ChooseFI

Our Favorite episode of the year, listeners share their remarkable financial wins and transformations throughout the year. These stories highlight the power of financial independence (FI) and showcase actionable steps taken by individuals and families on their journeys. Timestamped Key Topics: Celebration of Listener Wins Defining Financial Independence (FI) Justin's Nomadic Journey Key Insight: Heather's Second-Generation FI Key Insight: Mike's Family Resilience Key Insight: Crystal's Maxed Accounts Key Insight: Rick and Kelly's Transformation Key Insight: Jake's Entrepreneurial Leap Key Insight:

Brad shares insights from his life-changing trip to Asia and how it reshaped his perspectives on connection and gratitude. He highlights the importance of direct human interactions and how travel exposes the beauty of our shared humanity. Ginger emphasizes the value of taking risks to build relationships and the significance of continuous learning. Additionally, they discuss the upcoming changes at ChooseFI, including the ability to interact with experts and community engagement through questions. They also touch on upcoming changes with Southwest flights and the importance of utilizing travel rewards effectively. 00:00:55 - Brad’s Trip to Asia 00:05:53 - The Importance of Connection "Connection is the key to a fulfilling life."00:08:07 - Travel as Personal Growth 00:20:02 - Community and Financial Independence 00:27:12 - Upcoming Changes in ChooseFI 00:31:10 - Southwest Flight Changes 00:49:00 - Public Service Announcement 01:07:11 - Listener Feedback Keypoints Related Resources: Daniel Kahneman's 'Thinking, Fast and Slow' Book LinkScott Adams' 'How to Fail at Nearly Everything and Still Win Big' Book Link

Join Brad Barrett and a panel of community members as they explore the transformative experiences at the FI Freedom Retreat . This episode dives into the importance of community connection, personal growth, and designing a balanced life centered around financial independence. Highlighted stories emphasize overcoming fears, embracing sabbaticals, and discovering that the journey to financial independence involves much more than numbers. Key Takeaways: Importance of Community:Sabbaticals Lead to Renewal:First Impressions Matter:Finding Your Tribe: Timestamps & Topics: Community Connection Discussion First Timer Experience with Viji Evers Sabbaticals and Life Changes with Shawn Business Adjustments for Travel with Christine Wheatley Reflecting on Personal Identity with Susanna Key Quotes: "Money does not make you happy. It does make life easier." "Finding your tribe can be life-changing." "Just do it. Absolutely worth it." "Community leads to crafting your best life." "Prepare for the worst; aim for the best outcome." Consider Negotiating a Sabbatical: If you're feeling burnt out, take time to explore this option. Reach Out to Local FI Groups: Find a supportive community near you to enrich your FI journey. Discussion Questions:

Katie Donegan shares her shift in perspective on the journey towards financial independence (FI), revealing the struggles she faced as a resistant partner and her eventual embrace of the FI lifestyle. She touches on the significance of personal development, overcoming internal blocks, the impact of comparison, and perfectionism on happiness. The conversation explores maintaining balance between work and leisure while finding purpose and practical advice for navigating financial independence. Key Topics and Timestamps: Katie's Journey to FI Impact of Mr. Money Mustache Living with Financial Independence Balancing Enjoyment and Spend Adjusting to Freedom Comparison and Its Effects The Power of Vulnerability Overcoming Perfectionism

Kyle and Jamie Holmson paid off an astounding $123,000 in medical student loans in just three years—all while balancing a waitress’s salary and a resident’s income. Their journey highlights the importance of adopting simple, practical financial strategies while prioritizing essential relationships, health, and enjoyable experiences. Debt Repayment Journey Returning to Basics Prioritizing Relationships Finding Balance in Financial Independence Health and Wellness Focus Actionable Takeaways: Timestamps & Discussion Points: Kyle's Debt Repayment Journey Back to Basics The Importance of Relationships Finding Balance in Financial Independence Health and Wellness Key Quotes: Discussion Questions: Related Resources Related Podcast Episodes The Emergency Fund(Ep 66 )The Valuist Returns | FI Roundup with Bo Loy | (Ep 441)The 6 Pillars of Health | Dr. Bobby Dubois (Ep 498)Mad Fientist Origin Story (Ep 17)Living Frugal (Ep 12)The Valuist | Bo Loy (Ep 396) Related Content The Fog of Work by Doug NordmanDr. Bobby Live Long and Well Podcast

Answering Listener Questions on asset allocation, retirement strategies, and the intricacies of real estate investing. With Brad Barrett and Rachael Camp. Whether you are pondering upon the backdoor Roth IRA strategy or seeking clarity on managing funds without a 401k, this episode is for you! Public Service Announcement: Importance of filing the Beneficial Ownership Information form for legal entities by December 31st . Mailbag Questions: How to Invest Without a 401kCompany Matches in Retirement AccountsBackdoor Roth IRAAsset AllocationReal Estate Investing Questions: What can I do if my employer doesn’t offer a 401k? How do I manage sequence of returns risk in retirement? What should I consider when investing in real estate? Actionable Takeaways: **Disclaimer 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.

