Mile High FI Podcast

Doug chats with JL Collins and Jillian Johnsrud about the concept of mini-retirements and how they fit into the journey of Financial Independence. JL shares experiences of taking multiple mini-retirements throughout his career, the benefits of these breaks, and the importance of not letting money become your master. He also touches on the updated edition of “The Simple Path to Wealth” and offers advice on investing, maintaining motivation, and the evolving nature of career paths. Jillian introduces her upcoming book “Retire Often”, which provides a framework for integrating mini-retirements into one’s life and how these breaks can contribute to long-term wealth building and life satisfaction. 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 Need 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 Come hang out with Doug at CampFI Week 1.5, Mon July 7, 2025 – Thurs July 10, 2025: https://campfi.org/event/campfi-rm-250707/ Links JL’s blog JL Collins, “The Simple Path to Wealth” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook JL’s guest post on Mr. Money Mustache, “It has Never Been About Retirement” Jillian’s website, Retire Often Jillian’s book, “Retire Often” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 1:55 Retire Often 11:16 FU Money & Seasons of Life 19:23 JL’s 1st mini-retirement 28:21 Negotiating career breaks & their benefits 38:04 The importance of attitude 43...

Doug chats with Chris Rusin, “The Indiana Jones of FI”, about his journey after reaching FI, the transition from a corporate career to personal passion projects, and the challenges associated with leaving a professional identity behind. Chris shares his experiences in tackling a bucket list, the fear of failure, and his battle with cancer, which reshaped his perspective on life goals. He also dives into his latest venture — recording a music album! Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Use code MILEHIGHFI at GhostBed checkout for an additional 10% Off Already Low Prices! June 25, 2025 Livestream: https://youtube.com/live/LX9a2Caw-Gs Come hang out with Doug at CampFI Week 1.5, Mon July 7, 2025 – Thurs July 10, 2025: https://campfi.org/event/campfi-rm-250707/ Links Connect with Chris Chris Rusin Music Chris Rusin YouTube Life Outside the Maze Chris Rusin on MHFI episode 020 Bucketlist.com Ernest Becker, “The Denial of Death” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Duff McKagan, “It’s So Easy” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 2:28 Bucket lists & facing fears 8:02 Reflections on mortality & life’s priorities 16:13 Musical endeavors 22:15 Personal growth 28:17 The creative process & finding identity 36:56 Transitioning to new roles & challenges 45:21 Teaching & unplugging 52:43 Joy of collaboration 57:43 Soundcheck – Music 1:03:44 Chris Rusin, Cinders

Doug chats with Rusty about the mental and emotional aspects of committing to leaving traditional work, focusing on mindset and building an identity outside of professional life. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from being highly productive to a more relaxed lifestyle, the importance of taking all allotted vacation time, and asking for what you want from your employer. Rusty also touches on mental health therapies such as body-based trauma therapy and somatic therapy as tools for coping with the stress and trauma associated with demanding careers. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Use code MILEHIGHFI at GhostBed checkout for an additional 10% Off Already Low Prices! June 2025 Livestreams: https://youtube.com/live/d2lTp4FMe4A?feature=share Come hang out with Doug at CampFI Week 1.5, Mon July 7, 2025 – Thurs July 10, 2025: https://campfi.org/event/campfi-rm-250707/ Links Rusty on MHFI episode 252 Bessel van der Kolk, “The Body Keeps the Score” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Feel Better, Live More podcast Gabor Mate “When the Body Says No” Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Russell Kennedy “Anxiety Rx” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 1:55 Identity & career transition 6:21 Mindset shift 11:35 Building an identity separate from work 16:59 Productivity 24:00 Importance of taking vacation 30:18 Traveling & cultural perspectives on work 38:06 Recurring dreams & nightmares 43:33...

Doug chats with Producer Chris about the identity crisis that often accompanies early retirement and the practicality of meal planning vs. food delivery services. They discuss how careers often shape one’s identity and the challenges some people face when stepping away from their professional life. They also explore the convenience and impact of food delivery, home cooking, and personal shopping preferences. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ June 2025 Livestreams: https://youtube.com/live/d2lTp4FMe4A?feature=share Come hang out with Doug at CampFI Week 1.5, Mon July 7, 2025 – Thurs July 10, 2025: https://campfi.org/event/campfi-rm-250707/ Links MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 2:53 Chris’s lost identity 9:15 Doug’s career reflections 18:26 Grocery & food delivery 22:57 Grocery shopping preferences 29:56 Soundcheck – Never again

Doug chats with Joe Saul-Sehy from The Stacking Benjamins Show about habits of the happiest retirees, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, purpose-driven retirement, and the perils of isolation. Joe shares insights from his own experiences and studies, highlighting the power of connection through group memberships, volunteering, and staying engaged in meaningful activities post-retirement. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Use code MILEHIGHFI at GhostBed checkout for an additional 10% Off Already Low Prices! June 2025 Livestreams: https://youtube.com/live/d2lTp4FMe4A?feature=share Come hang out with Doug at CampFI Week 1.5, Mon July 7, 2025 – Thurs July 10, 2025: https://campfi.org/event/campfi-rm-250707/ Links The Stacking Benjamins Show Joe Saul-Sehy, “Stacked” Kindle Hardcover Audiobook Afford Anything, “The Truth About Making the Efficient Frontier Work in Real Life” Christine Benz, “How to Retire” Kindle Paperback Audiobook Retiremeet Anna Corwin “Embracing Age” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 5:17 Livestreaming! 14:10 Habits of the happiest retirees 22:16 Exploring opportunities in retirement 30:04 The power of connection 38:27 Community involvement 44:54 Finding common ground 49:21 A purpose bigger than yourself 56:27 Starting in the wrong place 1:03:12 Soundcheck – National parks

