The Detour is the Journey | Ep 583
ChooseFI
Brad and Jonathan continue unpacking *incremental gains* — the small, tactical decisions that compound into financial independence. This conversation moves quickly through **core FI math, expense optimization, retirement accounts, and tax strategy**, showing how flexibility, optionality, and understanding the rules of the game can radically change your long-term outcomes. Retirement Accounts: The Rules That Matter 401(k): Always Take the Match Employer match = free money Declining it = turning down part of your salary Pre-Tax Accounts Are Often Better for FI Account ...
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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...
info_outlineBrad Barrett welcomes Jillian Johnsrud, author of Retire Often, as they delve into the transformative concept of mini retirements. Jillian shares her insights on how taking intentional breaks from work can enrich life experiences, enhance personal growth, and help individuals navigate transitions on their journey towards financial independence.
Key Topics Discussed:
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Introduction to Mini Retirements
- Overview of the concept and its significance within the financial independence community.
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What is a Mini Retirement?
- Jillian defines mini retirements as intentional breaks of one month or longer focused on meaningful activities.
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The Importance of Seasons of Life
- Discussion on recognizing and embracing life's unpredictable seasons and their relation to experiences.
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Practicing Early Retirement
- The necessity of practicing life beyond work before transitioning into full retirement to build confidence.
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Overcoming the Fear of Retirement
- Exploring common fears related to stepping away from work and how to leverage the fear of regret as motivation.
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Finding Balance in Life Experiences
- Tips on focusing on one to two meaningful goals during a mini retirement to create a fulfilling experience.
Key Quotes:
- "Mini retirements are intentional breaks to enrich life experiences."
- "Embrace life's unpredictability; seize the moment for experiences now."
- "Practice mini retirements to master the art of living beyond work."
Actionable Takeaways:
- Attempt a mini retirement for a month to discover personal interests and break from routine.
- Focus on one or two meaningful goals during your mini retirement for a fulfilling experience.
Discussion Questions:
- What experiences resonate with you when thinking about a mini retirement?
- How does understanding life's seasons impact your financial journey?
Resources Mentioned:
- Retire Often Book - Jillian Johnsrud's guide on incorporating mini retirements into life.
- Retire Often Group Coaching - A supportive resources for individuals seeking guidance on financial independence and lifestyle design.
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