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_outlineThis 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:
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Introduction
- Welcome to the ChooseFI community, emphasizing financial independence.
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Community Wins
- Discussion on inspiring wins shared by community members.
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Individual Stories and Wins
- Members share their personal financial achievements, including reading financial literacy books and maximizing retirement contributions.
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The Importance of Action
- The value of taking action in one's journey toward financial independence.
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Closing Thoughts and Holiday Wishes
- Recap of the episode and a call to action for listeners to reflect on their own financial journeys.
Key Takeaways:
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Transformative Experiences:
- Personal victories shared by listeners exemplify the power of taking control of one's financial future.
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Embracing Minimalism:
- Many members reflect on simplifying their lives as a means to achieve financial independence.
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Community Support:
- The importance of having a supportive network that encourages accountability and shared successes.
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Taking Action Matters:
- Highlighted throughout the episode is the need for listeners to act on their financial knowledge to see tangible benefits.
Actionable Takeaways:
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Maximize Retirement Contributions:
Focus on contributing fully to accounts like 401(k) and IRA to leverage tax benefits and compound growth. [Timestamp: 00:19:03] -
Embrace Simplicity:
Cut out unnecessary complexities in life to allow more focus on what's important. [Timestamp: 00:11:54] -
Experiment and Learn:
Understand that the journey to financial independence is a time to try new things and see what works best for you. [Timestamp: 00:26:03]
Inspirational Quotes:
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"With the knowledge I now have, I'm planning on switching to part-time work by the end of 2026 so I can make spending time with my kids and my family my top priority going forward." [Timestamp: 00:36:27]
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"The boring middle can include some extraordinary detours." [Timestamp: 00:25:05]
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"This is the time to experiment." [Timestamp: 00:26:03]
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"I feel like I'm finally in control of my life, my health, and my happiness." [Timestamp: 00:47:16]
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"The freedom to be there for someone I love. This is as close to heaven as I've ever seen." [Timestamp: 00:34:03]
Discussion Questions:
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What were some of your biggest financial wins this year? [Timestamp: 00:15:45]
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How do you define financial independence in your own life? [Timestamp: 00:23:12]
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What actions have you taken to simplify your lifestyle? [Timestamp: 00:12:30]
Key Resources Mentioned:
- The Simple Path to Wealth - Amazon [Timestamp: 00:19:09]
- Die With Zero - Amazon [Timestamp: 00:32:34]
Related Episodes:
- Health and Fitness Transformation [Timestamp: 00:53:55]
- Coast with Confidence [Timestamp: 00:36:27]