Doug chats with Rusty about the intricacies of the ‘Buy, Borrow, Die’ strategy. They discuss the mechanics of how the strategy works, benefits, potential risks, and answer related questions from listeners Nate and Sophia. They also answer Alex’s question from the mailbag about claiming unemployment benefits ethically and navigating asset allocation during market volatility. Rusty’s “Homework”: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1qflSynVvMlxcBw1kkKBfG3HFQNJV05b8/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=100827824204716910905&rtpof=true&sd=true Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Use code MILEHIGHFI at GhostBed checkout for an additional 10% Off Already Low Prices! June 2025 Livestreams: https://youtube.com/live/d2lTp4FMe4A?feature=share Come hang out with Doug at CampFI Week 1.5, Mon July 7, 2025 – Thurs July 10, 2025: https://campfi.org/event/campfi-rm-250707/ Links Rusty on MHFI episode 252 NBER Working Paper Series, “Buffett’s Alpha” Mad Fientist, “How to Access Retirement Funds Early” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 3:15 Basics steps of Buy, Borrow, Die 9:01 Mechanics & benefits of the strategy 13:51 Risks & downsides 23:18 Mathematical projections & comparisons 28:33 ACA & tax considerations 36:53 Question: Claiming unemployment 44:02 Entitlement to unemployment benefits 48:46 Question: Reallocating due to market volatility 55:55 Market predictions 1:00:14 Soundcheck – Vacation packing

Doug and Carl continue the happiness series with part 3 which is focused on cultivating a happiness mindset. They discuss various strategies to train the brain for maximum happiness, including the role of neural responses, the negative impact of constant busyness, the crucial importance of gratitude, and how voluntary struggles contribute to a fulfilled life. They also touch upon the pitfalls of social media and news consumption, the value of community connections, and the liberating perspective of acknowledging one’s inconsequential role in the grand scheme of things. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Use code MILEHIGHFI at GhostBed checkout for an additional 10% Off Already Low Prices! Links Mo Gawdat, “Solve for Happy” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Hoffman Process Doug Cunnington, “7 to 8.5 Hours Every Night: How I Transformed My Life By Sleeping Better” Tim Ferriss, “The 4-Hour Workweek” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Oliver Burkeman, “Four Thousand Weeks” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 2:41 Happiness mindset 7:55 How FIRE can make your life worse 11:39 Importance of struggle 17:53 Activity is the key to longevity 25:26 Impact of news & social media 31:49 Gratitude & community connections 39:33 Looking at yourself 44:38 Soundcheck – Fidget Spinner

Doug and Carl continue the happiness series with part 2 which is focused on the concept of 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. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Use code MILEHIGHFI at GhostBed checkout for an additional 10% Off Already Low Prices! Links Morgan Housel MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 4:48 What FIRE life looks like 12:23 Is retirement overrated? 21:32 Relationship with work 26:22 Seeking validation 33:41 Preparation for retirement 38:12 Challenging the corporate ladder 43:49 Setting up for a successful retirement 51:13 Redefining success & finding flow 59:29 Leveraging Community 1:08:56 Soundcheck – 25K steps

Doug and Carl kick-off a multi-part series focused on happiness. They discuss various elements of happiness including definitions, why it’s important, genetic & activity-based components of happiness, routines, the impact of jobs, mindset, and happiness by subtraction. They also provide practical tips for fostering happiness, emphasizing that happiness requires continuous work and experimentation. Win a ticket to CampFI Rocky Mountain – Week 1 Ticket (2025) Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Use code MILEHIGHFI at GhostBed checkout for an additional 10% Off Already Low Prices! Links Mark Manson podcast, “Episode 14: The Surprising Science of Happiness (ft. Sonja Lyubomirsky)” Martinis and Your Money podcast, “Getting Financially Naked with J.D. Roth” Bob Haines on MHFI episode 210 Wait but Why Blog “ Taming the Mammoth: Why You Should Stop Caring What Other People Think” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 2:13 Definition of happiness 9:24 The role of FIRE in happiness 16:16 Where does happiness come from? 23:04 Creating happiness in your life 30:55 Novel experiences & snoring 37:08 Happiness by subtraction 47:04 Happiness is ever-changing 51:34 Experimentation & testing things out 58:09 Inner vs. outer scorecard 1:08:23 Soundcheck – Hallmark movies

Doug chats with Brian Feroldi about Warren Buffett’s famous investing principles. Brian discusses key Buffett investment criteria including understanding businesses, long-term prospects of a business, management integrity, financial metrics/health, and the importance of checklists. He also shares his personal investment experiences and lessons learned as a seasoned individual stock investor. Win a ticket to CampFI Rocky Mountain – Week 1 Ticket (2025) Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Use code MILEHIGHFI at GhostBed checkout for an additional 10% Off Already Low Prices! Links Connect with Brian: Long-Term Mindset website Twitter/X Facebook Instagram YouTube Warren Buffett’s Investing Checklist (download) Brian Feroldi on MHFI episode 066: https://milehighfi.com/podcast/066-brian-feroldi/ Brian Feroldi on MHFI episode 213: https://milehighfi.com/podcast/213-brian-feroldi-mastering-the-market/ Alex Morris, “Buffett and Munger Unscripted” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 3:28 Understanding a business 7:36 Favorable long-term prospects 12:48 The management team 15:49 Buffett’s flexibility 19:07 Investing mistakes 25:39 Value of checklists 31:02 Misusing advice 35:11 Soundcheck- Group vacation

