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    Mr. Money Mustache

  • Three Months of Slacking
    “MMM, are you still alive?”– somebody on Twitter Holy Shit! I just realized that the last time I wrote a blog post for you was on April 18th, and now it’s late July. That’s an entire quarter of a year that I have let this wonderful, golden field of interesting... Read more »
    Published: July 25, 2021 - 9:07 pm
  • VideoThe Self Educating Child
    So it looks like my 15-year-old is officially a high-school dropout. Halfway through ninth grade, emboldened perhaps by the taste of freedom that Covid-era remote learning had provided, he realized that the whole system was just too slow and inefficient for him, and was “Getting in the way of his... Read more »
    Published: April 18, 2021 - 9:26 pm
  • Beware of the Bubble
    “A Nation Which Forgets Its Past Has No Future” Those were the words on a 20-foot-long banner that “Mr. Slick”, my high school history teacher, kept carefully pinned across the width of his classroom for the entire four years I had classes with him. “That makes no sense at all”,... Read more »
    Published: March 26, 2021 - 9:10 pm
  • The Margin Loan: How to Make a $400,000 Impulse Purchase
    So, I kind of just bought the house next door to me. This is already somewhat amazing, for a small-town boy who refuses to even buy himself a new car.  But even stranger are the details that surround this deal: I’m not moving into it. I don’t really need or... Read more »
    Published: January 29, 2021 - 5:43 pm
  • Poisoned Just Enough: Why I’m so Optimistic About 2021
    A close friend of mine was diagnosed with cancer this year. It was the serious kind, where you need to treat it quickly and aggressively or it will spread through your body, stick to all of your organs, and kill you. The diagnosis was a shock to my friend and... Read more »
    Published: December 18, 2020 - 1:22 am
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    Early Retirement Extreme

  • ● The salary of a blogger: What you should be paid
    It is no secret that our econometric systems only capture “value” whenever there is a transaction. More accurately, they only measure price. So for instance, if I break a window, I create so-called economic value as a new window has to be produced and installed even though the world is... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 7:53 am
  • On rabbits and turtles and popular lifestyle gurus
    Considering this thread on the relative “fitness” of the rabbit-approach to financial success (high-leverage, take risk, cheat, …) vs the turtle-approach to financial success (work hard, be persistent, save, …), it is interesting to consider the breeding strategies of rabbits vs turtles. For turtles it is a massive endeavor. It... Read more »
    Published: August 1, 2021 - 7:50 pm
  • How to light a wood stove
    Every solution is the sum of time, money, and skills (economists read: labor, capital and entrepreneurial skills). For instance one can compensate a lack of skills with time. For instance, a skilled person does the job faster than an unskilled person. I learned this the hard way when I spent... Read more »
    Published: August 1, 2021 - 7:49 am
  • “You should value experiences over stuff”
    To which I say: “Bah humbug!” Different strokes for different folks. According to my favorite theory in the world, the MBTI, a person’s highest values is a function of the personality type. They are Rationals: Competence and autonomy Idealists: Principles and relationships Guardians: Status and security Artisans: Spontaneous fun and... Read more »
    Published: July 31, 2021 - 7:43 pm
  • That word “retired”
    The word “retired” as it is commonly used and defined in the dictionary belongs to the industrial world, say the years 1920 to 2020, where it is understood in the sense of disposing of a worn out piece of machinery or employee. We can call this the social security era.... Read more »
    Published: July 31, 2021 - 7:41 am
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    Go Curry Cracker!

  • What’s worse than paying taxes? Paying tax penalties
    Here at Go Curry Cracker we talk a lot about paying zero taxes. It’s a fun little game that you win just by playing. But it won’t happen every year, probably. And in the years you owe tax, come April the IRS will penalize you and charge back interest if... Read more »
    Published: July 27, 2021 - 9:20 am
  • Award Travel Series: Avoiding Rookie Mistakes
    Advertiser Disclosure: This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as CardRatings.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. Opinions, reviews, analyses... Read more »
    Published: July 19, 2021 - 11:27 am
  • Playing With House Money
    Twice in my lifetime I have sauntered up to a Vegas craps table with a crisp new $100 bill, taken the dice in my hands, and rolled my way to big money – free flight and hotel nights thanks to Lady Luck. (*) On both occasions, once well ahead, I... Read more »
    Published: July 12, 2021 - 4:07 pm
  • Money Printer Go Brrrr
    Covid has broken and distorted a great number of things – businesses, industries, supply chains, hopes, dreams, and even many people’s capacity for reason. Large businesses and the people who work for them have thrived (e.g. Amazon, Microsoft, Facebook.) Small businesses (and the people who work for them) have struggled... Read more »
    Published: July 5, 2021 - 7:23 am
  • The SALT Deduction Limit
    The SALT deduction limit has been a hot topic recently. Some say it makes federal tax burden more uniform across states and makes the tax code cleaner / simpler / more fair. Others say it unfairly burdens those in states with high income taxes and high property taxes – Or... Read more »
    Published: June 21, 2021 - 7:57 am
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    1500 Days to Freedom

  • Performance Update: 2021 Mid-Year Review
    My main goal* was to build an investment and cash portfolio of $1,120,000* ($1,000,000 to retire on and $120,000 to pay off the house) in 1500 days**, starting from 1/1/2013 and ending in February of 2017. I made my goal in 2016, my 1500 Days are over, and I’ve left my job. In the interest of... Read more »
    Published: July 26, 2021 - 10:23 pm
  • The Petersen Automotive Museum
    As a kid, my dad was always talking about cars. I learned about Mustangs and Corvettes. Because I had some really crappy cars, I also learned a lot about working on them. Ford EXP anyone? Oof. Anyway, I haven’t quite been able to shake my love of silly machines. I... Read more »
    Published: July 15, 2021 - 9:04 am
  • The Incredible Lives Of My Adventurous Friends
    I recently returned from a week in Oaxaca Mexico. Like most adventures, I now plan my destinations around other humans and not places. This may seem strange, but when you understand the origins of happiness, it makes perfect sense: The surprising finding is that our relationships and how happy we... Read more »
    Published: July 12, 2021 - 1:52 pm
  • May 2021 Performance Update: Super Lazy Edition
    My main goal* was to build an investment and cash portfolio of $1,120,000* ($1,000,000 to retire on and $120,000 to pay off the house) in 1500 days**, starting from 1/1/2013 and ending in February of 2017. I made my goal in 2016, my 1500 Days are over, and I’ve left my job. In the interest of... Read more »
    Published: July 7, 2021 - 1:34 am
  • Mile High FI: Ask Us Anything
    I’m not going to write a post about every podcast, but this one was the most fun one yet, so I’ll blab about it just a little here. We had innocent intentions for this episode, but it eventually devolved into a discussion of asparagus pee. Doug and I had a... Read more »
    Published: June 23, 2021 - 10:04 am
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    Millennial Revolution

  • Will the Delta Variant Cause a New Recession?
    About a week ago, a pretty dramatic announcement came blasting out from Wall Street: The Pandemic Recession is officially over! Woohoo! Champagne flowing all around! The pandemic sparked recession ended in April 2020 after just two months, according to the National Bureau of Economic Research The covid recession is officially over, and... Read more »
    Published: July 26, 2021 - 1:30 pm
  • Reaching Financial Independence in Poland
    One of our favourite underrated places to travel to in Europe is Poland. Having explored nearly all of the European Schengen (World’s largest Visa-free zone) countries, Poland reigns supreme as the best value for money. Even Eastern European countries like Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania couldn’t beat it. And a big... Read more »
    Published: July 19, 2021 - 1:30 pm
  • Reader Case: Can Costa Rica Save Their Retirement?
    It’s been two years since we released our book, and it still amazes me whenever someone writes in to us to let us know that we’ve changed their lives. It’s a gratifying and humbling feeling, and you’d think I would have gotten used to it by now, but nope. Blows... Read more »
    Published: July 12, 2021 - 2:00 pm
  • Where Should We Go Next?
    For us, summer is the worst time to travel. It’s expensive, it’s crowded, and families take advantage of this time to go somewhere with their kids before school starts in September. Ever since we retired, our adventures are less about travelling like the masses for vacation and more about exploring... Read more »
    Published: July 5, 2021 - 1:30 pm
  • Have The Roaring Twenties Begun?
    There’s been more and more chatter in the media about whether we’re entering a new “Roaring Twenties” now that the pandemic recedes. I’m not entirely sure that’s a good thing, because yes the decade after the 1918 flu pandemic ended saw record economic expansion and rampant stock market gains, but... Read more »
    Published: June 28, 2021 - 2:00 pm
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    Can I Retire Yet?

  • July 2021 Best of the Web
    This month we start with a resource to help you to improve the quality of your life as you age. Resources will help get back to basics and strengthen the foundation upon which you can build your investment strategies. We’ll get honest about FIRE and the challenges of finding good... Read more »
    Published: July 26, 2021 - 11:57 am
  • Vanguard, the 4% Rule, and the FIRE Myth
    Investment behemoth Vanguard recently published an article titled Fuel for the FIRE: Updating the 4% Rule for Early Retirees. I was excited to see FIRE on the radar of this institution where I hold my investments. Vanguard has a long history of doing what is best for individual investors. I... Read more »
    Published: July 19, 2021 - 12:29 pm
  • Summer Road Trip – Living Our Best FIRE Life
    My wife, daughter and I loaded into our rental camper van and hit the road on June 4th. Thirty-one days, twenty-one states, and over 5,000 miles later we returned to Utah with a lifetime of memories.  Our road trip gave me a chance to reflect on why we started pursuing... Read more »
    Published: July 12, 2021 - 11:53 am
  • When Should You Self-Insure?
    Some people have an affinity for insurance and buy all the coverage they can get. It gives them peace of mind, at a price. Others are suspicious of insurance and loathe paying premiums for services they may never use. Count me in that latter camp. But, I’ve tried to be... Read more »
    Published: July 5, 2021 - 12:49 pm
  • June 2021 Best of the Web
    This month’s resources cover a diverse array of important topics that will help you save more, invest better and retire sooner. We start with a focus on current events. This month, the Supreme Court ruled decisively on the most recent challenge to the Affordable Care Act. We explore how the... Read more »
    Published: June 28, 2021 - 10:14 am
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    Root of Good

  • June 2021 Early Retirement Update – USA Road Trip Edition
    Here we are turning the page on our calendar to July. We've spent most of the last month traveling across the USA from North Carolina to California. As this post goes live, we'll be waking up not too far from the Pacific Ocean. Soon we will turn back east and... Read more »
    Published: July 8, 2021 - 9:30 am
  • May 2021 Early Retirement Update
    It was another busy month here in the Root of Good household. We have been busy with final preparations for our seven week road trip across the USA. I think we are ready to go. Two of our kids are completely done with school for the year. Our third kid... Read more »
    Published: June 7, 2021 - 9:30 am
  • April 2021 Early Retirement Update
    How does every month fly by so fast? Is it really May already?! I'm going to hit the pause button for a minute and reflect on the last month.  It was a very busy month for us. The kids had spring break in early April with lots of fun times... Read more »
    Published: May 6, 2021 - 9:30 am
  • March 2021 Early Retirement Update
    Well folks, here we are in April. It's no longer winter but it's not quite summer yet. Maybe we'll enjoy a little bit of spring before the heat sets in? Right now we're suffering through the horrible intermediate phase of "pollen season" here in North Carolina. It lasts a week... Read more »
    Published: April 8, 2021 - 9:30 am
  • Confessions Of A Frugal Millionaire
    Unless you are an heir to a big fortune or you have won the lottery, you have to work hard to have money.  To accumulate wealth, you have to make more money than you spend.  The key is to keep your expenses low.  And there will be sacrifices.  Nothing crazy... Read more »
    Published: April 1, 2021 - 9:30 am
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    Frugalwoods

  • A Haircut And Other June 2021 Expenses
    June was the month of post-vaccination celebration! And yes, I realize it’s almost August and I’m just now writing about June, but we’ve been a tad busy, in a wonderful way. All manner of family visited in June (and July), we hosted, we dined, we went out to restaurants (!!!!).... Read more »
    Published: July 30, 2021 - 8:00 am
  • Reader Case Study: Working to FIRE in Finland
    Jen and her husband Marc live on the west coast of Finland along with their two-year-old son. They recently bought their dream home near the sea and are enjoying their new lifestyle outside of the city. While Jen likes her job as a product champion engineer, she has aspirations to... Read more »
    Published: July 16, 2021 - 3:23 pm
  • Reader Case Study: Stay Married on Paper or Finalize the Divorce?
    Adrianna is a 40-year-old mom to two teenage boys who lives in Richmond, VA. She and her husband recently separated and she’s in the process of figuring out if it’ll make more sense to stay married on paper or finalize their divorce. Along with this question, she’s wondering about beefing... Read more »
    Published: June 23, 2021 - 3:01 pm
  • The Ballet and Other May 2021 Expenses
    May 2021 was the month of the fully vaccinated! Mr. FW and I both got our second shots of the Moderna vaccine, waited the requisite two weeks and then were FULLY VAXXED! The feeling of freedom, the feeling of normalcy creeping back in, the gratitude to the amazing scientists who... Read more »
    Published: June 15, 2021 - 3:10 pm
  • Reader Case Study: Stuck in Chicago, Longing for Life in The Basque Country
    Katie and her husband Jon live in Chicago, IL with their two-year-old daughter Amaia. But Chicago is not where their hearts are. Jon is originally from the Basque Country and the family longs to return. After a brief stint of living there in 2019, they were forced back to the... Read more »
    Published: June 9, 2021 - 3:02 pm
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    JLCollinsnh

  • Help Wanted: a new book
    Ever since publishing The Simple Path to Wealth, the idea of publishing another book has been rattling around in my brain. I’ve just needed time for the memory of how awful a task writing a book is to fade. So far it has taken half a decade. A couple of months... Read more »
    Published: July 27, 2021 - 7:19 pm
  • The Top 9 (Bad) Arguments Against Bitcoin
    In my last post I shared with you my thoughts on cryptocurrencies. As I said in it… Now I figure you might want to hear from someone who actually has researched these things. Someone who has invested in them and who knows the arguments against them probably better than most... Read more »
    Published: June 7, 2021 - 4:39 pm
  • Collins on Crypto
    Since I keep getting asked, here’s my take on… It all feels very much like a religion to me. Believers revel in the glorious revealed truth of it. Nonbelievers think they are batshit crazy, and maybe dangerous. I am not a believer, but I am intrigued. Currency? So far, cryptos... Read more »
    Published: May 13, 2021 - 8:58 pm
  • The Alfred Hitchcock Path to FI
    Running from 1955 to 1965 Alfred Hitchcock, the famous director of The Birds and Psycho, had a weekly TV series. It was focused on crime, mostly murder. If you have cable, you can catch these as reruns even today. It is surprising how well they hold up, at least for... Read more »
    Published: May 5, 2021 - 7:50 pm
  • Time to sell?
    Story goes that back in 1929 Joseph Kennedy was getting his shoes shined and the shoeshine boy began offering him stock tips. Kennedy promptly returned to his office and sold all his shares. The market crashed and the cash he was sitting on suddenly became the most valuable thing you... Read more »
    Published: April 13, 2021 - 3:10 pm



