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...
info_outline
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...
info_outline
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...
info_outline
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...
info_outline
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. ...
info_outline
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 -...
info_outline
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...
info_outline
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...
info_outline
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_outline
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_outlineBrad interviews Chris Hutchins, host of the podcast All The Hacks. They dive deep into challenging the traditional mindset of financial independence (FI), exploring the balance between saving for the future and enjoying life experiences in the present. The discussion revolves around the potential pitfalls of overly conservative financial strategies and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing valuable life experiences while ensuring future financial security.
-
Conservative Goals Discussion (00:01:12)
Chris shares his reflections on why many in the FI community may prioritize financial safety at the cost of meaningful experiences. He poses the question of whether we are taking the wrong risks by focusing too much on certainty in our finances. -
The 4% Rule (00:03:47)
The hosts discuss the 4% rule, a guideline suggesting retirees can withdraw 4% of their savings annually. They highlight that, according to guests like Tyler Gardner, our focus on safety might lead to over-saving and depriving ourselves of essential life experiences. -
Rethinking Life Choices (00:10:44)
As parents, they reflect on how the fleeting nature of time with children should influence our financial and personal choices. Chris shares insights on making bold decisions, such as considering taking significant time off for experiences with loved ones. -
Spending for Experiences (00:14:01)
Brad challenges listeners to evaluate where they are spending their money and whether they can invest in experiences instead. The conversation emphasizes that creating memories often yields a higher return on investment than merely accumulating wealth. -
Importance of Flexibility in Spending (00:40:12)
They discuss the benefits of being flexible in both finances and travel planning, underscoring the importance of planning ahead to maximize opportunities for experiences.
Key Insights:
- Opportunity Costs: Focusing solely on savings can result in missing out on valuable life experiences (00:10:44).
- Flexibility Maximizes Value: Being flexible can help optimize travel rewards and reconcile the costs of memorable experiences (00:36:11).
- Rethinking Risks: Evaluate the balance between financial security and living fully. Exploring new experiences can often feel riskier, but not taking them can lead to regret (00:15:04).
Actionable Takeaways:
- Regularly evaluate spending to identify areas for investing in experiences instead of saving (00:23:30).
- Plan trips or memorable activities well in advance to create anticipation and excitement (00:35:02).
- Embrace the risk of enjoying life and create a budget that allows for valuable experiences (00:14:01).
Quotes to Remember:
- "Avoiding all risks in finance can lead to over-saving and missed life experiences." (00:08:02)
- "Focusing solely on savings can result in missing out on desired life experiences." (00:10:44)
Discussion Questions for Reflection:
- Are you overly conservative in your financial strategies? How can you shift your mindset? (00:09:43)
- What experiences are you prioritizing in your life right now and why? (00:14:01)
Related Resources: