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Oftentimes on our show, we talk to people on the FI journey with "regular" 9-5 jobs, and other times we talk to those who have achieved their FI goal and are able to retire from their careers. However, we rarely talk about money management and FI when it comes to those working in service industries, such as serving and bartending. This week we are joined by author Barbara Sloan to discuss taking control of your finances while in a variable income job, the importance of an emergency fund, and the attainability of retirement accounts and health insurance while in these types of industries. While it may seem unattainable to budget and financially plan for the long term when your income is non-fixed, you shouldn't count yourself out from this journey! Creating your dream life is possible for all, with the right systems in place to ensure it, that is an option possible for those in all career types. Barbara Sloan: Website: tippedfinance.com Book: "Tipped: The life changing guide to financial freedom for waitresses, bartenders, strippers, and all other service industry professionals" Timestamps: 1:03 - Introduction 2:54 - Sub Minimum Wage And Tipping 14:03 - The Importance Of Tracking 21:06 - Tips, Taxes, and Social Security 35:28 - Strategies For Health Insurance 41:18 - Lifestyle Design/The Financial System 48:44 - Emergency Funds 54:27 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today's Episode: Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

There can be points on the journey to FI where you feel that you may not be able to accomplish your goals, or even take advantage of some of the hacks we talk about on the show. But sometimes all it requires is for you not to limit yourself and just think outside the box. This week we are re-joined by friend of the podcast Ginger to discuss how the transtheoretical model of change can apply to those on the path to FI, as well as read your emails and answer some of your questions on this installment of Round-Up. Oftentimes, we forget how flexible and capable of change we really are, and its life's curveballs that make this journey different for everyone. While setbacks can put you off from pursuing your goals, or make you feel as if you don't belong on this path, they shouldn't deter you from attacking your goals. When you can accept that changing and adapting does not equal failure, you not only open yourself up to new options and possibilities, but exceed your own expectations while on the path to FI! Timestamps: 0:48 - Introduction/Economy Conference 9:43 - Travel Wins 21:23 - Ancillary Travel Rewards Benefits 26:20 - Bold Move Update And The Transtheoretical Model of Change 40:58 - Determining Your FI Number 51:22 - The FI Pre-College Approach 58:11 - Savings Account Interest Rates And Community Win 63:11 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today's Episode: Fees, Frugality, and 401K Fears | ChooseFI Ep 428 Find Your Local ChooseFI Group CampFI Chautauqua FI Freedom Retreat Learning to Leave | Diania Merriam | ChooseFI Ep 416 Catching Up To FI Bob Sharpe YouTube ChooseFI Travel Rewards Top Recommended Credit Card Offers From Our Partners Todoist Dominick Quartuccio How To Test Out of College While You're Still In High School | Millionaire Educator | ChooseFI Ep 238 The $100K Glorified Sleepaway Camp | Millionaire Educator | Ep 386 CIT Bank 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 strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: the power of outside, overcoming adversity, the value of streaks, building momentum, and van life. As we've discussed many times on our show, creating and maintaining habits are an important part of the FI journey. Not only does it require you to prioritize what you value, but it can lead to success in many areas of your life. However, while we talk about the success that habits can lead to, sometimes we overlook that starting a habit can be stressful or overwhelming. This week we are joined by Gregg from Outside365 to discuss what your life can look like when you align with your habits, and the momentum and value that can be found when you start to prioritize your habits a little bit each day. While it may seem overwhelming at times to start something new, whether it's saving more and spending less, or even just picking up a new hobby, you may find that the more you do it, the easier it comes! Remember, while you may feel a sense of urgency to instill habits in your life, remember to be patient, and take it a day at a time! Outside 365 Website: outside365.blog Timestamps: 1:13 – Introduction 7:51 – The Power of Outside 12:53 – Overcoming Adversity 17:02 – Building Momentum 22:46 – Truly Being In Nature 28:52 – Plausible Outside Experiences 33:25 – The Value of Streaks 37:20 – Van Life 47:37 – Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today's Episode: Subscribe to The FI Weekly! "The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative" by Florence Williams "Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones" by James Clear "Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals" by Oliver Burkeman "Stolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention–and How to Think Deeply Again" by Johann Hari Huberman Lab Podcast Dave and Matt Vans More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: tackling the big issues, the everywhere effect, change and discomfort, and getting the most from what you have. On this Podcast in recent months, we have made a point to highlight the fact that FI isn't about deprivation. While we do think making a few cuts in some areas is a good thing, we believe in that idea because it acts as a means to an end, with the endpoint being living the most fulfilling life available to you. So how is it possible deprive ourselves in a manner that doesn't leave us feeling deprived? Well, we have to skill up out our spending abilities.! This week we have Mr. Money Mustache on the podcast to discuss the skill of spending and how to approach utilizing your resources to ensure your own happiness and wellbeing. Make cuts in your life where there us a lack of purpose so you can level up areas of importance and passion! Mr. Money Mustache: Website: mrmoneymustache.com Timestamps: 0:51 - Introdcution 4:15 - The Power Of Spending With Less Income 9:24 - Tackling The Big Issues First 17:06 - Change and Discomfort 19:55 - The Everywhere Effect 28:06 - The Power Of Community 31:45 - Getting The Most From What You Have 40:23 - Cost VS Comfort, Wheres The Line? 45:34 - Early Cutting Is Essential 50:53 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today's Episode: Mr. Money Mustache on Life After FI: The Truth About Retiring Early in Your 30s The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early Retirement How to Go from Middle-Class to Kickass Outside365 The California Effect Afford Anything With Paula Pant FIRE Dating "Die With Zero" By Bill Perkins Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: forming habits, fulfilling goals, routines, the importance of health, restriction without deprivation, and working on life. While beginning your FI journey means having goals and taking necessary steps to achieve them, it may seem like you have to approach your life with discipline and absolute structure when it comes to money matters. While setting yourself up for success on this journey does mean creating different habits in regards to spending or investing, these habits should never seem absolute or deprive you from enjoying your life. This week we are joined by the Mad Fi-entist to discuss the evolution and the necessary changes he has made while on the journey to FI, and the beauty found with having a routine and creating meaningful habits. FI is a journey that requires you to experiment and change as the journey progresses. Not only will you learn about yourself on this journey, but you will pick up and exchange old habits for new ones that better suit the life you want to be living. Remember that while discipline is necessary for this journey, that does not mean you can't evolve and change up your routine for the better! The Mad Fientist: Website: madfientist.com Podcast: Financial Independence Podcast Album: Find The Album Here! Twitter: @madfientist Timestamps: 0:57 - Introduction 3:25 - Fulfilling Goals And Forming Habits 10:16 - Routine 15:25 - The Importance of Health 23:01 - The Evolution Of FI For Us 31:34 - The Skill Of Spending 40:15 - Working On Life 52:17 - Restriction Without Total Deprivation 61:35 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today's Episode: "Ultralearning: Master Hard Skills, Outsmart the Competition, and Accelerate Your Career" by Scott Young and James Clear "Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones" by James Clear Money With Katie "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life By Bill Perkins Mint Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

