EverydayFI

Breaking Barriers in Mental Health and Money - JillIan Johnsrud, Part 1 | Ep. 76 Nov 03, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and I'm here to say you that you don't need a million dollar book deal or famous blog to reach FI early. By talking with real humans I'll show you how to forge your own path to financial freedom, the everyday way.

Today is part one with Jillian Johnsrud, whose new book "Retire Often" gives you a step by step guide to take several mini-retirements over your lifetime. But today, we actually aren't talking much about her book. Jillian and I get personal and talk about how she arrived at financial independence, well before her blog, book, and coaching businesses had taken off.

Episode Links:

Retire Often Website
Retire Often Book (purchase here)
Free Opt-In Worksheets:
- Planning
- Negotiating
Retire Often Workbook
Group Coaching
Jillian's Socials:
- Instagram
- Twitter
- LinkedIn
- YouTube

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Live Coaching with David Robinson - Part 2 | Ep 75 Oct 27, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and I'm here to say that you do not need a million dollar book deal or a famous blog to reach FI early. By talking with real humans, I'll show you how to forge your own path to financial freedom the everyday way.

Today is the second half of Jess's live coaching session where David will reveal whether or not she can actually quit her toxic corporate job!

Episode links:

Die With Zero, by Bill Perkins
Healthcare.gov
Kaiser ACA calculator
- How Much More Would People Pay In Premiums If The ACA's Enhanced Premium Tax Credits Expire?
Simple Path to Wealth, by J.L. Collins
Mark's Money Mind Show
David's email: david.robinson022814@gmail.com

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Live Coaching with David Robinson - Part 1 | Ep 74 Oct 20, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and I'm here to say that you do not need a million dollar book deal or a famous blog to reach FI early. By talking with real humans, I'll show you how to forge your own path to financial freedom the everyday way.

Today I actually have a really huge treat for you all. Normally I'd be recording a Meg's Money Musings episode, but instead I'm hosting a live coaching session with David Robinson and Jess. David will be looking over Jess's portfolio live on the show and will talk to her about retirement readiness. Jess is new to the FIRE movement and finds terminology and principles extremely daunting. Other than living frugally, what more could she be doing? How does the 4% rule work? How can she use calculators correctly if she wants to understand scenarios like Coast FI? Could compounding returns enable her to take a passion job in a couple years?

This episode is broken into two parts because our conversation went for almost 2 hours, so tune in for the exciting answer to whether Jess can pull the plug and quit her job!

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"I have enough to do anything, but not nothing" - Lauren Part 2 | Ep 73 Oct 13, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and I'm here to say you that you don't need a million dollar book deal or famous blog to reach FI early. By talking with real humans I'll show you how to forge your own path to financial freedom, the everyday way.

We're back with part two of Lauren's inspiring FI story! In this episode, Lauren and I chat about the pivotal FIRE community figures who ignited her passion for financial independence. Despite initial skepticism, Lauren eventually saw the value in using FIRE's specific strategies to pay off her burdensome student loan debt and to help her reach her goals. She and I then talk about how she likes to focus on spending with intention for a balanced life and how she's able to explore new career paths in positive psychology, financial coaching, and marine science now that she's reached FI. Tune in to hear the rest of Lauren's FI journey.

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From Kitchens to Global Missions: Lauren P's Path to Freedom - Part 1 | Ep 72 Oct 06, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and I'm here to say you that you don't need a million dollar book deal or famous blog to reach FI early. By talking with real humans I'll show you how to forge your own path to financial freedom, the everyday way.

Today is part one with my friend Lauren, who shares her remarkable journey from culinary arts to making a global impact through international development. We delve into her educational journey, the impact of her early work experiences, and crucial advice for those aspiring to enter international affairs. We also touch on how her upbringing shaped her perspectives on money, independence, and the influence of familial dynamics on her financial habits. Finally, Lauren candidly shares her personal growth journey, highlighting the significant impact of cutting out alcohol and seeking personal development through coaching and self-reflection. Tune in to hear the first part of Lauren's FI story after a word from our sponsors.

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Let's talk about burnout and why it sucks - Mitch & Meg's Money Musings | Ep. 71 Sep 29, 2025

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Welcome to Everyday FI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host Meghan Combs, and I'm here to say that you do not need a million dollar book deal or a famous blog to reach FI early by talking with real humans, I'll show you how to forge your own path to financial freedom the everyday way.

I'm back with my buddy and co-host Mitch, with another Mitch and Meg's Money Musings episode, and today we're going to talk about the oh so fun and commonly felt concept of burnout. Tune in!

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Lawyer by day, biker by heart: the unexpected path to wealth | Ep. 70 Sep 22, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and I'm here to show you that you don't need a million dollar book deal or famous blog to reach FI early. By talking with real humans you'll see how you can forge your own path to financial freedom, the everyday way.

In today's episode, I am joined by an anonymous guest who shares her inspiring journey toward financial independence. Our guest talks about her background, including a diverse career path that led her ultimately to law. She discusses the challenges of running her own firm, her frugal upbringing, and how her experiences have shaped her financial philosophies. She also shares her passion for traveling, learning languages, and creating opportunities for young women in the legal field. Join us as we explore our guest's story.

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Let's hear from an expert - Meg's Money Musings with Tim Smith, CFP | Ep 69 Sep 15, 2025

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Welcome to Everyday FI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host Meghan Combs, and I know that you do not need a million dollar book deal or a famous blog to reach FI early by talking with real humans. I'll show you how to forge your own path to financial freedom the everyday way.

Today on Meg's Money Musings I'm doing something a little bit different. Normally I'm just here talking to myself, but I actually brought on a financial expert, Tim Smith, who is a CFP, wealth strategist and financial educator, and today we're going to talk about mindset shifts during different phases of FI. Things like how do you go from being a spender to a saver? How do you become a valuest spender? How do you mentally prepare for early retirement? All of these questions and more will be answered in today's episode with Tim.

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Slow and curious FI - Rakesh M. | Ep 68 Sep 08, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and I'm here to show you that you don't need a million dollar book deal or famous blog to reach FI early. By talking with real humans you'll see how you can forge your own path to financial freedom, the everyday way.

