Motley Fool Money Interview With J.L. Collins, the Godfather of Financial Independence
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Nov 29, 2025 
J.L. Collins, renowned author and blogger on financial independence, shares his insights on achieving freedom through smart saving. He outlines the appeal of a 50% savings rate and how to avoid lifestyle inflation. Collins emphasizes the importance of simplicity in investing with index funds and the advantages of sticking to one total stock market fund. He also discusses the 'self-cleansing' nature of these funds and how historical bear markets present buying opportunities for savvy investors, all while prioritizing choices over traditional retirement.
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FU Money As Incremental Freedom
- FU money is the incremental freedom you gain as you build wealth, not just full financial independence.
- Each step toward FU money increases your optionality to make bolder life choices.
Start With A High Savings Rate
- Save aggressively early: J.L. Collins recommends saving about 50% of income to accelerate financial independence.
- Increase both lifestyle and investments as income grows so saving stays sustainable.
"Everything's Free" Moment
- Mr. Money Mustache told J.L. Collins that once you're wealthy, "everything's free," which reframed Collins' view of wealth.
- That insight convinced Collins that frugality to reach wealth needn't last once you achieve financial freedom.
