Mile High FI Podcast

Doug chats with Rusty about the concept of “quiet quitting”, spurred by an email from listener “Brian”.  They discuss the psychological shifts needed to step back from overachieving, provide strategies for reclaiming personal time & prioritizing health, and share tips on leadership, strategic delegation, prioritizing high-value problem solving, and setting firm boundaries. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Email Rusty: [email protected] MHFI episode 316, “Optimizing the Last Year of Work Before Retirement – Rusty (Part 1)” MHFI episode 317, “Optimizing the Last Year of Work Before Retirement – Rusty (Part 2)” Carla on MHFI episode 319 Chris Hutchins, “All the Hacks” podcast J. Kenji López-Alt, “When Should I Salt my Eggs? | Ask Kenji” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 3:46 Brian’s email: Doing less at work? 11:20 Appearing busy 17:54 Guilt vs. productivity 26:36 The delegation strategy 34:09 Solving big problems & work identity 40:23 Taking advantage of work-related travel 48:06 Vacation & sick day rights 55:40 Optimization & work ethic vs. intentionality 1:02:12 Office wellness hacks 1:09:22 Soundcheck – Muffins & pizza

Mr. Money Mustache & I answer your questions! You can get your question on the show by recording a voice memo and emailing me. Get priority by supporting the show via Buy Me a Coffee. It’s listener supported with no ads. Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ I put together the MMM episode guide: Mr. Money Mustache Episode Guide & Index Email the show: [email protected] 00:00 Welcome and Setup 01:03 Too Much Freedom 04:19 Childhood Independence 08:13 Routines and Productivity 10:17 Long Term Care Fears 11:47 Prevention and Self Insurance 15:48 Worry Math and Dementia 18:02 Charity and Volunteering 20:29 Effective Giving Mindset 22:18 Community Updates and Support 24:51 Outro and Disclaimers

Doug chats with JT about quitting his tech job due to burnout, taking time off to spend with family & decompress, but ultimately deciding to return to work.  JT discusses his sudden decision to give an eight-day notice, the psychological transition of being “unemployed” vs. “retired”, why the FI community can sometimes be too prescriptive about never working again, and how he evaluated a new opportunity at a startup while emphasizing optionality, boundaries, and success criteria to avoid repeating burnout.   Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links JT on MHFI episode 110 JT on MHFI episode 264.5 MHFI episode 316, “Optimizing the Last Year of Work Before Retirement – Rusty (Part 1)” MHFI episode 317, “Optimizing the Last Year of Work Before Retirement – Rusty (Part 2)” The FI Collective Jordan Grumet, “The Purpose Code” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Ramit Sethi, “I Will Teach You to Be Rich: The Journal” Kindle Paperback MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 2:02 Quitting 9:44 Reflections on burnout 15:45 Activities since leaving work 22:57 Structure & daily routine 31:21 FI journey 37:39 Spending changes 43:32 Optionality & continuing to work 49:36 Would you do it for free? 55:41 Success criteria for returning to work 1:02:00 Value of additional money 1:06:36 Work vs. early retirement 1:13:51 Soundcheck – Book minimalism

Doug chats with David Gillis about finding meaningful projects after retiring and how identity can be tied to corporate roles.  David shares his financial journey from paying off consumer debt to finding FI and eventually testing “semi-retirement”.  He also discusses his beginnings as “the quiet kid on the bus”, improving his communication skills over time (via Toastmasters, improv classes, coaching, & involvement with TEDx Omaha) to launching his own conference called “The 1% Better Conference”. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Spark Financial Wellness The 1% Better Conference TEDxOmaha Toastmasters MilMoneyCon MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:19 Finding FI 6:35 Debt payoff & identifying blind spots 11:52 Building communication skills 18:28 Improv 22:52 Launching a conference 28:03 Keeping it intimate & coordinating speakers 32:35 Future conference plans 37:45 Retirement planning & community 44:18 Soundcheck – Summer plans

Doug and Dusti chat with Rox (from FinanceRox) about celebrating a massive milestone – officially hitting her full-FI number!  Rox shares her story as a former financial analyst who first achieved Coast FI in 2020, navigated life changes such as a divorce and a period of digital nomading, then recently moved to Longmont & ultimately crossed the finish line to FI.  Rox also shares her passion for creative outlets outside the numbers in areas like stand-up comedy and daily art journaling. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Connect with Rox FinanceRox website Instagram YouTube Connect with Dusti Instagram Email: [email protected] The FI Collective CampFI CampFI, “RETIRE EARLY A.F.! (and funny)” F.I.ne Art Collective Sign up (w/ JD Roth) JD Roth MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:39 Full-FI & moving to Longmont 9:01 Entrepreneurship insights 13:43 Changing expenses & working after FI 18:15 Retirement reality check 24:50 Spending & money mindset 29:21 Longmont surprises & observations 34:18 Stand-up comedy 42:36 Art is the proper task of life 49:14 CampFI talks & experiences 53:44 Cons of Longmont 58:21 Soundcheck – Donuts

Doug continues the happiness series with part 4 featuring special guest Kristen Knapp (FI Friends Travel).  Doug & Kristen dive into the groundbreaking science of longevity, memory, and community – from an 80-year Harvard study to Chicago commuter trains, the data proves that relationships act as emotional shock absorbers.   They also discuss how good relationships are the strongest predictor of a healthy, long, happy life. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Connect with Kristen: Email: [email protected] FI Friends Travel MHFI, “Happiness Beyond Wealth. FIRE ≠ Happiness – Happy #1” MHFI, “Is Retirement Overrated? – Happy #2” MHFI, “Can Retiring Early Make You Less Happy? – Happy #3” Plain English Podcast Plain English Podcast, “Happiness in America” Plain English Podcast, “The Healthiest ‘Super-Agers’ Have One Thing in Common” Harvard Study of Adult Development Alzheimer’s Association, “The first 25 years of the Northwestern University SuperAging Program” Nicholas Epley, “Mistakenly Seeking Solitude” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 5:10 Harvard study of adult development 13:47 SuperAgers explained 20:12 Strong social connections 25:23 Building community 31:25 Making new friends 37:50 Mistakenly seeking solitude 44:21 Upset introverts & conversation tips 50:33 Soundcheck – Recent travels

Doug chats with Kristen & Pete about their FI journey, full-time RV living, and both of their work situations.  They dive into the realities of balancing a mixed-retirement relationship, overcoming decision fatigue while minimizing, navigating cross-country travel costs, balancing different risk tolerances & spending styles, and building true confidence through community. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links EconoMe Conference Carla & Robert on MHFI episode 319 Jillian Johnsrud Harvest Hosts James & Rachel fitness challenge MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 0:51 Downsizing, decluttering, minimalism 7:37 Careers & discovering FIRE 15:48 Money backgrounds & frugality 23:13 Risk tolerance & investing roles 28:19 FI goals & continuing to work 34:15 FI community quirks 43:51 14er quest & altitude sickness 50:57 Testing the RV lifestyle & reality check 1:00:15 RV expenses 1:08:54 Wildfire escape 1:15:52 Upcoming adventures 1:20:22 Soundcheck – Fitness

We need your questions. So ask questions, plus you get the first mention of asparagus on MHFI. It was episode 9. It’s ridiculous. Record a voice memo. Send to [email protected]. You can send your text based question as well. Please let me know if you’re a Buy Me a Coffee Supporter.

Doug chats with his brother-in-law Sam about a variety of topics focusing on travel, food, and money.  Sam discusses travel hacking using credit card rewards, budgeting for trips using a family “fun/frivolous” fund, and an upcoming trip to Iceland.  The pair also deep-dive into food & cooking to explore the meticulous art of dialing-in the perfect backyard pizza and morning espresso. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Peter Reinhart, “American Pie: My Search for the Perfect Pizza” Kindle Hardcover Peter Reinhart, “Perfect Pan Pizza” Kindle Hardcover Spiral-Bound Peter Reinhart, “Pizza Quest: My Never-Ending Search for the Perfect Pizza” Kindle Paperback Boyer’s coffee “Omnibus” podcast MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 0:51 Professional Scientist 6:58 Travel rewards 15:47 Iceland eclipse planning 24:46 Budgeting & household finances 31:33 Longmont pizza crawl 36:08 Pizza stone vs. pizza steel 43:43 Kamado grilling 53:19 Avid coffee enthusiast 1:00:49 Roasting beans & dialing-in espresso shots 1:11:27 Soundcheck – Reading

Doug and Pete Adeney (Mr. Money Mustache) answer questions from the listener mailbag.  They discuss costs of raising a large family on the path to FIRE, contrast the real-world math & culture of living in Canada vs the United States, map out high net worth investing strategies for seven-figure portfolios, and dive deep into the psychology of holding cash. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache The FI Collective Brad Barrett/ChooseFI Mark Trautman/Mark’s Money Mind Mr. Money Mustache, “My Unexpected Journey to Hormone Replacement (TRT)” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 2:37 Question – FIRE planning with kids 9:17 Front-loading savings & investing 13:05 Question – Thoughts on Canada 18:45 Question – Pre-tax vs. post-tax investing 25:54 Question – Cash bucket 29:58 Fear vs. logic 34:27 Question – Testosterone Replacement Therapy 37:33 Question – Heating a hot tub 44:05 Soundcheck – Summer trips

Doug continues his conversation with Jennifer about reaching Financial Independence and subsequently retiring in about two years while living in a high cost-of-living area.  Jennifer shares the details of a car accident that served as a life-changing catalyst, her transition into early retirement, and specific technical strategies like utilizing a 72(t) that allowed her to accelerate her timeline.  Jennifer also shares specific FI-related resources that helped with her journey. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Jennifer’s substack, FI Slow Mornings Aubrey Williams JL Collins, “The Simple Path to Wealth” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Shannah Game, “Unraveling Your Relationship with Money” Kindle Hardcover Audiobook Audio CD Ashley Feinstein Gerstley, “The 30-Day Money Cleanse” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Jill Sirianni & Jen Smith, “Buy What You Love Without Going Broke” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:24 Car accident & wake-up call 7:10 Identity & work optionality 11:43 Passive income 16:17 Exploring a 72(t) 20:35 Barista FI ideas 27:52 Dealing with unstructured time 34:05 Housing & investing lessons 41:06 Follow-up: Hitting FI in two years 45:59 Follow-up: FI resources

Doug chats with Jennifer about reaching Financial Independence and subsequently retiring in about two years while living in a high cost-of-living area.  She shares how she discovered FI while dealing with burnout from a big-tech/creative career.  Jennifer also discusses accelerating her FI journey by overcoming lifestyle creep, tackling the “Big 3 expenses” (housing, transportation, food), paying off a car aggressively, cooking at home, cutting discretionary spending, and addressing credit card debt. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Jennifer’s substack, FI Slow Mornings ChooseFI local groups Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Crew checking JL Collins, “The Simple Path to Wealth” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 2:23 Discovering FI & recognizing burnout 9:15 Evolving views on travel 16:31 Tackling the Big 3 (expenses) 21:31 Tracking expenses 25:53 Spending 30:44 Navigating finances as a couple  35:41 Soundcheck – Food

Doug and Pete Adeney (Mr. Money Mustache) answer questions from the listener mailbag.  They discuss the benefits & timing of claiming Social Security and address criticism of prior comments about video games.  Pete also provides an update on recent lifestyle changes, including insight into his personal spending & annual expenses. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache The FI Collective Mr. Money Mustache, “The Ultimate Life Coach” Mr. Money Mustache, “The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Social Security” Best Interest blog, “When the ‘Shockingly Simple Math’ is…Shockingly Wrong” Jesse Cramer on MHFI episode 236 MMM on Tim Ferriss (2017) Mr. Money Mustache, “Retired Man Tries to Spend More Money, Mostly Fails” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 2:56 Question – MMM lifestyle changes 8:54 Question – Video games 15:52 Question – Social Security 21:54 Claiming benefits vs. taxes & tradeoffs 29:42 Question – MMM annual expenses 35:37 The FI Collective 38:55 Soundcheck – Humidity

