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814 afleveringen, van nieuw naar oud
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How to Retire Early: A 15-Year Plan to Go from $1,000 to FIRE
6 januari 2026 · 47 min
What if you're doing FIRE in the wrong order? Most people chasing financial independence are following steps that actually slow them down—and it could be costing you years of freedom. In this episode, Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench break down the exact step by step order for achieving FIRE as fast as possible. Lees meer
Whether you're just starting with your first emergency fund or you're already maxing out retirement accounts and wondering what's next, this episode gives you the complete roadmap. You'll learn which financial moves to prioritize, which to skip, and how to avoid the "middle-class trap" that kills most early retirement dreams before they happen.
This Episode Covers:
The correct financial order of operations for FIRE (step-by-step from $0 to early retirement)
Which retirement accounts to fund first (401k, IRA, Roth, HSA strategy)
High-interest debt payoff strategy that accelerates FIRE
When to start investing in taxable brokerage accounts
How to add real estate and cash-flowing investments to your FIRE plan
Mistakes that cost people years on their path to FIRE
If you're confused about what to do next on your FIRE journey, this is your complete checklist. No more guessing—just the fastest, most efficient path to financial independence.
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How to Use AI to Reach Financial Independence Faster
2 januari 2026 · 29 min
AI is revolutionizing how we build wealth and achieve financial independence. In this episode, Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench break down exactly how to use AI tools to accelerate your path to FI—from automating budgets and analyzing investments to generating income streams and optimizing your financial strategy. Discover which AI tools actually work for personal finance, how AI is changing job markets and earning potential, and practical ways to leverage this technology today. Whether you're new to AI or already experimenting, learn how to use artificial intelligence as your secret weapon for reaching financial freedom faster. Lees meer
This Episode Covers:
How AI tools can accelerate your path to financial independence
Practical AI applications for budgeting and personal finance management
Using AI for investment research and strategy development
AI-powered income generation and side hustle opportunities
How AI is changing job markets and what it means for your career
Real risks and limitations of AI in financial decision-making
Future trends in AI and personal finance
How to stay ahead in the AI revolution without getting overwhelmed
Whether you're an AI skeptic or enthusiast, you'll walk away with actionable ways to use this technology to reach your financial goals faster.
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Scott Builds Four Portfolios with Four Different Strategies ($40k Experiment)
30 december 2025 · 40 min
In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast with Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench, Scott builds four different investment portfolios using real money, each account starting with $10,000 and employing different strategies. Scott invests in an index fund, a 60/40 stock-bond portfolio, a risk parity portfolio, and a unique actively managed thesis. Follow along as they discuss the rationale, mechanics, and expected outcomes of these investments. Lees meer
NOTE: This episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is NOT professional investment advice.
Brokerage services provided by Open to the Public Investing Inc, member FINRA & SIPC. Investing involves risk. Experience of this investor may not be representative of other customers. Past performance does not guarantee future results, and investment values may rise or fall.
At Public earn an uncapped 1% bonus when you transfer your portfolio with: www.Public.com/BPM
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Connect with Scott and Mindy:
Scott: https://www.instagram.com/scott_trench/
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Which Path to Financial Independence Is Faster? Sell or Rent?
26 december 2025 · 46 min
Should you turn your primary home into a rental property or sell it when you move? It's one of the biggest financial decisions homeowners face, and in this episode, Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench are helping Alyssa and John figure out the answer. Lees meer
This couple is relocating and facing a dilemma: they have a home with a low mortgage rate that could generate rental income, but they're also craving simplicity and wondering if selling would accelerate their path to financial independence. Alyssa and John open up about their complete financial picture, investment portfolio, and long-term FI goals as Scott and Mindy crunch the numbers and weigh the options.
This Episode Covers:
The financial pros and cons of converting your primary residence into a rental property
How to analyze rental property cash flow and return on investment
Tax implications of selling vs. renting out your home
The impact of low mortgage rates on the rent vs. sell decision
Lifestyle considerations: being a long-distance landlord and property management challenges
How rental income affects your path to financial independence
Real numbers breakdown: Alyssa and John's complete financial analysis
Property management costs and whether DIY landlording is worth it
How to make smarter real estate decisions during major life transitions
And SO much more!
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How to Set FIRE Goals and Actually Achieve Them (2026)
23 december 2025 · 34 min
Episode #704 Lees meer
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Download the Goal Setting Document: www.biggerpocketsmoney.com/resources
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Want to be a guest on the show? Apply here: https://biggerpocketsmoney.com/contact/
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Get 50% Off Your First Year of Monarch by using code ‘Pockets’: https://www.monarchmoney.com/
~~~
Connect with Scott and Mindy:
Scott: https://www.instagram.com/scott_trench/
Mindy: https://www.instagram.com/_mindyatbp/
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Learn how to set and achieve your 2026 goals in this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast with hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench. In this episode, Mindy and Scott review their 2025 achievements and create actionable plans for 2026, covering everything from family milestones and fitness goals to business ventures and financial targets. You'll discover proven goal-setting techniques, strategic planning frameworks, and practical tips for turning New Year's resolutions into real results.
What You'll Learn:
Strategic goal-setting frameworks for personal, financial, and professional growth
How to set realistic yet ambitious goals for 2026
Accountability strategies to actually achieve your resolutions
Real examples of personal finance goals and wealth-building plans
How to track progress and adjust goals throughout the year
And SO much more!
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How to Track Your Path to FI in 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide)
19 december 2025 · 22 min
Ready to take control of your finances in 2026? Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench are breaking down one of the most powerful tools for financial success: the personal financial statement. Think of it as your complete financial snapshot—tracking your net worth, cash flow, assets, and liabilities all in one place. The best part? They're giving you a free comprehensive spreadsheet to make it ridiculously easy. Lees meer
This Episode Covers:
What a personal financial statement is and why it's essential for reaching your 2026 FI goals
How to calculate your net worth and track it over time
Step-by-step instructions for filling out your financial statement spreadsheet
Organizing your assets and liabilities in one powerful location
Using cash flow analysis to understand where your money goes
Tips for serious financial planning with your completed statement
Access to the free comprehensive spreadsheet template at BiggerPocketsMoney.com/resources
Mindy and Scott's recommended budgeting software, Monarch Money (use code 'Pockets' for 50% off Your First Year)
Whether you're just starting out or ready to level up your money game, this episode gives you the foundation you need.
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How this Couple Achieved FIRE in Their 30s (Average Income)
16 december 2025 · 1 uur 6 min
Sam and Carolyn reached financial independence in their thirties through frugality, real estate investing, and building side hustles that generated $10,000 per month. Then they made a bold move—quitting their jobs and briefly relocating to Canada. Lees meer
This Episode Covers:
How Sam and Carolyn house-hacked their way to a multi-property real estate portfolio
The unconventional side hustles that generated $10K monthly in additional income
Their complete financial strategy: savings rate, expense tracking, and investment allocation
The decision to quit their jobs and achieve full financial independence in their thirties
Why they moved to Canada and how universal healthcare and education factored into their FIRE plan
Navigating the challenges of early retirement and aligning goals as a couple
Building systems for long-term wealth preservation and flexible lifestyle design
Lessons learned and advice for aspiring FIRE seekers
Whether you're just starting your FIRE journey or looking for creative ways to accelerate your path to financial independence, Sam and Carolyn's story offers actionable strategies you can implement today.