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    The Wealthy Accountant

  • 7 Tools to Build Wealth After 50
    Once you reach 50 retirement planning takes on a new level of seriousness. Avoiding a setback is more important than ever as there is less time to recover. There are tools available to help you build for retirement and plan for life in retirement. You can reduce taxes and increase... Read more »
    Published: July 25, 2021 - 5:27 pm
  • US Savings Bonds and Taxes
    Millions of Americans own U.S. savings bonds. They are the perfect gift for a newborn and young children you want to teach habits of thrift. U.S. savings bonds also get special tax treatment and can be used as a higher education funding tool for some taxpayers. We will focus on... Read more »
    Published: July 6, 2021 - 4:03 am
  • Minimize Taxes on Day Trading Profits
    The risks associated with day trading extend beyond the actual investment. Before the trade is placed consideration needs to be given to the tax implications.  Profits and losses for day traders can be taxed under the rules for an investor, trader, mark-to-market trader or dealer. There are pros and cons... Read more »
    Published: June 7, 2021 - 1:31 pm
  • 10 Early Retirement Considerations
    Before taking the plunge into retirement, early or traditional, you need to consider factors that will reflect the rest of your life. Handled correctly, early retirement can be a fulfilling blessing. Without proper planning you risk a return to employment you wanted to get away from. Retirement means different things... Read more »
    Published: May 10, 2021 - 1:54 pm
  • The Two Biggest Risks of Owning Bitcoin and Other Cryptocurrencies
    The excitement of bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies has risen to the height of the casino run. The house holds the odds, but for the moment, the card gods are looking kindly upon the gambler. Some say the run has just begun. As I write, bitcoin is north of $50,000 with... Read more »
    Published: April 27, 2021 - 1:25 pm
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    Our Next Life

  • It’s Time to Retire FIRE (and to Split It Up)
    I'm making a big claim today, but for good reason: It's time to retire the FIRE movement (and to split up those pursuing more control over their time). Read on to find out why.... Read more »
    Published: June 7, 2021 - 8:43 am
  • The Value of a Long Break
    I'm back on the blog after a long time away to write my next book, Wallet Activism, and to reflect on what's actually worth saying after the last year. Though this wasn't a break I intended, it taught me a lot about the value of stepping away for a while,... Read more »
    Published: March 8, 2021 - 8:35 am
  • Retire Early Without Harming Others // A Hard Look at FIRE and Racial Inequality
    My last post was about how the discourse of the FIRE community upholds systemic racism, but today's is much more personal. This is about how our choices as individuals -- as investors, as people choosing where to live, as earners, as tax payers and as charitable givers -- impact and... Read more »
    Published: June 29, 2020 - 10:19 pm
  • How the Personal Finance Sphere Upholds Systemic Racism
    It's deeply uncomfortable for a lot of us, white Americans especially, to talk about race. But if we care about helping people with their finances, or about not upholding systemic racism built into our system, we have no choice but to talk about it. Here is the tough but necessary... Read more »
    Published: June 1, 2020 - 9:26 pm
  • Recession, Coronavirus and the Future of FIRE
    We're in an unprecedented moment in history, with people staying home, businesses closed, stock markets going for a wild ride, and most of all, fear for our lives as the coronavirus pandemic worsens. What does all of this mean for the FIRE movement? What does it mean for you? Read... Read more »
    Published: March 25, 2020 - 7:20 am
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    Our Next Life

  • It’s Time to Retire FIRE (and to Split It Up)
    I'm making a big claim today, but for good reason: It's time to retire the FIRE movement (and to split up those pursuing more control over their time). Read on to find out why.... Read more »
    Published: June 7, 2021 - 8:43 am
  • The Value of a Long Break
    I'm back on the blog after a long time away to write my next book, Wallet Activism, and to reflect on what's actually worth saying after the last year. Though this wasn't a break I intended, it taught me a lot about the value of stepping away for a while,... Read more »
    Published: March 8, 2021 - 8:35 am
  • Retire Early Without Harming Others // A Hard Look at FIRE and Racial Inequality
    My last post was about how the discourse of the FIRE community upholds systemic racism, but today's is much more personal. This is about how our choices as individuals -- as investors, as people choosing where to live, as earners, as tax payers and as charitable givers -- impact and... Read more »
    Published: June 29, 2020 - 10:19 pm
  • How the Personal Finance Sphere Upholds Systemic Racism
    It's deeply uncomfortable for a lot of us, white Americans especially, to talk about race. But if we care about helping people with their finances, or about not upholding systemic racism built into our system, we have no choice but to talk about it. Here is the tough but necessary... Read more »
    Published: June 1, 2020 - 9:26 pm
  • Recession, Coronavirus and the Future of FIRE
    We're in an unprecedented moment in history, with people staying home, businesses closed, stock markets going for a wild ride, and most of all, fear for our lives as the coronavirus pandemic worsens. What does all of this mean for the FIRE movement? What does it mean for you? Read... Read more »
    Published: March 25, 2020 - 7:20 am
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    Our Next Life

  • It’s Time to Retire FIRE (and to Split It Up)
    I'm making a big claim today, but for good reason: It's time to retire the FIRE movement (and to split up those pursuing more control over their time). Read on to find out why.... Read more »
    Published: June 7, 2021 - 8:43 am
  • The Value of a Long Break
    I'm back on the blog after a long time away to write my next book, Wallet Activism, and to reflect on what's actually worth saying after the last year. Though this wasn't a break I intended, it taught me a lot about the value of stepping away for a while,... Read more »
    Published: March 8, 2021 - 8:35 am
  • Retire Early Without Harming Others // A Hard Look at FIRE and Racial Inequality
    My last post was about how the discourse of the FIRE community upholds systemic racism, but today's is much more personal. This is about how our choices as individuals -- as investors, as people choosing where to live, as earners, as tax payers and as charitable givers -- impact and... Read more »
    Published: June 29, 2020 - 10:19 pm
  • How the Personal Finance Sphere Upholds Systemic Racism
    It's deeply uncomfortable for a lot of us, white Americans especially, to talk about race. But if we care about helping people with their finances, or about not upholding systemic racism built into our system, we have no choice but to talk about it. Here is the tough but necessary... Read more »
    Published: June 1, 2020 - 9:26 pm
  • Recession, Coronavirus and the Future of FIRE
    We're in an unprecedented moment in history, with people staying home, businesses closed, stock markets going for a wild ride, and most of all, fear for our lives as the coronavirus pandemic worsens. What does all of this mean for the FIRE movement? What does it mean for you? Read... Read more »
    Published: March 25, 2020 - 7:20 am
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    Fiery Millennials

  • Where the Monthly Status Reports End
    I’ve been posting monthly status reports for over 5 years now. I was inspired by bloggers like the Frugalwoods, Mr. 1500, J. Money and others. It was so helpful to see what successful people’s budgets and net worth progression looked like. I got so much use out of their reports... Read more »
    Published: July 31, 2021 - 8:40 pm
  • Finding and Embracing My Superpower
    Gwen comes to grips with the fact she has ADHD and how that can help her move forward in life. She's turning it into her superpower.... Read more »
    Published: July 19, 2021 - 1:30 pm
  • My FIRE Evolution
    Gwen looks back over the FIRE community and whether the general and her specific approach to FIRE has undergone an evolution.... Read more »
    Published: June 29, 2021 - 11:23 am
  • Gwen’s Blender Theory on Socioeconomic Unfairness
    Gwen's theory on socioeconomic unfairness for the modern world using blenders for an example. This theory was brought to you by my Saturday morning smoothie.... Read more »
    Published: May 22, 2021 - 3:34 pm
  • Monthly Status Report: March 2021
    Disclaimer: some links may be affiliate links. They help offset the cost of keeping this blog running! Why do I do a monthly status report? I find it best to do a monthly status report for a few reasons. It helps me evaluate how I did the previous month. Did I hit a target reduction in spending or did... Read more »
    Published: May 15, 2021 - 5:53 pm
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    The Money Mustache Community