Doug chats with Jess and Corey from The Fioneers about their unique paths to Financial Independence, the Slow FI and Coast FI concepts, how their views on spending have evolved over the years, content creation, and balancing work with building a fulfilling life. The group provides thoughts and advice in response to a listener email about reaching Financial Independence, potentially achieving Fat FI, helping family, and exploring content creation as a new career path. Jess and Corey also discuss their Coast FI calculator tool and upcoming Slow FI retreats. Follow the link for more details including the original email from listener “Carl”: https://milehighfi.com/coast-fi-question-265/ Win a ticket to CampFI Rocky Mountain – Week 1 Ticket (2025) Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Use code MILEHIGHFI at GhostBed checkout for an additional 10% Off Already Low Prices! Links Connect with The Fioneers: Website: https://thefioneers.com/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@fioneers Threads/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefioneers/ Coast FI Calculator: https://thefioneers.com/free-resources/ Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Eamon & Bec YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@eamonandbec Kara & Nate YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KaraandNate MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 1:09 Inspirations for slowing down 5:13 Listener email & initial thoughts 12:36 Champagne lifestyle and spending 19:56 Balancing family support with FI 27:09 Job satisfaction 34:08 Sleeping in a camper van 39:10 Content creation 46:22 Strategies & recommendations for “Carl” 52:27 Future plans for the Fioneers 58:22 Soundcheck – Van Life

JT and Doug talk about reading and books… Win a ticket to CampFI Rocky Mountain – Week 1 Ticket (2025) https://milehighfi.com/wincampfi Support the Show (and get exclusive content!) https://milehighfi.com/donate Check out the Mile High FI Store… https://milehighfi.com/store Outro music is a bastardization of Cry, Moan, & Wail by Marc Ford. Super cool blues chord progression… Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s our email list! https://milehighfi.club [email protected] 00:00 Intro 13:07 Discussing Tim Ferriss’s Massive Books 14:34 Approaching Nonfiction Reading 18:25 Fiction vs. Nonfiction Preferences 19:51 The Role of Podcasts in Book Promotion 27:34 Using AI for Book Recommendations 29:20 Balancing Multiple Books at Once 31:57 Book Recommendations and Final Thoughts 36:19 Running and Fitness Goals

Doug chats with David & Jill at the EconoMe Conference about their pursuit of Financial Independence. David shares his background growing up with a scarcity mindset, the accidental path to FI, his recent mini-retirement, experience quitting alcohol, and a newfound passion for stand-up comedy. Jill discusses her middle-class upbringing, balancing her full-time job and schooling, and frugality. Together they discuss lifestyle changes, managing finances as a couple, and the importance of clear communication in a relationship. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Use code MILEHIGHFI at GhostBed checkout for an additional 10% Off Already Low Prices! Links David’s Instagram The Fioneers Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook “An Introvert’s Guide to EconoMe and Other Conferences” on MHFI episode 257 MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 4:21 Discovering FIRE & frugal habits 9:41 David & Jill’s FI journey 17:17 Overcoming the fear of boredom 26:44 Reflecting on sobriety 32:05 Stand up comedy 39:47 Balancing finances as a couple 45:10 Mini retirement plans 50:53 Importance of communication 58:08 Soundcheck – EconoMe Experience

Doug chats with Producer Chris about a variety of topics including irrational money fears, why people commonly talk about their work in social settings, and what their day-to-day lives look like in early retirement. They explore common financial anxieties such as the fear of running out of money and how past experiences shape these fears. They share strategies for steering conversations away from work and towards more engaging subjects like travel and hobbies. Finally, they provide a glimpse into their daily routines, highlighting the freedom and fulfillment that early retirement and semi-retirement offers. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Links Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Mark Trautman on MHFI episode 260 New ChooseFI Local site ChooseFI Puget Sound Meetup, May 31, 2025 MHFI Etsy Store MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 1:26 Fear of running out of money 8:56 Reacting to stock market volatility 15:01 Sequence of Returns Risk & flexibility 24:43 Why people talk about work 28:49 What else to talk about & complaining 33:27 Chris’s typical day 41:21 Doug’s typical day 49:12 Open time & Parkinson’s Law 56:27 Soundcheck – Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Doug and Carl chat about some questions that listener Austin submitted regarding early retirement and withdrawal strategies. They explore the nuances of early retirement, discussing happiness, daily life, and responsible financial drawdowns. They also address withdrawal strategies, including rental properties, index funds, automated transfers, tax optimization, health insurance, and how to handle Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). Note: This is a rebroadcast of MHFI episode 190 Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Links “An Introvert’s Guide to EconoMe and Other Conferences” on MHFI episode 257 Carla & Robert on MHFI episode 012 Arik Peterson on MHFI episode 090 Chris & Deb (Go Bucket Yourself) on MHFI episode 052 FI Calc Mad Fientist, Tax-Gain Harvesting Mad Fientist, How to Access Retirement Funds Early MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site 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 9:23 Post-FI life 18:58 What does FI look like? 27:05 Shifting interests 32:33 Passive income & rental properties 38:20 Index fund withdrawal strategy 45:30 Withdrawal amount 53:09 RMDs and tax strategies 1:03:51 Professional financial advice 1:13:01 Soundcheck – Paper notebooks

Doug and Mark Trautman discuss a listener question regarding whether it’s better to pay off a low-interest mortgage (2.5%) or invest the money instead. They explore various strategies, including the psychological benefits of paying off a mortgage, the financial returns of investing, and a hybrid approach to manage risks. They also delve into the historical behavior of the stock market and emphasize the importance of aligning investments with personal goals. Follow the link for more details including the original listener question and Doug’s Gemini Calculations: https://milehighfi.com/should-you-pay-off-your-mortgage-early/ Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Links Connect with Mark: Mark’s Money Mind website Mark’s Money Mind podcast Mark discusses his 1st purchase of Berkshire Hathaway stock MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site 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 Laying out the financial details 8:14 Mark’s approach – The money tree 13:57 Downsides of Mark’s strategy 18:37 Doug’s approach & Gemini calculations 24:42 Eliminating downside & lowering uncertainty 31:14 Market volatility & historical context 38:23 Not always about maximizing returns 44:54 Soundcheck – Cleaning

Doug chats with Mark Trautman about non-frugal habits and some recent “fancy” spending that both of them have indulged in. They delve into the concept of easing away from frugality, the ‘fun bucket’ for guilt-free spending, and psychological tricks to spend more comfortably while also touching upon practical tips for managing money and making thoughtful spending decisions. Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Links Connect with Mark: Mark’s Money Mind website Mark’s Money Mind podcast Kristen Knapp, FI Friends Travel Travel Hacking 101 on MHFI 258 Travel Hacking 201 on MHFI 259 MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site 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 2:06 The Fun Bucket 9:26 Upgraded dining 12:35 Cruising in style 18:56 Managing long trips 25:59 Higher-end music equipment 31:40 Flying in comfort 37:12 Travel hacking 43:46 Buying a new car 48:47 House purchase/swap 54:52 Mark’s Money Mind 58:22 Soundcheck – Landscaping & HOAs

Doug and Kristen continue their conversation about travel hacking (picking up from MHFI 258), this time moving on to more advanced techniques & tips. They discuss credit card referral bonuses, maximizing redemptions, airline alliances, the intricacies of business credit cards, and the Chase 5/24 rule. Kristen also emphasizes the value of using tools & apps for tracking and optimizing points. You can check out all of Kristen’s notes here: https://milehighfi.com/travelhacking/ Kristen’s credit card referral links – she gets points if you use any of the links and it’s a great way to say thanks! #1 Beginner Travel Credit Card Chase Sapphire Preferred (or Reserve) Business Credit Cards Chase Ink Business Cards More From Chase IHG One Rewards Southwest Rapid Rewards American Express American Express Gold Card American Express Green Amex Marriott Bonvoy Bevy Capital One Capital One Venture X Capital One Venture Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Links Connect with Kristen FI Friends Travel website Email: [email protected] Travel Freely App 10xTravel website 10xTravel Best Cards list 10xTravel Insiders Facebook Group Point.me Roame.travel Pointsyeah.com Credit Karma MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site 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 7:54 Understanding referrals 15:01 Points redemption 23:41 Airline alliances 29:20 Business card...

Doug chats with Kristen Knapp about the world of travel hacking, beginning with the basic principles and strategies for earning and maximizing points & miles. Kristen shares her personal experience with travel hacking, highlights key rules and tips for getting started, offers practical advice on how to choose the right credit cards, the importance of being organized, and tips for utilizing various travel apps. You can check out all of Kristen’s notes here: https://milehighfi.com/travelhacking/ Kristen’s credit card referral links – she gets points if you use any of the links and it’s a great way to say thanks! #1 Beginner Travel Credit Card Chase Sapphire Preferred (or Reserve) Business Credit Cards Chase Ink Business Cards More From Chase IHG One Rewards Southwest Rapid Rewards American Express American Express Gold Card American Express Green Amex Marriott Bonvoy Bevy Capital One Capital One Venture X Capital One Venture Do you like the podcast and want to support the show? Follow the link to find out how: https://milehighfi.com/support/ Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) Connect with Kristen FI Friends Travel website Email: [email protected] 10xTravel website 10xTravel Best Cards list 10xTravel Insiders Facebook Group Travel Freely App Michael Jackson, “Michael Jackson’s Great Beers of Belgium” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site 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 12:17 Travel hacking basics 19:02 Maximizing points & miles 26:57 Credit card...

This is a Bonus episode with producer Chris! We talk about: the correlation between happiness and income key inflection points in their lives their spending habits on toys and experiences Doug also shares insights on Elizabeth’s retirement and its impact on their lives. Happiness Study Links: High income improves evaluation of life but not emotional well-being – 2010 Study by Kahneman and Deaton Income and emotional well-being: A conflict resolved – 2022 Study by Killingsworth and Kahneman and Mellers Check out Producer Chris’s blog: Epic Financial Journey Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s our email list! MHFI Facebook group Help Doug publish more shows by supporting at Buy Me A Coffee. See other sponsors and affiliate partners, like Mint, Trust&Will, and Nectarine. Email the show: [email protected] —- Timestamps 00:00 Intro 00:55 Meet Producer Chris 03:07 Happiness and Income Studies 10:16 Inflection Points in Life 18:51 Toys and Spending 24:17 Guitar Trading and Financial Insights 25:27 Shifting Focus to Experiences 26:47 Balancing Material and Emotional Investments 28:53 Band Aspirations and Musical Gear 30:11 Reflections on Early Retirement 41:37 Frugal Habits and Financial Quirks

