks Our Goals18:35 - What Are You Optimizing For?23:36 - Managing Your Own Money31:28 - Money Prioritization39:03 - Valuing Time50:53 - Real Estate Investing And Complexity58:23 - The Once A Year Review65:28 - Prioritizing Health75:23 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: feedback@choosefi.comDie With Zero: Net Fulfillment Over Net Worth | All The HacksBuy Back Your Time: Get Unstuck, Increase Productivity and Live the Life You Want | All The HacksPlaying With FIREThe Drive With Peter AttiaYour Bold Move for 2023 | Dominick Quartuccio | ChooseFI Ep 419Top Ways to Make This Year Amazing and Seven Simple Questions for Your Annual Review | All The HacksMy First MillionUsing an Investing Checklist to Improve your Portfolio | All The HacksPaprikaDelete MeKuberaFancy HandsEat Healthy and Save Money with the Laura Barrett CookbookThe 1% Rule in Real Estate: Is This a Realistic Way to Evaluate Rentals?House FIRE | ChooseFI Ep 414Rocket MoneyTodoistTrustworthyPeter Attia DNSHuberman Lab PodcastOptimizing Your Health: Diagnostic Tests, Choosing a Doctor, Sleep, Longevity, Inflammation and More | All The HacksSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-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 - Introduction5:28 - Taking The Unconventional Path11:58 - The Cost Of Time16:36 - Early Entrepreneurship30:45 - Building The Talent Stack And Real Estate Investing36:56 - The Pursuit Of Learning45:18 - Saving And Investing51:53 - Early Retirement Planning69:49 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Raising VoyagersTalentStackerHouse Hacking With Coach Carson | ChooseFI Ep 16My First Million PodcastDominick QuartuccioM1 Finance Review 2022: Commission-Free Automated Investing For Everyone"Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill PerkinsHow And Why To Set Up A Roth IRA Conversion Ladder | ChooseFIGo 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 FeroldiSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: taxes, the secure act 2.0, the best news, roths, 529's, catch-up contributions, and the new options you have. On December 29th 2022, Joe Biden signed into law the Secure 2.0 Act. As this law may have ramifications on your retirement tax planning, to stay ahead of the curve we decided to have The FI Tax Guy Sean Mullaney back on the show to discuss what this law is and ways one may be able to approach and utilize it going forward with there retirement planning. While laws and regulations may change, staying prepared and aware can keep us worry free as we prepare for the tail end of our FI journey! The discussion is intended to be for general educational purposes and is not tax, legal, or investment advice for any individual. Sean Mullaney: Website: fitaxguy.comBook: "Solo 401k: The Solopreneur’s Retirement Account"Twitter: @SeanMoneyandTax Timestamps: 1:25 - Introduction2:55 - The Most Important Change and The Best News14:19 - More Roth Options27:05 - The Backdoor Roths And Catch-Up Contributions31:46 - New Options For 529's42:27 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today's Episode: Secure 2.0 and The FI CommunitySubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: mindfulness, removing judgement, thoughts creating reality, envisioning, awareness, and the hot seat. Oftentimes on our show we like to remind listeners that achieving FI isn’t an end all be all to one’s problems, and that reaching financial independence doesn’t automatically equate to happiness. An important part of the journey is the work you do inward along the way, and this week we are tackling what that can look like. This week we are joined by coach and host of Mindful Fire podcast, Adam Coelho, to discuss the important link between mindfulness and FI, and the power our brains have to envision the life we want, and put dreams into action. Taking the time to be aware of how you’re thinking and feeling can be an effective tool. It will not only keep you centered, but allow for you to be open to experiences you might not have thought were achievable. So whether you are familiar with mindfulness practices or are curious where to begin, allow this episode to serve as a resource to begin or strengthen your practice!  Adam Coelho: Podcast: mindfulfire.orgMindfulFIRE.org/choosefi : Adam's Free Guide with takeaways, a short guided meditation and Adam's envisioning guide Timestamps: 1:56 - Introduction4:33 -The Definition Of Mindfulness/Removing Judgement12:08 - Your Thoughts Create Your Reality19:08 - Gateways To Meditation/Awareness27:56 - The Science Of Mindfulness35:50 - Envisioning40:25 - It's Not Out There, It's In Here49:27 - Mindfulness And FI52:44 - Adam's Google Story58:21 - Adam Takes The Hot Seat76:06 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: HeadspaceYoga NidraAtomic Habits | James Clear | ChooseFI Ep. 157"Atomic Habits" by James ClearCalmInsight TimerPlaying With FIRE Documentary"Altered Traits: Science Reveals How Meditation Changes Your Mind, Brain, and Body" by Daniel Goleman and Richard Davidson"Peak Mind: Find Your Focus, Own Your Attention, Invest 12 Minutes a Day" by Amishi P JhaMark DivineAll The Hacks"Die with Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill PerkinsAlchemized Life| Jordan Harbinger: How to Build a Podcast | Episode 19"The Predicting Brain" by Regina PallyThe Tail EndSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: bold moves, building bold moves, dreams, themes, uncomfortable awareness, and finding energy. For most people, a new year can signify new goals that we hope to accomplish. Regardless of where you are on the FI journey, the new year ushers in a time for change and welcomes the opportunity to learn and grow! In this episode we are re-joined by Dominick Quartuccio to discuss navigating new beginnings and designing your “Bold Move” as we enter the new year. Instead of having a new year’s resolution which may remind you of what you didn’t accomplish the year before, try making a bold move that can act as a quantifiable metric for designing the life you want to live! The journey to FI is filled with ebbs and flows, and with that comes lessons that allow you to grow and learn as you find your way towards the life you want to live! Dominick Quartuccio: Website: thegreatmanwithin.comCourse: The Bold Move Masterclass: Use Code CHOOSEFI For 50% OffPodcast: The Great Man WithinBook: "Design Your Future: 3 Simple Steps to Stop Drifting and Start Living" Timestamps: 1:21 - Introduction7:20 - Quiet Desperation And Community14:32 - The Bold Move22:28 - Building A Bold Move30:32 - Increasing Your Luck Surface Area And What Gives You Energy33:50 - Finding Your Theme And Dream39:28 - Uncomfortable Awareness And The Turbulence Of Life47:19 - What You Want Will Reveal Itself, Eventually56:27 - Using Bold Moves To Identify Dreams59:04 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Find Your Local ChooseFI Group"The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich" by Tim Ferriss"Outwitting the Devil: The Secrets to Freedom and Success" by Napoleon Hill"The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life" by Mark Manson"Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl"Never Eat Alone, Expanded and Updated: And Other Secrets to Success, One Relationship at a Time" by Keith Ferrazzi and Tahl RazJohn Olsen YouTubeSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the federal reserve, interest rates, buying the hype, the problems with effortless earning, and narrative follows price. It’s suffice to say this past year has been one of distinct changes from a financial perspective, with investment techniques and former practices no longer working the same as they did two years ago. However, there is much to be learned and a lot to be gained as we move forward into 2023. This week we are re-joined by a friend of the show Brian Feroldi to discuss his observations on the market changes, and lessons he learned over the course of 2022. Settle into the new year and tune in as we share our thoughts on the macro impact of the federal reserve, psychology of investing, inflation and interest as it relates to different kinds of assets, and so much more! Brian Feroldi: Website: brianferoldi.comTwitter: @brianferoldiCourse: Financial Statements Explained SimplyBook: "Why Does The Stock Market Go Up?: Everything You Should Have Been Taught About Investing In School, But Weren’t" By Brian Feroldi Timestamps: 1:46 - Introduction6:51 - The Federal Reserve/Interest Rates15:03 - Inflation Is Still Here17:21 - Beware Of Effortless Money24:14 - The State Of Crypto/Buying The Hype33:48 - Is Cash Still Trash?36:13 - Bonds Are Worth Consideration39:25 - Growth Stock Troubles46:31 - Narrative Follows Price52:56 - Your Risk Level Is Revealed56:09 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today's Episode: The Motley FoolThe Simple Path to Wealth | JL Collins | ChooseFI Ep 411Early Retirement NowThe Role Of Bonds In A Portfolio | ChooseFI Ep 194Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links And Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

Happy Holidays! As the year's end approaches, it's only natural to look back and think of all that you’ve accomplished. Whether you just began your FI journey this year or are well on your way, recognizing the improvements you’ve made throughout the year is essential and worth celebrating! This episode is our 6th annual year-end wins episode, and we are re-joined by MK Williams to listen and read submissions from our listeners and celebrate the progress of our audience through different stages of their FI journeys! This episode is meant to not only inspire but remind us how personal this journey is, and remind you to take some time and reflect on the progress you have made this year. Celebrate the wins of your own, no matter how big or small! Timestamps: 1:27 - Introductions3:43 - Adrianna's Wins6:00 - David's Wins And The Post-It Note9:48 - Will and Abby's Wins And Retirement Accounts13:45 - Melissa Devon, and Brittany's Wins, Traveling And Saving16:40 - Dominic and Leila's Wins, Stacking Accounts And Side Hustles20:35 - Erica's Wins And Leveling Up In Life24:11 - Justin's Wins And Financial Wellbeing27:41 - Kristen's Wins And Paying Off The Mortgage30:38 - Tommy's Wins And Changing Careers33:24 - Wes And Sarah's Wins, Erasing Debt And Job Upgrades35:50 - Lindsey's Wins, Travel Rewards And 2-Player Mode38:18 - Tom and Danielle's Wins, Taking Action And Paying Off Student Loans40:00 - Kelly's Wins, Budgetting And Communities42:41 - Yvette's Wins And Making FI Do-Able44:42 - Dennis' Wins And From Student Loan's To Disney World47:00 - Valerie's Wins And Dumbfounding The Experts48:56 - Dilyara's Wins And Crushing Early Stage FI51:19 - Lauren's Wins And Doing The Legwork56:28 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: "Quit Like a Millionaire: No Gimmicks, Luck, or Trust Fund Required" by Bryce Leung and Kristy ShenFrom Pandemic Layoff to $100k+ | A Salesforce Success Story | ChooseFI Ep 297Step-By-Step Guide to a (Nearly) Free Disney Vacation (2022)Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: using your resources to create change, your employer is your customer, identifying discrimination, and abundance mindsets. For some on the journey to FI, it may seem like you must at all cost continuously strive to meet your monetary goal as quickly as possible. However, staying in toxic and unfulfilling work environments to hold the course with your goal is not what this journey is about. This week we are re-joined by Diania Merriam to have an intimate conversation about leaving a toxic work environment, navigating internalized beliefs, and the power and control gained while on the journey to FI. The greatest part of this journey is not only the earning and having more financial resources, but rather learning that your money is a tool you can use to reclaim your time! Remember, striving for FI is never about deprivation or devaluing yourself, nor does it mean tolerating poor treatment in order to stay on track!   Diania Merriam: Website: EconoME Conference (Promo Code "CHOOSEFI")Podcast: Optimal Finance Daily Timestamps: 2:00 - Introduction4:25 - The Resignation15:46 - Identifying Discrimination25:07 - Culture Shifts And Subtleties30:10 - Using Your Resources To Create Change33:12 - Allowing Your Money To Protect You And Coast FI40:28 - Operating From An Abundance Mindset48:57 - Your Employer Is Your Customer54:20 - Shifting From Saving To Covering Expenses62:30 - EconoME Conference66:56 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: What I've Learned From One Year Of "Fun-Employment" - Diania MerriamThe Reality Of Leaving A Toxic Work Enviornment - Diania MerrianAccountability | Diania Merriam | ChooseFI Ep 150Myths and Misconceptions | Diania Merriam | ChooseFI Ep 306Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: slowing down, stoicism, finding something to neglect on purpose, focusing on the present, flow states, and actionable steps. Throughout the history of this podcast we have had many guests discuss books that have offered great advice and education to them on the Journey to FI, and with the large selection to choose from we can't think of a better time to start working down the list! On today’s episode we are joined by Josue and Ginger in our new series The Choose FI Book Club. This week, we’ll be sharing our thoughts and takeaways from the book "4,000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals" by Oliver Burkeman, as well as share some opinions on the book from our listeners who shared their opinions with us! While many of us on the Journey to FI feel that this lifestyle can be very future-driven, it can be overwhelming to want to accomplish so much with only so much time. This book reminds us that time is finite, and you can’t spend it worrying about what you have or haven't yet accomplished. Instead, it may be best to live in the present and appreciate the day to day as it relates to your journey. Having a timeline and working towards the finish line is part of the journey, but remember that the decisions you are making in your life and the experiences that come with it are just as important as the end result! Book Club Selection: "Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals" by Oliver Burkeman Timestamps: 1:48 - Introduction2:41 - The Concept Of Reading And Retaining6:23 - Slowing Down And Focusing On What's Important10:20 - Stephanie's Observation18:53 - Amy's Observation And Stoicism23:52 - You Can't Do Everything And CJ's Observation30:29 - Choosing Something To Neglect On Purpose33:34 - Shelleys Voicemail And Finding Time To Spend With Others39:42 - Josh's Voicemail And Planning For The Future While Not Forgetting The Present46:31 - Flow States50:27 - Gayle's Perspective And Criticism Counterpoints57:45 - The Action Steps Taken By YOU61:47 - Our Actionable Steps65:34 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: 18 Months of Massive Action | Josue | ChooseFI Ep 406The ImperfectionistThe Mad Fientist"Outwitting the Devil: The Secrets to Freedom and Success" by Napoleon HillThe Great Man Within"Finding Flow: The Psychology of Engagement with Everyday Life" by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi"Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill Perkins"A Complaint Free World: How to Stop Complaining and Start Enjoying the Life You Always Wanted" by Will BowenGinger's Blog "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 strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the value of a door, the hour FIRE method, tax breaks, focusing on income, and return on hassle. Many of our listeners have tuned in to hear our guests discuss the real estate market, mortgages, and taxes as it relates to obtaining property. However, many of us on the road to FI may not realize how scaling the properties you own can actually act as a mutual fund-like portfolio. On this week’s episode we are joined by our new in-house real estate expert, author, and podcaster, Alan Corey. Alan sheds light towards what expanding your real estate portfolio can look like from from a larger standpoint, and how approaching investment from a spreadsheet rather than lifestyle point of view can ultimately offer greater returns in the long run. While we know many listeners may be apprehensive to consider investing in multiple or larger real estate properties, or how this may not seem like a feasible option, this episode is available to you to educate and offer the mental framework on how to approach real estate in a way that it can be achievable! Alan Corey: Website: realestatemaxi.comPodcast: Real Estate MaximalistBook: House FIRE: How to Be a Red–Hot Real Estate Millionaire with a Wealth of Time and Money Timestamps: 1:57 - Introduction2:48 - The Value Of A "Door" And The Business Behind It8:21 - Navigating The Sea Of Options16:35 - Reducing Vacancy Impact/Maximizing Potential23:37 - Tax Breaks29:54 - The House FIRE Method39:33 - Focusing On Income49:59 - Selling 50 Doors61:19 - Return On Hassle/Million Dollar Value Properties67:50 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: "A Million Bucks by 30" by Alan CoreyCoach CarsonPaula PantSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: success on paper, building the life you want, therapy, craving progression, and what leads to change. When beginning and well into your FI journey, it may seem like reaching and achieving your end goal of financial independence will somehow leave you feeling happier and more fulfilled. However, reaching this end goal doesn’t automatically solve all your problems. On this week’s episode we are joined by founder of FindMoreBalance.com and host of "The Mental Wealth Show" Rich Jones to have a conversation about mental health, rebuilding mindset and behaviors, and importance of finding your network of support in life. The FI journey is a great one because it allows you to introduce changes into your life, and no matter how big or different the changes are, they are still significant! The best part of this journey is that it is a personal one, so try to remember that! While the end goal may be reaching a monetary number, it is also about rebuilding and progressing into the person you want to be in all areas of life! Rich Jones: Website: richrunstrack.comPodcast: The Mental Wealth ShowInstagram: @richrunstrackLinkedIn: Rich Jones Timestamps: 4:12 - Introduction5:36 - Success On Paper12:31 - The Inflection Point, What Made You Change?16:14 - Therapy20:54 - Re-Finding The Person You Want To Be27:38 - Craving Progress And Mastery35:11 - Rebuilding Your Day-To-Day Life43:50 - Leveraging Your Career To Get More From Life52:21 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: LeaveUs A Voicemail For Your Year End WinsThe Top Chase Business Credit Cards for 2022Alignment & Adjustments | Scott & Taylor Rieckens | ChooseFI Ep 403The Tail EndSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode; global funds, it's not doctrine, index funds, VTSAX, what is in index funds, and the opposite of active investing. If you've been in the FI community for a while now, you've probably at one point have heard of index Funds. However, whether you are familiar with this concept of investing, have invested in index funds, or are unfamiliar entirely, you may not necessarily know the mechanics and specifics of what certain types of index funds can actually do for you on your FI journey. This week we are rejoined by Alan and Katie Donegan, co-founders of The Rebel Finance School, to dive into the topic of index funds. Together, we discuss the differences between certain types of index funds, fee structures and returns, self-regulating funds, as well as break-down the benefits of what certain types of index funds can provide for you regardless of market and economic fluctuations! While we are not giving direct financial advice on what invest in, this week’s episode is meant as a resource to our listeners who may be curious to learn more about index funds and passive investing!  