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Financial Independence Through the Unthinkable: A Healthcare Crisis
12 december 2025 · 51 min
Join Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench for a powerful conversation with Regina Moore, who achieved millionaire status before 35 through frugality and her career as a pharmacist. But when her young son was diagnosed with cancer, everything changed. Lees meer
In this deeply personal episode, Regina opens up about how a healthcare crisis tested her Lean FIRE plan in ways she never anticipated. And how financial independence—despite not being a perfect shield—gave her family options during their hardest moments.
Her family was placed in an incredibly difficult position due to subsidy cliffs. The conversation highlights the practical realities Regina and others face, examines the structural challenges within current healthcare policy, and discusses potential solutions.
This episode covers:
How achieving FI before crisis provided crucial flexibility
The ACA subsidy cliff and impossible financial trade-offs
Adjusting FIRE plans when life doesn't go as expected
Why she's still grateful she achieved financial independence
Systemic healthcare issues
A must-listen for anyone pursuing financial independence who wants to understand what happens when real life tests your plan.
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The Ultimate Guide to Early Retirement Drawdown (2026)
9 december 2025 · 47 min
Building a $2.5 million portfolio is hard. Spending it without running out? That's even harder. Lees meer
Welcome to the 700th episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast! To mark this milestone, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench are tackling one of the most critical—and most overlooked—aspects of financial independence: decumulation. Most people obsess over building wealth but stumble when it's time to actually spend it. The withdrawal strategy you choose can mean the difference between a comfortable 40-year retirement and running out of money at the worst possible time.
In this episode, we cover:
Sequential vs. blended vs. cyclical withdrawal strategies—which is right for you?
How to create a tax-efficient drawdown plan that could save you hundreds of thousands
The role of Roth accounts, traditional IRAs, and taxable brokerage accounts in your withdrawal strategy
When to do Roth conversions and how to time them for maximum benefit
Healthcare planning in early retirement and how it affects your withdrawal strategy
Estate planning considerations and maximizing what you leave behind
Real-world scenarios: what withdrawal strategies look like in practice
The biggest mistakes retirees make in the decumulation phase
Whether you're just starting your FI journey or you're ready to retire next year, this comprehensive guide will help you spend your money strategically, minimize taxes, and make your nest egg last.
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The Case for Blended (Instead of Sequential) Drawdown for Early Retirees
5 december 2025 · 1 uur 8 min
Are you using the wrong retirement withdrawal strategy? Sequential drawdown—draining one account before touching the next—is the most common approach to early retirement, but it could be costing you tens of thousands in unnecessary taxes. Lees meer
In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench sit down with Enrolled Agent Mark to break down tax-efficient withdrawal strategies that maximize your retirement savings. Discover blended drawdown strategies and cyclical drawdown methods that optimize which accounts you tap first—Traditional IRA, Roth IRA, taxable brokerage, HSA—to minimize your lifetime tax burden.
This episode covers:
Sequential vs. blended vs. cyclical retirement drawdown strategies
How to optimize withdrawal order from retirement accounts (401k, IRA, Roth, taxable accounts)
Tax-efficient retirement planning for early retirees and FIRE followers
How to leverage today's historically low tax rates before they expire
Healthcare costs in early retirement (ACA subsidies, Medicare planning)
Asset protection and estate planning considerations
Roth conversion strategies during low-income years
How to avoid costly tax mistakes in the decumulation phase
Whether you're planning for financial independence, already retired early, or managing multiple retirement accounts, this tax optimization masterclass will help you keep more of your money and make your nest egg last longer.
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If We Started FIRE Over in 2025, Here's Exactly What We'd Do
2 december 2025 · 34 min
What would you do differently if you could start your FIRE journey over today? Lees meer
Back in 2013, Scott was fresh out of college house hacking his way to financial independence, while Mindy and her husband were deep into their FIRE journey documenting it all on their blog. Fast forward to 2025—both are financially independent, but if they were starting from scratch today, they'd make some serious changes.
Welcome to the BiggerPockets Money Podcast! In this episode, Scott and Mindy reveal what they'd do differently starting their FI journey in 2025. The fundamentals still work—frugality, saving, investing—but the tactical strategies? Those have evolved dramatically.
In this episode, we cover:
The real estate strategies Scott would prioritize in today's market
Stock investments and portfolio allocation for 2025
How AI and technology are reshaping the path to FI
The biggest regrets—including times they wish they'd spent MORE
What still works from 2013 vs. what's completely outdated
Lifestyle changes they'd make earlier in the journey
Updated timelines and expectations for achieving FIRE today
Whether you're just starting out or already on track to financial independence, this episode gives you a fresh roadmap for building wealth in today's world.
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Does Money Buy Happiness? What the FIRE Community Gets Wrong
28 november 2025 · 47 min
What happens after you achieve financial independence? Former Facebook employee turned comedian Paul Ollinger discovered the answer wasn't what he expected—and it completely changed how he thinks about money, work, and happiness. Lees meer
This Episode Covers:
Why financial autonomy beats wealth accumulation—and what that actually means for your daily life
The psychological challenges of early retirement nobody talks about (and why having a plan is non-negotiable)
How he navigated major financial decisions in high-cost cities like New York without sacrificing his goals
The truth about happiness and wealth—does more money actually make you happier?
How to prepare for life's unexpected curveballs that can derail even the best financial plans
And SO much more!
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Will 2026 Healthcare Costs Destroy Financial Independence for Millions?
25 november 2025 · 51 min
Will 2026 healthcare costs destroy your FIRE plan? Enhanced ACA tax credits expire in 2026—meaning health insurance premiums could DOUBLE or TRIPLE overnight. This healthcare subsidy cliff threatens millions who depend on affordable marketplace coverage. Lees meer
In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench interview Matt McGough from KFF to break down the 2026 healthcare crisis and what you can do NOW to protect your early retirement.
This Episode Covers:
Who gets hit hardest by 2026 healthcare premium increases
Exact cost projections for early retirement health insurance in 2026
Actionable strategies to prepare NOW for rising healthcare costs
Which FIRE strategies still work after ACA subsidy changes
Affordable health insurance alternatives for early retirees
History of ACA subsidies and why they're expiring
Steps to protect your financial independence from the healthcare affordability crisis
And SO much more!
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Proof You Don't Need a High Salary for FIRE (Teacher Retires at 50)
21 november 2025 · 48 min
Think you need a six-figure salary to retire early? Think again. Middle school teacher Andrew Luman is achieving financial independence and retiring at 50—all on a teacher's salary. In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench unpack Andrew's complete FIRE strategy, proving that early retirement isn't reserved for high earners. Lees meer
In this episode, you'll learn:
How Andrew discovered the FIRE movement and started his financial independence journey
Building wealth on $35,000 a year: Andrew's early budgeting strategies
The power of a high savings rate and how to achieve it on a modest income
House hacking explained: How Andrew used a multi-unit property to eliminate housing costs
Real estate investing for teachers and average income earners
Portfolio breakdown: Andrew's asset allocation and investment strategy for early retirement
The four-day work week advantage and how it accelerated his path to FIRE
Choosing time over money: lifestyle decisions that make early retirement possible
Side hustles for FIRE: Which ones are worth it
Cash management strategies for approaching financial independence
Approaching your FIRE number: What the final stretch looks like
And SO much more!
