ChooseFI
ChooseFI
How would your life change if you reached Financial Independence and got to the point where working is optional? What actions can you take today to make that not just possible but probable. Jonathan & Brad explore the tactics that the FI community uses to reclaim decades of their lives. They discuss reducing expenses, crushing debt, tax optimization, building passive income streams through online businesses and real estate and how to travel the world for free. Every episode is packed with actionable tips and no topic is too big or small as long as it speeds up the process of reaching financial independence.
Episodes
Mentioned books
29 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 1h 25min
Risk Based Guardrails for Drawdown | Ep 566
Aubrey Williams, a financial advisor and founder of Open Path Financial, shares insights tailored for the FI community, focusing on neurodiverse clients. He discusses the shortcomings of the traditional 4% withdrawal rule, advocating for personalized, historical analyses instead. Aubrey introduces innovative 'risk-based guardrails' that allow for dynamic spending adjustments based on portfolio performance, promoting financial confidence. They also explore how community engagement and flexible spending can empower individuals to reach financial independence sooner.
38 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 1h 7min
Tax Planning To and Through Early Retirement | Cody Garrett & Sean Mullaney | Ep 565
Cody Garrett and Sean Mullaney, co-authors of Tax Planning To and Through Early Retirement, bring their expertise to the table. They explore the complexities of tax strategies for early retirement, offering step-by-step guidance on drawdown processes and effective tax rates. They dispel common fears about retirement taxes, revealing how most retirees end up paying less than expected. Additionally, they break down the ins and outs of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), explaining their impact and how to navigate them successfully.
59 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 1h 10min
Financial Independence Basics with Jackie Cummings Koski | Ep 564
Jackie Cummings Koski, a certified financial planner and co-host of the Catching Up to Fi podcast, shares her insights on achieving financial independence. She emphasizes the importance of understanding FI, starting small with savings, and leveraging community support. The discussion highlights the power of the 4% rule and compound interest, while also tackling strategies for evaluating expenses. Jackie encourages listeners to take manageable steps towards financial liberation, reminding them that small changes can lead to significant benefits over time.
22 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 57min
Safe Withdrawal Rates, Drawdown Strategies, RMDs and 50 Year FI Timelines
In this discussion, Karsten Jeske, known as Big Earn, a Ph.D. in economics and withdrawal rate expert, teams up with Fritz Gilbert, author and retirement strategist. They dive into the controversial shift from the traditional 4% safe withdrawal rate to a proposed 5.5%, scrutinizing its implications. The duo emphasizes the importance of adjusting retirement strategies based on longevity and highlights critical factors like Social Security and Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) that can impact financial independence.
47 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 1h
Navigating Financial Conflicts in Relationships | Ep 562
Financial flexibility is crucial for independence, and the hosts discuss how various asset types can enhance strategies. They dive deep into the benefits of maximizing Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for tax-free healthcare growth. Communication is key in relationships to navigate financial conflicts, with tips on aligning goals and values. Personal stories about community building and family adventures add a relatable touch. Plus, there's a nod to using AI tools for productivity and health insights.
28 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 50min
Mini-Retirements: Test Driving Financial Independence | Ep 561
Jillian Johnsrud, author of 'Retire Often', advocates for the transformative power of mini-retirements—intentional breaks from work for personal growth. She discusses how embracing these breaks can enrich life, help manage fears of retirement, and ease the transition to full retirement. Jillian emphasizes the importance of enjoying life now while balancing immediate experiences with long-term goals. By focusing on a few meaningful activities, individuals can practice living beyond work, ultimately enhancing their journey towards financial independence.
34 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 1h
Living Off the 4% Rule | Marla Taner | Ep 560
Marla Taner, a retired financial guru, shares her inspiring journey of living off the 4% rule since 2013. She discusses the psychology behind transitioning from saving to enjoying retirement. Marla highlights the importance of maintaining a cash cushion for peace of mind during market fluctuations. She also emphasizes reassessing fixed expenses to create flexibility in budgeting. Plus, her travel rewards strategies reveal how financial independence can lead to enriching experiences. Tune in for actionable insights on achieving financial freedom!
79 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 1h 20min
Zero-Based Everything: FI, Travel, and the Art of Starting Fresh | Katie & Alan Donegan | Ep 559
Katie and Alan Donegan, co-founders of Rebel Finance School and passionate advocates for financial independence, explore the intriguing concept of zero-based thinking. They share their experiences as digital nomads, balancing travel with the need for stability. The discussion also delves into redefining wealth through 'freedom funds' instead of traditional assets. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their decisions and consider a new approach to finances—emphasizing personal growth, mindful living, and the probabilistic nature of life.
231 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 36min
Designing an Intentional Life | Tim Ferriss | Ep 558
Tim Ferriss, bestselling author and influential podcaster, joins to explore living intentionally and the nuances of financial independence. He highlights the game of life—selecting projects based on learning rather than merely aiming for success. Reflecting on the profound impact of mentors, he shares personal stories that shaped his journey. The conversation emphasizes the importance of playful experimentation post-financial goals, nurturing social connections, and redefining fitness for longevity. Tim’s insights inspire a mindful approach to life's adventures.
56 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 1h
It's Big, But Is It Beautiful? Let's Talk About It... | Ep 557
In this engaging discussion, Sean Mullaney, The FI Tax Guy and co-author on tax planning for early retirement, shares insights into the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill. He and Brad delve into how extended tax rates and a higher standard deduction can benefit early retirees. They also highlight new charitable contribution deductions for non-itemizers and introduce a $6,000 senior deduction for those 65 and older. Plus, strategies for maximizing premium tax credits starting in 2026 are explored, making this a must-listen for financial independence enthusiasts.