  • ● Re: Stay or Go?
    Depending on your personality I'd say you have several choices.1. Mr Somewhat-nice guy: Follow the plan, go on vacation, give notice.2. Mr Somewhat-less-nice: Tell your boss you'll be working from home, follow the plan. Don't give a fuck about what h...... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 6:55 am
  • ● Re: buying in rural NC
    Following. That area is gorgeous and those houses pop up on my redfin feed all the time and I'm tempted, but I really want to live in a walkable neighborhood.Buying is cheaper than renting in most places, as long as you don't need the flexibility to m...... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 6:31 am
  • ● Re: Kia beats Toyota in JD Power 2021 Dependability Study
    Quote from: zoro on August 01, 2021, 09:59:34 PMI dont agree with the JD power analysis. It is based on a short period of years - from 0 to 3.  And what Mustacian in their right mind would buy a new car. Toyotas have reliabi...... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 5:50 am
  • ● Re: Austin property - nothing meets the one percent rule
    Quote from: clarkfan1979 on July 31, 2021, 08:34:27 AMQuote from: Paper Chaser on July 30, 2021, 09:26:05 AMQuote from: clarkfan1979 on July 28, 2021, 10:56:17 AM...... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 5:30 am
  • ● Re: Oh, Florida!!! Covid19 Response
    The UK never required all students to be masked in all settings. England dropped face masks in schools in May, Wales is dropping face masks in schools in September, and Scotland is talking about it:https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/scottish-news/7...... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 4:38 am
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    Early Retirement Extreme Forums

  • ● ERE Journals • Re: Rube's journal
    July 2019: Rube 40 hrs/wk + DW 32 hrs/wk = 72 hrs/wkAugust 2020: Rube 20 hrs/wk + DW 32 hrs/wk = 52 hrs/wkAugust 2021: Rube 20 hrs/wk + DW 0 hrs/wk = 20 hrs/wkJuly 2022: Rube 0 hrs/wk + DW 0 hrs/wk = 0 hrs/wkJuly 2019 I announced my target... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 7:24 am
  • ● Money Questions • Re: Is 4% dead?
    Well, this is ERE, I thought 50k/yr was supposed to be considered extravagant and wasteful. The taxation goes according to revenues, not expenses. Since at the time in the US I was living in NYC, making less than $40k/year was a rather uncommon scenario (our 23yo uneducated new hires in... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 7:18 am
  • ● ERE Journals • Re: The Education of Axel Heyst
    @Qazwer: I think we largely agree and I'm not sure if I'm missing some point of conflict? I agree that the things I do are not global solutions, they are local solutions, localized to me. An old Bengali man or a young American teenager in a Christian Cult is not... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 5:02 am
  • ● Skills & Tools Questions • Re: Fixit Log
    Thats great! Good for you! I'm glad you were able to finish the job.I'm dealing with Midwestern rust too. It sucks.Statistics: Posted by Gilberto de Piento — Sun Aug 01, 2021 10:22 pm... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 3:22 am
  • Video● Skills & Tools Questions • Re: Furniture & Art Repair and Restoration Log
    I bought some heat activated fabric tape to repair the holes on the canvas. One of the tenants threw out very nice shades made from a canvas material that I can use to reinforce the edges of the canvas like he does here.... https://youtu.be/uFGLpt_r90E?t=1535But first things first. I have to... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 3:03 am
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    Early Retirement Extreme Forums

  • ● ERE Journals • Re: Rube's journal
    July 2019: Rube 40 hrs/wk + DW 32 hrs/wk = 72 hrs/wkAugust 2020: Rube 20 hrs/wk + DW 32 hrs/wk = 52 hrs/wkAugust 2021: Rube 20 hrs/wk + DW 0 hrs/wk = 20 hrs/wkJuly 2022: Rube 0 hrs/wk + DW 0 hrs/wk = 0 hrs/wkJuly 2019 I announced my target... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 7:24 am
  • ● Money Questions • Re: Is 4% dead?
    Well, this is ERE, I thought 50k/yr was supposed to be considered extravagant and wasteful. The taxation goes according to revenues, not expenses. Since at the time in the US I was living in NYC, making less than $40k/year was a rather uncommon scenario (our 23yo uneducated new hires in... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 7:18 am
  • ● ERE Journals • Re: The Education of Axel Heyst
    @Qazwer: I think we largely agree and I'm not sure if I'm missing some point of conflict? I agree that the things I do are not global solutions, they are local solutions, localized to me. An old Bengali man or a young American teenager in a Christian Cult is not... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 5:02 am
  • ● Skills & Tools Questions • Re: Fixit Log
    Thats great! Good for you! I'm glad you were able to finish the job.I'm dealing with Midwestern rust too. It sucks.Statistics: Posted by Gilberto de Piento — Sun Aug 01, 2021 10:22 pm... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 3:22 am
  • Video● Skills & Tools Questions • Re: Furniture & Art Repair and Restoration Log
    I bought some heat activated fabric tape to repair the holes on the canvas. One of the tenants threw out very nice shades made from a canvas material that I can use to reinforce the edges of the canvas like he does here.... https://youtu.be/uFGLpt_r90E?t=1535But first things first. I have to... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 3:03 am
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    Done by Forty

  • VideoFor Me, it's the RE
    The correct thing to do in FIRE is to focus on the financially independent part: the freedom you gain from having financial security. If you no longer needed to work for money, what would you do with your one and precious life? Would you travel the world full time? Write... Read more »
    Published: June 28, 2021 - 12:00 pm
  • And Then We Were Four
    We left for the hospital just before midnight. The on-call OB said that if Mrs. Done by Forty's contractions were five minutes apart and consistent, then it was time to go. We called our friend to come over since Toddler AF was asleep, grabbed the suitcase, and drove off. At the... Read more »
    Published: June 15, 2021 - 12:00 pm
  • No Job. New Plan?
    It's been a couple months since my sudden retirement, readers, and the days have been calm. Rewarding, even. This is the type of balance I need, at least while the pandemic drags on, Mrs. Done by Forty continues to work, while nearly nine months pregnant, and Toddler AF seeks our... Read more »
    Published: April 19, 2021 - 12:00 pm
  • VideoIs $400k Middle Class? Income Quintiles: 2021 Update
    2021 is determined to deprive us of nice things, so some tired click bait has been making the rounds again: claiming that a $400k income somehow qualifies as middle class in some coastal cities. I don't have to link to this junk, right? No, I don't. We won't. We don't... Read more »
    Published: March 22, 2021 - 1:00 pm
  • A Kinder Means Testing
    Now that congressional Democrats have moved past the Republican's latest political showboating (this time in the form of a twelve hour vote-a-rama) the non-fascist party can move forward with a COVID relief bill. They'll likely do so through reconciliation, a process that allows certain bills to pass with only 51 votes in... Read more »
    Published: February 8, 2021 - 11:00 am
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    The Golden Albatross

  • The Pension Series (Part 27): The Golden Albatross Pension Survey
    I only ran this survey to meet the 'primary data collection' requirements for my master's thesis. However, I decided a survey might provide some fascinating insight into my readership. In that regard, it didn't disappoint. The post The Pension Series (Part 27): The Golden Albatross Pension Survey appeared first on... Read more »
    Published: July 13, 2021 - 12:41 am
  • The Pension Series (Part 26): Continuance Commitment
    Suppose you decided to stay for the pension. In that case, you need to be honest with yourself because you are now a high continuance commitment employee. The post The Pension Series (Part 26): Continuance Commitment appeared first on The Golden Albatross.... Read more »
    Published: June 27, 2021 - 11:21 pm
  • The Pension Series (Part 25): Pension Design
    As either a current pensionable employee or a soon-to-be retiree, it behooves you to examine your pension plan's design and determine its generosity level. Breaking it down by its design elements will help you make a better informed Golden Albatross decision or build a better retirement plan. The post The... Read more »
    Published: June 13, 2021 - 9:46 am
  • 6 Lessons From 18 Months as a Pensioner
    Back in Time Wow! Where did the time go? I blinked, and my first year-and-a-half as a pensioner flew by. Before you start laughing about my use of the term “pensioner,” I’m aware that in many parts of the world, “old age” comes in front of the word “pensioner.” However,... Read more »
    Published: May 26, 2021 - 11:42 am
  • Guest Post: How to Optimally Ruin All Your Plans
    I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, my kids are going to community college! And only after a year of some type of service. Now, let me tell you about how great my oldest is doing in her SUNY program…… The post Guest Post: How to Optimally Ruin... Read more »
    Published: May 5, 2021 - 5:10 am
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    Budgets Are Sexy

  • ● Why Are We Making Early Retirement So Controversial?
    The post Why Are We Making Early Retirement So Controversial? appeared first on Budgets Are Sexy. [Mornin’ money lovers!  I’m excited to share this guest post written by Steve Cummings a.k.a The Frugal Expat. Steve talks about why so many people get their knickers in a knot arguing about FIRE,... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 5:30 am
  • Selling our rental properties… 2 down, 2 to go!
    The post Selling our rental properties… 2 down, 2 to go! appeared first on Budgets Are Sexy. Happy Friday, happy people! About 6 months ago, I wrote a blog post about plans to downsize my real estate assets. Specifically, the plan was to sell some physical rental properties and move... Read more »
    Published: July 30, 2021 - 5:30 am
  • Lowering my emergency fund… to…. $0.00?
    The post Lowering my emergency fund… to…. $0.00? appeared first on Budgets Are Sexy. For most of my life I’ve had about 6 – 12 months of living expenses sitting in cash in my checking account. This cash is my “emergency fund”. I’ve always felt fine about this because of... Read more »
    Published: July 26, 2021 - 5:30 am
  • How Much Do You Give for Wedding Gifts These Days?
    The post How Much Do You Give for Wedding Gifts These Days? appeared first on Budgets Are Sexy. It’s wedding season! And do you know what that means?… It’s time for everyone to pull out their wallets and pay some money into the $50 billion dollar industry of wedding celebrations!... Read more »
    Published: July 23, 2021 - 5:30 am
  • What Is Socially Responsible Investing and How to Start
    The post What Is Socially Responsible Investing and How to Start appeared first on Budgets Are Sexy. Hey money friends! Are any of you nerds into socially responsible investing? (A.k.a. sustainable investing, ESG investing, or impact investing?) I got this question from a reader recently… “I want to start investing... Read more »
    Published: July 19, 2021 - 5:30 am
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    ChooseFI

  • mp3● 336 | $1K 100 Ways
    In this week's episode, Brad and Jonathan are joined by author, podcaster, and entrepreneur Nick Loper from Side Hustle Nation. In their conversation, Nick emphasizes that thinking creatively when looking to start an entrepreneurial journey can lead to a surprisingly successful endeavor. Nick also cited examples he has came across... Read more »
    Published: August 2, 2021 - 5:00 am
  • mp3335 | In a World Where You Can Do Anything, Why Do We Always Do the Same Thing?
    In this week's episode, Brad and Jonathan get introspective and examine the choices that everybody has laid out for them in their lifetimes. Together, they ponder why so many choose only the cookie-cutter options in life, and how taking the path less traveled can lead to happiness you never even... Read more »
    Published: July 26, 2021 - 5:00 am
  • mp3334 | Experiments in FI: Inflation, Gardening, and Revocable Living Trusts
    In this week's two-part episode, Brad and Jonathan provide personal examples and insight on relatively safe ways to experiment with your FI investment plan! Later in the show, Sean Mullaney joins the guys to discuss revocable living trusts and how they can fit in with the, "hard to think about,"... Read more »
    Published: July 19, 2021 - 5:00 am
  • mp3333 | Unlocking Your First Mini-Retirement
    In this week's episode, Brad and Jonathan are joined by Jillian Johnsrud, the host of the Everyday Courage podcast and fellow FI guru. Jillian shares with the guys the concept behind a mini-retirement, or in other words taking an extended period of time off outside of the so called "golden... Read more »
    Published: July 12, 2021 - 5:00 am
  • mp3332 | Transform Your Tax Return Into a Springboard for Financial Planning
    In this week's episode, Brad and Jonathan are joined by none other than the "FI Tax Guy" himself, Sean Mullaney. Together, they highlight reasons why your tax return may not be such a great thing, and the different ways you can leverage your tax planning to your own advantage! Resources... Read more »
    Published: July 5, 2021 - 5:00 am



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    Military Guide

  • Did DFAS And The TSP Let You Contribute Too Much?
    Check your 2021 TSP contributions now! I’ve heard from three different servicemembers that the Defense Finance and Accounting Service and the Thrift Savings Plan have failed to stop their TSP contributions after reaching the elective deferral limit ($19,500 in 2021). This problem is caused by a glitch in a January... Read more »
    Published: July 1, 2021 - 3:00 pm
  • Home Depot Military Discounts – How to Save 10% on Purchases at Home Depot
    Home Depot is one of the most popular hardware store chains in the United States. So, it comes as no surprise that they offer a variety of different promotions to keep their customers interested. Though most promotions and discounts are provided for a particular event, holiday, or time of year,... Read more »
    Published: February 24, 2021 - 4:12 pm
  • Reader story: “How I Bumbled Into Financial Independence” (part 2)
    [This post is brought to you by my cousin Ross!  If you’re interested in contributing at The-Military-Guide.com, please see our posting guidelines.] [For those who haven’t seen it yet, here’s the link to Ross’s first post in this series.]       Our net worth is what?!? I thought to... Read more »
    Published: January 14, 2021 - 4:00 pm
  • Reader story: “How I Bumbled Into Financial Independence”
    [This post is brought to you by my cousin Ross!  If you’re interested in contributing at The-Military-Guide.com, please see our posting guidelines.]   I knew I had a spending problem after I contemplated purchasing a new TV to avoid the hassle of calling the warranty department for a six month... Read more »
    Published: December 31, 2020 - 4:00 pm
  • 2021 VA Disability Compensation Rates – Updated Veterans Compensation Benefits Rate Tables
    The Department of Veterans Affairs provides monthly disability compensation payments for veterans with a VA Service-Connected Disability Rating. These VA disability rate charts show you how much you will receive each month for your disability rating. The post 2021 VA Disability Compensation Rates – Updated Veterans Compensation Benefits Rate Tables... Read more »
    Published: December 4, 2020 - 4:24 pm
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    The Frugal Vagabond