Doug chats with Carla & Robert about life after their 2019 sabbatical – including observations, lessons learned, and how they currently handle a “working when it’s optional” lifestyle.  They discuss how to deal with boredom vs. the need to be productive, the importance of community, health/fitness motivation, the joys of discovering new hobbies, opportunity costs of continued work, and how to use sabbaticals as a test run for early retirement. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Pennies and Popcorn YouTube Carla & Robert on MHFI episode 012 Kevin Sebesta on MHFI episode 302 Rebecca Herbst on MHFI episode 301 James & Rachel fitness challenge MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 4:02 Taking a sabbatical 12:47 Observations from not working 18:22 Battling boredom 22:57 The need to be productive 27:36 Lean FI & spending 32:34 Opportunity costs of working 37:49 The value of sabbaticals 43:45 Fitness & health routines 48:05 Fitness challenge 58:40 Spending with intention 1:05:47 Soundcheck – Pennies and Popcorn

Doug chats with Amberly Grant (FinTalks) about how their views & mindsets around frugality have evolved and share recent spending decisions, especially around travel and “quality of life” purchases.  They discuss the changing psychology of spending as income grows and the practical value of “removing negatives” from life. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Amberly Grant EconoMe Conference Nuuly (subscription clothing rental) Rusty on MHFI episode 317 EconoMe Conference, “Carl Jensen: FI-Landia Is A Lie. What I Learned on My Journey to FIRE” CampFI EconoMe Conference, “James Lowery: How to Become a Lazy Landlord” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:13 Frugal roots & changing perspectives 7:06 Evolving spending habits 14:41 Delayed gratification purchases 20:12 Renting clothes & subscriptions 27:42 Fitness gear & gym memberships 36:11 Irrationality & sunk cost  41:02 Finally buying a new couch 50:00 Recent value purchases 55:55 Travel & subscription audit 1:00:03 FinTalks 1:04:24 Soundcheck – EconoMe presentation 1:11:23 Preparation for giving a speech 1:16:59 Observations & tips

Doug continues his conversation with Rusty about how to optimize the final year before (early) retirement.  They discuss using debt responsibly, leveraging home equity & securities-backed lines of credit to maintain cash flow, navigating the complexities of post-retirement healthcare, and managing emotional & practical withdrawal strategies. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Email Rusty: [email protected] Rusty on MHFI episode 270 Fit Rich Life episode 99 Elizabeth on MHFI episode 312 Fritz Gilbert on MFHI episode 315 Kevin Sebesta on MHFI episode 302 Mark Trautman on MHFI episode 313 Pancreatic Cancer Action Network MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 2:32 Mortgages, refinancing, HELOCs 9:18 Securities-backed line of credit 18:38 Healthcare after leaving work 24:23 ACA subsidy cliff 32:05 Withdrawal stress & strategies 40:03 Bucket strategy & a retirement paycheck 48:08 Donating to charity 55:06 Funding a 529 & legacy giving 1:02:45 Soundcheck – Beer

Doug chats with Rusty about how to optimize the final year before (early) retirement, emphasizing the critical distinction between “one more year syndrome” vs. a calculated final year and how working a little longer can lower withdrawal rates & reduce sequence-of-returns worry.  They compare quitting to being fired or laid off and highlight some potential benefits such as severance, possible unemployment, and employer healthcare continuation.  Rusty also shares some personal negotiation tactics when leaving a job. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Email Rusty: [email protected] EconoMe Conference Sarah Jaffe, “Work Won’t Love You Back” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook “Harlan County, U.S.A.” Movie Rusty on MHFI episode 304 MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 2:37 Working one more year 9:19 Stock market risk & flexibility 15:13 Quiet Quitting playbook 23:28 Quitting vs. getting fired or laid off 30:41 Real-world cautionary tales 35:38 Tips for quitting & identity issues 43:02 New baby update! 51:51 Tales of a jacked math major 59:52 Soundcheck – Food

Doug and co-host Kristen Knapp chat with Fritz Gilbert (The Retirement Manifesto) at the EconoMe Conference about various drawdown strategies and spending in early retirement.  Fritz describes how he personally implements a “bucket strategy” approach to withdrawing money by setting up a monthly “paycheck”, how decumulation differs from accumulation, and explains sequence-of-returns, inflation, & longevity risks.  The group also discusses annual financial reviews, dynamic spending guardrails, viability of DIY investors, and intentional living. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links The Retirement Manifesto Blog “Our Retirement Investment Drawdown Strategy” “Revisiting Our Drawdown Strategy After 3 Years of Retirement” “Do You Really Need a Trust? And Other Estate Planning Questions Retirees Ask Most” “How To Build A Bond Ladder” Freedom for Fido Website Facebook Fritz Gilbert, “Keys to a Successful Retirement” Kindle Paperback Spiral-bound FI Friends Travel Big ERN/Early Retirement Now MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 5:15 Why drawdown needs a plan 8:43 The Bucket Strategy 14:52 Balancing risks & retirement readiness 20:11 The 4% Rule vs. buckets 25:43 Creating a retirement paycheck 31:04 Dynamic spending & guardrails 36:17 Potentially increased spending 41:38 DIY vs. working with an advisor 48:27 Bond ladders 53:11 Tax location matters

Doug chats with Mark Trautman (Mark’s Money Mind) about the relevance of The 4% Rule in modern retirement planning.  They explore whether it remains a solid “north star” for those in the accumulation phase or if it has become an outdated guideline that potentially hinders retirees from living their best lives.  Mark also shares his personal transition from a high-saver to a strategic retiree focused on decumulation & creating memory dividends. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Mark Trautman/Mark’s Money Mind David Chilton, “The Wealthy Barber” Paperback William Bengen, “A Richer Retirement” Kindle Hardcover Audiobook Audio CD Retirement and IRA Show Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Big ERN on MHFI episode 280 Aubrey Williams, “Everyone Adjusts! Use Historical Analysis Risk-Based Guardrails to Reach FI Sooner!” ProjectionLab MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:12 Discovering & defining the 4% Rule 6:32 Mark’s portfolio & retirement strategy 12:46 Why 4% misses reality 19:13 Die With Zero & spending 26:52 Stress testing projections 31:41 Guardrails 35:06 Agile retirement planning 41:24 Mark’s Money Mind 47:02 Soundcheck – Travel

Support the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, PanCan, for the PurpleStride. Donate here PurpleStride is an inspiring event for anyone who has been affected by pancreatic cancer. We are raising funds to ensure vital research continues and free resources are made available to all who need them. We’ll be at the Dallas event (PurpleStride) DFW. If the this episode is up, then donations are still open. Thank you.