Doug chats with JT about practical, actionable strategies for introverts attending conferences like EconoMe, Camp FI, and others. They cover topics such as social anxiety, taking breaks, participating in structured activities, and effectively interacting with content creators. They also share tips on the types of questions to ask to keep conversations flowing, how to gracefully exit interactions, maintaining self-care during events, and the importance of not overextending oneself. This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug pay for all the stickers that he’ll be handing out at EconoMe by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) EconoMe Conference CampFI ChooseFI Local Groups Brad Barrett/ChooseFI FinCon Camp Mustache Charles Duhigg, “Supercommunicators” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Carl Jensen Brian Feroldi Joe Saul-Sehy/Stacking Benjamins Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache

Doug chats with friends Chris & JT from a partially-disclosed location in Breckenridge about a potpourri of topics. The trio discusses happiness, dives into the controversial & confusing topic of tipping (with input from listener Kris), and provides their thoughts on high net-worth individuals (based on a correction pointed out by listener Bill). The group also analyzes Amber’s ambition of reaching FI by age 40-45 (full details below). Be sure to check out Chris’s music… His first single releases in March: http://chrisrusin.com/ Details of Amber’s Case Study: Midterm goal is to reach “Flamingo FI” ($625k) and then find a job to keep active and covers expenses until investments grow into full FI number ($1.25M). Ultimate goal is to reach FI by age 40-45 and continue living a similar lifestyle, but not retire completely. Will be turning 27 in less than 2 months. Owns a home and house hacks (with parents as renters). Planning for herself at the moment but hoping to get married in the future at which point she would kick parents out of the house! “Goldilocks” budget is about $50K/year and includes the monthly mortgage payment as part of the expenses, with no plan to pay off the house early. Current financial numbers: Salary – $80k 401k – At least get the match, but have maxed out for the past 2 years and plan to continue Roth IRA – Always Max Out HSA – Always Max Out This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug afford one of those delicious Popeye’s chicken sandwiches by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) Connect with Chris Chris’s Music Life Outside The Maze Carl Jensen

Doug and guest host Kristen Knapp chat with Colorado native Suzy about her financial independence journey and world travel with her family, including extended periods of time living abroad. Suzy shares her journey toward Coast FI, early money mistakes, taking sabbaticals, and the importance of community. She elaborates on her family’s experience with worldschooling, the benefits of living in Spain (both cultural & financial), the intricacies of living abroad, and how her family managed healthcare. This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug pay for a future trip to Spain so he can visit both Kristen & Suzy by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links Connect with Suzy “Your Family Money” Instagram Email: [email protected] Connect with Kristen FI Friends Travel website Email: [email protected] Carl Jensen EconoMe Conference Diania Merriam Mr. Money Mustache Amberly Grant Boundless Life Worldschool Worldschool Pop-Up HUB MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list! Get MHF...

Elizabeth retired 10 months ago. We talk about her system to make sure she’s doing things… I’m doing bonus episodes now! Introvert Instagram Clip we mention Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s our email list! MHFI Facebook group Help Doug publish more shows by supporting at Buy Me A Coffee. Brought To You By: The Doug Show, aka Affiliate Marketing & Side Hustles Email the show: [email protected] —- Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to the Mile High 5 Podcast 00:26 Retirement Reflections: 10 Months In 01:50 Creating a Fulfilling Retirement Routine 04:27 Time Bucketing: Structuring the Day 07:23 Balancing Activities and Mental Well-being 13:43 The Impact of Reducing News Consumption 18:49 Embracing Early Bedtimes and Winter Hibernation 20:07 Social Activities and Hobbies 21:06 Thoughts on Returning to Work 22:14 Daily Routines and Flexibility 24:26 Balancing Relaxation and Productivity 27:44 The Role of Pets in Daily Life 33:09 Puzzle Competitions and Strategies

Doug chats with Lyn Mettler, travel rewards expert and founder of Families Fly Free/Families Travel Free. Lyn shares insights on how to maximize travel rewards, including practical tips on using programs like the Southwest Companion Pass and flexible travel cards. She also discusses upcoming changes in the airline industry, the importance of using points wisely, tips for booking flexible travel, accessing airport lounges, and potential trends in travel accommodations. Doug and Lyn also answer a few questions from the MHFI Facebook group: Questions from the Facebook group: Niel – I’m very much a travel rewards newbie, but interested in adding it to my FI repertoire in 2025. What is the biggest bang for the buck, so to speak, in terms of where to start? A Companion Pass seems like the answer for a spouse but I’m not sure how to expand from there to include more family members. Kevin – Are there websites or people that charge to take someone’s points per organization (cards, airlines, etc) and compare those to destinations we need tickets for? Say from DEN to Dublin in August. Rakesh – How to best use Capital One Venture X rewards? Chase was so much easier to use for Hyatt and United flights. This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug fly for free by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Links to Families Travel Free are affiliate links, so MHFI might get a commission if you buy something. It helps support the show.) Families Fly Free/Families Travel Free Website Podcast Get Lyn’s “5 Ways to Simplify Your Travel Rewards Strategy” Or you can check out Lyn’s system

Doug chats with Adam Coelho, host of the Mindful FIRE podcast, about the limitations of FU money and how a big vision can change your life. Adam shares his journey of transitioning from Google to fully embracing entrepreneurship, the importance of having a clear vision, and how mindfulness & meditation have played a pivotal role in his life. He talks about the role of FI in creating options and building a life from a place of sufficiency rather than lack and the power of neuroplasticity & affirmations in realizing one’s dreams. This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Have you envisioned supporting the show? If so, put that vision into action by visiting us at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) The Mindful FIRE Podcast: Website Adam’s resignation letter Free Envisioning exercise EconoMe Conference ChooseFI JL Collins, “Simple Path to Wealth” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Andrew Huberman/Huberman Lab Peter Attia Jordan Grumet Jordan Grumet, “The Purpose Code” Kindle

Doug chats with Colorado resident Rusty about life after achieving financial independence. Rusty shares his journey from growing up debt-averse to his career as a lawyer and then retiring at a young age. He shares challenges with securing mortgages without traditional income, tackling healthcare, and the importance of learning new skills & staying active. Rusty also describes a unique withdrawal strategy called “Buy, Borrow, Then Die”. This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Feel bad that Carl STILL doesn’t have door knobs at his house? If so, support us at Buy Me A Coffee so that he can FINALLY afford them. Links Carl Jensen The New York Times, “How to Retire in Your 30s With $1 Million in the Bank” Brad Barrett/ChooseFI Mr. Money Mustache MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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]...