  • Retire Early in France – Without All The Tax
    We recently declared ourselves Financially Independent, which is definitely a weird and uncertain feeling. We'll likely wait a couple more years to retire early, add to our FIREhouse (ha!) savings, and augment our early retirement travel budget a bit. Even though RE is a still a little ways out, we've... Read more »
    Published: April 30, 2021 - 12:45 pm
  • Getting a Spanish Driver’s License
    Getting a Spanish Driver's License is intimidating. I'll break down each step of the process and help you get on the road with your very own EU license. The post Getting a Spanish Driver’s License appeared first on The Frugal Vagabond.... Read more »
    Published: October 5, 2020 - 4:00 pm
  • Living Abroad: Five Essential Survival Skills
    Living abroad is as alluring as it is polarizing. Five skills that will make your life abroad a success. The post Living Abroad: Five Essential Survival Skills appeared first on The Frugal Vagabond.... Read more »
    Published: March 2, 2020 - 2:00 pm
  • Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa Renewal
    Spain can get under your skin. In the course of living here for the full first year of our non-lucrative visa, we’ve come to love our home, our city, Spanish food and culture, and most of all, the close friends… The post Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa Renewal appeared first on The... Read more »
    Published: August 22, 2019 - 1:32 pm
  • Surgery in Thailand: Bumrungrad International Hospital
    I seek treatment at Bumrungrad International Hospital for a growth in my chest. How did it go? Was it cost effective to travel to Thailand for medical care? The post Surgery in Thailand: Bumrungrad International Hospital appeared first on The Frugal Vagabond.... Read more »
    Published: February 7, 2019 - 2:00 pm
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    The Millionaire Educator

  • Tax Planning: 2021 Free Money!
    Long-overdue greetings to all my readers out there.  With 2021 right around the corner, it’s a perfect time to start your tax planning for next year.  You know what means, right?  Yeap, it’s time for my most requested post of the year, 2021 Free Money!    What Exactly Is Free... Read more »
    Published: December 13, 2020 - 11:02 pm
  • VideoPodcast Interview with Superb Diamond Range
    Great News:  We’re Still Healthy! Warm quarantine greetings from swampy South Georgia!  Tomorrow starts week 3 of no school for us (and most of the country).  All in all, our daily life is pretty normal except that we no longer have jobs to report to.  It’s almost like we’ve re-FIRE’d... Read more »
    Published: March 29, 2020 - 9:59 pm
  • Adiós 2019 y Bienvenidos 2020
    Okay, I know this post is late, but here it is.  Before I get into last year’s accomplishments and this year’s goals, it’s worth mentioning that there are many things in life that are more important than money:  family, community, faith, health, and love.  As I write these words, the... Read more »
    Published: March 24, 2020 - 3:01 pm
  • Podcast Interview with One Million Apples
    Happy New Year!  I just wanted to let you know that I did an interview with Breanna Reish of the One Million Apples podcast.  We talked about our 2019 hardcore savings, geo-arbitrage, my Twitter “rants,” and my never-ending obsession with Bigfoot.  I hope you enjoy the interview. Gerry... Read more »
    Published: January 2, 2020 - 6:32 pm
  • Tax Planning: 2020 Free Money!
    The holiday season is upon us:  fall weather, pumpkin spice, falling leaves, cool breezes…actually, who cares?  It’s tax-planning time, so it’s time for my most anticipated post of the year:  2020 Free Money! Refresher:  What is “Free Money!”? For the uninitiated, my Free Money! posts are an attempt to simplify... Read more »
    Published: November 26, 2019 - 1:09 pm
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    Financial Samurai

  • Real Estate Or Bonds: Which Is A Better Investment?
    I have stated multiple times that real estate is my favorite asset class to build wealth. Therefore, choosing between real estate or bonds is a fairly straightforward decision. Real estate all the way. However, as I fill out the chapters for my new book with Penguin Random House, I thought... Read more »
    Published: July 30, 2021 - 11:18 am
  • Forfeit The Enrollment Deposit For A Better School? A Tricky Dilemma!
    Something funny happened on our long and intricate preschool admissions journey. A school we had applied to in 2017 reached out and said they have a spot for our son this fall. Now we have to decide whether to forego an enrollment deposit at another school or stay the course.... Read more »
    Published: July 28, 2021 - 11:48 am
  • 20 Best Side Hustle Ideas To Make Extra Money
    The best way to achieve financial freedom is to make more money. You can only save so much on a capped income. And one of the best ways to make more money is to side hustle! I’ve put together a list of the 20 best side hustle ideas below to... Read more »
    Published: July 26, 2021 - 5:48 pm
  • FIRE Confessionals Part II: A Bull Market Phenomenon
    When I first started writing about FIRE (Financial Independence Retire Early) in 2009, my main goal was to first survive the Global Financial Crisis. If I did, then I would find some way to permanently change my life for good. Back then, the FIRE movement was a bear market phenomenon.... Read more »
    Published: July 23, 2021 - 8:25 pm
  • The Delta Variant Investment Thesis For Stocks And Real Estate
    If the delta variant is here to stay, we should come up with an investment thesis to navigate new choppy waters. After all, the first rule of financial independence is to never lose money. The second rule of financial independence is to never forget the first rule. It would be... Read more »
    Published: July 21, 2021 - 2:25 pm
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    Afford Anything

  • mp3#329: Challenging Your Confirmation Bias, with Economist Larry Kotlikoff
    [smart_track_player url="https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/paulaandjaymoney/AA329.mp3" title="Challenging Your Confirmation Bias, with Economist Larry Kotlikoff" artist="Paula Pant" social="true" social_twitter="true" social_facebook="true" social_gplus="true" social_linkedin="true" social_stumble="true" social_pinterest="true" social_email="true" ] Have you ever thought about how an economist views financial planning? Would you guess that it's vastly different from how some financial planners approach this work? Today's guest, Laurence... Read more »
    Published: July 29, 2021 - 8:43 pm
  • mp3#328: Ask Paula: I’m on the Verge of Retirement and My Taxes are Rising … Help!
    [smart_track_player url="https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/paulaandjaymoney/AA328.mp3" title="Ask Paula: I’m on the Verge of Retirement and My Taxes are Rising … Help!" artist="Paula Pant" social="true" social_twitter="true" social_facebook="true" social_gplus="true" social_linkedin="true" social_stumble="true" social_pinterest="true" social_email="true" ] Sarah O Sahara’s parents sold their rentals and business of 24 years. They’d like to create a trust for their grandkids with... Read more »
    Published: July 21, 2021 - 10:19 pm
  • mp3#327: Decoding Greatness, with Ron Friedman, Ph.D
    Hey Podcast family! Remember about two years ago, when I mentioned that Afford Anything would start hosting in-person live events? Then came a pandemic and ruined all our plans. 😑 Now we’ve turned a corner, and we’re excited about hosting a live workshop and retreat again.  We’re hosting a three-day... Read more »
    Published: July 14, 2021 - 9:42 pm
  • mp3#326: Ask Paula – The Dangers of Frugality
    [smart_track_player url="https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/paulaandjaymoney/AA326.mp3" title="Ask Paula - The Dangers of Frugality" artist="Paula Pant" social="true" social_twitter="true" social_facebook="true" social_gplus="true" social_linkedin="true" social_stumble="true" social_pinterest="true" social_email="true" ] "Hetty" is struggling with being too frugal, possibly to the detriment of her health. I mentioned in a previous episode that I struggled with frugality for a long time. She... Read more »
    Published: July 7, 2021 - 8:38 pm
  • mp3#325: Bitcoin for Beginners
    [smart_track_player url="https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/paulaandjaymoney/AA325c.mp3" title="Bitcoin for Beginners" artist="Paula Pant" social="true" social_twitter="true" social_facebook="true" social_gplus="true" social_linkedin="true" social_stumble="true" social_pinterest="true" social_email="true" ] Okay, so everyone and their dog is talking about Bitcoin — but what exactly is it? And what’s Ethereum? There’s a famous adage that you should never invest in something that you don’t understand.... Read more »
    Published: July 2, 2021 - 7:53 pm
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    Accidental Fire