In this episode: early financial conversations, what you truly value, house hacking, and the psychology of FI. It can be scary to have to acknowledge the reality of your financial situation, especially if you feel you do not have the financial literacy to proceed with confidence. However, setbacks and failures can often be blessings in disguise. This week we are joined by The FI Couple to discuss the importance of perseverance and flexibility in the face of uncertainty, as well as the strength that can come from a united front. The journey to FI is deeply nuanced, and never perfect. While you may find yourself wanting to make your journey as optimal and expedited as you can, we know that life sometimes happens and your journey can be far from perfect. However, sometimes when we find ourselves at "rock bottom" and it seems like everything in our world is against us. Rather than feel defeated, allow the setbacks to act as momentum to charge ahead as you re-align and re-adjust! The FI Couple: Website: theficouple.com Socials: @theficouple Timestamps: 0:49 - Introduction/The Early Days 2:05 - Early Financial Conversations 11:03 - Discovering What You Truly Value 21:28 - Bouncing Back After A Layoff 26:06 - Entrepreneurship 30:10 - House Hacking 38:34 - The Off Market/Solving Problems 43:13 - The Single Family Home/The Psychology Of FI 48:29 - The Season Of Hustle 51:56 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today's Episode: Dominick Quartuccio Scott Trench Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance

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 - Introduction 3:02 - FI And Pickleball 7:54 - Finding Your Why 12:50 - Happiness Is How You Fill Your Time 18:40 - It's Not About Deprivation 25:28 - Creating Space 35:46 - Strategy Board Games And Why They Are Great 45:54 - Strategy Boards Games, Decision Making, And Life 54:38 - The Top Four Concepts Of Strategy Board Games 72:58 - Starting Strategy Board Games 82:28 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today's Episode: Mr Money Mustache The Motley Fool Board Game Geek Board Game Arena Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-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 - Introduction 3:31 - FI Is For Everyone 9:16 - Personal Investments 14:08 - Paying For Experiences 19:09 - An Introduction To FI 28:20 - Task Management 35:19 - Travel Rewards 47:06 - 401k Contribution Question 61:00 - Tax Season Hack 68:51 - The Content We Are Consuming 75:28 - 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 Perkins The Peter Attia Drive All The Hacks Taking Stock of Your Life | Jordan Grumet | ChooseFI Ep 390 Playing With FIRE Todoist Tim Ferriss Huberman Lab My First Million ChooseFI 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 Lewis Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-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.com Karsten's Website: earlyretirementnow.com Timestamps: 1:35 - Introcution 2:09 - Karsten's Strategy 6:05 - Fritz's Strategy 13:28 - Fixed Withdrawal Rates 18:08 - Your Retirement Spending Mentality 23:01 - The Source Of The Bucket Strategy Debate 30:46 - Refilling The Buckets 40:40 - The Cheap Gimmick 45:13 - The Importance Of Rebalancing 51:03 - The Key Takeaways/The "Average" Withdrawal 59:06 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today's Episode: Our Retirement Investment Drawdown Strategy The Tail End "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life" by Bill Perkins How to Calculate Your Safe Withdrawal Rate without using Simulations Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-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: BiggerPockets Podcast: The BiggerPockets Money Podcast Instagram: @scott_trench Timestamps: 0:57 - Introduction 2:05 - The 2.5 Million Dollar Inversion 8:52 - Always Look At The Incentives 12:49 - The Traditional Path To FI And PotShots 17:45 - Your Biggest Asset/Should You Be Inefficient? 25:52 - Executing The Concept 31:12 - The Impact Of Interest Rates Today 42:21 - The Commercial Impact 52:10 - Buying Properties With Cash 56:21 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today's Episode: Scott Trench | Set For Life | ChooseFI Ep 63 First-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 Kiyosaki Mr. Money Mustache on Life After FI: The Truth About Retiring Early in Your 30s BiggerPockets Rental Property Calculator Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance