Episódios

  • Goal Setting for 2026 | Ep 584

    Goal Setting for 2026 | Ep 584
    Feb 2 2026

    Listeners collaboratively share their financial goals for 2026,

    The discussion highlights the importance of local meetups, actionable saving strategies, and frugal living tips.

    Practical insights and specific tools like TrueCar for car purchasing are shared, reinforcing the idea that connecting with others in the FI community can lead to significant progress in achieving personal financial goals.

    Key Tactical Takeaways
    • Engage Locally: Create or join local FI community events to foster connections and support.
    • Utilize TrueCar: Leverage the TrueCar platform to compare prices and negotiate car purchases effectively, potentially saving thousands.
    • Practice Intentional Saving: Adopt strategies such as meal planning to reduce grocery costs and enhance savings rates.
    • Set Clear Goals: Identify specific savings rates and actionable steps to strategically reach financial independence by 2026.
    Ideas Rule/Formula Description 30-Day Savings Challenge Undertake a 30-day challenge to identify and cut 10% of discretionary spending. Rule of 72 To estimate how long it will take for money to double, divide 72 by your expected annual return (e.g., 72 / 8% = 9 years). Tools, Accounts, or Strategies Mentioned Tool/Strategy Purpose TrueCar Price comparison tool for car purchases ChooseFI Events Platform for creating and joining local FI community events Sinking Funds Allocate specific savings for future purchases (e.g., cars) Resources & References
    • TrueCar
    • ChooseFI Community
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    59 minutos
  • The Detour is the Journey | Ep 583

    The Detour is the Journey | Ep 583
    Jan 26 2026

    Brad and Jonathan continue unpacking *incremental gains* — the small, tactical decisions that compound into financial independence.
    This conversation moves quickly through **core FI math, expense optimization, retirement accounts, and tax strategy**, showing how flexibility, optionality, and understanding the rules of the game can radically change your long-term outcomes.

    Retirement Accounts: The Rules That Matter 401(k): Always Take the Match
    • Employer match = free money
    • Declining it = turning down part of your salary
    Pre-Tax Accounts Are Often Better for FI Account Benefit Traditional 401(k) Lowers taxable income today Traditional IRA Tax deduction now 457(b) Penalty-free access after separation

    📌 Roth accounts are not automatically better for FI seekers.

    Tax Strategy (This Is Where FI Wins) Marginal vs Effective Tax Rates Term Meaning Marginal Rate on your last dollar Effective Total tax ÷ total income

    Optimize for effective tax rate — not marginal.

    The Real Goal: Lifetime Tax Optimization
    • Not just this year's tax bill
    • Think across decades
    • Flexibility > certainty
    0% Federal Capital Gains (Huge)

    • Long-term capital gains can be taxed at 0%

    • Especially powerful in early retirement

    Tax-Gain Harvesting
    • Sell appreciated assets in low-income years
    • Reset cost basis without paying federal tax
    Optionality Is the Real Asset

    Lower fixed expenses create:

    • Tax flexibility
    • Career flexibility
    • Location flexibility
    • Lifestyle flexibility

    Paid-off house + paid-off cars + low baseline spending = stealth wealth

    Essential Listening & Resources Topic Resource Frugality fundamentals Episode 12 Free money & 457(b) Episode 13 Capital gains strategy Episode 517 Community platform LOGIN Take One Action This Week
    • Calculate your FI number
    • Do a mini expense audit
    • Check if you're getting your full 401(k) match
    • Visit your local library
    Be Part of the Show

    • Log in at choosefi.com/login LOGIN

    • Leave feedback on this episode

    • Share:

      • Your "aha" moment
      • A tactic you're trying
      • A question you want explored
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    1 hora e 1 minuto
  • Incremental Gains | EP 582

    Incremental Gains | EP 582
    Jan 19 2026

    Jonathan and Brad explore the infinite possibilities within the financial independence community by discussing the concept of Incremental Gains.

    Key Topics Discussed

    • Introduction to Incremental Gains (00:00:00)

      • An overview of the episode's aim to introduce innovative ideas within the financial independence community.

    • What is a Red X Month? (00:02:05)

      • A red X month is a designated period for relaxation and reflection, allowing individuals to step back from their regular commitments.