  • T.G.I.F. Friday: Volume 48
    Welcome to “Thank God I’m FI” Friday, Volume #48! Here are some things I really like and that you might too.    Finance Articles Happiness vs Satisfaction (Rich Life Habits) – “It’s OK to be happy and unsatisfied.“ Some Fascinating... The post T.G.I.F. Friday: Volume 48 appeared first on Accidental... Read more »
    Published: July 30, 2021 - 8:15 am
  • I Didn’t Dream Big, You Should
    I crested the top of the hill, gasping for air, legs screaming in pain.  My cycling GPS tracker beeped to show my time.  It said 3:37.  Holy crap….  After a minute or two to catch my breath and get my... The post I Didn’t Dream Big, You Should appeared first... Read more »
    Published: July 27, 2021 - 8:15 am
  • The Broadband Gap In America
    Not long ago I did a post about working from home.  Specifically, I highlighted a Bloomberg article showing that many workers are quitting instead of going back into the office.  I’m all about sticking it to the man when necessary. ... The post The Broadband Gap In America appeared first on... Read more »
    Published: July 20, 2021 - 8:15 am
  • T.G.I.F. Friday: Volume 47
    Welcome to “Thank God I’m FI” Friday, Volume #47! Here are some things I really like and that you might too.    Finance Articles How Panflation Can Hurt Your Finances (Super Saving Tips) – “You are in a war and you... The post T.G.I.F. Friday: Volume 47 appeared first on Accidental... Read more »
    Published: July 16, 2021 - 8:15 am
  • Front-Load Your Career To Achieve What Europeans Have
    We descended the steps to the metro station with fresh espresso and croissants in our bellys.  Our hangovers were already starting to wane as we set off for another day of adventure in Paris. It was a Tuesday morning and... The post Front-Load Your Career To Achieve What Europeans Have... Read more »
    Published: July 13, 2021 - 8:15 am
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    Independently Financed

  • Understanding the latest two rounds of EIDL Advances
    Become a Patron!Last May I shared my successful Economic Injury Disaster Loan experience, which included a $1,000 “EIDL Advance” that doesn’t have to be repaid and a $3,000 30-year low-interest loan. It took about a month and a half for the money to show up in my checking account, but... Read more »
    Published: July 7, 2021 - 3:23 pm
  • Why is there a private market in long-term care insurance?
    Become a Patron!This is a question I’ve been thinking about lately while working on another project, and I want to walk through my thinking so far to see if any readers want to provide any additional insight. Long-term care is very expensive, but not everybody needs itDue to search-engine optimization... Read more »
    Published: June 8, 2021 - 7:43 pm
  • Two quirks to watch for when reporting 2020 unemployment compensation
    Become a Patron!There has been a fair amount of confusion and chaos around changes made to the taxation of unemployment compensation in the American Rescue Plan, so as I’m finishing up preparing my own 2020 taxes, I want to draw readers’ attention to one very important and one very minor... Read more »
    Published: April 8, 2021 - 10:00 pm
  • Minimums, Anchors, and Thresholds
    Become a Patron!One of the most frustrating things that comes up almost immediately when you start talking to people about money is the way people treat certain purely regulatory or legislative figures as having some kind of moral or persuasive value.The example that has driven me crazy for years is... Read more »
    Published: March 18, 2021 - 9:09 pm
  • What’s the real story behind the zillionaire widow defrauded by her grandsons?
    Become a Patron!Via TravelBloggerBuzz, last week I read a fascinating story about the resolution of a FINRA arbitration complaint against two JPMorgan financial advisors by their grandmother, whose money they had supposedly misallocated for the benefit of themselves and their employer. Unfortunately, for the usual reason (laziness) the business journalist... Read more »
    Published: March 8, 2021 - 11:35 pm
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    Mr Crazy Kicks

  • We Made a New Haircut Tool: The HairFin!
    As a kid, my mom cut my hair with her trusty clippers. In college, I picked up a pair of clippers and learned to cut my own hair. Soon I found myself cutting friends’ hair in the dorms. Clippers made … Continue reading → The post We Made a New... Read more »
    Published: August 11, 2020 - 1:53 pm
  • Guest Post at Physician on FIRE
    If you haven’t already seen it, Physician on FIRE is a blog about achieving financial independence while working in the medical field. Even though the blog is focused on challenges facing physicians, the financial aspects are still the same. Work toward … Continue reading → The post Guest Post at Physician... Read more »
    Published: January 3, 2019 - 10:09 pm
  • How Much Can a Greenhouse Extend the Growing Season?
    Last year I designed and built a hoop house for around $650 in materials. I didn’t want to waste money heating the thing, so the plan was to keep it passive. Since I never worked with an unheated greenhouse before, … Continue reading → The post How Much Can a... Read more »
    Published: October 23, 2018 - 1:04 pm
  • Should I Pay Off My Mortgage?
    Having a paid off house has always been a goal. Living mortgage-free sounds awesome, but it can also put the brakes on financial growth. Any money put toward home equity is robbing investment accounts of hard working capital. After years … Continue reading → The post Should I Pay Off... Read more »
    Published: September 18, 2018 - 2:27 pm
  • How to Get Started Hunting Mushrooms
    I love hiking in the shade of the woods, racing to the top of a mountain to take in a satisfying view. Lately however, I’m less interested in flying up rocks and roots to see the world from afar. I’ve … Continue reading → The post How to Get Started... Read more »
    Published: August 14, 2018 - 12:22 pm
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    The Happy Philosopher

  • How to Prepare for Life After Residency
    Burnout and Finance I was recently asked to speak to a bunch of medical residents about my story of burnout and my general philosophy on finance and life. I declined for a variety of reasons, but upon reflection I realized that this was a topic I had not addressed. This... Read more »
    Published: September 9, 2019 - 11:06 pm
  • A Podcast, Guest Post, and Random Musings
    Hey philosophers, just wanted to let you know about a couple of small projects I participated in recently. I haven’t had much time or motivation to write these last couple of weeks. I have been paying the work price for my two week vacation to Alaska. Flexibility to take a... Read more »
    Published: August 5, 2019 - 6:50 pm
  • Running, Purpose, and Bears (Oh, my!)
    As my feet rhythmically hit the belt of the treadmill, it briefly occurred to me this was perhaps the weirdest time to start my journey back to some sort or reasonable physical fitness. The treadmill was gently rocking side to side and I was looking out at an endless expanse... Read more »
    Published: July 15, 2019 - 12:38 am
  • Why A Physician Should Work Full-Time
    As an evangelist of part-time work for physicians, I occasionally get an e-mail from a physician reader asking if cutting back on work is the right move for them. Often times they are early in their training, and I’m not sure how to respond. I feel conflicted. I know what... Read more »
    Published: May 1, 2019 - 3:06 am
  • The Government Doesn’t Want you to Work (Too Much)
    A feeling of dread suddenly came over me. The numbers just didn’t add up, yet I could not figure out where I went wrong. Maybe I typed something in wrong or missed a section, but everything looked more or less complete. Maybe I’m just getting too old for this and... Read more »
    Published: April 16, 2019 - 1:51 am