In today's episode, I am joined by Rakesh who shares his journey from growing up in India to building a life and career in the US within the tech industry. We explore his family's financial habits, influenced by his father's banking career, and Rakesh's own evolving understanding of money. We dive into his discovery of the financial independence movement in 2020, inspired by figures like Pete from Mr. Money Mustache and Carl from 1500 Days. Rakesh talks about the significant changes he has adopted, such as being more deliberate with savings and improving his and his family's health. We discuss the unique challenges he faces, including those related to his immigration status. We also highlight his love for running and his aspirations around financial independence. Finally, we touch on the importance of enjoying the journey, rather than just the destination, and the mental peace that financial security brings. Tune in to hear Rakesh's full story after a word from our sponsors

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What's your threshold for DIY vs. just spending the money? - Mitch & Meg's Money Musings | Ep. 67 Sep 01, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and I'm here to say that you don't need a million dollar book deal or famous blog to reach FI early. By talking with real humans I'll show you how to forge your own path to financial freedom, the everyday way.

I'm back with my buddy and co-host Mitch, with another Mitch and Meg's Money Musings episode, and today we're going to talk about what we are willing to spend money on and what we're not willing to spend money on. It'll be very interesting since Mitch and I have very different cost structures to our lives, so tune in!

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"Do hard things, but don't do them alone." - Robin C. Part 2 | Ep. 66 Aug 25, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and in this show I want to show you that you don't need a multi-million dollar book deal or famous podcast to reach financial independence early. By talking with real humans I'll show you how to forge your own path to financial freedom the everyday way.

Today is part two with Robin. In this episode, Robin shares actionable advice on finding a good roommate based on her extensive personal experience, including the nuances of being both a roommate and a landlord. Our conversation shifts to Robin's journey towards financial independence, highlighting her involvement in the FI community through events like CampFI and Econome. Robin reflects on her current struggles and wins, emphasizing the importance of community, self-reflection, and intentional living. Tune in to hear part two of Robin's story after we hear from our sponsors.

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Geodesic Dome to Nature Preschool: Robin's Unique FI Journey - Part 1 | Ep 65 Aug 18, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and in this show I want to show you that you don't need a multi-million dollar book deal or famous podcast to reach financial independence early. By talking with real humans I'll show you how to forge your own path to financial freedom the everyday way.

Today is part one with my friend Robin, who I met at CampFI in 2022. In this episode we share our experiences with carpooling to CampFI and the meaningful connections we made. Robin discusses her upbringing in an off-the-grid geodesic dome home in Virginia, her journey into early childhood education, and the inspiration behind launching an outdoor-focused nature preschool. Emphasizing the importance of strategic thinking and community support, Robin shares insights from her entrepreneurial journey, highlights the value of intentional financial planning, and reflects on the lessons learned from her parents' approach to money. We engage in a heartfelt conversation about the significance of a stable home and the various paths to financial independence. Tune in to hear part one of Robin's story.

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Why I'm Happier (And Richer) Off Social Media - Meg's Money Musings | Ep. 64 Aug 11, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and I'm here to show you that you don't need a million dollar book deal or famous blog to reach FI early. By talking with real humans you'll see how you can forge your own path to financial freedom, the everyday way.

In today's Meg's Money Musings I talk about how I'm richer (and happier) off social media, my June red X month, and some updates for the podcast. Tune in after a word from our sponsors.

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Work, life, FI balance - Part 2 with Amanda | Ep. 63 Aug 04, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and I'm here to show you that you don't need a million dollar book deal or famous blog to reach FI early. By talking with real humans you'll see how you can forge your own path to financial freedom, the everyday way.

We're back with part two of Amanda's story where we start by diving into how she has adjusted to life with her newborn son, including transitioning back to work and navigating the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance. Amanda discusses her desire for a part-time schedule to enhance her presence and enjoyment of these early years of parenthood. We also explore financial strategies including achieving liquidity, building emergency funds, and planning for a 'barista FIRE' lifestyle. Amanda talks about practical steps she and her wife are taking, like considering a nanny share, and the unexpected complexities of managing work-from-home life with a baby. Last up, we dive into Amanda's passion for writing and her recent accomplishment of self-publishing a collection of essays on transitional life moments. And make sure to stay til the very end, where Amanda shares a unique practice that has positively impacted her life. Tune in to hear Amanda's full story.

Episode Links:

Amanda's Instagram

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Career pivots, marriage, and kids: Amanda's FI Life | Ep. 62 Jul 28, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and I'm here to show you that you don't need a million dollar book deal or famous blog to reach FI early. By talking with real humans you'll see how you can forge your own path to financial freedom, the everyday way.

In part one of today's episode I get to connect with Amanda, who discusses her life in the Shenandoah Valley, her marriage, and recent motherhood. She shares her path to financial independence, starting with paying off debt inspired by Dave Ramsey and then discovering the FI community through Choose FI. We explore Amanda's career pivot to data analytics, the role of a financial planner, and how having a child has shifted her FI goals to focus more on enjoying the present. Additionally, Amanda and I bond over our shared experiences of growing up feeling like we need to make ourselves smaller and the lifelong impact of that mindset. Tune in to hear Amanda's full story.

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The one where Mitch interviews Meg - Mitch & Meg's Money Musings | Ep. 61 Jul 21, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and in this show I want to show you that you don't need a multi-million dollar book deal or famous podcast to reach financial independence early. By talking with real humans I'll show you how to forge your own path to financial freedom the everyday way.

Today on the show the turns have tabled, the chairs have swapped: Mitch interviews me! If you've been dying to hear my full story, or at least an unabridged version of it, tune in.

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Freedom to Learn: The Path to FI & Multilingual Mastery - Ingrid T. Part 2 | Ep. 60 Jul 14, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and in this show I want to show you that you don't need a multi-million dollar book deal or famous podcast to reach financial independence early. By talking with real humans I'll show you how to forge your own path to financial freedom the everyday way.