Doug and Mark Trautman (Mark’s Money Mind) answer questions from the listener mailbag.  They discuss how to prepare for retirement, building social connections beyond work, psychological shifts of leaving a career, strategies for “manufacturing” a retirement paycheck, how to navigate the changing landscape of car ownership (buying vs. leasing), and the mindset shift of decumulation & spending. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Mark Trautman/Mark’s Money Mind Mark’s Money Mind Episode 063, “Taxes, Travel, and Market Turbulence” CampFI Mr. Money Mustache on MHFI episode 309 Kevin Sebesta on MHFI episode 302 Morgan Housel, “Psychology of Money” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook ChooseFI Ep 022, “The True Cost Of Car Ownership” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 0:56 Recent travels 5:53 Question – Preparing to retire 11:13 Social connections, hobbies, & identity 18:50 Retirement paycheck strategy 23:35 Question – Leasing vs. buying cars 29:16 Longevity & when leasing makes sense 34:17 Question – Decumulation & spending 40:47 Calculating downside risk & seeking advice 49:24 Soundcheck – Casa Bonita

Doug chats with his wife Elizabeth about her 2-year anniversary in early retirement.  Elizabeth describes why she loves not working, challenges with balancing routine vs. flexibility, and how reduced stress has improved relationships and communication.  Doug & Elizabeth also discuss budgeting with a financial advisor, differences in “fun fund” spending, the impact of market returns on retirement confidence, perceived social pressure within the FI community to retire, and not necessarily retiring “to something”. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Elizabeth on MHFI episode 281 Leckerlee Cookies Earn & Invest, “What’s the Point of FIRE?” The FI Collective Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook “Survive the 9 to 5” podcast “The Doug Show” podcast MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 2:08 Leaving a full-time career 8:07 Part-time work experiment 18:36 Retirement surprises 23:03 Finding a routine 29:46 Relationship improvements 36:28 Pressure to retire 43:31 Spending & budgeting 50:30 Influence of the stock market 55:24 Retirement tips & readiness 1:00:05 What do you do? 1:08:10 Soundcheck – Caffeine cutback

Doug and Kristen Knapp (FI Friends Travel) dive into a listener-submitted topic from Dell regarding the potential benefits of oversaving.  Doug & Kristen discuss the pros & cons of oversaving, the necessity of having a plan for “retiring to something” after work, and explore the psychological shifts that occur when you no longer need a paycheck.  They also tackle common traps in the FI community such as “One More Year Syndrome”, golden handcuffs, and identity issues tied to a career. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links FI Friends Travel ChooseFI local groups EconoMe Conference CampFI Mark Trautman/Mark’s Money Mind Kevin Sebesta on MHFI episode 302 Morgan Housel, “The Art of Spending Money” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 4:17 Dell’s voicemail 9:20 Pros of oversaving 17:14 Legacy vs. Die With Zero 20:59 Cons of oversaving 27:55 Golden handcuffs & “enough” 34:36 Retiring to something… or not 40:16 Identity struggles & FI 49:43 Staying busy vs. intentional boredom 56:50 Early retirement pitfalls 1:01:16 Only boring people are bored 1:05:47 The nuances of FI 1:12:02 Longest soundcheck ever

Please support the show if you like it! I play highlights about Die With Zero, specifically about Time Bucketing. You can donate via Buy Me a Coffee. You get extra content and know that you’re making the show possible. Mile High FI is listed as one of the TOP Podcast on Careers in Apple Podcasts! Spotify is 28% of the audience, so that’s grown in 2025 and higher than I said in this episode. If you extrapolate the Spotify year end review data to the total downloads, here is what you get… Mile High FI is a: Top 5 podcast for about 5,000 people! #1 podcast for about 740 people! I don’t have ads anymore so I want to cover production costs. Most of the costs are related to software and tools and hosting. Many other podcasts have sucky ads every 15 minutes. I don’t want to do that. Producer Chris volunteers to edit and produce the show. We’re not trying to get rich doing the show, but it takes a lot of time, effort, and planning. You can also check out the affiliate offers here, which are products that I recommend. Mile High FI usually gets a small percentage, say 1% to 15%, depending on the arrangement. It helps, but direct donations are the best.

Doug chats with Pete Adeney (Mr. Money Mustache) about various fears that some people have about early retirement.  They explore why some people may be reluctant to retire, despite being financially ready, and specifically how fear of boredom can hold people back.  They discuss “One More Year Syndrome” and the irrational fear of running out of money despite what the math says. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache Pete on MHFI episode 308 Morgan Housel, “Is the F.I.R.E. Movement Dead?” The Donegans The FI Collective MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:51 One More Year Syndrome 5:50 Scared of boredom 10:18 Building social skills 17:22 Boring people are bored 22:03 FI Collective 25:51 Soundcheck – New house

Doug chats with Pete Adeney (Mr. Money Mustache) about evolving perspectives within the FIRE movement.  Moving beyond external critiques, they dive into a confessional-style discussion about genuine problems within the community – from the pitfalls of ultra-frugality, over-saving, over-optimizing, and “One More Year Syndrome” to the identity crisis retirees face.  They explore why FIRE isn’t a “gospel” but instead a set of ideas that should be modified in real-time based on what actually works for each individual. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache Pete on MHFI episode 308 Jacob Lund Fisker/Early Retirement Extreme Mad Fientist, “Learning How to Spend Money” New York Times, “Freedom With a Side of Guilt: How Food Delivery Is Reshaping Mealtime” The FI Collective MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:16 MMM persona & early FIRE ideas 8:50 Ultra-frugality 18:00 Over-saving & One More Year Syndrome 24:23 Over-optimizing in the FIRE community 29:30 DoorDash spectrum 34:24 Paying for convenience 42:21 Balancing the future & the present 48:09 MMM’s retirement spending strategies 53:49 Retiring to something meaningful 1:02:18 Soundcheck – Casa Bonita