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Stay on Track to FIRE With These Money Moves Before 2026
18 november 2025 · 18 min
Time's running out on 2025, and there are critical financial moves you need to make before December 31st. In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, Mindy and Scott walk you through the essential year-end tasks that could save you thousands of dollars and keep your FIRE goals on track. These aren't just suggestions—they're time-sensitive opportunities that literally disappear when the calendar flips to January 1st. Lees meer
Whether you're aggressively pursuing financial independence or simply want to optimize your money, ignoring these year-end deadlines could cost you big. The good news? Most of these tasks take less than an hour to complete, and the payoff can be substantial.
In this episode, you'll discover:
How to maximize your tax-advantaged retirement accounts before contribution deadlines
Why you need to spend every dollar in your FSA or lose it forever
Tax-loss harvesting strategies to offset gains and reduce your tax bill
Strategic charitable giving tactics that benefit both you and your favorite causes
When and how to rebalance your investment portfolio for optimal performance
Critical Roth conversion considerations before year-end
HSA contribution limits and why maxing out matters for FIRE
Required minimum distribution rules you can't ignore
How to bunch deductions to maximize tax benefits
The BiggerPockets Money End of Year Checklist
And SO much more!
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Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage or Invest? (Best Choice for FIRE)
14 november 2025 · 28 min
Pay off your mortgage or invest? If you're pursuing FIRE, you've wrestled with this question. A paid-off house means thousands extra in your pocket each month and a lower FIRE number. But investing that same money could build significantly more wealth and get you to FIRE with a bigger nest egg. So which strategy wins? Lees meer
To help you decide, Scott built a brand-new mortgage calculator that accounts for interest rates, investment returns, and taxes. He and Mindy use it to analyze real-world scenarios—high mortgage balances, different life stages, various risk tolerances—proving there's no one-size-fits-all answer.
In this episode, you'll learn:
Who should prioritize paying off their mortgage early
The hidden pros and cons of each strategy
Why your timeline to FIRE changes everything
How to use Scott's calculator for your specific situation
Different paths for those retiring soon versus decades away
Whether you want maximum wealth for a luxurious retirement or just want to quit your job as fast as possible, we've mapped out strategies for both.
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How to Build a Tax-Efficient Portfolio (Advanced Strategies)
11 november 2025 · 43 min
Most people think index funds are the only path to financial independence—and they'll get you there in 15-20 years. But what if you could get there faster? Lees meer
In this episode, Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench team up with John Bowens from Equity Trust to reveal advanced portfolio strategies that can accelerate your FIRE timeline.
This episode covers:
Strategic allocation across your Roth IRA, HSA, and 401(k) to maximize tax advantages
How to hold alternative investments like real estate, private equity, and crypto inside tax-advantaged accounts
Tax loss harvesting strategies that can save you thousands
Managing physical gold within retirement accounts
Balancing aggressive and conservative investments for optimal growth
Advanced tactics for tax-efficient portfolio optimization
Whether you're building wealth aggressively or protecting what you've already built, this episode gives you the roadmap to optimize every account for maximum tax efficiency and long-term growth.
And SO much more!
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How Can Paul Fast Track to FIRE by 45? ($1.6M Net Worth)
7 november 2025 · 48 min
Paul has a $1.6 million net worth at 40 years old—impressive by any standard—but he's stuck wondering: Can I retire in the next 5-6 years? Lees meer
In this episode of BiggerPockets Money, Paul shares his journey from debt payoff to building substantial rental income during COVID-19. Now he's sitting on significant equity, strong cash flow, and a critical question: What's the fastest route to FIRE?
Hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench dive deep into Paul's complete financial picture—his income, expenses, real estate portfolio, and debt—to map out his optimal path to early retirement. Should he pay down mortgages? Buy more properties? Pivot to index funds? They explore every angle to help Paul retire by 45-46.
This episode covers:
Paul's complete financial breakdown: income, expenses, assets, and liabilities
How Paul pivoted to real estate investing during COVID-19 and built rental income
The mortgage payoff vs. investing debate for someone close to FIRE
Whether Paul should buy more rental properties or shift to index funds
Optimizing Paul's portfolio to retire in 5-6 years
Tax strategies and withdrawal planning for early retirement
The trade-offs between cash flow and equity in a real estate portfolio
Bridge account strategies to access wealth before 59½
If you're wondering how to accelerate your own FIRE timeline when you're already doing well financially, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can apply to your situation.
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How to Avoid (or Escape) the Middle-Class Trap and Retire Early
4 november 2025 · 36 min
You're doing everything right—buying a house, maxing out your 401(k), investing in real estate—but what if these "smart" money moves are actually trapping you in your job? It's the paradox plaguing the FIRE community: you could be a millionaire on paper but can't afford to retire because all your wealth is locked up. Lees meer
Welcome to the BiggerPockets Money podcast! In this episode learn what the middle class “trap” is, why it happens, and most importantly, how to escape it. Scott and Mindy use the example of 'Sam,' a diligent saver, to explain the practical strategies for achieving financial independence, whether through Coast FIRE, Roth conversion ladders, 72(t) distributions, or more aggressive frugality and saving. They also address both the critiques and supporters of this notion, providing actionable advice for anyone feeling financially stuck despite their best efforts.
00:00 Are You in the Middle Class Trap?
00:30 What is the Middle Class Trap?
00:57 The “Ideal” Retirement Portfolio
05:12 The Controversy of the Middle Class Trap
08:53 Strategies to Escape the Trap
18:26 Advanced Financial Strategies
28:06 Mindy and Scott’s Early Retirement Roadmap
34:31 Share YOUR portfolio
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From Making $28,000/Year to FI in 5 YEARS
31 oktober 2025 · 52 min
One rental property changed everything. Deandra was drowning—working multiple jobs, crushed by student debt, teaching full-time with no end in sight. Then she bought her first property with just $4,000, and within four years, she walked away from teaching forever. Lees meer
Today, Deandra reveals the exact strategy she used to go from broke teacher to financially independent real estate investor. You'll hear how she leveraged house hacking to buy her first two-bedroom townhouse, scaled into multi-family properties, and discovered an overlooked rental strategy that produces killer returns while most investors ignore it.
The best part? She's proof you don't need a massive down payment or a high income to start. If you've been waiting for the "perfect time" to invest in real estate, this episode will show you how to take action with whatever you have right now.
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How The Top 1% Actually Invest (Not What You Think)
28 oktober 2025 · 43 min
The wealthiest 1% invest completely differently than you've been taught—and they definitely don't follow the advice most financial advisors give. In this episode of BiggerPockets Money, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench sit down with Tad Fallows, co-founder of Long Angle, to reveal the real investment strategies of high-net-worth individuals and how they differ from the FIRE community's approach. Lees meer
This Episode Covers:
The most common paths to joining the 1% (entrepreneurship, tech executive roles, and high-conviction investments)
Why the ultra-wealthy favor index funds, private equity, and real estate over traditional investments
Why high-net-worth individuals largely avoid financial advisors and bonds
How Tad went from consulting to founding a successful medical research software company to co-founding Long Angle
Key differences between how the 1% manage their portfolios versus mainstream investment advice
What the FIRE community can learn from the investment strategies of the ultra-wealthy
And SO much more!