    • Mindset and Incremental Gains (00:05:05)

      • Importance of having the right mindset in achieving financial independence.

    • Importance of Time and Journey (00:07:21)

      • The hosts stress that it's about appreciating the journey, not just the destination.

    • Roth IRA for Kids (00:29:46)

      • Discussing how children with earned income can benefit from a Roth IRA, helping them build wealth early.

    • The Impact of Fees on Investing (00:44:01)

      • Emphasizing the significance of minimizing fees and its long-term effects on wealth accumulation.

    Join the Discussion Go to ChooseFI.com/login

    Actionable Takeaways
    • Red X Month: Consider taking a dedicated month to reset and recharge your priorities. (00:05:05)
    • Roth IRA for Children: Open a Roth IRA for your child if they have earned income to help them start building wealth. (00:29:46)
    • Minimize Investment Fees: Invest in low-fee index funds to optimize your long-term wealth and keep track of any fees tied to mutual funds or advisors. (00:43:27)
    Key Quotes
    • "Reclaim your most precious non-renewable resource: your time." (00:16:51)
    • "It's not about reaching a mythical number; it's about living a better life." (00:08:55)
    • "Time in the market surpasses timing the market." (00:48:22)
    Timestamps
    • 00:00:00 - Introduction to Incremental Gains
    • 00:02:05 - What is a Red X Month?
    • 00:05:05 - Mindset and Incremental Gains
    • 00:07:21 - Importance of Time and Journey
    • 00:29:46 - Roth IRA for Kids
    • 00:44:01 - The Impact of Fees on Investing

    Essential Listening Episodes Referred to

    • Masterclass on Muscle Building
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    1 hora e 5 minutos
  • Are Roth Conversions Necessary? | Cody Garrett and Sean Mullaney | Ep 581

    Are Roth Conversions Necessary? | Cody Garrett and Sean Mullaney | Ep 581
    Jan 12 2026
    Brad hosts Sean Mullaney and Cody Garrett to dive deep into the topic of taxable Roth conversions, including key distinctions between various Roth strategies. The discussion emphasizes the strategic nature of these conversions during retirement, common misconceptions, and the importance of prioritizing personal financial success over societal pressures. Listeners will gain practical insights into tax management and gain clarity on when and if to pursue Roth conversions in their financial plans. Disclaimer: Sean's discussions on the ChooseFI podcast and articles and messages published on ChooseFI.com are intended for general educational purposes and are not tax, legal, or investment advice for any individual. The ChooseFI podcast and its owners, employees, and agents do not endorse Sean Mullaney, Mullaney Financial & Tax, Inc., or their services. Timestamps & Key Topics: 00:00:56 - Introduction to Guests Hosts introduce Sean Mullaney and Cody Garrett, authors of Tax Planning To and Through Early Retirement. 00:02:11 - Understanding Taxable Roth Conversions Definitions and purpose of taxable Roth conversions vs. backdoor Roths. 00:12:07 - Taxable Roth Conversions During Working Years Why taxable conversions are generally discouraged for those with a job.Discussion on 'income disruption years' as an exception. 00:15:13 - Strategies for Retirement Income Exploring income sources and tax brackets in retirement. 00:19:10 - Roth Conversion Decisions in Retirement Discussion on RMDs and managing taxable income effectively in retirement. 01:04:17 - Conclusion and Resources Recap of key insights and suggestions for further financial planning. Key Insights: Taxable Roth Conversions vs. Backdoor Roths Taxable conversions create taxable income and can be beneficial, while backdoor Roths are a mechanism to contribute when income limits apply. Ideal Times for Conversions Typically not advisable during high-income years; consider during low-income years or life events causing income disruption. Tax Burdens in Retirement Many retirees experience lower tax burdens than expected; RMDs are manageable for most. Roth Conversions and Future Planning Primary beneficiaries are often oneself and heirs; focus on financial success rather than tax liabilities for future generations. Avoiding Procrastination through Optimization Optimization can become procrastination; focus on higher impact decisions for financial health rather than getting lost in tax details. Actionable Takeaways: Evaluate Current Tax Bracket: Assess your taxable income before considering a Roth conversion (00:12:07).Timing Is Key: Consider performing Roth conversions during lower income years (00:12:50).Understand RMDs: Evaluate the necessity of Roth conversions in the context of required minimum distributions (00:22:28).Consult Professionals: Consider professional guidance for personalized strategies aligned with your long-term financial goals (01:04:01). Featured Quotes: "Retirement accounts exist to ensure financial success in retirement." - Sean Mullaney (01:04:01)"Roth conversions can enhance tax efficiency but are not required." - Cody Garrett (00:42:34)"Don't let fear guide you in financial decisions." - Brad (01:05:17) Related Resources: Tax Planning To and Through Early RetirementMike Piper Speech on Tax StrategySean's Case Study on Retirement Planning
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    1 hora e 6 minutos
  • This Year Everything Changes | Ep 580