Doug chats with Pete Adeney, Mr. Money Mustache, about whether the FIRE Movement is dead, in response to a variety of online commentary claiming this statement as fact.  Doug & Pete review and critique multiple perspectives, including notable names like Dave Ramsey and Morgan Housel while also addressing misconceptions, highlighting the value of Financial Independence, and acknowledge the movement’s evolution. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache Jared Dillian, “The FIRE Movement” Jarrad Morrow, “The FIRE Movement Won’t Work Like It Used To (Here’s Why)” Dave Ramsey, “Why the F.I.R.E. Movement Isn’t Sustainable” Ramit Sethi, “The Problem with the “FIRE” Movement” Mindy & Carl on Ramit Sethi’s “I Will Teach You To Be Rich” Brian Farrell, “What Happened To The FIRE Movement?” Morgan Housel, “Is the F.I.R.E. Movement Dead?” The Knowledge Project podcast, “Morgan Housel: Wealth is What You Have Minus What You Want” Gregory Galant, “Mark Cuban on the FIRE Movement: Financial Independence, Retire Early” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 6:11 Jared Dillian, “The FIRE Movement” 23:16 Jarrad Morrow, “The FIRE Movement Won’t Work Like It Used To” 25:52 Dave Ramsey, “Why the F.I.R.E. Movement Isn’t Sustainable” 32:01 Ramit Sethi, “The Problem with the “FIRE” Movement” 38:06 Brian Farrell, “What Happened To The FIRE Movement?” 43:07 Morgan Housel, “Is the F.I.R.E. Movement Dead?” 50:40 Gregory Galant, “Mark Cuban on the FIRE Movement” 58:12 Soundcheck – Winter trips

Doug chats with Carl about finding purpose in life.  They discuss the benefits of preparing for retirement by building a rich life outside of work, taking sabbaticals, and conducting small experiments to explore new hobbies and interests.  They also talk about the importance of community, the idea of redefining success, achieving flow state, and finding meaningful ways to spend one’s time while maintaining good mental and physical health. Note: This is a rebroadcast of MHFI episode 268 Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Carl Jensen/1500 Days to Freedom 1500 Days to Freedom, “Introducing The FI Collective” “How to Money” episode 1091, “The Art of Spending w/ Morgan Housel” CampFI EconoMe Conference MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 5:34 What FIRE life looks like 13:35 Is retirement overrated? 22:09 Relationship with work 28:24 Seeking validation 34:58 Challenging the corporate ladder 40:31 Setting up for a successful retirement 46:57 Redefining success & finding flow 54:41 Leveraging community & taking action

Doug and Producer Chris chat about a very controversial topic in the FIRE community – working with a financial advisor.  They explore the reasons someone might or might not want to work with an advisor, discussing common pitfalls like high fees & hidden motivations, while emphasizing the benefits of getting an outside perspective & professional guidance, especially in areas like decumulation and complex financial situations. Did this episode motivate you to seek professional financial help?  If so, check out our friends at Nectarine, where you ONLY pay for investing & planning advice.  Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions.  *Affiliate link below, so if you do work with Nectarine, we might earn a commission. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Jeremy Schneider on MHFI episode 122 Jeremy Schneider on MHFI episode 243 MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 4:35 Insurance agents 9:24 The problem with fees 15:21 The downsides of DIY 19:57 Identifying blindspots 27:58 Dealing with complex situations 33:20 Actually working with an advisor 38:23 The importance of professional help 43:20 Mindset & spending in retirement 50:03 Soundcheck – Kitchen gadgets

Doug chats with Pete Adeney (Mr. Money Mustache) and Rusty about prominent themes related to Financial Independence found in popular movies & TV shows.  They delve into iconic films such as “The Matrix”, “Office Space”, and “Fight Club”, extracting key FIRE principles such as anti-consumerism, the quest for personal freedom, and breaking away from traditional corporate paths. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache Email Rusty: [email protected] The New York Times, “How to Retire in Your 30s With $1 Million in the Bank” BiggerPockets Money, “Is the FIRE Movement Dead?” Dave Ramsey, “Why the F.I.R.E. Movement Isn’t Sustainable” Ramit Sethi, “The Problem with the “FIRE” Movement” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 3:24 The Matrix 10:44 Office Space 17:50 Parenting & keeping busy in retirement 26:58 Corporate 31:32 Fight Club 36:52 Reacher 42:21 Local Hero 48:33 FIRE backlash (teaser) 54:39 Soundcheck – Early retirement

Doug chats with Rusty about one of their mutual passions: food and cooking.  They each explore their food “origin stories”, discussing childhood memories and the evolution of their culinary interests.  They touch on how food plays a significant role in their lives and walk through various food-related topics including favorite recipes, cooking styles, and essential kitchen equipment.  They also discuss how cooking can be a meditative process, how food can help build community, and how it all relates to FI. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Email Rusty: [email protected] Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:31 Gourmet sandwiches & chili 9:13 Food origin stories 18:59 Cost of food vs. FI 25:07 Leftovers & meal-planning 31:03 Community & mindfulness in cooking 41:24 Recipes & exploring YouTube for inspiration 50:28 Essential kitchen equipment 57:36 Experimenting with eating out 1:06:12 Soundcheck – DIY guitar projects

Doug chats with Carl & Rusty about each of their adventures with housing projects and renovations.  Carl details his current project of tearing down a “Frank Lloyd Wrong house” and building one from scratch while sharing insights into his motivations, costs, and specific financing strategies.  Rusty shares his experience renovating two homes and the strategic use of a line of credit.  Additionally, they delve into considerations of downsizing and the potential of owning second homes. Does “MHFI After Dark” sound intriguing?  Yeah, we thought so.  Come check out exclusive new content here: https://milehighfi.com/onlyfans Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Email Rusty: [email protected] Carl Jensen/1500 Days to Freedom Leif Dahleen (Physician on FIRE) on MHFI episode 112 Buy, Borrow, Die discussion on MHFI episode 252 Mindy & Carl on Ramit Sethi’s “I Will Teach You To Be Rich” Philosophy & ethics discussion on MHFI episode 298 MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:31 Carl’s home building journey 8:10 Unique systems & building challenges 15:41 Financing with the Buy, Borrow, Die Strategy 24:09 Rusty’s renovation stories 30:25 Balancing joy & investment 38:58 Downsizing dilemmas 44:03 Different places in different stages of life 51:46 Second homes 59:24 Soundcheck – Taco Bell

Doug chats with Kevin Sebesta, a self-proclaimed “high-achieving slacker”, about lessons learned from 12 years of early retirement.  Kevin discusses the importance of building a supportive community, how living child-free influences lifestyle choices, the concept of a “Fun Bucket” for guilt-free spending, the balance between optimizing finances & enjoying life, and how curiosity drives his fulfilling retirement. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Connect with Kevin: Email:  [email protected] Blog: http://www.lifeinfire.com/ FI Friends Travel Rock Retirement Club Mark Trautman/Mark’s Money Mind Amy Minkley/FI Freedom Retreats CampFI Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Retirement and IRA Show Jordan Grumet, “The Purpose Code” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Jordan Grumet on MHFI episode 249 Cody Garrett & Sean Mullaney, “Tax Planning To and Through Early Retirement” Kindle Paperback MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:05 Journey to FI & travel adventures 7:28 Building community in retirement 12:30 Finding a FI family 18:02 Child-free lifestyle & estate planning 29:44 The Fun Bucket 36:41 Die With Zero & time bucketing 42:20 You are who you are 50:05 Adjustments in retirement 59:16 Ability of time & curiosity 1:06:40 Optimizing finances in retirement 1:14:06 Soundcheck – Marshall amps

Doug chats with Rebecca Herbst about her post-FI life including challenges of finding community & the right place to live, experimenting with increased spending, the mental shift from a scarcity to an abundance mindset, and the complexities of personal identity after leaving a career.  Rebecca also discusses her work with Yield and Spread, a nonprofit promoting generosity in the personal finance community including a call to action and The FI-lanthropy Pledge. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Yield & Spread ChooseFI Episode 483, “Effective Giving Strategies for FI” The Fioneers, “Financial Independence Milestones that Actually Motivate” Scott Rieckens, “Playing With FIRE” Kindle Paperback Audiobook The Center For Midlife Success (formerly Joy Collective), “Annual Clarity Retreat” Cal Newport, “Digital Minimalism” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles 0:00 Introduction 3:10 Search for a post-FI home 11:23 Experimenting with increased spending 21:04 The role of financial advisors 29:21 Rebecca’s path to FI & bold career moves 37:43 Longmont vs. Salt Lake City showdown 46:12 Finding chemistry & community in Utah 52:52 Housing & lifestyle choices 1:00:59 Transitioning from career to early retirement 1:09:30 Laziness, productivity, & digital minimalism

Doug chats with Kristen Knapp (FI Friends Travel) about the challenges of unwinding deep-seated frugal habits and learning to spend at the “right level” after achieving FI.  Inspired by a recent blog post from the Mad Fientist, Doug & Kristen explore the nuances of maintaining a balance between saving & spending and discuss why many people struggle to actually spend money once they hit their financial goals.  They also emphasize the importance of spending on what brings joy and the necessary shift in mindset that’s required to enjoy financial freedom without guilt. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links FI Friends Travel Mad Fientist, “Learning How to Spend Money” Mad Fientist on MHFI episode 048 CampFI Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 2:19 Frugality 9:02 Spending after FI 16:43 Reframing expenses 24:41 FI Friends Travel 31:44 Award travel using points 37:05 The Fun Fund 44:18 Balancing present & future spending 51:25 Shared experiences 55:39 Soundcheck – Winter weather

Doug chats with Nik Johnson (Everyday Money Heroes) about his journey to Financial Independence and retiring early.  He discusses an early passion for personal finance, how he discovered FI during the pandemic, the value of being part of a community, and the importance of a supportive spouse.  Nik describes his post-retirement life emphasizing a commitment to community service & financial literacy.  And excitingly he also describes what it’s like to be featured on national television (CBS Sunday Morning). Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Everyday Money Heroes Website YouTube CBS News Sunday Morning, “How the FIRE movement is inspiring early retirees” CampFI CampFI YouTube ChooseFI local groups Our Rich Journey Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 0:57 CBS Sunday Morning experience 7:48 Discovering FI & building community 15:15 Career & financial journey 23:52 CENT & achieving FI 29:58 Quitting work & emotional impact 38:53 Changes in expenses & spending in retirement 45:26 Everyday Money Heroes 52:33 Soundcheck – CampFI

Doug chats with Rusty about an intense neighborhood dispute involving prairie dog conservation, highlighting how ethical frameworks and philosophical approaches can guide community decisions.  Doug shares his experience working through this issue while emphasizing the importance of patience, humor, and effective communication in resolving disputes.  Rusty provides additional philosophical and ethical considerations while touching upon related communication strategies & improved community engagement. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Interested in a pair of Xero shoes so that you can be just like Doug & Rusty?  Check them out here: https://milehighfi.com/shoe Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Amy Karofsky, “Philosophy Through Film” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Michael Schur, “How to be Perfect” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Oliver Burkeman, “Four Thousand Weeks” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Oliver Burkeman, “The Antidote” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Lucius Annaeus Seneca, “On the Shortness of Life” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Marcus Aurelius, “Meditations” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Aristotle “The Nicomachean Ethics” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audio CD MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:53 Philosophy & ethics background 7:27 The prairie dog situation 14:27 Exploring people’s intentions 23:17 Levelheadedness 29:17 3 main schools of ethics 36:20 Contractualism 41:45 The Trolley Problem 46:12 Aristotle’s 12 virtues 54:18 Stoicism & communication 58:28 Philosophy & ethics resources 1:04:19 Prairie dog outcome 1:09:01 Soundcheck – Shoes

Please support the show if you like it! I play a couple of highlights from Mad Fientist and Mr. Money Mustache after my pitch. Mile High FI stats and a correction: Spotify is 28% of the audience, so that’s grown in 2025 and higher than I said in this episode. If you extrapolate the Spotify year end review data to the total downloads, here is what you get… Mile High FI is a: Top 5 podcast for about 5,000 people! #1 podcast for about 740 people! I don’t have ads anymore so I want to cover production costs. Most of the costs are related to software and tools and hosting. Many other podcasts have sucky ads every 15 minutes. I don’t want to do that. Producer Chris volunteers to edit and produce the show. We’re not trying to get rich doing the show, but it takes a lot of time, effort, and planning. You can donate via Buy Me a Coffee. You get extra content and know that you’re making the show possible. You can also check out the affiliate offers here, which are products that I recommend. Mile High FI usually gets a small percentage, say 1% to 15%, depending on the arrangement. It helps, but direct donations are the best.  

Doug chats with Justin David Carl (Fit Rich Life) about his journey from being deep in debt to achieving FI.  Justin shares his experience leaving a high-earning sales job and the burnout he faced, followed by how he started the Fit Rich Life podcast & coaching and dealt with the psychological challenges of early retirement.  He also shares some of the specific thoughts & actions that eventually made him comfortable with his own semi-retirement life. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Fit Rich Life Website & podcast Newsletter Coaching Justin on MHFI episode 204 FinCon Jordan Grumet, “The Purpose Code” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Jordan Grumet (Doc G) on Fit Rich Life Podcast episode 86 William Bridges, “Transitions” Kindle Paperback Audiobook Audio CD Dan Koe Justin Welsh Two Sides of FI MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles 0:00 Introduction 1:50 The Golden Goose job 8:16 Identity crisis & self-worth 14:25 Burnout & recovery 22:02 Overachiever personality 30:28 Building a purposeful life 38:40 The power of competition 43:54 Embracing semi-retirement 49:00 Overcoming retirement fear 54:25 Navigating post-FI life 1:03:13 Soundcheck – Caffeine

Doug chats with Pete Adeney, Mr. Money Mustache, about how to ensure a good life by tracking daily habits while comparing Cal Newport’s “The Good Life Algorithm” to Pete’s own Badassity-tracking system.  They discuss the concept of shifting identities after retirement, emphasize the importance of finding purpose beyond traditional work roles, and the value of nurturing friendships.  Pete also answers a few listener questions from the Mile High FI Facebook group. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache Badassity Tracker (Original) Badassity Tracker (Updated) MMM post “How to make a 400K impulse purchase” Cal Newport, “The Good Life Algorithm” Tim Ferriss, Jim Collins interview MMM on Tim Ferriss (2017) Culdesac MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 2:38 Badassity Tracker 8:29 The Good Life Algorithm 13:38 Social overload 18:24 Eating, sleeping, & colonoscopies 26:36 Identity (crisis) after quitting 33:36 Curiosity & lifelong learning 38:23 Tips for finding identity after retirement 42:42 Productivity & purpose 50:53 Question: Margin accounts 55:31 Question: Culdesac 59:45 Question: Gravel bikes & bikepacking 1:03:22 Soundcheck – Electric vehicles

Doug chats with Chris Luger (Heavy Metal Money) about his path to retiring early at age 50.  Chris shares his journey to financial literacy, changes he made since discovering FI, the impact of his  career in tech, and experience investing in real estate.  He also discusses the importance of finding purpose, how he’s balanced passions & activities after retirement, his struggles with identity, and philanthropic efforts through his nonprofit organization. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Heavy Metal Money Extreme Personal Finance Show podcast Amy Wilson on Extreme Personal Finance Show podcast The Luger Foundation David Allen, “Getting Things Done” Kindle Paperback Audiobook Audio CD Jordan Grumet, “The Purpose Code” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Solar Guitars, “Chug School” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 4:33 Learning about finances 11:38 Job fulfillment & optionality 16:50 Identity & career growth 21:36 Discussing early retirement with others 26:29 Transitioning to retirement 32:41 Structure & preparing for retirement 40:22 Purpose & productivity 48:53 Teaching financial literacy 57:14 The Luger Foundation 1:05:04 Soundcheck – Guitar gear

Doug chats with Pete Adeney, Mr. Money Mustache, about exciting changes at the MMM Headquarters in Longmont, Colorado.  Originally envisioned as a coworking space, the HQ is being rebranded to better reflect its true nature as a vibrant social club.  Pete covers the origin story of the HQ, the decision to shift direction, opportunities for increased member involvement in organizing events, and plans for future growth. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache MMM HQ info MMM HQ on Instagram Tim Ferriss, Mr. Money Mustache episode Carl Jensen: FI-Landia Is A Lie. What I Learned on My Journey to FIRE CampFI EconoMe Conference Rebel Finance School MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:01 The FI Collective 8:08 The value of community 12:32 Influence of CampFI 16:59 The HQ origin story 21:24 Organizing community events 24:51 Transitioning to a social club 31:31 Soundcheck – Playing music

JT interviews Doug at FinCon 2025 in Portland about his entrepreneurial journey after leaving the corporate world, detailing his move into self-employment, affiliate marketing, and content creation.  Doug discusses how he transitioned from management consulting to becoming a content creator, exploring his initial ventures, the creation of his keyword research method, and strategies for navigating changes in the online landscape. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Doug’s other projects Smart Passive Income Keyword Golden Ratio FinCon MHFI Facebook group Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 2:07 Curiosity about Doug’s mysterious background 7:58 Affiliate marketing journey 14:43 Challenges & changes in the industry 20:48 Done chasing trends 26:37 Future podcast ideas & direction

Doug reconnects with Steve, a previous guest, for an update on the past few years of his financial journey, including a net worth increase from $1.7 million to $2.5 million.   Despite his financial success, Steve grapples with balancing work, family, and personal identity, contemplating a future shift towards more meaningful, public service-oriented work.  He also discusses the intricacies of managing separate finances with his wife, mental challenges of a high-paying yet unfulfilling job, and the benefits of reassessing life goals & priorities in midlife. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Steve on MHFI episode 098 MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 3:05 Updates on Steve’s financial situation 8:48 Navigating finances for couples 16:44 Continuing to work 21:38 Coping with identity and a midlife crisis 26:00 Laziness vs. productivity 34:29 Retirement goal & future plans

