Incremental Gains | EP 582
ChooseFI
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...
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Are Roth Conversions Necessary? | Cody Garrett and Sean Mullaney | Ep 581
ChooseFI
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...
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This Year Everything Changes | Ep 580
ChooseFI
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...
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2025 Biggest Takeaways with Ginger | Ep 579
ChooseFI
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...
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Year End Wins 2025 | Ep 578
ChooseFI
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. ...
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Health and Fitness Update Plus 'Are Organic Foods Worth It?' with Dr. Bobby Dubois | Ep 577
ChooseFI
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 -...
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Raising FI‑Minded Kids: What Really Works | 15-Year-Old Rishi Vamdatt | Ep 576
ChooseFI
Join us as Rishi, a remarkable 15-year-old personal finance enthusiast, shares his journey and insights on financial literacy for the next generation. Rishi discusses key strategies for teaching kids about personal finance, including practical experience, understanding needs versus wants, and early investing through index funds. His insights aim to empower both parents and teenagers to engage in meaningful conversations about money, fostering a pathway to financial independence. Key Topics Discussed Rishi's early interest in finance and investments [02:27] Strategies for teaching kids about...
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Breaking the Golden Handcuffs with 5 Kids | Sunny Burns | Ep 575
ChooseFI
Episode Summary: In this episode, Sunny Burns shares his journey to financial independence. After leaving a lucrative government job, he discusses the strategic choices that led to his success in real estate, alternative income streams, and how he's living a fulfilled life with his family of seven. Sunny emphasizes the importance of financial education for children and gives practical strategies for similar aspirants. Key Topics & Timestamps: 00:00:00 Introduction Brad introduces Sunny Burns, bringing listeners up to speed on his prior appearances and his financial journey's...
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Top Five Regrets of the Dying (Book Club with Frank Vasquez and Ginger) | Ep 574
ChooseFI
Join Ginger and Frank as they dive into the impactful concept of regret, exploring insights from Bronnie Ware's The Top Five Regrets of the Dying. Discover how these regrets can shape a life of fulfillment and happiness, and learn how to embrace self-expression and relationships to achieve true satisfaction. Episode Summary: In this episode, the hosts explore the concept of regret and its role in shaping meaningful lives. Inspired by Bronnie Ware's work, they discuss the common regrets of those at the end of their lives and provide insights on living authentically, nurturing...
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Cognitive Behavioral Tools for FI With Jasper Lee, PhD | Ep 573
ChooseFI
Show Notes Guest: Jasper Lee, PhD - Clinical Psychologist Episode Summary: In this episode, Jasper Lee discusses the psychological elements that impact the journey to financial independence (FI). He provides actionable insights on dealing with emotions and behaviors that influence financial decisions, emphasizing cognitive restructuring and behavioral activation as key strategies. Key Takeaways Psychology in FI: 90-95% of the FI journey is psychological, with the remaining being about the mechanics of money. Understanding Money Scripts: Early lessons about money shape...
info_outlineTim Ferriss focusing on financial independence, the importance of mentorship, and the role of playful experimentation in living a fulfilling life. Discover insights on designing an intentional life and the values behind Tim's new game, COYOTE.
Key Takeaways
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Experiential Learning & Game Selection
Choose the right projects to engage in rather than just focusing on winning. Tim stresses that the correct game selection impacts long-term success more than winning the game itself. -
Mentorship
Mentors and influential figures can shape our lives and paths significantly. Tim shares personal stories of mentors that led him to better decisions and prevented disastrous outcomes. -
Social Connections
Both Brad and Tim agree on the importance of meaningful social interactions and relationships in ensuring a fulfilling life post-financial independence. -
Importance of Play & Experiments
Financial independence allows for the experimentation of interests. Tim emphasizes the need for playful exploration of life after achieving financial goals.
Episode Breakdown
Introduction
- Welcome to ChooseFI! This week features Tim Ferriss, renowned author and podcaster.
Tim's Background and Impact
- Tim shares his journey from aspiring neuroscientist to bestselling author and podcaster. The significance of mentors in influencing his life.
Mentorship and Its Importance
- Exploration of how mentors shaped Tim’s decision-making and life course, leading to successful outcomes and personal growth.
Choosing Projects and Life Experiences
- Tim emphasizes the concept of game selection, stating it’s about finding projects and experiences that align with personal growth, rather than merely aiming for success.
Real Growth Happens Outside Your Comfort Zone
- Discussing self-imposed limitations and the value of experimenting at the edge of comfort zones for personal development.
The Importance of Social Interaction
- The significance of social connections in enhancing life experiences and mental health.
Discussion on COYOTE Game
- Overview of Tim's new game COYOTE, the thought process behind it, and its importance in fostering social interaction and play.
Notable Quotes
- "Choosing the right game is more important than just winning!" - Tim Ferriss
- "Real growth happens outside your comfort zone." - Tim Ferriss
- "It's not about winning—it's about self-discovery through experimentation." - Tim Ferriss
- "Be proactive about your well-being, don't wait for a crisis to take action." - Tim Ferriss
- "Focus on nurturing your top ten most important relationships." - Tim Ferriss
Actionable Takeaways
- Experimentation: Start small experiments in your life to explore new interests (Timestamp: 00:40:44).
- Prioritization of Relationships: Focus on nurturing your top ten most important relationships (Timestamp: 00:31:26).
- Intentional Play: Engage in intentional play and social activities for overall well-being, especially after achieving financial independence (Timestamp: 01:13:16).
Related Resources
- COYOTE Card Game: Buy Here (Timestamp: 01:30:00)
- 5-Bullet Friday Newsletter: Subscribe Here (Timestamp: 01:34:06)
- Tim's Blog and Podcast: Visit Here (Timestamp: 01:35:01)
Discussion Questions
- How can you apply the concept of game selection to your personal or professional life? [Timestamp: 00:15:43]
- What are some small experiments you can run to discover new interests? [Timestamp: 00:40:04]
- How do you prioritize your relationships and ensure they align with your goals? [Timestamp: 00:31:26]