Doug chats with Colorado resident Neil about his inspiring journey of perseverance, self-improvement, and financial growth. Neil shares his approach to budgeting, strategies for overcoming financial challenges, side hustles, rental properties, and the emotional aspects of financial stability. He also explains the 50/20/30 budgeting framework and provides advice for those just starting their FI journey. This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help fund Doug’s future timeshare research by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links Mr. Money Mustache ABC News, “How ‘Mr. Money Moustache’ Retired at Age 30” Pete Adeney on MHFI episode 241 Monarch Money MyBudgetCoach app MMM HQ/NoCo Mustachians MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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...

Doug chats with Jen Smith, author & co-host of the Frugal Friends podcast. Jen shares her journey of paying off $78,000 of debt, her no-spend challenge, value-based spending, addressing financial guilt, and the importance of community support. She also introduces her new book, “Buy What You Love Without Going Broke” (co-authored by podcast partner Jill Sirianni) and discusses the book-writing process along with some of the challenges. This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug pay for his Sip Club membership by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) Frugal Friends Website YouTube Jill Sirianni & Jen Smith, “Buy What You Love Without Going Broke” Money Magazine, “A Growing Number of People Are Getting Rich Selling T-shirts Online” Jen Smith, “The No-Spend Challenge Guide” Kindle Paperback Audiobook FinCon Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs “Sounds Like a Cult” podcast MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new blog:

Doug chats with Jordan Grumet (Doc G) about his journey through medicine, burnout, and eventually finding Financial Independence. Jordan shares insights from his books, “Taking Stock” and “The Purpose Code”, focusing on profound lessons learned from hospice patients about money, life, and purpose. They delve into the concepts of ‘Big P’ vs ‘Little P’ purpose, how individuals can create meaningful lives without succumbing to purpose anxiety, strategies for finding purpose, and improving overall well-being and happiness. This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug afford a better microphone that doesn’t continuously buzz by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) Connect with Jordan Website Earn & Invest podcast Jordan Grumet, “Taking Stock” Kindle Paperback Audiobook Audio CD Jordan Grumet, “The Purpose Code” Kindle Hardcover Paula Pant/Afford Anything MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new blog: Epic Financial Journey — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s the email list!

Doug and Carl chat with Adrian Brambila and Dr. Brad Klontz about their new book “Start Thinking Rich”, which is geared toward helping individuals achieve Financial Independence and wealth. They discuss wealth-building strategies, financial habits, challenges of the “DIY mindset”, common misconceptions surrounding wealth creation, and spending for happiness. This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Buy 2 months, get 1 month free limited time offer available until January 2, 2025 at 11:59pm PST for new customers and at select channels only. Use promo code: FREEMONTH. “One month free” applied as $15 discount at checkout on 3-month 5GB plan only – upfront payment of $30 required, w/taxes & fees extra. One-time discount applied for first 3 months only. Not combinable/available with certain other promotions/offers. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Take the first step in spending for happiness by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. (Well, of course assuming that we even make you happy) Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) Adrian Brambila Brad Klontz “Start Thinking Rich” book Carl Jensen Eddie/Downshift Financial FinCon Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Opal app MHFI Facebook group

Doug chats with Kristen Knapp about the principles of Coast FI and Slow FI. Going beyond mere definitions they explore the benefits of these strategies, including reduced stress & greater life satisfaction, along with insights into working part-time, investing strategies, lifestyle design, unexpected life events, and the significance of intentional spending & saving. They also answer a couple related questions from the Facebook group. Questions: Melanie – What’s the difference between SlowFI and just saving for retirement like a Regular Joe? David – I do have a question about Coast FI. When someone says they have saved enough to retire at a certain age in the future, does the sequence of returns risk from that moment hit them harder or softer? Retirees can reduce their spending to help themselves in the first few years of retirement if the market turns down. But if you’re drawing no money, I guess I don’t understand if that makes it safer or more risky. This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Buy 2 months, get 1 month free limited time offer available until January 2, 2025 at 11:59pm PST for new customers and at select channels only. “One month free” applied as $15 discount at checkout on 3-month 5GB plan only – upfront payment of $30 required, w/taxes & fees extra. One-time discount applied for first 3 months only. Not combinable/available with certain other promotions/offers. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug pay for his new e-bike by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) Connect with Kristen Email: [email protected] FI Friends Travel website Kennel Enrichment Program (Humane Society) MHFI Facebook group