    This Year Everything Changes | Ep 580
    Jan 5 2026
    Jonathan Mendonsa has appeared on several ChooseFI episodes over the past few years, but 2026 marks a major evolution of the show. ChooseFI is being reimagined as a more interactive, more collaborative, and more deeply community-driven experience. As part of this next chapter, Jonathan officially returns to the show as Brad's frequent co-host, helping lead a truly crowdsourced platform where the community plays an active role in shaping the conversation around financial independence. Together, Brad, Jonathan, and the ChooseFI community are building a space focused on shared discovery — the first critical step on the path to financial independence. Join The Community This episode highlights how listeners can define their personal FI number, learn from real experiences within the community, and turn insight into meaningful action. ChooseFI's community-driven approach continues to empower individuals to learn from one another, explore what financial independence means for them, and move forward with confidence. Key Topics & Timestamps: Introduction (00:00:00) Welcome to a transformative year for ChooseFI. 2026 Goals (00:00:51) Brad and Jonathan reflect on the changes occurring in their lives and the FI community. Frugal Wins of The Week (00:20:31) Tips for celebrating small financial victories. Understanding Your Financial Independence Number (00:25:38) Explanation of how to calculate your FI number based on annual expenses. Community Engagement and Tools (00:30:12) Introduction of the new community app and its features for supporting members on their FI journey. Closing Remarks (00:58:17) A call to action for listeners to get involved in the community and share their journeys. Actionable Takeaways: Conduct a net worth statement for 2025 (00:36:54).Join the community app to connect with fellow FI enthusiasts (00:49:35).Participate in an expense audit to gain insights into your spending habits (00:56:20). Key Insights: Community Development: Building a supportive network is essential for financial growth (00:08:06).Frugality Defined: Frugality is about valuing what truly matters in life, not deprivation (00:40:47).Impact of Budgeting: Cutting just $100 from your budget can reduce your FI target by $30,000 (00:42:10). Quotes: "While everything changes, some truths remain constant." (00:12:16)"Building a thriving ecosystem for financial independence together." (00:14:13)"Your frugal wins can inspire others. Share your journey!" (00:20:31) FAQs: What is financial independence? Financial independence (FI) refers to having sufficient wealth to live without actively working for basic needs (00:25:54). How can I reduce my budget effectively? Conduct an expense audit to identify unnecessary costs and focus on essential spending (00:56:20). What are frugal wins? Small victories in saving money that inspire and motivate others within the community (00:20:31). Related Resources: How to make LMNT's electrolyte drink mix at home (00:21:26) Discussion Questions: What actions can you take in 2026 to enhance your financial independence journey? (00:12:20)How do you define frugality and its importance in your life? (00:40:47)Discuss the role of community in achieving financial goals. Why is it beneficial? (00:08:06)
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    59 minutos
  • 2025 Biggest Takeaways with Ginger | Ep 579

    2025 Biggest Takeaways with Ginger | Ep 579
    Dec 29 2025

    In this year-end reflection episode, Ginger and Brad share memorable insights from past interviews on budgeting, spending, and the importance of values in financial decisions. They discuss how taking action can lead to financial independence, the impact of community, and the transformative power of generosity. This episode encourages listeners to implement strategies that align with their personal values and relationships for achieving true wealth beyond financial metrics.

    Timestamps
    • 00:00:00 - Intro to the Episode
    • 00:01:47 - Reflecting on Memorable Interviews
    • 00:03:41 - The Importance of Budgeting
    • 00:05:20 - Seasons of Life and Spending
    • 00:09:16 - Community Impact
    • 00:10:52 - Generosity and Giving
    • 00:12:31 - Mindset Shifts
    • 00:52:05 - Concluding Thoughts
    Key Takeaways

    • Reflecting on Past Episodes (00:01:47)
      Ginger and Brad explore moments from previous interviews that resonated with them, focusing on actionable insights.

    • Importance of Budgeting (00:03:41)
      Budgeting is vital to achieving financial independence. Prioritize spending on experiences and values that bring joy, as highlighted by guest Ron Babcock.

    • Seasons of Life and Spending (00:05:20)
      Understand that spending should align with your current life stage. Budgeting isn't just about saving; it's also about recognizing what matters right now.

    • Community in Financial Independence (00:09:16)
      The FI community supports each other through shared experiences and service projects. Efforts like the FI Service Core highlight collective impact.

    • Generosity and Giving (00:10:52)
      Act on urges to be generous immediately; this reinforces meaningful connections and contributes to fulfilling relationships.

    • Mindset Shifts (00:12:31)
      Challenge limiting beliefs about what's possible in life. Acknowledge that perceptions can often be changed with the right reflection.

    Actionable Takeaways

    • Align Your Budget with Your Values (00:05:20)
      Identify what matters most in your life today and reflect this in your budget.

    • Practice Generosity (00:10:52)
      Make acts of generosity immediate to enrich your relationships and community.

    • Reflect on Beliefs (00:29:19)
      Question beliefs that limit possibilities and explore what changes can be made to achieve your goals.

    Quotes
    • "Embrace spending on values; it's essential for a fulfilling life." - Brad (00:07:18)
    • "True love requires sacrifices and effort." - Ginger (00:50:36)
    • "Little changes lead to significant results in financial independence." - Brad (00:41:32)
    Related Resources
    • The Happiness Trap - A book discussed in the episode that explores cognitive behavioral tools for a healthier mindset.
    Discussion Questions
    • How do you prioritize your spending to align with your values? (00:05:20)
    • What small sacrifice can you make today for someone you care about? (00:50:36)
    Action Items
    • Reflect on your current financial habits. (00:05:20)
    • Set up a high-interest savings account for future goals. (00:25:54)
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    53 minutos
  • Year End Wins 2025 | Ep 578

    Year End Wins 2025 | Ep 578
    Dec 22 2025
    This special year-end episode [2025] celebrates the inspiring achievements of the ChooseFI community, highlighting transformative experiences in the pursuit of financial independence. Listeners share personal victories, including maximizing retirement contributions, career changes, and embracing minimalist lifestyles. The episode emphasizes the importance of community support, taking action, and designing a life that aligns with one's values. Timestamps & Key Topics: 00:00:00 Introduction Welcome to the ChooseFI community, emphasizing financial independence. 00:01:00 Community Wins Discussion on inspiring wins shared by community members. 00:18:00 Individual Stories and Wins Members share their personal financial achievements, including reading financial literacy books and maximizing retirement contributions. 00:29:00 The Importance of Action The value of taking action in one's journey toward financial independence. 00:55:00 Closing Thoughts and Holiday Wishes Recap of the episode and a call to action for listeners to reflect on their own financial journeys. Key Takeaways: Transformative Experiences: Personal victories shared by listeners exemplify the power of taking control of one's financial future. Embracing Minimalism: Many members reflect on simplifying their lives as a means to achieve financial independence. Community Support: The importance of having a supportive network that encourages accountability and shared successes. Taking Action Matters: Highlighted throughout the episode is the need for listeners to act on their financial knowledge to see tangible benefits. Actionable Takeaways: Maximize Retirement Contributions: Focus on contributing fully to accounts like 401(k) and IRA to leverage tax benefits and compound growth. [Timestamp: 00:19:03] Embrace Simplicity: Cut out unnecessary complexities in life to allow more focus on what's important. [Timestamp: 00:11:54] Experiment and Learn: Understand that the journey to financial independence is a time to try new things and see what works best for you. [Timestamp: 00:26:03] Inspirational Quotes: "With the knowledge I now have, I'm planning on switching to part-time work by the end of 2026 so I can make spending time with my kids and my family my top priority going forward." [Timestamp: 00:36:27] "The boring middle can include some extraordinary detours." [Timestamp: 00:25:05] "This is the time to experiment." [Timestamp: 00:26:03] "I feel like I'm finally in control of my life, my health, and my happiness." [Timestamp: 00:47:16] "The freedom to be there for someone I love. This is as close to heaven as I've ever seen." [Timestamp: 00:34:03] Discussion Questions: What were some of your biggest financial wins this year? [Timestamp: 00:15:45] How do you define financial independence in your own life? [Timestamp: 00:23:12] What actions have you taken to simplify your lifestyle? [Timestamp: 00:12:30] Key Resources Mentioned: The Simple Path to Wealth - Amazon [Timestamp: 00:19:09]Die With Zero - Amazon [Timestamp: 00:32:34] Related Episodes: Health and Fitness Transformation [Timestamp: 00:53:55]Coast with Confidence [Timestamp: 00:36:27]
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    56 minutos
  • Health and Fitness Update Plus 'Are Organic Foods Worth It?' with Dr. Bobby Dubois | Ep 577

    Health and Fitness Update Plus 'Are Organic Foods Worth It?' with Dr. Bobby Dubois | Ep 577
    Dec 15 2025
    Brad Barrett shares updates on his health journey and effective workout principles, while Dr. Bobby discusses the costs and benefits of organic foods. The conversation encourages listeners to reconsider their food choices and encourages an increase in fruit and vegetable intake over focusing solely on organic options. Brad's muscle-building routine coupled with nutritional insights sets the stage for prioritizing health alongside financial independence. Timestamps & Key Topics: 00:00:00 - Introduction Introduction to the episode theme focusing on health and nutrition. 00:01:13 - Brad's Health Journey Update Overview of Brad's personal health journey and commitment to fitness.Focus on long-term well-being into older age. 00:02:30 - Workout Principles Importance of effective workout routines.Emphasis on machine-based workouts for targeted muscle growth. 00:15:50 - Nutrition Insights Discussion about protein intake and overall diet.Emphasis on increasing fruit and vegetable consumption. 00:34:10 - Interview with Dr. Bobby Introduction to Dr. Bobby's background and expertise in nutrition. 00:35:02 - Segment on Organic Foods A detailed cost-benefit analysis of organic foods vs. conventional foods.Recommendations for increasing overall fruit and vegetable intake. 01:09:20 - Conclusion Summary of key insights and encouragement to prioritize both health and financial independence. Key Takeaways: Effective Workouts: Focus on controlled movement and adequate rest during workouts for maximum muscle gain.Recommended six exercises per workout with two sets each, targeting different muscle groups. Nutrition Strategies: Increasing fruit and vegetable intake can significantly impact health outcomes more than just choosing organic options.Approximately 80% of Americans do not consume enough fruits and veggies. Cost vs. Benefit of Organic Foods: The financial implications of buying organic foods may outweigh the health benefits for many families.Allocating grocery budgets towards higher quality fruits and vegetables rather than solely organic options can provide better health returns. Actionable Takeaways: Workout Focus: Incorporate machine-based exercises focusing on compound movements to build muscle effectively.Prioritize recovery with a resting period of 3-5 minutes between sets. Meal Planning: Start planning meals in advance to reduce the chances of last-minute takeout or unhealthy choices. Budgeting for Health: Consider reallocating funds typically spent on organic foods towards a gym membership or investing in wellness products to enhance overall health. Discussion Questions: What are your thoughts on the price differences between organic and conventional food?How can you apply principles of effective exercise to your routine? Key Quotes: "This workout... is just the most brutally effective workout you can imagine." - Brad Barrett 00:04:07"Unlock the potential of better health: more fruits and veggies!" - Dr. Bobby 00:51:11"Health is a choice: wise spending is key!" - Dr. Bobby 00:52:45 Resources Mentioned: Dr. Bobby's Podcast and WebsiteDean Turner Training Related Episodes: Tips to Reduce Your Grocery Expenses - Episode 007The Six Pillars of Health with Dr. Bobby - Episode 498Muscle Building with Dean Turner - Episode 480
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    1 hora e 10 minutos