

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

39 snips
Mar 3, 2025 • 1h
Getting Personal With Personal Finance | Ron & Ginger | Ep 536
Ron Babcock, a TV editor, stand-up comedian, and devoted family man, discusses his path to financial independence. He emphasizes the significance of long-term thinking in personal finance, encouraging listeners to connect with like-minded communities to overcome feelings of isolation. Ron shares insights on building a safety net and the power of having an emergency fund, alongside humorous anecdotes on balancing finances with parenting. His practical budgeting strategies and experiences highlight the evolving nature of personal finance management.

62 snips
Feb 24, 2025 • 58min
The Top 10 Ten Investing Mistakes We All Make | Cody Garrett | Ep 535
Join Cody Garrett, an expert in investing and financial planning, as he dives into the costly mistakes even seasoned investors make. Cody emphasizes mastering asset location for tax efficiency, helping listeners understand the optimal placement of investments. He also discusses the importance of active management in retirement contributions and the benefits of donating appreciated securities. Additionally, he highlights the significance of intentional giving and proactive financial planning to secure wealth for future generations. Tune in for valuable insights!

33 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 58min
Inherited Account Deep Dive, Barista FI and Saving When Starting a Business | Rachael Camp | Ep 534
In this discussion, Rachael Camp, a CFP, shares her expertise on financial independence and smart management of inherited accounts. She explains the Barista FI approach, allowing early withdrawals while working part-time, and emphasizes the importance of health insurance evaluations in early retirement. Rachael also breaks down new rules for inherited IRAs post-Secure Act, advising on tax implications and beneficiary designations. Plus, she offers insights for entrepreneurs on managing finances during transitions and viewing business expenses as investments.

28 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 1h 4min
Getting Personal with Personal Finance: Brad & Ginger | Ep 533
Join Ginger as she interviews Brad, a financial independence advocate, as they peel back the layers of personal finance struggles. They discuss the relatable journey to financial independence, including 'one more year syndrome' and the impact on relationships. Brad shares insights on the significance of failures in growth, navigating post-independence life, and lessons learned through divorce. They emphasize valuing experiences over possessions and the emotional aspects of financial choices, all showing that financial independence is within reach for everyone.

10 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 46min
Wouldn't It Be Cool If ?? | Open the Aperture With Jonathan And Brad | Ep 532
Get ready for a fresh take on financial independence! Hosts dive into personal journeys, sharing transformative experiences over the last decade. Discover the essential formula to calculate your FI number and why options matter in achieving freedom. The power of community takes center stage as they invite listeners to contribute their insights and strategies, enhancing the collective knowledge of personal finance. Join the movement towards a collaborative financial future!

40 snips
Jan 27, 2025 • 40min
2025 State of the Stock Market | Brian Feroldi | Ep 531
In this enlightening discussion, Brian Feroldi, a stock market expert and frequent guest, shares insights on the stock market's remarkable rise, with the S&P 500 gaining 25% in 2024. He emphasizes the importance of understanding investment horizons and managing expectations. Feroldi highlights that the top 10 S&P 500 companies now represent 39% of the index's value, urging caution in concentrated investments. The conversation also covers current market valuations and the potential impact of emerging technologies on future investment strategies.

51 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 1h 11min
The FI Case for Electric Vehicles | With Chris Terrell | Ep 530
Chris Terrell, an electric vehicle expert, shares his transformative journey into the EV world, focusing on the financial perks of ownership. He highlights the rising affordability of EVs, especially in the used market, and the significant tax credits available through the Inflation Reduction Act. Terrell discusses the practical benefits of home charging and delves into a cost comparison between EVs and gas vehicles, demonstrating long-term savings. He also addresses common misconceptions, making a compelling case for switching to electric.

32 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 55min
Getting Personal With Personal Finance | Laura And Ginger | Ep 529
Laura shares her transition from a high-stress academic career to early retirement, influenced by personal and global challenges. She discusses the emotional toll of academia, the struggle for work-life balance, and grappling with identity after leaving her job. Conversations about financial independence lead to reflections on values and what it means to have 'enough.' Exploring mental preparations for retirement, she highlights useful resources that aided her journey, emphasizing the importance of community support during this life change.

65 snips
Jan 6, 2025 • 49min
The Purpose Code | Jordan Grumet | 528
Jordan Grumet, author of "The Purpose Code" and host of the "Earn and Invest" podcast, dives into the fascinating differences between "big P" and "little p" purpose. He shares insights on how small, joyful activities can enhance life satisfaction, while emphasizing the importance of ‘purpose anchors’ that light us up. Jordan provides actionable strategies for creating meaning through incremental changes, encouraging listeners to focus on enjoyment over traditional success. His reflections on mortality and community further enrich the discussion on living a fulfilled and purposeful life.

33 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 58min
Buy What You Love Without Going Broke | Frugal Friends | Ep 527
Join Jen and Jill, co-hosts of the Frugal Friends podcast and co-authors of "Buy What You Love Without Going Broke," as they explore the balance between frugality and financial freedom. They discuss the 'no spend challenge' and how it fosters creativity while reducing decision fatigue. Delve into the psychological aspects of spending driven by dopamine, and discover the 'Four F's'—family, friends, faith, and fulfilling work—that should guide financial choices. Embrace life as an experiment to align spending with your core values.