We're back with part two of Ingrid's story. In this episode we dive into Ingrid's life and financial independence journey. Starting from early money memories and high school jobs, she talks through her development of a strong desire for independence. Ingrid's shares her thoughts on the significance of community, through both FIRE circles and language learning groups, and on privacy versus public sharing within the FIRE community. We again dive into travel stories, including touching on the value of group travel experiences. Towards the end Ingrid shares her practical life hack and her 'Hell Yeah or No' decision-making framework. Tune in to hear Ingrid's full story.

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"Time is more important than money." - Ingrid T. Part 1 | Ep. 59 Jul 07, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and in this show I want to show you that you don't need a multi-million dollar book deal or famous podcast to reach financial independence early. By talking with real humans I'll show you how to forge your own path to financial freedom the everyday way.

This episode is part one with Ingrid, a retired software engineer who has embraced a lifelong passion for language learning and travel. Ingrid shares her background of growing up in a bicultural family, her extensive language learning journey, and her transition to early retirement at 43. She offers valuable insights into the consistent effort required to attain fluency in multiple languages, the importance of passion and motivation, and the role of financial independence in allowing her to pursue her true interests. Ingrid also discusses her blogs, the changes in the blogging landscape, and her balanced lifestyle between traveling and maintaining a home base in the U.S. This inspiring conversation highlights how financial independence can provide the freedom to pursue one's passions and create a fulfilling life beyond the conventional career path. Tune in to hear Ingrid's full story.

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The "middle class trap" fallacy - Mitch & Meg's Money Musings | Ep 58 Jun 30, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, where we explore the lives of everyday people pursuing financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, and I'm here to show you that you don't need a million dollar book deal or famous blog to reach FI early. By talking with real humans you'll see how you can forge your own path to financial freedom, the everyday way.

In today's episode of Mitch & Meg's Money Musings we pick apart the supposed "middle class trap" idea touted on the BiggerPockets Money podcast over the past 6+ months. We talk about whether or not this fallacy exists, if it does what's the "real" trap, and deconstruct the arguments sung by Scott Trench and Mindy Jensen. We also explore the response Brad from ChooseFI gave in his own BiggerPockets Money interview with them, plus our own reactions to the concept. Tune in!

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We were on a BREAK! - June Red X Month | Ep 57 Jun 02, 2025

Thanks for listening to EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives of everyday people on the path to financial indpendence so you can use their stories to forge your own path to financial freedom. I'm your host Meghan Combs and I'll be taking a break for the month of June! I'll catch you all back here July 7th with new episodes.

CampFI Spain with Suzy L. | Ep. 56 May 26, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives of everyday people on the path to financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, a personal finance junky who loves to dive into people's journeys. By sharing these stories I'll show you in real ways how to forge your own path to financial freedom.

In this episode I get to hang with my new friend Suzy while we're both at CampFI Spain! If you tune in on YouTube you'll see us chatting in person at my Airbnb. This is an amazing conversation about slow travel, family life, and all the in betweens of financial independence. Tune in now!

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One year of EverydayFI! | Ep 55 May 19, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives of everyday people on the path to financial independence. I'm your host, Meghan Combs, a personal finance junky who loves to dive into people's journeys. By sharing these stories I'll show you in real ways how to forge your own path to financial freedom.

It's been one whole year since I started the show! I launched my first few episodes at the beginning of May 2024 and have been going hard ever since. This episode is all about what I've learned, what I've changed, what I wish I'd done differently, and a request from my listeners (stay tuned to the end to hear it). I'll also tell you what's up next for the show in 2025 and 2026, so make sure to tune in and subscribe to the show.

Episode Links:

Find all the episodes of EverydayFI here

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54. FI Service Corps with Ryan B. May 12, 2025

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Welcome to the EverydayFI podcast, the show that explores the lives of everyday people on the path to Financial Independence. Hearing these stories will teach you in real ways how to forge your own path to financial freedom.

In today's episode I'm bringing back my buddy Ryan. You may remember him from one of the earlier episodes of EverydayFI and I'm so excited to have him back to talk about his new endeavor: FI Service Corps. Ryan started FI Service Corps as a way to bring the FI community together is service to others. His ultimate goal is to create connection while giving back. If you're interested in an upcoming volunteer trip, check out the show notes for a link where you can sign up. I'm so excited to get to talk to him about this incredible organization. Stay tuned after we hear from our sponsors to hear more.

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53. Mitch & Meg's Money Musings: Paying for a wedding the FI way May 05, 2025

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Thanks for listening to the EverydayFI podcast, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people on the path to financial independence. Welcome to another edition of Mitch & Meg's Money Musings. Today Mitch and I talk about how to pay for a wedding. It's so common these days to want to spend extravagantly on getting married, but statistics say that couples who spend copious amounts of money and go into debt often have a harder time in the first year or two of marriage. Why bother when you can think outside the box and have a celebration that's just as fun, but a third the price? Tune in to hear Mitch and me talk about our weddings and hacks to make them fun and affordable.

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52. Darren & Jolene - Part 2: "We don't want to leave life un-lived." Apr 28, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. Today we're back with part 2 of Darren and Jolene's story. Hopefully everyone having fun over in Spain has met them and been lucky enough to enjoy their company! In today's episode we get to explore Darren and Jolene's post-FI life, specifically their semi-nomadic lifestyle and all the different types of adventures they go on. Many of these include hiking incredible trails like the Camino in Spain.

Episode Links:

Dare to Draw Down - Darren and Jolene's blog
Wild by Cheryl Strayed
Cicerone travel books
Camino Ways
Macs Adventures
Rick Steves
Die With Zero, by Bill Perkins
The Retirement and IRA Show, Jim Saulnier
The Retirement Answer Man, Roger Whitney
Vancouver Carpenter on YouTube
CampFI

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51. Darren & Jolene - Part 1: Accidentally FI Apr 21, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. This episode is part 1 with my new friends Darren and Jolene, and today we talk a lot about how they used an alternative method to accomplish FIRE in their mid-late 40s, their upbringing and how that shaped the way they look at money today, plus the idea of spending time vs. spending money. Darren and Jolene recount their stories of leaving corporate jobs after long careers and becoming semi-nomadic, traveling half the year and maintaining a home base in Kansas. They elaborate on the challenges and benefits of early retirement, adjusting to their new lives, and the significance of exploring the 'second half of life' beyond traditional work.

Episode Links:

Dare to Draw Down - Darren and Jolene's blog
Personal Capital (now Empower)
Boldin net worth tracking
FBLA
Physician on FIRE
HerMoney "The Next 50" episode

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50. Mitch & Meg's Money Musings: Hold onto your butts! The market crash this week. Apr 14, 2025

CHECK THE EPISODE OUT ON YOUTUBE IF YOU WANT TO SEE OUR FACES!

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Welcome to the EverydayFI podcast, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people on the path to financial independence. Welcome to another edition of Mitch & Meg's Money Musings. Today Mitch and I talk about the latest market dip, which has a lot of people freaked out, understandably so. We discuss our initial feelings about the drastic dip, what some of the public's reactions were, and our plans to keep our cool and even see this in a positive light. Tune in to hear our thoughts and hopefully we can help ease your mind.

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49. Julie R. - Part 2: "I'm a quitter and I'm proud of it." Apr 07, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. Today's episode is part two with my friend Julie. We chat about her journey to financial independence. Post layoff, Julie became passionate about managing her finances and soon delved into the FIRE community, finding inspiration in books like 'A Simple Path to Wealth' and 'Die With Zero'. She shares her experiences of becoming 'barista FIRE', where she balances minimal part-time work planning group travel excursions with her investment income to sustain a flexible lifestyle. Julie also explores the struggle against hustle culture and the importance of drawing boundaries to maintain mental well-being. We recorded this back in November so some of the content about her group travel may be different than her website, so make sure to check it out in the show notes.

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48. Julie R. - Part 1: "Do not underestimate the power of radical change." Mar 31, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. In today's episode I get to chat with Julie, who shares her journey from a conventional lifestyle to a full time nomadic one. We talk about her dissatisfaction with day-to-day life that prompted her to sell all her possessions and travel the world with only a $500K net worth. We also touch on the strategies she took to take this leap, such as refinancing her mortgage and side hustling. Julie emphasizes the importance of intentional living and making financial decisions that align with your values. We also discuss the societal norms around money, her family's financial background, and how she learned to prioritize spending on meaningful experiences rather than material possessions. Tune in to hear part one of our conversation.

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47. Meghan's Money Musings: Life Finds a Way - My IVF Journey Mar 24, 2025

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This episode includes discussions about infertility, IVF, periods, and other reproductive health topics. Listener discretion is advised. Please take care of yourself and feel free to skip or pause if needed.

Thanks for listening to the EverydayFI podcast, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people on the path to financial independence. In today's Meghan's Money Musings episode I'll be talking about when life happens. I spent the past 9 years building up an HSA account. I took to heart the adage "begin with the end in mind" and planned to use this money as part of the bridge between early retirement and traditional retirement (along with a Roth Ladder of course). However, life happened and I had to use that money. This is my story and a reminder to be okay if the end you had in mind changes.

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46. David R: Mr. Quit Your Job Mar 17, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. Last week I spoke with David and our discussion centered on his mental health struggles in the military. I'm so grateful to him for opening up and sharing his experiences in the hope that it can help someone else. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or struggling with their mental health, please know that support is available. You can reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988, or visit their website at www.988lifeline.org.

This week we're back with David and talking about his FI journey and how he got the name "Mr. Quit Your Job" while attending all the different FI events.

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45. David R: Silent Struggle - Mental Health Challenges in Military Service Mar 10, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. Today I'm chatting with my friend David Before the episode, I want to let you know that Our conversation touches on sensitive topics, including discussions about suicide and mental health struggles. I understand that these subjects can be challenging, so if this is something that might be difficult for you, please feel free to take a break from the show and return when you're ready.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or struggling with their mental health, please know that support is available. You can reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988, or visit their website at www.988lifeline.org, which I will include in the show notes.

Take care of yourself, and please listen at your own pace.

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44. Mitch & Meg's Money Musings: Combining Finances Mar 03, 2025

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Thanks for listening to the EverydayFI podcast, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people on the path to financial independence. Welcome to another edition of Mitch & Meg's Money Musings. Today Mitch and I talk about couple's combining expenses. Whether you're getting married or just moving in together, it's smart to start these discussions as early as possible. Mitch and I share what we did and some things to watch out for.

Tune in to hear more!

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43. Bill Y. - Part 2: "Get to know your future self." Feb 24, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the podcast that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. We're back with part 2 of Bill's story we embarked on last week. In today's episode we get into Bill's money origin story, which leads us to talking about financial literacy in general — the good, the bad, and what we can do at home about it. We also dive into Bill's journey to finding the FI community and his "why of FI" as someone who is a late comer to the movement. Towards the end of the episode Bill shares his current challenges and wins in life, plus we wax poetic about the parallels between health and personal finances.

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42. Bill Y. - Part 1: "Discipline is hard to maintain in the heat of battle." Feb 17, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the podcast that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. Today on the show I'm chatting with Bill, whose voice you may recognize. This is another FI friend who I talked to for a long time so you're getting two parts again! In part one we talk about balancing being an ER doctor with podcasting, plus the fallacy that doctors are rich and should show it in their lifestyle. Bill also shares how he accomplished graduating from med school with zero student loan debt. Other topics we touch on are gender equity, worthiness, and financial trauma.

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41. Meghan's Money Musings: Turning 38... Is this where I thought I'd be? Feb 10, 2025

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Thanks for listening to the EverydayFI podcast, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people on the path to financial independence. In today's Meghan's Money Musings episode I'll be talking about turning 38! A big theme is wondering how my younger self would have felt about where I am today. Is it what she expected? Or have things drastically changed? Tune in!

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40. Allen V. - Part 2: "FI saved us." Feb 03, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the podcast that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. We're back with part two of Alan's story. In today's episode we discuss why Alan was drawn to the FIRE movement, why finding FI after 40 is different than when you're younger, and the reality of post-FI life. Tune in to hear the second half of Allen's story!

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39. Allen V. - Part 1: The joys and struggles of the sandwich generation Jan 27, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the podcast that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. This is part one with my guest Allen, and in today's episode we discuss his journey to financial independence. Allen talks about transitioning from a tech career to early retirement at age 50, heavily influenced by observing his parents' financial struggles. Our conversation also delves into raising teenagers and Allen's thoughtful approach to allowing his children to work and navigate their own financial decisions. We also talk about the challenges and strategies of being in the sandwich generation, balancing the care of aging parents while supporting teenage children. Allen emphasizes the power of learning and adapting to overcome obstacles, like learning to downsize in retirement. This first episode with Allen provides a rich narrative on adapting to financial independence later in life while managing familial responsibilities and planning an unconventional, yet fulfilling future.

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38. Mitch & Meg's Money Musings: Imposter Syndrome Jan 20, 2025

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Thanks for listening to the EverydayFI podcast, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people on the path to financial independence. Welcome to another edition of Mitch & Meg's Money Musings. Today Mitch and I talk about that familiar and notorious feeling: imposter syndrome. We talk about it with regards to work and careers, but we also explore how other areas of our lives — including the financial independence movement and having kids — could result in the feeling of being an "imposter."

Tune in to hear more!

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37. Stacy B: "Experience is the best teacher." Jan 13, 2025

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the podcast that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. Today on the show I'm chatting with Stacy, a former special education administrator, about her journey to financial independence. Stacy shares her experiences of leaving her job to spend more time with her 18-month-old son and pursue personal interests, such as financial coaching. We discuss Stacy's recent travels to France, her early money memories, and her decision to achieve Coast FI. Stacy also emphasizes the importance of community and flexibility in the FI journey, and offers insights on the benefits of a 457 plan for educators. Tune in to hear us reflect on the value of designing a life that aligns with one's values and goals.

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36. Meghan's Money Musings - New Year's Resolutions Jan 06, 2025

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Thanks for listening to the EverydayFI podcast, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people on the path to financial independence. In today's Meghan's Money Musings episode I'll be talking about the New Year's resolutions I've had in the past, the ones that worked, the ones that didn't, and the ones I have for 2025 and my plan to keep them.

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35. Doug N. - Part 2: "Money nerds unite!" Dec 30, 2024

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the podcast that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. Today on the show I'm chatting with Doug — again! This is part two of our conversation and we get into the meat of things.

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34. Doug N. - Part 1: Living in Hawaii, the military, and housing prices Dec 23, 2024

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the podcast that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. Today on the show I'm chatting with Doug, whose voice many of you may recognize. He wrote a book with his daughter on raising FI-minded children and has been on several podcasts talking about it, but today we get to hear his story.

We recorded for so long that you get two episodes with Doug! In the first he gushes over living in Hawaii, gives us military newbies the low down on how to join (and dishes on the honesty of recruiters), and dives into his money origin story. We also digress a bit into talking about the housing market #sorrynotsorry.

Next week tune in to hear the second half of our conversation (no spoiler alerts here)!

Episode Links:

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33. Mitch & Meg's Money Musings: Career Transitions Dec 16, 2024

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Thanks for listening to the EverydayFI podcast, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people on the path to financial independence. Today I'm welcoming my buddy Mitch, who will be joining me on the Meghan's Money Musings episodes — these will be dubbed "Mitch & Meg's Money Musings - cute, right? Gotta love alliteration!

On today's episode Mitch and Meg chat about career transitions. How did we know it was the right time to make a change? What was the catalyst? Why did we choose the new career path we did?

Tune in to hear more!

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32. Kathy C: "I want to spend the rest of the time in my hourglass helping people." Dec 09, 2024

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. Today I'll be chatting with Kathy, who came to FI much later than most people in our community. In this episode you'll hear Kathy's harrowing story about being adopted by a middle class family with alcoholic parents and how that affected her money philosophies as an adult. Kathy also shares her biggest desire, which is to help blind and deaf people, and you'll get to hear her take on what couples must do before they get married. Tune in above!

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31. Meghan's Money Musings: Student Loans Dec 02, 2024

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Thanks for listening to the EverydayFI podcast, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people on the path to financial independence. In today's Meghan's Money Musings episode I'll be sharing a journey many of us millennials had to endure: student loans. Let's dive in!

Episode Links:

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30. Monica S: "There's power in a story." Nov 25, 2024

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. In this episode I get to chat with my friend Monica, who I didn't realize I'd carpooled with to CampFI in 2022 until the very end of the episode (you all will get to hear that revelation and the laughter that ensued).

Monica talks about her experience growing up in a traditional Italian, immigrant household and balancing the culture of American expectation with her Italian roots. She also divulges her time as an unemployed, single parent, which led her to writing a book to help other single, struggling parents, and starting a money coaching business. Tune in to hear her amazing story and how you can reach out to her for help with your own finances.

Episode Links:

Episode webpage
EverydayFI Episode 24 with Lan: The New Wave of FI
Ramit Sethi's I Will Teach You to be Rich website
Budgets Are Sexy by J. Money
FinCon
Pathfinders by JL Collins
ChooseFI
Grab Your Slice - this is where you can find Monica's coaching business and book
grabyourslice@gmail.com - Monica's email
CampFI

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29. Meghan's Money Musings: Buying a home Nov 18, 2024

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Welcome to the first iteration of Meghan's Money Musings on the EverydayFI podcast. Today I'll be talking about my adventures in home buying and homeownership. The good, the bad, and the worst. Tune in to hear my mistakes and the lessons I learned.

Click here for the episode show page.

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28. Hayley B: What would dead people do with their investments? Nothing. Nov 11, 2024

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Welcome to EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. In this episode I had the amazing pleasure of chatting with my newfound friend Hayley, an economist and former Peace Corps volunteer. We talk about a LOT in this show, including:

Hayley's journey of being a foster parent
How her parents bought their southern California home in the 70s for $28,000 and it's now worth over $1M
Her decision to join the Peace Corps and the parallels between this and how many are called to the FI movement
Her boring portfolio strategy and how perfect should never be the enemy of good
My rant on capitalism (lol)
How as an economist Hayley thinks about the disconnect between the economy being "good" but people feeling strapped for cash
And her own idea about a finance podcast for teens and young adults

Tune in for this incredibly rich episode.

Episode Links:

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27. BONUS: The Fire Inside Her Nov 07, 2024

Listen in for a bonus episode where host Meghan is interviewed on the Fire Inside Her podcast with Diane Schroeder!

Episode description:

Tune in to Episode 81 of The Fire Inside Her as host Diane Schroeder and guest Meghan Combs tackle the nuances of the FIRE (Financial Independence Retire Early) movement. Meghan opens up about leaving her New York City job in art history for coding, navigating situational depression, and ultimately tripling her income. They discuss the importance of aligning expenses with personal values and how small financial decisions can lead to big changes. Meghan's insights on balancing productivity with self-care and her love for travel bring a relatable touch to this financial journey. Perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed or considering a career shift, this episode offers both emotional support and practical steps to achieve financial freedom.

Meghan Combs, at 37, has navigated an intriguing journey to financial independence. At about 25, while residing in New York City, she pursued a master's degree in art history and museum studies. Eager to establish herself in the bustling metropolis, Meghan aspired to work in one of the prestigious museums. However, the fiercely competitive field posed significant challenges due to the high number of graduates and limited job opportunities. Despite the hurdles, her experiences have shaped a compelling narrative of perseverance and ambition.

Episode Links:

The Fire Inside Her podcast

26. 6 Month Anniversary Episode Nov 04, 2024

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I can't believe it's already been 6 months since I started the EverydayFI podcast! Time flies way too fast these days. Tune in to this week's episode to hear all about my thoughts so far about the show, how things started and how they're going, some behind the scenes material, what's coming next, AND a request from you, the audience.

Episode Links:

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25. "J" (Anonymous): The FI life after divorce Oct 28, 2024

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Welcome to another episode of EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives and stories of people in the financial independence community. Today on the show I'll be speaking with an anonymous guest, who will be known as "J", and the big topic of our conversation is divorce. We dive deep into J's money story and the parallels in how he rescued his mom financially and then his wife. We also talk about how a mismatched life vision between partners can upend even the most loving relationships. You'll also find out what money conversations J thinks people should have when they start dating to avoid heartache in the future. We both agree that talking about hard things with your partner is the only way to foster a thriving relationship; otherwise it's unfair to you and them to kick difficult topics under the rug. There's a reason people say one of the best money decisions you can make is marrying the right person, so it's safe to say the opposite is also true.

Episode Links:

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24. Lan N: The new wave of FI Oct 21, 2024

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Hey there and welcome to another episode of EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives of everyday people in the financial independence community. I'm your host Meghan Combs, and today I'm chatting with Lan, a newish follower of FI. In this episode we dive into Lan's money story including her journey from teaching to tech and her experience growing up poor. We also dive into the concepts of having immigrant parents and how hard it is to escape the cycle of poverty. And we talk about Lan's love of travel and learning other languages. Lan's story is one you don't want to miss, so tune in to hear more and make sure to subscribe to the show so you don't miss other incredible conversations like this one.

Episode Links:

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23. Devon S: The Most Impressive Man of FI Oct 14, 2024

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This was one of my favorite episodes to record to date because Devon is one of the most impressive people I've ever met. In his own words:

"[Devon is] a 22-year-old college student on the journey toward financial independence (FI). [He] discovered the liberating power of FI at 21 and saved $25,000 in [his] first year chasing FI. [He's] passionate about spreading the ethos of financial independence, increasing financial literacy, sharing [his] experiences, and inspiring others to chase their "Freedom by the Day" while enjoying their individual journeys."

In this episode we chat about how his parents instilled in him a sense of independence and autonomy, his experience in the military and educating others about financial independence, his goal of reaching $150k saved by the time he graduates, and so much much. Tune in to hear his story.

Episode Links:

Episode webpage
ChooseFI episode with Go Curry Cracker (episode 18)
ChooseFI episode with The Mad Fientist (episode 17)
FIRE Commune (i.e. EAGLE Cohousing)
Devon's "Freedom By The Day" blog and his email: freedombytheday@gmail.com
75 Hard and Devon's "50 Days Hard-ish" blog post
Noom weight loss program
Devon's episode on the ChooseFI podcast: "Visualizing Your Domino Effect"

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22. Carl & Carla: "Enjoy the journey." Oct 07, 2024

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Dive into the heartwarming journey of Carl and Carla on EverydayFI's latest podcast episode. Discover a candid conversation on how to talk about money with your family and partner, how Carla's parents' divorce and 2008 financial disaster influenced her philosophies as an adult, and how Carl hiked the PCT within the first two months of their marriage. You'll learn a lot about their journey, like how Carla bought a house while only making $8.50/hour, what they think about moving in with a partner, and how to contend with the numerous options life holds for all of us. Tune it to hear Carl and Carla's incredible story of love, partnership, and financial independence.

Episode Links:

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21. Yao T: "There are no losses, only lessons." Sep 30, 2024

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Thank you for listening to another episode of EverydayFI, the show that explores the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. Today on the show I your host, Meghan Combs, chats with Yao, a remarkably adaptive young man who is finding his way to financial freedom through real estate investing. We explore Yao's money origin story (which includes ultimate couponing, a side hustle he picked up in his adult life), his first discovery of FI and real estate investing, and why he thinks being a homeowner is actually more flexible than renting. Tune in to hear more!

Episode Links:

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20. Keith N: "You don't have to do it perfect the first time. You just have to get started." Sep 23, 2024

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Welcome to another episode of EverydayFI where I, your host Meghan Combs, get to explore the lives and stories of everyday people in the financial independence community. Today on the show I'm chatting with Keith, a former skydiver for 22 years who retired through his real estate investments and now spends most of his time traveling to see all his FI friends. If you've ever been to a CampFI you may recognize his voice from the numerous talks he's given there. Tune in for Keith's story!

Episode Links:

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19. Casey J (CJ): Fear is powerful, but so are you Sep 16, 2024

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Let me just say two words: Battle Bots. This episode with CJ is chock full of fun, tips and tricks, actionable steps to start a side hustle, deep discussions on having kids, and the ever present "one more year syndrome" that our community (and anyone wanting to retire) tends to slip into. Tune in for a fascinating dive into CJ's financial independence journey.

