How She Paid Off $300K of Debt and Retired at 40: Bernadette Joy on Financial Independence, Values Based Wealth, and Living Life on Your Terms

What does financial independence really look like for women in STEM especially if you don’t want to hustle yourself into burnout?In this episode of Engineer Her Path, I’m joined by Bernadette Joy, a debt free multimillionaire, financial coach, author, speaker and former HR professional who retired in her early 40s. Together, we talk about how she paid off $72,000 in student loans, became 100% debt free, bought multiple homes (including one in cash), and redefined early retirement on her terms.This conversation goes beyond spreadsheets and savings rates. We dive into:• What financial independence looks like without extreme frugality• Why FIRE culture doesn’t work for everyone especially women in STEM• Aligning money with values, joy, and intentional living• Navigating cultural expectations, status symbols, and career pressure• Why wealth is about freedom, not just net worth• The mindset shifts that matter more than mathIf you’re a woman in STEM who’s questioning the traditional career path, feeling burned out, or looking to build wealth without sacrificing your life, this episode will challenge how you think about money, success, and what “enough” really means.🎧 Perfect for engineers, technologists, and high-achieving women who want calm, confidence, and financial freedom not just more hustle.Bernadette's Crush Your Money Goals websiteBernadette's Crush Your Money Goals bookPlutus Impace Summit