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ChooseFI

ChooseFI

By: ChooseFI
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How would your life change if you reached Financial Independence and got to the point where working is optional? What actions can you take today to make that not just possible but probable. Jonathan & Brad explore the tactics that the FI community uses to reclaim decades of their lives. They discuss reducing expenses, crushing debt, tax optimization, building passive income streams through online businesses and real estate and how to travel the world for free. Every episode is packed with actionable tips and no topic is too big or small as long as it speeds up the process of reaching financial independence.© 2019-2023 Choose FI. All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast is for general information purposes only. In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage derived from the information provided. Career Success Economics Personal Finance
Episodes
  • 551 | Roundup: Buy vs. Rent, Mortgage Amortization, Minimalism and More
    Jun 16 2025

    Lets dive into the emotional and practical considerations of paying off a mortgage early, explore the benefits and drawbacks, personal experiences, and broader financial implications of renting versus owning a home.

    Key Topics and Timestamps

    • Introduction to Mortgage Conversations (00:00:00)

      • Overview of the episode’s focus on mortgages, buying vs. renting, and personal finance strategies.
    • Emotional Factors in Paying Off Mortgages (00:01:30)

      • Ginger shares her excitement about paying off her mortgage early and reflects on the emotional journey behind that decision.
      • Key Quote: "Your peace of mind from paying off your mortgage is a huge win." (00:03:10)
    • Amortization and Mortgage Strategies (00:08:00)

      • Discussion about choosing between 15-year vs. 30-year mortgages and strategies on optimizing payments.
      • Action Item: Use an amortization calculator to improve understanding of mortgage payments. (00:12:00)
    • Choosing Between Buying and Renting (00:21:00)

      • Exploration of the pros and cons of renting compared to owning, highlighting personal flexibility.
      • Key Quote: "Customize your financial journey according to your personal needs and goals." (00:18:18)
    • Simplifying Life through Financial Independence (00:25:00)

      • Talk about minimalism and how it impacts choices around owning or renting.
      • Action Item: Evaluate whether renting allows you more freedom and flexibility in your life. (00:25:59)
    • The Role of Travel Rewards (00:37:00)

      • Importance of managing spending while maximizing benefits from travel rewards programs.
      • Key Quote: "Consider preloading gift cards to manage your travel rewards spending." (00:43:57)
    • Conclusion and Key Takeaways (00:49:00)

      • Final thoughts focused on empowerment in financial decisions and seeking small improvements in life.

    Key Insights

    • Emotional well-being is crucial. Choosing to pay off a mortgage should factor in personal comfort, as financial decisions often intertwine with emotions.
    • Flexibility vs. Certainty: A 30-year mortgage can provide flexibility, allowing individuals to make extra payments while having lower base payments.
    • Renting offers freedom: For some, renting can lead to a sense of liberation and a less complicated financial life.
    • Travel rewards must be managed wisely: Spending to achieve travel rewards should be monitored to avoid unnecessary overspending.

    Actionable Takeaways

    • Consider your emotional readiness when deciding to pay off your mortgage early. (00:03:10)
    • Evaluate whether renting allows you more freedom and flexibility in your life. (00:25:59)
    • Use amortization calculators to understand your mortgage better. (00:12:00)

    Discussion Questions

    • How does paying off a mortgage early affect emotional well-being? (00:03:10)
    • What benefits do you see in renting versus owning a home? (00:25:59)
    • How can you incorporate simplicity in your financial life? (00:49:24)

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    59 mins
  • Getting Personal with Personal Finance: Meghan & Ginger | Ep 550
    Jun 9 2025

    Ginger interviews Meghan Combs, who shares her journey to financial independence after recently getting married. They discuss budgeting strategies, the significance of personal values in spending, and adapting financial goals amid life transitions. Meghan reflects on her net worth of $527,000 and the impact of automating savings, as well as her desire for meaningful experiences over excessive frugality. As the host of the Everyday FI Podcast she encourages listeners to embrace flexibility in their financial identities.

    Key Takeaways
    • Wedding Budgets: Meghan shares her strategy to keep her wedding expenses under $10,000 by limiting the guest list and choosing affordable venues.
    • Net Worth Insights: Her current net worth is $527,000, attributed to both her and her husband’s financial strategies and property investments.
    • Automate Savings: Automating savings directly from her paycheck has been key to consistency in her financial journey.
    • Money Fluid Identity: Meghan promotes the concept of being “money fluid” rather than strictly identifying as frugal or a spender, allowing for adaptability in financial decisions.
    • Planning for Parenthood: The high costs of starting a family, including IVF, can shift financial priorities and goals.
    Timestamps
    • 00:00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest, Meghan Combs.
    • 00:01:06 - Conversation begins with Meghan about her recent wedding.
    • 00:05:32 - Discussion on net worth and financial plans post-marriage.
    • 00:08:42 - Mentioning how life changes affect financial independence goals.
    • 00:32:53 - Emphasizing the importance of adopting a fluid money identity.
    • 00:40:28 - Highlighting the benefits of automating savings.
    Major Topics Discussed
    1. Wedding Planning
      Meghan shares her experience planning a budget-friendly wedding and the importance of limiting the guest list for cost control.

      • Key Insight: Keep your guest list tight to stay under budget. (00:03:45)
    2. Current Financial Position
      Reflecting on her net worth and how her recent marriage has impacted it.