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 Justin's Awakening Moment Overcoming Debt and Personal Challenges The Role of Coaches in Growth Tracking as a Tool for Success Key Quote:Principles for Continuous Growth Action Item: Additional Resources Fit Rich Life Coaching:fitrichlifecoaching.comSavings Rate Tracker:fitrichlifecoaching.com/trackerWorkout Program:fitrichlifecoaching.com/workout Tim Ferris Article on Mr Money Mustache The Shockingly Simple Math of Early Retirement Social Media @JustinDavidCarl Discussion Questions

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. Tracking Net Worth: Regularly evaluate your financial progress. Community Support: Rely on your community during tough times. Flexibility in Planning: Adapt financial strategies as life changes occur. Maintain a Positive Mindset: Approach challenges with optimism and agency. 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 WealthFaithFi (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 The Power of Vulnerability Simplicity and Enjoyment FI and Choose Philosophy Actionable Takeaways Explore Joyful ActivitiesBuild Deeper Relationships Related Resources The Growth Guide Podcastthegrowthguide.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. Chapter Markers: [00:00:00][00:01:38][00:05:22][00:20:07][00:49:34] Key Takeaways: capital gains tax ratescapital gains harvestingmaintain eligibility for health insurance subsidies Links & Resources: Measure Twice MoneyMeasure 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: deanturnertraining.com@DeanTTraining 🔑 Key Themes Discussed: 🕒 Chapters: 🔗 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. CollinsHevySubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit CardsEmpower: Free Dashboard to Track Your FinancesCIT Bank Platinum Savings AccountM1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancingCashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back RewardsTravel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and pointsEmergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential InfoStudent Loan Planner: Custom ConsultMint 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: 🕒 Chapters: 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: Securing Your Financial Life | ChooseFI Ep 397Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit CardsEmpower: Free Dashboard to Track Your FinancesCIT Bank Platinum Savings AccountM1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancingCashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back RewardsTravel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and pointsEmergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential InfoStudent Loan Planner: Custom ConsultMint 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.comInstagram:@personalfinanceclub 🔑 Key Themes Discussed: 🕒 Chapters: 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: The 7 Sins of InvestingNectarineSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit CardsEmpower: Free Dashboard to Track Your FinancesCIT Bank Platinum Savings AccountM1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancingCashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back RewardsTravel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and pointsEmergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential InfoStudent Loan Planner: Custom ConsultMint 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: 🕒 Chapters: 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: Mailbag: Getting Started with FI, Debt vs. Investing, Dividends, 4% Includes Taxes?, Roth 401k | Rachael Camp | ChooseFI Ep 505Mailbag: Roth vs. Trad, $35k Roth to 529, Combining Finances | Rachael Camp | ChooseFI Ep 496How to Access Your Retirement Accounts Before 59.5 | Sean Mullaney | ChooseFI Ep 475Drawdown Strategies: Karsten vs. Fritz | ChooseFI Ep 427House Hacking With Coach Carson | ChooseFI Ep 16Scott Trench | Set For Life | ChooseFI Ep 63Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit CardsEmpower: Free Dashboard to Track Your FinancesCIT Bank Platinum Savings AccountM1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancingCashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back RewardsTravel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and pointsEmergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential InfoStudent Loan Planner: Custom ConsultMint 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: 🕒 Chapters: 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: “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 CameronRetire Often PodcastFamous Failures“Think Like a Rocket Scientist: Simple Strategies You Can Use to Make Giant Leaps in Work and Life” by Ovan VarolSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit CardsEmpower: Free Dashboard to Track Your FinancesCIT Bank Platinum Savings AccountM1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancingCashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back RewardsTravel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and pointsEmergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential InfoStudent Loan Planner: Custom ConsultMint 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: 🕒 Chapters: 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 HardyThe Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early RetirementBiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast“Set for Life: Dominate Life, Money, and the American Dream” by Scott TrenchSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit CardsEmpower: Free Dashboard to Track Your FinancesCIT Bank Platinum Savings AccountM1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancingCashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back RewardsTravel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and pointsEmergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential InfoStudent Loan Planner: Custom ConsultMint 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: 🕒 Chapters: 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: BiggerPocketsThe BiggerPockets Money PodcastSubscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit CardsEmpower: Free Dashboard to Track Your FinancesCIT Bank Platinum Savings AccountM1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancingCashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back RewardsTravel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and pointsEmergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential InfoStudent Loan Planner: Custom ConsultMint 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: 🕒 Chapters: 🔗 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.“Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not!” by Robert KiyosakiRich, Broke, or Dead? Post Retirement FIRE Calculator Go Curry Cracker | Capital Gains, Losses and The Roth Conversion Ladder | ChooseFI Ep. 18Afford 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 CardsEmpower: Free Dashboard to Track Your FinancesCIT Bank Platinum Savings AccountM1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancingCashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back RewardsTravel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and pointsEmergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential InfoStudent Loan Planner: Custom ConsultMint 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: 🕒 Chapters: 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: Risk Parity RadioBig 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 WinfreyThe Role Of Bonds In A Portfolio with Frank Vasquez | ChooseFI Ep 194Find Your Local ChooseFI Group More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit CardsEmpower: Free Dashboard to Track Your FinancesCIT Bank Platinum Savings AccountM1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancingCashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back RewardsTravel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and pointsEmergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential InfoStudent Loan Planner: Custom ConsultMint 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: 🕒 Chapters: 🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources: Update: Healthiest Year Ever | Dean Turner | ChooseFI Ep 480Making FI Fun Again | ChooseFI Ep 502 Subscribe To The FI Weekly More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit CardsEmpower: Free Dashboard to Track Your FinancesCIT Bank Platinum Savings AccountM1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancingCashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back RewardsTravel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and pointsEmergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential InfoStudent Loan Planner: Custom ConsultMint Mobile