Katie & Alan Donegan: Website: alandonegan.comPodcast: alandonegan.com/podcastRebel Finance School: www.alandonegan.com/rebelfinanceVTSAX Breakdown: alandonegan.com/vtsax Timestamps: 4:11 - Introductions5:13 - What Is In Index Funds11:19 - Global Funds21:54 - It's Not Doctrine, Don't Get Bogged Down In The Details25:50 - Am I Getting What I Want When I Invest? Should I Be Concerned?35:14 - The Opposite Of An Active Investor45:09 - Is Cap-Weighting The Only Way To Run Index Funds?52:50 - Is There A Future Where Passive Investing Isn't A Good Option?57:46 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Leave A Voice Message Of Your Year End WinsThe Top Chase Business Credit Cards for 2022The Simple Path to Wealth | JL Collins | ChooseFI Ep 411Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: VTSAX funds, bonds, cap-weighted funds, finding your ballasts, staying the course, and the simple path to wealth. This week, we are getting back to the basics! While many of you who have been in the FI community for a while now have definitely heard of JL Collins, those who are new should absolutely be prepared to absorb the wealth of information he provides every time he decides to grace our podcast! Listen along as he and Brad review the basic information that can put you on the simple path to wealth that so many in the FI community have walked! Believe it or not, creating wealth for yourself can be simple! JL Collins: Website: jlcollinsnh.comBook: The Simple Path to Wealth: Your road map to financial independence and a rich, free lifeChautauqua: Get Information About Chautauqua Here! Timestamps: 1:46 - Introduction2:40 - Back To Basics, What Is The Simple Path To Wealth10:15 - Low-Cost Funds And High-Cost Funds14:56 - Index Funds Are For Lazy People (Just Kidding!)20:00 - Is It VTSAX Or Nothing?26:58 - Cap-Weighted Funds30:53 - Staying The Course36:32 - Are There Times When Index Funds Aren't A Good Choice?42:28 - The Highest Likelihood Of Replicable Success46:38 - Bonds51:36 - Rising Rates55:17 - I-Bonds58:22 - Finding Your Ballasts64:55 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: JL Collins from jlcollinsnh | The Stock Series | Part 1 | ChooseFI Ep 19The Stock Series Part 2 | JL Collins | ChooseFI Ep 34What is The Simple Path to Wealth? | JL Collins | ChooseFI Ep 284Alan and Katie Donegan's VTSAX BlogChautauqua | Oh The Places We Will Go | ChooseFI Ep 64Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: finding mentors, the superpower of making less, traveling while making less, rental properties, and the one percent rule. For some who begin the FI journey, it's about doing all they can to reach that FI number, but for many people the journey to FI is about the people you meet and learn from along the way! On this week’s episode we are joined by longtime listener Kelly Cronin to discuss the importance of mentorship, her interesting take that gives a new meaning to traveling while working, and the importance of pursuing what drives you and leads to a life filled with with intentionality. In Kelly's case, a passion towards travel lead to a fascinating side-hustle that affords her the opportunity to make money while seeing the world, who knows where a passion could end up leading you? Kelly Cronin: Website: croninscastles.comRental Property Class: Cronin's Castles STR Class Timestamps: 1:55 - Introduction3:11 - Kelly's Early Financial Influence6:45 - Finding Mentors9:02 - The Superpower of Making Less15:26 - Traveling While Making Less21:09 - Rental Properties29:54 - The Mechanics of Acquiring Rental Properties34:23 - The 1% Rule41:32 - Running The Numbers46:50 - How Is Kelly Marketing This?55:46 - The FI Aspect, How Does This Intersect With Your Job?64:20 - Where Do You Go From Here?65:37 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode: Travel Rewards: How To Travel The World For Almost Free (The Easy Way) | ChooseFI Ep 9Peter AttiaHuberman LabAlignment & Adjustments | Scott & Taylor Rieckens | ChooseFI Ep 403Intuit MintThe BiggerPockets Money PodcastSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategyShare FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial IndependenceKeep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational coursesCommission-Free Investing with M1 Finance