      • Key Insight: It's okay for your FI number to evolve. (00:08:46)
    3. Saving Strategies
      Meghan's most effective budgeting strategy is automating her savings and critically assessing her purchases based on personal values.

      • Key Insight: Automate savings directly from your paycheck. (00:40:28)
    4. Personal Financial Identity
      The discussion shifts to how financial identities can constrain decision-making and the benefits of maintaining flexibility.

      • Key Insight: Adopt a money fluid identity. (00:32:53)
    5. Impact of Major Life Changes
      Addressing the costs involved with starting a family and unexpected expenses that can influence financial priorities.

      • Key Insight: Life changes can shift priorities and expectations regarding financial independence. (00:08:42)
    Actionable Takeaways
    • Automate your savings directly from your paycheck to ensure consistency. (00:40:28)
    • Reflect on your values when making significant purchases for financial success. (00:41:15)
    • Keep your wedding guest list tight to control costs. (00:03:45)
    Related Resources
    • Everyday FI Podcast
    Discussion Questions
    • What are your thoughts on the importance of keeping a tight guest list for events? (00:03:45)
    • How has your net worth impacted your financial goals? (00:05:32)
    • Discuss the effectiveness of automating savings in your financial planning. (00:40:28)
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    47 mins
  • Deep Dive: Taxable Brokerage Accounts | Ep 549
    Jun 2 2025
    Episode Summary: Taxable brokerage accounts are often overlooked but are essential for building wealth and achieving early retirement. Brad Barrett and Cody Garrett highlight their flexibility, tax advantages, and strategic value. Cody Garrett provides insights on how to effectively navigate these accounts, dismantling common misconceptions while sharing actionable strategies. Key Takeaways: Understanding the definition and benefits of taxable brokerage accounts.The flexibility of contributions and investment options.Tax optimization strategies, including long-term capital gains and tax loss harvesting.The importance of asset location for tax efficiency.How to navigate the rules around gifting and estate planning regarding taxable accounts. Timestamps: 00:02:00 - Defining Taxable Accounts00:10:30 - Investment Opportunities and Options00:11:30 - Tax Benefits and Treatments00:25:00 - Best Investment Types for Taxable Accounts00:48:00 - Conclusion and Action Steps Main Discussion Topics: Introduction to Taxable Brokerage Accounts (00:00:00) The hosts introduce the episode’s focus on taxable brokerage accounts as crucial but often ignored tools in financial strategy. Defining Taxable Accounts (00:02:00) A taxable brokerage account is described as a non-retirement account where investment income is taxed in the year it is earned, providing the flexibility of access and lack of penalties. Investment Opportunities and Options (00:10:30) Taxable accounts allow unlimited contributions with various investment opportunities that traditional retirement accounts may restrict. This includes stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and even cryptocurrencies. Tax Benefits and Treatments (00:11:30) Earnings from dividends and long-term capital gains are subject to preferential tax rates, significantly benefiting investors. Discussion on tax strategies to minimize liabilities while maximizing income. Best Investment Types for Taxable Accounts (00:25:00) U.S. stock index funds are highlighted as optimal investments for taxable accounts due to their lower tax implications on dividends compared to foreign stocks. Conclusion and Action Steps (00:48:00) The episode wraps up with actionable steps for listeners, emphasizing the advantage of maximizing contributions to taxable accounts, especially after maxing out retirement accounts. Actionable Takeaways: Maximize contributions to your taxable brokerage account once you hit contribution limits for retirement accounts. (00:47:00)Consider holding U.S. stock index funds in taxable accounts for favorable tax treatment. (00:25:00)Utilize specific share identification methods for selling investments to optimize tax outcomes. (00:17:20) FAQs: What is a taxable brokerage account? A non-retirement account where investment earnings are taxed in the year they are earned. (00:02:30) What are the main advantages of a taxable brokerage account? Unlimited contributions, diverse investment options, and favorable tax treatment on capital gains and qualified dividends. (00:11:30) How are earnings taxed in a taxable account? Earnings are taxed in the year they are realized, which includes dividends and capital gains distributions. (00:03:00) Are there any penalties for early withdrawal from a taxable account? No penalties apply, offering flexibility compared to traditional retirement accounts. (00:34:00) Key Quotes: "Success comes with a price: don't let your money sit idle in a checking account." (00:06:00)"Prioritize earning over worrying about taxes." (00:06:16)"Taxable accounts can offer significant tax advantages." (00:11:32)"Don't let the tax tail wag the dog." (00:29:59) Related Resources: Measure Twice Money - For more insights on financial strategies.Episode #517: Tax Gain Harvesting Strategies - A detailed discussion on optimizing tax strategies.Cody and Sean's book announcement page Discussion Questions: How can taxable brokerage accounts enhance your investment strategy?What strategies can be implemented to maximize the tax advantages of taxable accounts?How should one decide which types of investments to prioritize in taxable accounts?
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    52 mins
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Jonathan does an amazing job cultivating insight from his guests. He actively listens to understand and asks clarifying questions. I love listening and learning on my FI journey!

Relatable, educational, fun!

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There's so many nuggets I'm glad I now know! Here's to the future! Thank y'all!

A fantastic perspective adjuster!

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starting from the beginning years later i love the topics and how down to earth they are. I know they are way beyond this point now. hope that doesn't get to their head. but awesome so farr

love these guys and the subject

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So far this podcast has been life changing. I have learned so much about reducing debt, increasing income and so much more.

Excellent information

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