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You DON'T Need to Be "Debt-Free" to Reach FIRE
24 oktober 2025 · 36 min
Should you pay off all your debt before investing? Or is that costing you years of financial freedom? Lees meer
In this episode, we're tackling the debate that divides the FIRE community: aggressive debt payoff versus strategic debt management. We break down two real case studies to show you exactly when to prioritize debt payoff and when to invest alongside debt. You'll discover:
The interest rate threshold where investing beats debt payoff (and why it matters)
Student loan strategies that most people get completely wrong
How to calculate whether you should pay off debt or invest
Two detailed case studies with specific recommendations you can apply to your situation
This isn't about telling you debt is good or bad—it's about giving you the framework to make the right decision for YOUR financial situation. Whether you're drowning in debt or debt-free and wondering if you made the right call, this episode will change how you think about the relationship between debt and building wealth.
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$90K in Debt to Coast FI with $1.5M (Here's the Blueprint)
21 oktober 2025 · 39 min
Ericka Young did what most people think is impossible—she went from 90k in debt to Coast FI with a seven-figure net worth. In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, she's pulling back the curtain on how she did it. Lees meer
What You'll Learn:
How to eliminate massive debt without living in total deprivation
The debt snowball method in action (and why it works psychologically)
When to stop paying off debt and start investing aggressively
Investment strategies that built $2.5 million in net worth
The mindset shift from "getting by" to building real wealth
Perfect for: Anyone in debt who wants a realistic path to financial independence, or for people looking to accelerate their wealth-building timeline. Ericka's a financial coach who's been exactly where you are. Her story is proof that financial freedom isn't reserved for high earners—it's about strategy, discipline, and knowing when to shift gears.
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The FIRE Movement Is Dead! (What You Need to Know)
17 oktober 2025 · 34 min
Is the FIRE movement dead? In 2025, more people are catching on to the huge downsides of pursuing financial independence, retire early. Strict frugality, massive sacrifice, working harder than ever…is it really worth it to retire decades before everyone else? If you’re internally screaming, “Yes! Of course it is!” you’re in good company. Today, we’re talking about why FIRE is NOT dead in 2025 but why most Americans won’t achieve it. Lees meer
It’s easy to claim that the FIRE movement is dead in 2025 when inflation has been high, savings rates are low, and there’s economic uncertainty all around. The problem? Almost all of that can be easily factored into your FIRE plan, and with some sacrifices, you could easily retire early in five, ten, or fifteen years. So, if FIRE is still possible, what must the average person do to achieve it?
We’ll discuss the mindset shift you must undergo to reach financial independence, the sacrifices you must prepare for, and what we would have done differently on our own paths to FIRE. Achieving financial freedom doesn’t need to be an all-out grind with zero enjoyment. Even if you make minor money moves today, you could be retiring YEARS earlier than you thought possible!
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The All Out Approach to Achieve FIRE in Your 30s (Median Income Earner)
14 oktober 2025 · 1 uur 7 min
In this BiggerPockets Money episode, we break down the all-out approach to reaching Financial Independence and Retiring Early in your 30s. No tech salary required, no inheritance, no luck. Just aggressive saving, smart investing, and a willingness to optimize every dollar. Lees meer
We'll cover:
The exact savings rate you need to hit FIRE in your 30’s
How to maximize income without changing careers
Where to cut expenses without feeling deprived
Investment strategies that accelerate your timeline
The lifestyle trade-offs that actually matter
Real numbers: What it takes to build a $500K-$750K portfolio on $50K-$70K/year
Whether you're just starting your FI journey or you're years in and wondering if you're on track, this episode gives you the honest roadmap to early retirement—no matter your starting salary.
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Did She Already Reach Coast FI at 46? (Finance Friday)
10 oktober 2025 · 44 min
In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench tackle two pivotal financial decisions with their guest, Kristel. Has she already achieved Coast FI without realizing it? And should she keep her current house or sell it to accelerate her path to financial independence? Lees meer
Kristel opens up about her journey from a frugal upbringing to building an impressive $1.32 million net worth. Mindy and Scott dig deep into her numbers—dissecting her assets, income streams, and monthly expenses—to give Kristel options for her ideal FIRE life. From house hacking opportunities to smart investment moves and strategic part-time work, this episode delivers actionable insights for anyone navigating their own FI journey.
This Episode Covers:
How Kristel built $1.32M
Her current income, expenses, and savings rate
Her financial independence goals and timeline
House hacking opportunities to reduce housing costs
Investment strategy options for her portfolio
Is Kristel Coast FI? With help from The Fioneers Coast FI calculator
Part-time work options to bridge the gap to full FI
Tax optimization and withdrawal strategies
And SO much more!
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Net Worth By Age In 2025 (Are You Above Average?)
7 oktober 2025 · 37 min
Let's talk about the average net worth by every age, and how to make sure you save and invest enough money to stay on track. In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench break down actual data to reveal the net worth benchmarks for the median, top 10%, top 5%, and top 1% of every age. Lees meer
If that isn’t enough they then highlight specific strategies that work at each age to hit those benchmarks—from aggressive wealth-building tactics in your 20s and 30s to business ownership and real estate scaling in your 40s, to preservation strategies in your 50s and 60s. Whether you're behind and need to catch up or ahead and want to optimize, this episode gives you the roadmap for your decade so you can hit your financial independence goals.
00:00 Net Worth by Age - Are You on Track?
01:09 Defining Net Worth and FIRE Portfolio
02:44 Analyzing Net Worth by Age
03:58 Key Takeaways from Net Worth Data
12:03 How to Be in The Top 1-10% in Your 20s
16:17 How to Be in The Top 1-10% in Your 30s
21:17 How to Be in The Top 1-10% in Your 40s
25:22 How to Be in The Top 1-10% in Your 50s
30:51 How to Be in The Top 1-10% in Your 60sLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Should You Keep or Sell Your House? (Best Choice for FIRE)
3 oktober 2025 · 40 min
Should you sell your house right now or turn it into a rental property? In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench dive deep into one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make with their guest Sean. He is sitting on serious equity but isn't sure what his next move should be. We break down his entire financial situation using a custom spreadsheet model that analyzes net worth, mortgage rates, rental income potential, cash flow projections, and long-term wealth building strategies. This isn't just theory—we're crunching real numbers to show you exactly how to think through this decision. Lees meer
We examine market conditions, tax implications, opportunity costs, and the hidden expenses most people forget when they become landlords. Whether you're dealing with a primary residence, investment property, or house hack situation, this episode gives you a replicable decision-making process you can use for your own real estate choices.
By the end of this episode, you'll understand the financial trade-offs between liquidity and long-term appreciation, how to calculate true rental yields, and when holding onto property actually destroys wealth instead of building it. If you're facing a similar decision or planning your real estate exit strategy, this is the most comprehensive breakdown you'll find anywhere.
00:00 Should You Sell or Keep Your House?
01:17 Financial Overview: Net Worth, Income & Equity
02:33 Mortgage Rate Analysis and Current Housing Market Conditions
03:07 Rental Property Cash Flow Calculator
13:41 Hidden Rental Property Expenses and Long-Term Investment Returns
19:30 How Selling vs Renting Impacts Your Cash Flow and Net Worth
21:11 Net Worth Projections: Sell Now vs Hold 5, 10, 20 Years
23:27 Rental Property Cash Flow vs Home Sale Proceeds Analysis
24:29 Best Time to Sell Your House
26:26 Which Option Builds More Wealth?
31:14 Final Verdict: Should You Sell Your House Now?
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FI at 44 AFTER Taking a Year Off at 31
30 september 2025 · 35 min
What if you could take a year off at 31 and still retire early? Alex Morales, also known as Girl Chasing Wealth, is doing exactly that. In this BiggerPockets Money episode, she sits down with Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench to reveal how she's funding a year-long sabbatical while staying on track to achieve financial independence by 44, all on a median salary in a high-cost-of-living area. Alex's journey proves you don't need a six-figure income or to live in a low-cost city to make FIRE work—you just need the right strategies. Lees meer
Alex shares her unconventional approach to building wealth, including managing roommates to slash housing costs, ruthlessly cutting expenses that don't align with her values, and building side income streams for flexibility. But this isn't just about saving money—it's about designing a life that lets you take meaningful breaks without derailing your financial goals. Whether you're burned out, curious about sabbaticals, or convinced early retirement requires constant hustle, this conversation will change how you think about the path to financial freedom.
This Episode Covers:
How to calculate if you can afford a career break without ruining your FIRE timeline
The exact house hacking strategy that saved Alex thirty thousand dollars per year
Which expenses to cut first when living in a high-cost area
How to maintain a high savings rate on a median income
Alex's investment portfolio breakdown and FIRE number
What she's actually doing during her sabbatical year
Her strategic plan for returning to work at a higher salary
Why taking time off might accelerate your financial independence journey
And SO much more!
00:00 Taking a Year Off at 31 Without Ruining FIRE
01:39 How She Started
03:17 The Lifestyle Cuts That Actually Worked
07:46 Roommates Saved Her $30K/Year
12:10 Her Exact Investment Strategy Revealed
14:29 Why She Left Her Job
15:50 The Return Plan: Higher Pay, Same Freedom
22:30 What She's Actually Doing on Sabbatical
32:06…
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The Four Fundamentals of Retirement Drawdown
26 september 2025 · 57 min
Join Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench on the BiggerPockets Money Podcast as they welcome retirement tax experts Sean Mullaney, The FI Tax Guy, and Cody Garrett, a certified financial planner, to break down their game-changing retirement drawdown order of operations. This isn't your typical retirement advice - it's a strategic blueprint that could save early retirees and traditional retirees thousands in taxes while ensuring their money lasts a lifetime. Lees meer
Discover the four critical retirement drawdown fundamentals that form the backbone of any successful retirement strategy, plus advanced tactics for optimizing your tax burden, managing healthcare costs, and timing Roth conversions for maximum impact. Sean and Cody don't just explain what to do - they walk through exactly when and why each strategy matters most, covering everything from your retirement date through the challenging widow and widower years.
This episode covers:
The four fundamental retirement drawdown rules that could save you thousands
Why you should spend taxable accounts first and traditional accounts second
The strategic case for delaying Social Security until age 70
How to use HSAs and Roth IRAs as powerful tax-free tools
The five distinct phases of retirement and what each one means for your strategy
Advanced Roth conversion tactics and optimal timing
How to keep income low to maximize ACA premium tax credits
Managing required minimum distributions and minimizing their impact
Healthcare cost planning and insurance strategies for retirees
Why working with a qualified tax planner is essential for your unique situation
And SO much more!
00:00 Retirement Drawdown Strategies
01:22 Fundamentals of Retirement Drawdown
03:37 Phases of Retirement and Taxable Accounts
07:23 Managing Income and Premium Tax Credits
09:22 Roth Conversions and Standard Deductions
19:52 Hidden Roth IRA and Tax Planning
28:36 Navigating Healthcare Subsidies and Early Retirement
29:26 Balancing Benefits for Earl…
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Why Early Retirement Means Paying Less in Taxes
23 september 2025 · 47 min
In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench are joined by tax experts Sean Mullaney and Cody Garrett to reveal how early retirement can actually be your smartest tax strategy. The conversation immediately tackles one of the biggest misconceptions holding people back from FIRE - the fear that retiring early means facing higher taxes. Instead, they demonstrate how lower retirement income typically translates to significantly lower tax bills, completely flipping the conventional wisdom about retirement tax planning. Lees meer
The discussion dives deep into their comprehensive approach to tax planning for early retirement, centered around the powerful concept of "Pay Tax When You Pay Less Tax." This isn't just theory - they break down practical, tax-efficient strategies that can save you thousands, including optimizing traditional 401k contributions, maximizing Roth IRA conversions, and strategically managing taxable investment accounts. These aren't complex maneuvers requiring a team of accountants; they're accessible strategies that any early retiree can implement.
Beyond the big-picture tax strategies, this episode tackles the real-world challenges that derail many FIRE plans. Learn how to build robust emergency reserves that won't trigger unnecessary tax consequences, handle unexpected income disruptions without destroying your tax efficiency, and leverage advanced techniques like qualified charitable distributions to further reduce your tax burden. Whether you're years away from retirement or already making the transition, this episode provides actionable insights to minimize your lifetime tax burden while maximizing your financial independence.
The discussion is intended to be for general educational purposes and is not tax, legal, or investment advice for any individual. Mindy, Scott, and the BiggerPockets Money podcast do not endorse Sean Mullaney, Mullaney Financial & Tax, Inc. and their services.
00:00 Taxes in Early Reti…
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Which FIRE Strategy is Best for You? (Lean to Fat FIRE)
19 september 2025 · 30 min
Join Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench on this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast as they dive into the different types of FIRE. Financial Independence, Retire Early isn't a one-size-fits-all approach - it's evolved into multiple distinct paths, each designed to meet different lifestyles, risk tolerances, and financial goals. This comprehensive exploration will help you understand which version of financial independence makes the most sense for your unique situation. Lees meer
From traditional FIRE to coast, lean, barista, chubby, and fat FIRE, each approach offers its own timeline, savings requirements, and lifestyle implications. Whether you're drawn to the minimalist appeal of lean FIRE or you're more interested in fat FIRE's promise of maintaining a luxurious lifestyle in retirement, understanding these distinctions is crucial for mapping out your financial future. Scott and Mindy break down the math, mindset, and practical considerations behind each path, giving you the clarity to choose your FIRE strategy and start building a personalized roadmap to financial independence.
This Episode Covers:
The six main types of FIRE and what makes each one unique
Specific savings requirements and timelines for each FIRE path
Real-world pros and cons of traditional, coast, lean, barista, chubby, and fat FIRE
Which personality types tend to succeed with each strategy
How to match your lifestyle and goals to the right FIRE approach
The sacrifices and trade-offs involved in each path
Practical steps to get started on your chosen FIRE journey
And SO much more!
00:00 The 6 Types of FIRE
01:12 Traditional FIRE
04:38 Coast FIRE
09:43 Barista FIRE
13:11 Lean FIRE
18:15 Chubby FIRE
22:07 Fat FIRE
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FI Faster by Making More and Spending Less Using "Geo-Arbitrage"
16 september 2025 · 43 min
Discover how geo-arbitrage can double your investing power without requiring a raise, career change, or lottery win! In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench are joined by Daniel Mills to explore how remote workers can live lavishly on a middle-class salary by strategically leveraging location differences. This isn't just about moving somewhere cheaper - it's about unlocking a completely different financial trajectory through smart geographic choices. Lees meer
Daniel shares his journey to financial independence while living in Japan, breaking down his simplified investment portfolio, dramatically lower cost of living, and the tax strategies that allowed him to write off six-figure incomes. From navigating international investing challenges to discovering unique real estate opportunities, Daniel's story demonstrates how living abroad can accelerate your path to FIRE in ways you might never have imagined.
This Episode Will Cover:
How geo-arbitrage can double your investment power on the same income
Daniel's path from English teacher to international real estate investor
Simplified investment strategies that work from abroad
Tax advantages and write-off opportunities for expats
Real-world cost of living comparisons between Japan and the U.S.
Practical challenges of investing internationally and how to overcome them
Cultural integration strategies for successful expat living
Whether geo-arbitrage is right for your FIRE journey
And SO much more!
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How to Save 50% of Your Income Without Sacrificing Your Lifestyle
12 september 2025 · 27 min
What if we told you that your path to financial independence isn't about picking the perfect stocks, timing the market, or earning a massive salary? In this revealing episode of BiggerPockets Money, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench cut through all the noise to focus on what actually matters: your savings rate. This isn't just theoretical advice—Mindy and Scott get personal, sharing their own savings journeys, including the costly mistakes they made and the pivotal breakthroughs that transformed their financial lives. Lees meer
This episode completely reframes the conversation around saving money. Instead of extreme penny-pinching that breeds resentment, Mindy and Scott explore "creative frugality"—intelligent strategies that help you save significantly more without feeling deprived. From small incremental changes that compound into thousands of dollars annually to innovative approaches for slashing major expenses, you'll walk away with immediately actionable tactics that prove financial independence isn't about sacrifice—it's about smart optimization.
This Episode Covers:
Why your savings rate matters more than your investment returns or salary
Mindy and Scott's personal savings rate journeys and biggest mistakes
Lifestyle optimization strategies that boost savings without reducing happiness
The psychology behind sustainable high savings rates
Creative approaches to cutting your three biggest expenses
Why starting a side business accelerates your FIRE timeline
Investment strategies that support aggressive savers
How to increase your savings rate at different career stages
Common savings rate mistakes that derail FIRE progress
How small changes compound into life-changing financial results
And SO much more!
00:00 How to Supercharge Your Savings Rate
01:14 Mindy and Scott’s Savings Rate
03:40 Strategies for High Savings Rates
11:50 Creative Ways to Reduce Expenses
20:02 Increasing Income
26:06 We want to hear from you!
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Mr. Money Mustache’s Simple Secret to Retiring Early in Your 30s
9 september 2025 · 55 min
Pete Adeney, aka Mr. Money Mustache, joins BiggerPockets Money hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench to break down the shockingly simple math behind early retirement. The man who started the FIRE movement and retired at 30 reveals why most people are overcomplicating financial independence—and why your savings rate is literally the only number that determines when you can quit your job. Lees meer
Pete doesn't just share theory—he walks through the real strategies, investment decisions, and mindset shifts that allowed him to achieve financial freedom in his thirties. Whether you're new to FIRE or looking to optimize your current approach, this episode cuts through the noise to deliver the foundational principles that actually work.
This Episode Covers:
The one metric that determines your entire FIRE timeline
Why saving 50% gets you to FI in just 17 years (and the math behind it)
How Pete retired at 30 and what his portfolio looked like
The psychology of frugality and why it's actually liberating
Pete's current thoughts on real estate investing for FIRE
His take on Bitcoin and alternative assets in a FIRE portfolio
Common FIRE mistakes that derail people's progress
Why your income level matters less than you think
Practical strategies for increasing your savings rate immediately
The mindset shifts that make extreme saving sustainable
And SO much more!
00:00 The Basics of Early Retirement01:02 The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early Retirement
01:21 Understanding Your Savings Rate
05:41 Pre-Tax Savings and 401k Considerations
11:06 The 4% Safe Withdrawal Rate
13:09 Seven Levels of Safety in Early Retirement
28:44 The $50,000 Earner
31:51 Raising Kids on a Budget
35:17 Health Insurance in Early Retirement
41:39 Real Estate as a Retirement Strategy
46:41 Bitcoin and Speculative Investments
51:19 Connect with Mr. Money Mustache
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How to Make Your FIRE Portfolio Even MORE Passive (Finance Friday)
5 september 2025 · 1 uur 1 min
Today on the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, we're diving into an incredible success story. Meet Beau, a retired military professional who built a massive real estate empire and achieved financial independence in his thirties. But here's the twist: even with a winning formula, Beau wants his investments to work even HARDER while he works even LESS. Lees meer
In this Finance Friday episode, Beau opens up his entire financial playbook with hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench. We're talking rental properties generating serious cash flow, private lending deals that most investors don't even know exist, and tax strategies so advanced they'll make your accountant jealous. This isn't your typical "I bought a duplex" story—this is next-level wealth building.
If you're serious about real estate investing and want to see what's possible with the right strategy and execution, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
In this episode, you'll discover:
Beau's complete real estate portfolio breakdown and current cash flow numbers
Advanced private lending strategies that generate consistent returns
Tax optimization techniques for real estate heavy portfolios
How to transition from active to passive real estate investing
Strategic property sale timing and 1031 exchange considerations
The pros and cons of private money lending versus traditional investments
Portfolio diversification strategies for real estate investors
How military discipline translated into investment success
Specific steps to make your real estate investments more hands-off
Risk management strategies for high-net-worth real estate portfolios
And SO much more!
00:00 Beau’s FIRE Journey
02:43 Beau’s FI Number
04:52 Exploring Passive Income Options
09:53 Private Lending and Real Estate Portfolio Analysis
19:17 Evaluating Property Performance and Future Plans
28:54 Exploring Arbitrage in Real Estate Lending
33:32 Amortization and Long-Term Financial Planning
36:34 Balancing Private Lending and Real Es…
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Mindy Tracks Her Net Worth Live w/ Monarch Money
2 september 2025 · 39 min
Ever wondered how financial experts ACTUALLY manage their own money? Mindy Jensen opens her real financial accounts LIVE on this episode! Lees meer
In this groundbreaking BiggerPockets Money podcast episode, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench deliver unprecedented financial transparency. Mindy tracks her personal net worth and finances in real-time using Monarch Money, giving you an authentic behind-the-scenes look at how a financial expert truly manages her money.
This Episode Covers:
Live demonstration of actual account connections
Mindy's real spending patterns and financial habits
Advanced Monarch Money features most people miss
How to automate your entire financial tracking system
Why regular financial reviews change everything
Exclusive listener discount for Monarch Money (Get 50% off your 1st Year with the Promo Code POCKETS)
Whether you're drowning in financial chaos or ready to level up your money management game, this episode shows you exactly how to centralize and streamline your finances like a true professional.
00:39 Why We Love Monarch Money
01:50 Tracking Your Net Worth
06:29 Setting Up Your Monarch Money Account
16:39 Budgeting How To
22:06 Tracking Spending
25:05 Total Net Worth
27:48 Setting Up Monarch Money
35:11 Sign up for Monarch Money Today!
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The Secret to Retiring Early AND Spending More Money
29 augustus 2025 · 56 min
Retire earlier. Spend more. Live better. For most people, these sound like mutually exclusive goals—you can pick one, maybe two, but certainly not all three. Financial planner Aubrey Williams is here to prove that conventional wisdom wrong. Lees meer
Joining BiggerPockets Money hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench, Aubrey introduces his revolutionary guardrails strategy that completely flips traditional retirement advice on its head. Instead of the rigid, fear-based approach that dominates most retirement planning, Aubrey's method shows you exactly how to create flexible spending rules that respond to real market conditions.
This isn't just another investment strategy—it's a complete mindset shift. Aubrey walks through the psychological barriers that keep retirees from actually enjoying their money, then provides the practical tools and historical evidence you need to overcome them. Get ready for a masterclass in turning retirement anxiety into genuine retirement confidence, backed by decades of market data and real-world application.
00:00 Rethinking Early Retirement
01:24 Adjusting Spending in Retirement
02:30 Myths of Financial Independence
04:48 Tools for Decumulation
11:18 Guardrails for Safe Withdrawal
24:23 The Risks of Underspending
29:15 Introducing Risk-Based Guardrails
29:27 Building a Sample Portfolio
30:16 Adjusting Spending Based on Portfolio Performance
32:07 Historical Analysis and Guardrails
54:41 Connect with Aubrey!
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From $90K in Debt to Coast FIRE at 45
26 augustus 2025 · 49 min
Fear that early retirement is out of the question because you have too much debt? It's not game over. Whether you're debt-free or still chipping away at your student loans, today's guest is proof that FIRE is never too far out of reach—even when life throws you a curveball that leaves you with $90,000 in debt! Lees meer
Welcome back to the "BiggerPockets Money" podcast! Aubrey Williams thought his financial world was crumbling when his divorce was finalized, leaving him staring down $90,000 in debt. Most would assume this spells doom for financial independence, but Aubrey knew he could dig his way out by increasing his income, cutting costs, and staying laser-focused on his goals.
In just eight years, he snowballed out of debt and toward his long-term goal—achieving financial independence at 45. Now that he's turned his financial ship around, he's focused on building wealth for the future. Tune in to learn how he transformed his finances into a comeback story, why he refuses to let setbacks define his dreams, and what his path to FIRE looks like after starting over!
01:05 FI After 90k in Debt
04:32 How to Fast Track FI
05:51 The Path to Savings
14:21 Financial Pillars
19:47 Career Shifts During FI
32:45 The Value of Financial Planning
42:39 Entrepreneurial Journey and Lessons Learned
47:16 Connect with AubreyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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The Case for Picking Stocks w/ Co-Founder of The Motley Fool
22 augustus 2025 · 52 min
Do you think you can't beat the market? David Gardner, co-founder of The Motley Fool, joins the BiggerPockets Money podcast to shatter this limiting belief and reveal why stock picking can supercharge your wealth-building strategy alongside index fund investing. Lees meer
Despite conventional wisdom warning against individual stock selection, Gardner exposes his proven approach to identifying winning stocks early and holding for long-term gains. This isn't about day trading - it's about building lasting wealth through strategic stock analysis and smart diversification.
This Episode Covers:
Why index funds alone may not be enough for maximum wealth building
David Gardner's legendary stock picking strategy from 30 years at The Motley Fool
How to identify undervalued companies before Wall Street catches on
The 'Sleep Number' concept for managing portfolio risk and peace of mind
Balancing individual stocks with index fund investing for optimal returns
Long-term holding strategies vs. market timing and day trading
Portfolio diversification techniques that actually work
Whether you're a beginner investor or looking to refine your strategy, Gardner provides actionable insights on building real wealth through a combination of stock picking and index fund investing. Discover how to transform your investment approach and achieve financial independence faster.
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How to Go From Broke at 50 to Retired at 60!
19 augustus 2025 · 1 uur 6 min
Are you worried you won't be able to retire at sixty-five? Feeling financially limited in your fifties and need a retirement plan so you can finally stop working? Well, we made this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast just for you. Today, Mindy and Scott are joined by experts Jackie Cummings Koski and Bill Yount from Catching Up to FI to teach you how to retire on time at age sixty-five (or even retire early!) if you're starting from zero with no money to your name. Lees meer
We spell out exactly what we would do to go from a zero-dollar net worth to a million dollars in retirement! This is a step-by-step plan that anyone who wants to retire on time can follow, focusing specifically on Barb - a recently divorced stay-at-home mom reentering the workforce with a zero-dollar net worth. Her situation represents millions of people who find themselves starting over financially in their fifties, whether due to divorce, job loss, or simply never having started saving for retirement.
This Episode Covers:
How to maximize earning potential when reentering the workforce after years away
Emergency fund strategies when you're starting from scratch (and why it's different in your 50s)
The exact investment prioritization order for late-starter retirement savers
How to catch up on retirement savings using IRS catch-up contribution rules
Debt elimination strategies that won't derail your retirement timeline
Creative ways to reduce expenses without sacrificing quality of life
The psychology of starting over financially and maintaining motivation
And SO much more!
00:00 Introduction: Overcoming Financial Challenges at 50
05:44 Understanding the Emotional and Financial Starting Point
12:33 Setting Clear Financial Goals
14:33 Tracking and Measuring Finances
18:29 The Math Behind Early Retirement
20:03 Building the First $25,000
25:34 Side Hustles and Income Strategies
31:54 Downsizing and Financial Adjustments
39:02 House Hacking Strategy
50:17 Investment Strategies for…
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Investor Retires in 6 Years ($120K/Year) by Doing This
15 augustus 2025 · 44 min
On this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast Mindy and Scott are joined by Beau Webb. Beau went from flying Blackhawk helicopters in the Army to achieving financial independence in his 30s through a diversified investment strategy that goes way beyond basic index funds. Beau built wealth through real estate, and savvy use of military benefits while still crushing it in traditional markets. But here's what makes his story even more powerful - he's living proof that you CAN retire early in just ten years if you save and invest strategically. Lees meer
His approach blends real estate investing, the smart use of military benefits, and disciplined plays in traditional markets. The result? Multiple streams of income that comfortably cover his lifestyle — all without tapping his retirement accounts. Beau's story proves that you can reach FI in as little as ten years, not by living on rice and beans, but by leveraging creative financing, making intentional moves, and thinking bigger than conventional financial advice allows.
This Episode Covers:
The exact house hacking strategies Beau used to build his first income streams
Creative financing techniques that work even with limited starting capital
How to maximize VA loan benefits for accelerated wealth building
Why mobile home parks and self-storage became Beau's secret weapons
Building multiple income streams that cover lifestyle costs without touching retirement accounts
Diversification strategies across real estate and traditional markets
The ten-year FI timeline: realistic expectations vs. extreme sacrifice
How to leverage unique advantages (military or otherwise) for faster wealth building
And SO much more!
00:00 Introduction to Today's Guest
01:14 Military Background and Financial Beginnings
05:42 First Steps into Real Estate
07:52 House Hacking
10:34 First Duplex Purchase
16:17 Expanding the Real Estate Portfolio
19:42 Diverse Investment Strategies
21:38 Seller Financing
28:28 Expanding the Portfolio
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How to Build a Business That’ll Replace Your 9-5 | Hala Taha
12 augustus 2025 · 42 min
What does it take to transform from a $27,000-a-year employee into an eight-figure entrepreneur? Hala Taha, founder of YAP Media, joins Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench on the BiggerPockets Money podcast to reveal the mindset shifts, strategic decisions, and hard-won lessons that built her media empire. Lees meer
This isn't just another success story – it's a masterclass in entrepreneurial thinking, strategic pivoting, and building scalable systems that generate massive wealth.
This Episode Covers:
How to identify and overcome limiting beliefs about money
Scaling from solo operator to eight-figure company
Cash flow management in unpredictable business cycles
Investment strategies specifically for business owners
Balancing reinvestment vs. personal wealth building
And SO much more!