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18. Abhishek S: "Adversity is an opportunity" Sep 09, 2024

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Today's episode follows the journey of Abhishek, an immigrant from India who fell in love with the United States and all the opportunity it provides for him, including financial independence. This episode is all about designing your extraordinary life around health, volunteering, meditation, and deciding deeply about what truly serves you. We also go into depth about how to become a stock picker, if that's your jam (as long as the bulk of your portfolio is in broad based index funds of course). Tune in to hear Abhishek's incredible story and what advice he gives to everyone about health and mindfulness.

Episode Links:

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17. Amanda M: "I no longer do hard things" Sep 02, 2024

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Thanks for coming back to the EverydayFI podcast! Today on the show host Meghan will be chatting with Amanda about her financial independence journey. We talk about everything from burnout in the workplace (and how Amanda became a burnout coach from her experiences), to making crucial decisions about a long distance relationship. Tune in to hear this incredible conversation.

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16. Carolyn L: Joyfully Frugal Aug 26, 2024

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Tune in to hear my conversation with Carolyn, a college professor who sees her divorce as a silver lining because it led her to the financial independence movement. In this episode we talk about how to become a professor, the challenges of divorce on your finances, sexism in the workplace, and Carolyn's travel plans.

Episode Links:

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15. Mitch B: The Ultimate Houdini Aug 19, 2024

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Today on the show I get to interview my buddy Mitch, host of the MyFICapsule podcast. We talk about the happy middle between quitting your job for good and downgrading to a less stressful role that still brings in the cash. We also dive into his plans for a summer sabbatical roadtrip with his family, where he sports his ChooseFI t-shirt to make new FI friends. Plus why he wanted to start his own podcast. Tune in to hear about how the FI life can be lived in all different ways.

Episode Links:

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14. Sean & Katie: What's enough? Aug 12, 2024

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Join me in this enlightening episode as I explore the unique journey of Sean and Katie, a married couple with a shared goal of achieving financial independence. Despite their love for their respective jobs, Sean and Katie are committed to creating a life of options for themselves and their daughter.

Episode Highlights:

Financial advisors will try to sell you anything by connecting with you on a personal level: don't fall for it!
Privilege is a huge factor in financial success.
Values-based spending is the key to a rich life.
Everything new you buy is a little piece of the Earth and should not only spark joy, but sustain it.
Travel vs. focusing on a homestead and how to balance these two passions as a couple.
Dive into their retirement strategies including real estate, investing, and the coveted 457 account.
Why Priuses are the superior vehicle.
Using FI as a way to make the world a better place.

Episode Links:

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13. Christina G. - Part 2: The FEIE Tax Exclusion (and more) Aug 05, 2024

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Welcome to the EverydayFI podcast! I'm your host Meghan and in this second episode with Christina we talk about how to take advantage of the FEIE tax exclusion and not be an illegal immigrant in a foreign country. Tune in!

Episode Links:

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12. Christina G: The FI Nomadic Traveler Jul 29, 2024

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Welcome to the EverydayFI podcast! I'm your host Meghan and today I'm thrilled to dive into the intriguing world of nomadic FI with Christina, a full-time traveler in her 40s who's living life on her own terms, country to country. Tune in to find out how Christina funds her adventures, manages her finances on the move, and what lessons she's learned along the way. Join me as I uncover the secrets to designing a life of freedom and financial stability, no matter where in the world you call home.

Episode Links:

11. Erin G: "Let life lead the way" Jul 22, 2024

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring story of Erin, a woman who has achieved financial independence. Erin, her husband, and their children have discovered the joys of living a financially mindful life without sacrificing fun and quality time with their family.

Here are the episode highlights:

Sometimes happy accidents can happen with your money, not just in Bob Ross paintings.
There's only so long you can do a high stress, high impact job before burnout takes hold.
Burnout can be so bad that the only thing you can think about is getting away; you may not have the bandwidth to think about what you're retiring to. And that's okay.
Quitting a job can make a significant improvement on yours and your family's quality of life.
There are so many seasons to life that a "typical" Tuesday doesn't really exist pre or post FI.
Sometimes one partner is the FI leader and the other is just along for the ride, but as long as you're ultimately on the same page it's not that big a deal.
The FI path can be lumpy so it's best to stay flexible and take life as it comes.
"Kids don't have to be expensive."
"FamilyFI" should be talked about more and added to the financial independence vernacular.
Every person in a family unit is another variable to an every changing life.
As a woman there is added pressure to stay in a high level, corporate position because you want to be a beacon for others. You want to show that there are women at the top.
There are other ways to fill the representation and mentorship gaps left behind when quitting a high level corporate job, especially by giving back and being a leader in your own community.

Tune in for an uplifting conversation about living life on your own terms, finding happiness in the little things, and creating lasting memories with loved ones—all while on the path to financial independence.

Episode Links:

Episode page
Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin
Retirement Answer Man, Roger Whitney
The Mad Fientist
ChooseFI hosted by Brad Barrett
Catching Up to FI
Colorado Springs local FI group
BiggerPockets Money podcast
BiggerPockets Money Facebook page
Macaroni Kid
Just Between Friends consignment sales for kids
Rhea Lana's children's consignment event

10. FIRE in Vegas Chat on the MyFICapsule Podcast Jul 15, 2024

In this episode I join my buddy Mitch from the MyFICapsule podcast to discuss and relive the "Designing Your Extraordinary Life" event at the FIRE in Las Vegas mega meet up hosted by Alan & Katie Donegan, and Brad Barrett from ChooseFI.

Episode Links:

9. Will B: "Long live Lucy" Jul 08, 2024

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring story of Will, a recent college graduate armed with a degree in industrial engineering and a fierce determination to achieve financial independence. Join us as we explore Will's path towards financial freedom, where he shares his strategies, challenges, and triumphs.

With a clear goal in mind – to attain the freedom to pursue his passion projects and make choices without financial constraints – Will navigates the complexities of budgeting, saving, and investing. Along the way, he encounters hurdles common to many young professionals, from managing student loan debt to balancing career aspirations with personal goals.