    +

    Slowly Sipping Coffee

  • Embracing Life
    This time last year, I was talking about trying to get on board with the MFLC and figure life out from there. I had some things I was working on and damn if I haven’t gotten any to fruition. It seems frustrating and it can be, but if you remember... Read more »
    Published: March 10, 2021 - 8:50 pm
  • Life Can Be SO “Overwhelming”: How I Tame It
    Now that I’m back to just having a single source of income, my adjunct position, I immediately have a crazy sense of pressure to “get back earning”, and “get a job” or “create a job” or “hit it big with day trading”, as soon as I study up a little... Read more »
    Published: March 1, 2021 - 9:31 pm
  • Do You Take Payment in Soul Currency?
    Last week at some point, Angela from Tread LIghtly Retire Early tweeted about giving time versus money and it reminded me of what I did with my time when I wasn’t working. I found my time that I give is rewarded so much more in “soul currency” than money. If... Read more »
    Published: February 15, 2021 - 4:45 pm
  • What to Do, What to Do?
    With all of this change that’s come about in the past couple of years, I figured I should revisit the “plan” since my retirement and savings got halved. I can’t say there are many complaints, considering how much we’d saved, so my half is a nice chunk of change. I... Read more »
    Published: February 8, 2021 - 3:51 am
  • Time To Move On, Again…
    Last year was one for the record books in so many ways. And literally, one for the record books in so many ways that none of us want to remember. For me, it was the first time since I was 15 that I was unemployed. Like for real unemployed, not... Read more »
    Published: February 1, 2021 - 5:34 am
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    zen habits

  • Thinking Mode vs Doing Mode
    By Leo Babauta I spend a lot of time dreaming about things — incredible adventures I want to go on, self-improvement projects, all those books I plan on reading! And there’s nothing wrong with that. Dreaming is wonderful. What I’ve noticed, though, is that sometimes I get stuck in the... Read more »
    Published: July 30, 2021 - 1:13 pm
  • A Life of Meaning, Without Buying
    By Leo Babauta Lately I’ve been buying a lot of things: a nice watch, some cool folding knives, some tools and outdoor gear. It’s fun! But as I give in to these impulse purchases, I notice that the thrill doesn’t last that long, and it leaves me wanting more. And... Read more »
    Published: July 25, 2021 - 5:14 pm
  • Find Freedom in Any Moment
    By Leo Babauta One of our deepest desires is for freedom: to be free of stress, anxiety, a frustrating person, a difficult situation, financial struggles, health problems, the daily grind, distractions, feeling inadequate.  So many books, products and other paid solutions offer a version of this freedom. Escape. Peace. Mindfulness.... Read more »
    Published: July 17, 2021 - 4:36 pm
  • The Delightful Overwhelm of a Pile of Undone Tasks
    By Leo Babauta As I came back to work after a month off, I noticed myself feeling overwhelmed by the mountain of work in front of me. I felt a ton of resistance, and stress about how much work had to be done. A perfect practice ground for me! In... Read more »
    Published: July 9, 2021 - 1:13 pm
  • The Practice of Truly Enjoying Time Off
    By Leo Babauta So I took the whole month of June off, just as I did in December — I’m standing for time off not only for myself, but as something I think is important for everyone. It wasn’t easy to take this month off. I had to make arrangements,... Read more »
    Published: June 30, 2021 - 4:31 pm
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    Financial 180

  • The Cheat Codes of FI
    For those of you following along, you know I've been a bit busy lately. In addition to my own music, podcast, and software projects, I've also been popping up on other people's podcasts. A few weeks back I sang a few bars of Michael Bublé on The FI Show with... Read more »
    Published: May 1, 2019 - 3:38 pm
  • FI Without RE
    Back in November of 2017, a tired, burned out version of myself was pushed past his breaking point. After months of mandatory unpaid overtime, morning self pep-talks, stress-eating, and yelling at coworkers, the old Joel finally had enough. He walked up to his boss, and with a surprising, zen-like calm,... Read more »
    Published: April 12, 2019 - 10:11 pm
  • VideoSo Much Time & So Little To Do!
    Wait a minute. Strike that – reverse it! I know, I know, I haven't updated this blog in months. What gives?! If things get any more sporadic around here I'll be on the Miss Mazuma publishing schedule! 😉 Maybe I should adopt the slogan of Wait, Buy Why and claim that I'll have... Read more »
    Published: January 17, 2019 - 10:09 pm
  • Reaching for the Moon(shot)!
    This week, I'm thrilled to be featured on Coryn Quester's “Discover What's Possible” Podcast! In the interview, we talk about everything from the ‘Why' of FI,  to the most challenging aspects of financial independence for those just starting out. But one of the more interesting questions she posed really got... Read more »
    Published: October 5, 2018 - 9:28 pm
  • Misconceptions of FI
    This past weekend The Wife and I went to see Crazy Rich Asians, and really enjoyed it! (Featured image credit: Entertainment Weekly) Having been on the FIRE journey for a few years now, it was fun taking in all the over-the-top luxury on the screen. Of course, this wasn't the... Read more »
    Published: August 24, 2018 - 12:51 am
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    DiverseFI

  • We’re Moving! New Website!
    All new episodes and content can be found at earnandinvest.com. See you there! The post We’re Moving! New Website! appeared first on DiverseFI.... Read more »
    Published: August 4, 2020 - 12:27 pm
  • 128. You Can Destroy Student Loan Debt
    Earn & Invest I am proud to release episode 128 of The Earn & Invest Podcast.  This podcast is an exploration of personal finance, financial independence, and taking the conversation to the next level.... The post 128. You Can Destroy Student Loan Debt appeared first on DiverseFI.... Read more »
    Published: July 30, 2020 - 10:00 am
  • Video127. Why Now Is The Time To Start Your Business
    Earn & Invest I am proud to release episode 127 of The Earn & Invest Podcast.  This podcast is an exploration of personal finance, financial independence, and taking the conversation to the next level.... The post 127. Why Now Is The Time To Start Your Business appeared first on DiverseFI.... Read more »
    Published: July 27, 2020 - 5:00 am
  • 126: How To Align Your Passion and Talent
    Earn & Invest I am proud to release episode 126 of The Earn & Invest Podcast.  This podcast is an exploration of personal finance, financial independence, and taking the conversation to the next level.... The post 126: How To Align Your Passion and Talent appeared first on DiverseFI.... Read more »
    Published: July 23, 2020 - 10:00 am
  • 125: Is Saving For Retirement Money Jail?
    Earn & Invest I am proud to release episode 125 of The Earn & Invest Podcast.  This podcast is an exploration of personal finance, financial independence, and taking the conversation to the next level.... The post 125: Is Saving For Retirement Money Jail? appeared first on DiverseFI.... Read more »
    Published: July 20, 2020 - 10:00 am
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    Vital Dollar

  • 7 Insider Tips to Buy a Rural Property
    Did you know there are many benefits to buying rural property? Rural properties often have lower crime rates, better schools, and more space. One of the best things about rural living is that it’s a way for people to escape from the rat race without leaving their home state. If... Read more »
    Published: August 1, 2021 - 2:53 pm
  • The 13 Best Investment Apps for Growing Your Money
    Smartphones make it easy to access information at any time, and what better way to make use of technology than to grow your money? Today, there are a number of awesome investing apps that are perfect for growing your own portfolio, even if you’re starting from scratch. In the past,... Read more »
    Published: July 29, 2021 - 10:15 am
  • How To Invest In Stocks: A Beginner’s Guide
    Not sure where to get started investing in stocks, let alone how the investment process works? You’re not alone – but it’s not a complicated process like you may think! Investing in stocks is relatively easy, doesn’t take a lot of time to get started, and doesn’t cost any money... Read more »
    Published: July 26, 2021 - 10:15 am
  • 11 of the Best ETFs for Long-Term Growth
    Exchange traded funds (ETFs) are popular investment vehicles for DIY investors to diversify their portfolios and grow wealth over the long term. Many ETFs have very low expense ratios. There are also a wide variety of options, so you can select one that fits with your investment goals and your... Read more »
    Published: July 22, 2021 - 11:24 am
  • What Makes a Good Rental Property?
    Buying a rental property is an excellent way of investing your money and generating a consistent stream of income. Rental properties can be extremely lucrative investments with high profitability and the potential to build considerable wealth in the long run. However, choosing a suitable rental property can be complicated and... Read more »
    Published: July 19, 2021 - 10:37 am