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How Regular People Can Achieve Coast FI in Their 30s
8 augustus 2025 · 37 min
Coast FI is a fascinating concept that's gaining traction in the financial independence community. And no, to Mindy's disappointment, it doesn't involve having enough money to live beachside (though the lifestyle can be just as relaxing). Unlike the extreme FIRE approach that dominates personal finance blogs—where you're told to save every penny, never eat out, and forget about vacations—Coast FI offers a more sustainable path to early retirement. Lees meer
Enter Jessica and Corey from The Fioneers, who've proven this gentler approach actually works. When they discovered the FI movement, they were earning just $30,000 combined—hardly a six-figure head start. As their income grew, so did their savings rate, but Jessica quickly realized that climbing the corporate ladder came with a hidden cost. The stress became so overwhelming that she needed a six-month mental health break from work.
That break changed everything. Jessica never returned to traditional employment, instead building her own business. Today, she and Corey have achieved what they call "slow FI"—they're Coast FI with complete time autonomy, still enjoying travel and comfortable living, while on track to retire in their early 50s. They're living proof that financial independence doesn't require sacrificing your mental health, relationships, or joy along the way.
Their story challenges the narrative that you must choose between financial freedom and actually living your life. Sometimes, the scenic route gets you exactly where you need to go.
In This Episode We Cover
Coast FI explained and how it’s a far more enjoyable alternative to standard financial independence
Saving and investing even while making a below-median income salary
Resisting lifestyle creep and how to use pay raises to increase your net worth
The danger of going “too fast to FI” and how retiring too early can be a detriment
Part-time jobs, side hustles, and other ways that you can make more apart from your W2
Spending money to “escape” and…
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How to Reach Coast FIRE (The Relaxed Way to Retire!)
5 augustus 2025 · 29 min
Tired of the extreme saving grind? What if there was a way to front-load your retirement savings and then "coast" to financial independence without the stress? In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench break down Coast FI - the strategy that lets you stop aggressive saving in your 30s while still retiring comfortably at 65. Lees meer
Coast FI isn't about retiring early - it's about retiring the anxiety around retirement savings. Once you hit your Coast FI number, compound interest does the heavy lifting while you focus on living your life. This approach offers the perfect middle ground between traditional retirement planning and extreme FIRE strategies.
This Episode Will Cover:
How to calculate your personal Coast FI number
Investment strategies that maximize compound growth
The psychological freedom that comes with hitting Coast FI
Real examples of Coast FI timelines and scenarios
Why this might be the perfect FIRE strategy for most people
And SO much more!
00:38 What is Coast FIRE
02:16 How to Achieve Coast FI
05:56 Calculate Your Coast FI Number
07:54 Coast Fire by Age
09:21 Passive Income and Coast Fire
19:52 Investment Strategies for Coast Fire
22:40 Investment Order of Operations
28:15 Connect with Scott and Mindy
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See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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How “Regular” People Can Achieve FIRE (Early Retirement) by 40!
1 augustus 2025 · 46 min
Join hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench as they sit down with Cody Garrett, a former musician turned financial planner who discovered the FIRE movement seven years ago and is now just four years away from achieving financial independence by age 40. Cody's unique dual perspective—as both someone actively pursuing FIRE and a professional helping others achieve it—makes this conversation particularly valuable for anyone on their own early retirement journey. Lees meer
Cody shares the practical strategies, mindset shifts, and career decisions that accelerated his path to financial freedom. He breaks down his personal approach to portfolio management, explains how to avoid the lifestyle inflation trap, and discusses building multiple income streams through business ventures. Whether you're contemplating a career change, looking to optimize your FIRE timeline, or seeking guidance from someone who's walking the walk, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can implement immediately.
This Episode Covers:
Cody's journey from musician to financial planner and FIRE discovery
Strategic career pivoting to accelerate financial independence
Portfolio theory and investment strategies for early retirement
Avoiding lifestyle inflation while building wealth
The importance of finding your "why" for financial independence
And SO much more!
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See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Are We Heading Into a Recession? J Scott Breaks It Down
29 juli 2025 · 49 min
In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench are joined by real estate expert J Scott to break down the mixed signals dominating today's economic landscape. Are we or we not heading into a recession? Lees meer
They discuss what's really happening with GDP growth, consumer spending patterns, and the evolving nature of work itself. From the rise of gig economy jobs that complicate traditional employment metrics to the unprecedented challenges facing businesses nationwide, this deep-dive conversation reveals the nuances behind the economic data that directly impacts your financial decisions.
This Episode Covers:
Key indicators of a recession
Analysis of recent conflicting economic headlines
Differing impacts on consumer spending and employment trends
Influence of tariffs and the rising wave of business bankruptcies
Potential economic impact of artificial intelligence
Importance of portfolio diversification during uncertain times
And SO much more!
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See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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How to Fast Track Your Path to FIRE | The Wealth Ladder
25 juli 2025 · 42 min
In this insightful episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench delve into the practical steps for building wealth with financial writer Nick Maggiulli. They discuss his new book, 'The Wealth Ladder,' which introduces a six-level wealth ladder for assessing and enhancing one's financial strategy. Lees meer
From establishing emergency savings in level one to focusing on investment choices in level three and contemplating business decisions in levels five and six, Nick provides a comprehensive guide across different stages of wealth. The episode is perfect for anyone aiming to grasp a structured approach to financial independence and learn how to adapt their strategies as their wealth grows.
This episode cover:
The Wealth Ladder (All 6 Levels)
How to adjust your portfolio over time
The importance of increasing your income
Balancing lifestyle upgrades with sustainable financial growth
And SO much more!
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See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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How to Achieve Financial Independence in the Military
22 juli 2025 · 1 uur 3 min
In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench, along with guest David Pere, delve deep into achieving financial independence while serving in the military. They discuss the unique advantages of military benefits, such as zero-cost healthcare and housing allowances, and how these can be leveraged to fast-track financial independence. The episode is packed with actionable advice and real-life examples to inspire military personnel to build wealth and achieve financial freedom. Lees meer
This Episode Covers:
Budgeting effectively while enlisted
Understanding military pay structures
The power of house hacking and live-in flips, and investment strategies tailored specifically for service members.
They explore the potential of achieving substantial net worth through disciplined savings and smart investing, even within an eight-year service commitment.
And SO much more!
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See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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The Portfolio Strategy That Could Double Your Safe Withdrawal Rate
18 juli 2025 · 49 min
In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench welcome Frank Vasquez back on to challenge everything you thought you knew about safe withdrawal rates. Frank reveals how a properly constructed risk parity portfolio can support a 5% withdrawal rate—meaning you could comfortably pull $125,000 annually from a $2.5 million portfolio without the traditional fear of running out of money. This isn't theoretical; it's a practical strategy that sophisticated investors have been using for decades. Lees meer
Frank takes listeners step-by-step through building this portfolio on Fidelity, demonstrating real-world implementation rather than just concepts. You'll discover how mathematical principles like the Fibonacci sequence can guide your allocation decisions, why traditional diversification falls short, and how to rebalance effectively without overthinking the process. Most importantly, Frank shows how to customize this approach to your specific situation, making risk parity accessible whether you're approaching FIRE or already financially independent.
This Episode Covers:
Risk parity fundamentals - Understanding true diversification beyond stocks and bonds
Asset class breakdown - Specific investments across equities, bonds, commodities, and alternatives
Rebalancing strategies - When and how to adjust your portfolio without constant tinkering
Withdrawal techniques - Practical methods for taking income from multiple asset classes
And SO much more!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.