Through hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to learning, Will unveils the blueprint for his financial independence journey. From side hustles to smart investment decisions, he shares practical tips and insights that empower listeners to take control of their financial futures.

Tune in as Will's story inspires and motivates, proving that with the right mindset and strategy, financial independence is within reach for anyone willing to embark on the journey. Whether you're a recent grad or seasoned professional, this episode offers invaluable lessons and encouragement for crafting a life of freedom and fulfillment.

Episode Links:

8. CampFI Part 2: Exploring Financial Freedom on the Mark's Money Mind Show Jul 01, 2024

In this episode, recorded in front of a live audience at CampFI Mid-Atlantic, Meghan joins Mark Trautman from the Mark's Money Mind show and guests Chris, Samantha, and Keith.

Chris shares his transformative sabbatical in New Zealand, while Samantha recalls her meaningful trip to Southeast Asia, both emphasizing the benefits of slow and mindful paths to Financial Independence.

The show highlights the importance of community support, the joys and challenges of long-term travel, and the practicality of being a minimalist traveler. Keith also joins in to share his experiences of the nomad lifestyle post-FI.

The panelists share enlightening discussions on the evolving perspectives within the FI community, practical tips for solo travel, managing finances, and the liberating essence of minimalist travel.

Episode Links

Episode Page

FI Community Events:

Podcasts / Blogs / Books:

Timestamps:

01:08 Introducing the Hosts and Special Guests
03:24 Chris's Life-Changing Sabbatical to New Zealand
04:37 Navigating the Working Holiday Visa
05:39 The Van Life Experience in New Zealand
07:06 Financial Independence Journey and Inspirations
17:05 Samantha's Sabbatical and the Power of Community Support
20:48 Advice for Solo Female Travelers
22:03 Negotiating Sabbaticals with Employers
27:19 Financial Planning for Sabbaticals
28:57 Personal Growth from Sabbaticals
30:05 Choosing a FI Lifestyle
31:22 Understanding CoastFI and SlowFI
33:18 The Importance of Community and Accountability
34:20 Keith's Nomadic Journey
38:16 Managing Real Estate Remotely
45:47 Traveling Light: Packing Tips
56:26 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

7. CampFI Part 1: Annie, Kim, and Eric Jun 24, 2024

On today's show we're recording in LIVE from CampFI Mid-Atlantic with guest host Mark Trautman from Mark's Money Mind. Hear stories from Annie G., Kim B-H., and Eric B. who talk about how they came to find the FI movement, how kids fit into their journeys, and their struggles and wins. All with a live audience from CampFI.

Episode Links:

6. Ryan B: "The Middle Path of FI" Jun 17, 2024

In today's episode Meghan dives into Ryan's inspiring story. A CPA dedicated to nonprofits, Ryan found his path to financial freedom through real estate investing. In this episode, he shares his journey from crunching numbers to building a diverse property portfolio. Learn how Ryan navigates challenges and aligns his financial goals with his passion for serving others. Tune in for practical insights and motivation to pursue your own financial independence journey.

Episode links:

5. Scott M: "Everything you do should be fun in some way" Jun 10, 2024

On today's episode you'll meet Scott, the singing, swing-dancing ethical hacker with a passion for cybersecurity and financial independence. Join host Meghan Combs on Scott's fascinating journey as he applies his logical mindset to achieve financial freedom. Discover how Scott balances his diverse interests while building a secure financial future. Tune in for insights, inspiration, and a unique perspective on money matters.

Episode links:

4. Everyone should pursue FI, even if you love your job Jun 03, 2024

This episode of the EverydayFI podcast delves into the transformative power of financial independence, even for those who love their jobs. Host Meghan Combs explores the intersection of passion and financial freedom, showcasing why the pursuit of financial independence is essential for everyone's well-being.

Contrary to popular belief, financial independence isn't just about retiring early or escaping a disliked job. It's about gaining control over your life, empowering yourself to pursue your passions wholeheartedly, and creating a secure future.

Tune in to discover how taking control of your finances can lead to greater fulfillment, purpose, and freedom in all aspects of your life.

Links:

3. Justin H: "FI needs the RE" May 27, 2024

Today on the EverydayFI podcast your host Meghan Combs will be talking with Justin, an early retired ex-military professional who has some hot takes when it comes to financial advice.

In this insightful conversation, Justin shares his personal journey towards achieving FIRE, the challenges he faced along the way, and the invaluable lessons he learned about money, lifestyle choices, and pursuing contentedness rather than happiness.

Discover how Justin embraced frugality, smart investing, and strategic planning to build a robust financial foundation that allowed him to retire decades ahead of schedule. Through his unique perspective, Justin challenges the notion that your primary home is not an investment and the lack of RE in the FI movement.

Join us as we explore the misconceptions surrounding early retirement, the psychological adjustments required for transitioning into this new phase of life, and the importance of community and friendship. Whether you're a seasoned FIRE enthusiast or simply curious about alternative paths to financial freedom, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone seeking to design a life on their own terms.

Links from the show:

2. Craig & Julia: "Everything you throw away is your money, is your time, is your life." May 20, 2024

Welcome to the EverydayFI podcast! Join host Meghan Combs as she dives into the lives of Craig and Julia who have expertly navigated the twists and turns of their financial independence journey. In this episode Craig, a retired university professional, and Julia, still actively working, share their insights, challenges, and triumphs as they pursue financial freedom together.

Craig and Julia's story is one of dedication and determination. Having spent years working at a university, they understand the value of hard work. Now with Craig enjoying early retirement and Julia continuing her career, they are focused on achieving their financial goals and building a life of abundance and security through real estate investing and the stock market. Julia is set to retire any day now!

But their journey isn't just about money—it's also about pursuing the kind of life you want to live and measuring your successes through living your values.

Tune in to hear these new voices of FI.

1. Welcome to the EverydayFI Podcast May 01, 2024

Welcome to episode one of the EverydayFI podcast! In this episode I'll dive into what this show will be about plus my own personal financial independence story.

Here are the links to resources mentioned in the episode:

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