EverydayFI

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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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