Doug catches up with Carl at FinCon 2025 in Portland to talk about health & fitness updates.  Carl shares his journey of losing weight, specifics of his workout regimen, dietary changes, and his brief use of microdosing Ozempic.  Both of them discuss exercise habits, how they handle travel and exercise while on the road, and the occasional disruptions caused by gym etiquette.  Doug wraps up from the studio with a summary of his own fitness routine, which emphasizes consistency and injury prevention. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Carl Jensen FinCon Brad Barrett/ChooseFI ChooseFI, “Update: Healthiest Year Ever | Dean Turner | Ep 480” Peter Attia HEVY app MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:47 Carl’s health & fitness transformation 6:25 Diet changes & microdosing experiment 13:35 Bad gym etiquette 19:40 Weight training routine 25:04 Fitness goals & finding motivation 29:49 Doug’s typical workout schedule & routine 34:07 Proper rest & recording progress 39:09 Cardio & hiking

Doug chats with Elliot Gross (9 to FI podcast) about his path to Financial Independence.  He shares how he discovered FI at age 27 and details his journey from getting out of debt to strategically positioning himself to retire early in 18 months.  Elliot also discusses his detailed approach to managing finances, the milestones he hit along the way, future aspirations involving geo-arbitrage with Italian citizenship, dealing with “one more year” syndrome, and the importance of community. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links 9 to FI podcast ChooseFI local groups Mr. Money Mustache, “The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early Retirement” Mad Fientist, “How to Access Retirement Funds Early” Josh Epley on MHFI episode 287 Playing with Fire movie EconoMe Conference MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:13 Discovering Financial Independence 7:58 Preparing for early retirement 13:39 Dealing with debt & Magic the Gathering 19:20 A bad week 23:29 Elliot’s FI journey 29:11 Navigating finances in a relationship 35:00 Current expenses 39:20 Net worth & asset allocation 46:18 Italian citizenship & future plans 50:32 Importance of community 59:21 Soundcheck – 9 to FI podcast

Doug chats with Monica Levi, a former lawyer who retired early at the age of 40.  She shares her journey to FI, including her immigration to the US at 17, a battle with cancer, the transition from law to becoming a self-discipline coach, and her passion for travel.   Monica also delves into how she manages her time, expenses, and the challenges of having a working partner while being retired. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Connect with Monica: Instagram LinkedIn Downshift Financial Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 3:59 Immigrating to the US & financial upbringing 8:45 Starting to invest 15:33 Transitioning out of law 20:45 Other’s reaction to early retirement 24:56 Productivity & open space 30:58 Cancer diagnosis & recovery 35:21 Self-discipline coaching 39:22 Changing expenses & travel 48:59 Balancing a relationship & retirement 54:36 Soundcheck – Fitness goals

Doug continues his conversation with Josh Epley (9 to FI podcast) about life after early retirement.  Josh discusses how he spends his time, the challenges & surprises of early retirement, and the importance of having hobbies & goals.  He also shares his experiences with managing his workload, the benefits of being flexible, starting new activities like running, and the launch of his new podcast “9 to FI”.  Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links 9 to FI podcast Stuck In Beta podcast EconoMe Conference Cal Newport, “Slow Productivity” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Cal Newport, “Deep Work” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Cal Newport ChooseFI local groups CampFI FinCon MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 6:15 Balancing structure vs. free time 14:15 Pressure to make money in retirement 21:08 Designing a new schedule 26:17 Slow productivity & experimenting 31:59 Running 40:38 Launching a new podcast: 9 to FI 46:22 Engaging with pockets of the FI community 52:00 Scheduling & the art of saying no 59:43 Leaving open space 1:07:10 Soundcheck – FinCon

Doug chats with Josh Epley (9 to FI podcast) about his journey from $240K in debt to early retirement.  Josh discusses how he and his wife managed to turn their financial lives around including challenges they faced along the way and successful strategies they implemented such as real estate investing & rigorous budgeting.  Josh also shares insights into his recent post-retirement life from navigating personal challenges to the role of intentional living. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links 9 to FI podcast Budgets Are Sexy ChooseFI local groups Derek Sivers Tim Ferriss, “The 4-Hour Workweek” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook EconoMe Conference MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 4:35 Overcoming financial struggles 11:41 Climbing out of debt & making changes 17:17 Dealing with professional identity 22:04 Catching the real estate bug 31:10 Real estate disaster stories 37:20 Future real estate plans 44:17 Thoughts on college  52:05 A rich mindset & financial stages 59:24 Current expenses 1:04:32 9 to FI podcast 1:09:55 Soundcheck – HOAs

Doug chats with Brad Finley who is on the cusp of early retirement.  Brad discusses the decision to leave his W-2 job, steps he’s taking to prepare for the transition, the emotional journey that accompanies such a significant life change, and his plans to maintain a balanced & fulfilling lifestyle post-retirement.  Brad also shares his transformative experience at the Hoffman Process and how it helped him work through personal issues and redefine his identity beyond his career. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show?  Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Curious to know exactly what products Doug uses?  Check out his Amazon lists below. *Affiliate links below, so if you buy something or spend money, we might earn a commission. That helps the show and doesn’t cost you anything extra. Thank you! Guitar Accessories Hiking & Outdoor Essentials for Sleep Want to order MHFI stickers/temporary tattoos or create your own custom stickers?  Of course you do!  We ALL do!  Order them here using our affiliate link so that we might earn a commission: https://www.stickermule.com/dougcunnington Links Brad Finley Instagram EconoMe Conference Diania Merriam on MHFI episode 199 Hoffman Process Thomas Stanley & William Danko, “Millionaire Next Door” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Jillian Johnsrud, Retire Often VICE, “The Superhuman World of Wim Hof: The Iceman” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes. Maybe entertainment but we won’t even make such a claim. You shouldn’t take the info as financial, legal, or tax advice. We aren’t certified financial planners or advisors. We’re not qualified for much. So get advice from professionals.** Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:29 Brad’s journey to early retirement 7:30 Discovering the FIRE movement 12:54 Identity crisis & keeping busy 19:03 Stand-up comedy 22:46 The Hoffman Process 27:42 Planning for life after retirement 34:39 Finding structure & hobbies 41:33 Building social connections 46:35 Identity & journaling 52:40 Soundcheck – National parks