BiggerPockets Money Podcast

We’re coming off one of the wildest weeks in stock market history. How are retirees reacting to these massive swings? How should you adjust your FIRE portfolio in case there are even more turbulent times ahead? We’re chatting with someone who’s in the loop!Welcome back to the BiggerPockets Money podcast! Today, Emma von Weise, certified financial planner (CFP), returns to the show to give her perspective on the recent stock market volatility. She’ll share what her clients are doing and the course of action she recommends for those who are worried about their nest egg crumbling.Times like these prove you need an investment plan. If you don’t already have one, Emma will show you how to create it. You’ll also learn how a few years of cash distributions can help you protect your investments and keep you from selling stocks at a loss. Are bonds actually a “safe haven” for investors? We’ll make sense of rising yields and, finally, share a tax strategy YOU can take advantage of during a stock market slide to trim your taxable income!In This Episode We CoverHow to adjust your FIRE portfolio after recent stock market volatilityHow cash distributions protect retirees from selling stocks low in a downturnWhy you need to create an investment plan today (if you don’t have one!)How to balance “growth” and “safety” in your investment portfolioWhy bond yields have spiked after a huge sell-off (and whether you should buy)Offsetting capital gains from stocks through tax-loss harvestingAnd So Much More!Links from the ShowMindy on BiggerPocketsScott on BiggerPocketsListen to All Your Favorite BiggerPockets Podcasts in One PlaceJoin BiggerPockets for FREEEmail Mindy: Mindy@biggerpockets.comEmail Scott: Scott@biggerpockets.comBiggerPockets Money Facebook GroupFollow BiggerPockets Money on Instagram“Like” BiggerPockets Money on FacebookSubscribe to the BiggerPockets Money YouTube Channel!Get $100 Off Your Ticket to BPCon2025BiggerPockets Money 120 - Are FIRE Naysayers Bad at Math? Yes. with Michael Kitces“A Guided Meditation for When the Stock Market Is Dropping”Emma’s LinkedInFine-Tune Your FIRE Portfolio with “Set for Life”Sign Up for the BiggerPockets Money NewsletterFind an Investor-Friendly Agent in Your AreaBiggerPockets Money 120 - Are FIRE Naysayers Bad at Math? Yes. with Michael KitcesConnect with CarlCheck out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/money-631Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Diana Hummel, an inspiring advocate for early financial independence, shares her journey to retiring at 45, a decade earlier than expected. She discusses the pivotal moments following her parents' passing that ignited her FIRE journey. Listeners will learn about strategic withdrawals from retirement accounts, utilizing the 72(t) method, and navigating healthcare challenges for early retirees. Diana also highlights common pitfalls to avoid and reveals how smart tax planning can fast-track your retirement dreams, all while balancing life and entrepreneurship.

Can you reach financial independence by 45 on a teacher’s salary? A guest proves it's possible with discipline and smart investments. Discover how a high savings rate and strategic planning can pave your way to FIRE. Explore the complexities of early retirement, including when to pay off your mortgage and how to maintain flexibility. The conversation dives into balancing contributions between different retirement accounts while ensuring personal well-being. It's a roadmap to financial freedom that emphasizes enjoying the journey along the way!

Markets are soaring after a pause on tariffs, prompting discussions on investment strategies during this volatile period. The hosts analyze how these changes could reshape global trade dynamics and impact personal portfolios. There's an intriguing debate on interest rates and their potential effects on future mortgages. As investment paths shift towards real estate, the conversation also highlights the need for diversified strategies amidst uncertainty. Tune in for expert insights and practical advice on navigating these unpredictable financial waters!

The journey to financial independence can feel isolating, but finding your FIRE community is essential. Attending events like the EconoMe Conference can transform your experience, providing motivation and new strategies. The hosts share how networking nurtures relationships and fuels the FIRE journey. They also offer tips for introverts to connect and thrive at these gatherings. Local meetups can be a game-changer, helping you forge connections and learn from others on the same path. Community support makes the FIRE grind not just easier, but also more enjoyable!

Amberly Grant, a FIRE enthusiast and co-host of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, dives into a lively debate on investment strategies. She champions real estate through tactics like house hacking and live-in flips, showcasing tax savings and cash flow potential. Meanwhile, Mindy leans towards stock investing, emphasizing passive strategies and ideal portfolio allocations for early retirement. The two share personal anecdotes, making for a compelling discussion to help you decide which path might lead to financial independence faster!

Bryce Stewart, a former sixth-grade teacher, achieved financial independence in just ten years while earning $44K a year. He discusses how strategic real estate investments transformed his life. Bryce shares the sacrifices he made, including house hacking and diversifying income streams, to build a passive income that outstripped his teaching salary. He emphasizes that income isn't a barrier to achieving FIRE, and reveals the pivotal purchase that set him on his path. His insights offer valuable lessons for anyone seeking early retirement.

Mark Trautman, an early retiree who achieved financial independence at 50, shares his unique journey and insights on creating "FI paychecks" that sustain his lifestyle without relying heavily on his savings. He emphasizes that true FIRE isn’t just about money—it's about spending meaningful time with loved ones. Mark's ‘Fun Bucket’ allows for worry-free enjoyment, and he advocates for delayed retirement to enhance financial security. His experience shows that a thoughtful approach to retirement can lead to joy and freedom.

Julie Rose, who achieved Barista FIRE at just 36, shares her journey from corporate burnout to a fulfilling nomadic lifestyle with only $500K. She explains how trading the 9-to-5 grind for adventure like sunrise safaris and beach walks can lead to true happiness. Julie emphasizes the importance of minimizing consumerism and leveraging side hustles to boost savings. Her inspiring story proves that financial independence isn't just a dream—it's attainable through smart planning and a bit of creativity!

As stock market volatility rattles the financial landscape, early retirees and those pursuing financial independence are urged to rethink their investment strategies. The discussion highlights the risks associated with a declining portfolio and the need for proactive management. Listeners learn about the potential benefits of diversifying with bonds or real estate to protect their gains. Plus, personal stories underscore the emotional challenges couples face when navigating retirement, making resilience and adaptability key in these uncertain times.