Doug chats with Frances a year after her and her husband’s initial appearance on the show. She provides updates on her and Peter’s job situations as well as updates on all things financial – current housing situation, savings & investing strategies, spending, and expense tracking. Frances also shares some personal updates while asking listeners to provide feedback to some questions that she’s working through. Listener Questions: Continue to dollar-cost-average $10k per month from savings into investments or just do a lump sum? With $18k in an emergency fund, is having an additional $40K-$48K in short-term savings practical or too much? If expenses do come up, is it better to cashflow these items instead of keeping so much in savings? Any suggestions for budgeting apps besides Monarch Money? Looking for a crossover or hatchback with lots of trunk space, 30K-40K miles, ideally $15K-$20K ($30K max), preferably a Honda or Toyota but doesn’t seem to be many options out there. Okay to buy a new vehicle in this situation or stick with something used? How much is the right amount to spend on a car? This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Buy 2 months, get 1 month free limited time offer available until January 2, 2025 at 11:59pm PST for new customers and at select channels only. “One month free” applied as $15 discount at checkout on 3-month 5GB plan only – upfront payment of $30 required, w/taxes & fees extra. One-time discount applied for first 3 months only. Not combinable/available with certain other promotions/offers. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug afford a better microphone that doesn’t continuously buzz by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links Modern Bookkeeping Services Frances & Peter on MHFI episode 245

Doug and Carl chat with Frances & Peter to analyze the couple’s financial situation and determine the viability of their Coast FI strategy. They discuss investment strategies, personal financial goals, maintaining a balance between frugality & enjoying life, the potential of leveraging real estate, and other financial planning aspects. Note: This is a rebroadcast of MHFI episode 186 This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Buy 2 months, get 1 month free limited time offer available until January 2, 2025 at 11:59pm PST for new customers and at select channels only. “One month free” applied as $15 discount at checkout on 3-month 5GB plan only – upfront payment of $30 required, w/taxes & fees extra. One-time discount applied for first 3 months only. Not combinable/available with certain other promotions/offers. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug & Carl pay for their Dumb & Dumber tuxedoes by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) Modern Bookkeeping Services Carl Jensen The FIoneers on MHFI episode 084 Mad Fientist podcast, “1500 Days Podcast Takeover” Mr. Money Mustache Tim Ferriss, Mr. Money Mustache episode BiggerPockets Mr. Money Mustache, “What to Do About These High Interest Rates” Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle

Doug chats with Adam, a psychology professor, to examine his financial journey from zero net worth to a million dollars in a decade. Adam shares insights into his strategic real estate investments, deliberate career choices, the concept of Slow FI & lifestyle design, achieving a balance between work & a fulfilling lifestyle, and how his background in psychology influenced his financial decisions. This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Buy 2 months, get 1 month free limited time offer available until January 2, 2025 at 11:59pm PST for new customers and at select channels only. “One month free” applied as $15 discount at checkout on 3-month 5GB plan only – upfront payment of $30 required, w/taxes & fees extra. One-time discount applied for first 3 months only. Not combinable/available with certain other promotions/offers. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug recover some of his real estate losses by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) MHFI Facebook group Matt & Joel/How to Money The Washington Post, “Meet Mr. Money Mustache, the man who retired at 30” Mr. Money Mustache Carl Jensen Chad Carson Chad Carson, “The Small and Mighty Real Estate Investor” Kindle Paperback Audiobook Doug’s site

Doug and Carl chat with Chad Carson and Jeremy Schneider live from FinCon 2024 in Atlanta. The group discusses the benefits of financial independence, their unique entrepreneurial journeys, working after achieving FI, the current state of the FIRE movement, and the need for tension in life. They also discuss their opinions on both e-bikes & electric cars. Jeremy introduces his startup, Nectarine, a marketplace for fiduciary financial advice, while Chad shares insights on his real estate-focused coaching and teaching endeavors. This episode is brought to you by GhostBed. Doug has the GhostBed Luxe Mattress and loves it! Take the 3 minute sleep quiz to see which mattress is right for you. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, bed frame, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Save With Mint Mobile! (https://milehighfi.com/mint) New customers can get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for $15/mo. Doug’s phone bill went from $1440/yr to $360/yr for him and his wife. It’s super easy to switch and you can use your existing phone. If you use the MHFI link, it won’t cost you extra and it helps support the show. Buy 2 months, get 1 month free limited time offer available until January 2, 2025 at 11:59pm PST for new customers and at select channels only. “One month free” applied as $15 discount at checkout on 3-month 5GB plan only – upfront payment of $30 required, w/taxes & fees extra. One-time discount applied for first 3 months only. Not combinable/available with certain other promotions/offers. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Black Friday is almost here and Doug has caught the fever! Help him pay for all of his frivolous spending by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) Connect with Chad Coach Carson website YouTube Instagram “Real Estate Investing With Coach Carson” podcast Friends of the Green Crescent Trail Connect with Jeremy Personal Finance Club Instagram

Doug chats with Sean Mullaney (The FI Tax Guy) about the essential elements of estate planning. Sean covers the importance of planning for everyone (not just the wealthy), stresses the significance of having a will, updating beneficiary designations, and creating trusts to protect assets & ensuring financial security for loved ones. Special attention is given to estate planning in regards to kids (providing guardianship) and working with the correct professionals to plan for taxes. The discussion is intended to be for general educational purposes and is not tax, legal, or investment advice for any individual. Doug and the Mile High FI podcast do not endorse Sean Mullaney, Mullaney Financial & Tax, Inc. and their services. Guest appearances on the podcast do not constitute their endorsement of any sponsors of the Mile High FI podcast. Looking for help with your estate plan? Trust & Will provides online tools for creating, you guessed it… trusts and wills. For those who don’t have any estate planning documents in place, this could be a good option to get started. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/trustandwill Be sure to check out the new GhostBed Massage Topper. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine If you have any tips for talking about death & estate planning come share over at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) Connect with Sean Mullaney The FI Tax Guy YouTube Mullaney Financial & Tax The FI Tax Guy, “The Church IRA” Sean’s podcast appearances Mile High FI ChooseFI Stacking Benjamins How To Money Sean Mullaney, “Solo 401(k): The Solopreneur’s Retirement Account” Kindle Paperback CampFI Amy on MHFI episode 160 Carl Jensen MHFI Facebook group

Doug chats with Pete Adeney (Mr. Money Mustache) about a variety of topics centered around retirement, fitness, happiness, and sustainable living. Pete also answers questions from the Facebook mailbag. Sam – What advice would you give to a young adult today that wants to retire early? Niel – Congratulations on becoming an empty nester. What are you most looking forward to in this new phase of life? Khang – What is something new you’ve tried recently that you would recommend to others? Rich – What is your sleep routine and are you a good sleeper? Katie – You mentioned that you consulted with someone who wanted you to review their retirement plan. So have you done more of these consultations and what have you learned from the experience? Andrea – You mentioned you want people to build new towns like Longmont. Do you have any thoughts on where the next Longmont might be given how expensive it’s become? Chris – What are your thoughts on the Culdesac model? And have you brought any ideas back to Longmont from your time down there? Kyle – What are your thoughts about the connection between the FIRE movement and environmentalism? Have you transitioned to socially responsible investing now that there are some low fee index funds for that? Rakesh – How do you maintain your composure when it seems like everything around you is falling apart? Be sure to check out the new GhostBed Massage Topper. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug finally sell his gas-guzzler and purchase a new EV by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache AARP, “Meet the Man Who Retired at 30” Tim Ferriss, Mr. Money Mustache episode Mr. Money Mustache blog posts: “Frugal Man Buys $52,000 Car – Why??” “It’s Never too Late to Ditch your Gas Guzzler” “Socially Responsible Investing: Is It Also More Profitable?” Mr. Money Mustache & Culdesac on MHFI episode 207 MHFI Facebook group Carl & Mindy on Ramit Sethi’s podcast

Doug and Carl reunite at FinCon 2024 in Atlanta to say hi & catch up with each other. They both discuss recent travels, preferences for staying close to home in Longmont, and dieting/cutting calories especially around the holidays. Carl also provides a fitness update and an update on how his home projects are going. Be sure to check out the new GhostBed Massage Topper. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug pay for next year’s FinCon ticket by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links Carl Jensen Mindy Jensen FinCon Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache Tim Ferriss, Mr. Money Mustache episode Sean Mullaney, The FI Tax Guy Kristen Knapp on MHFI episode 238 EconoMe Conference Carl quitting on MHFI episode 235 Bob Haines on MHFI episode 210 BiggerPockets BPCON Brad Barrett/ChooseFI ChooseFI, “Masterclass on Muscle Building” “Mind Pump” podcast Darren & Jolene on MHFI episode 228 Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 5:36 Coming soon to the show 9:45 Live from FinCo...

Doug and Dusti answer questions from the Facebook mailbag. Sam – I’m Coast FIRE, currently working part-time to cover expenses without touching my portfolio. I have a NW just shy of $2M, with $1.5M in broad, low-cost ETFs, and the rest in my house and retirement account. My NW fluctuates daily, sometimes by $1K-$3K, or up to $10K-$30K with market volatility. Here’s my dilemma: even with a solid NW, I still stress over expenses like a $600 home repair, higher home insurance, or an unexpected water bill. I spend time researching and finding the best deals, but I’m wondering if these minor expenses are worth worrying about when compared to my overall financial picture. Should I let go of the guilt and focus on long-term goals instead? Angela – Getting close to CoastFI. We will need about 10 years worth of money to fill the “gap” until we hit 60. Do we… A) Slow down our contributions to our 401ks, so that we just get our “free money” and then redirect those funds to our after tax brokerage account (we would obviously pay more in taxes on our income). B) Continue what we are doing and keep maxing out 401k with “leftovers” going in to brokerage, buffer our HYSA account/cd ladder/whatever for 5 years, and just plan on doing Roth conversions for the first 5 years so we can access that money for the other 5 years. C) Some other idea? Rakesh – Would you rather inherit a $500k house with rent income or $500k in index funds? Why and why not? Be sure to check out the new GhostBed Massage Topper. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug pay those taxes he loves so much by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) Doug’s Instagram Connect with Dusti: Instagram Facebook Dusti on MHFI Episode 172 Episode 178 Episode 223 Episode 224 Mile High FI Facebook Group Barry Schwartz, “The Paradox of Choice” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Eric Cooper discussing the 72T BiggerPockets Money, “Dude ACTUALLY Withdraws From His 401(k) and Retires at 47”

Doug chats with Kristen Knapp, a meteorologist from St. Louis, about her Financial Independence journey, how she made it to Coast FI, and the importance of the FI community. Kristen shares how her frugal upbringing & early financial literacy set the stage for financial stability, details her transition from a full-time meteorology career to a part-time Coast FI lifestyle (including all of the life events that influenced her decision), and shares what she’s doing now to fill her time. She also discusses her new venture, FI Friends Travel, where she plans trips tailored to the FI community. Be sure to check out the new GhostBed Massage Topper. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Kristen afford her very first spreadsheet by heading over to Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) Connect with Kristen Email FI Friends Travel website Kennel Enrichment Program (Humane Society) CampFI EconoMe Conference Eric Cooper discussing the 72T BiggerPockets Money, “Dude ACTUALLY Withdraws From His 401(k) and Retires at 47” Forget About Money, “Secret IRS Rule 72(t) Explained! | Eric Cooper Reveals Early Withdrawal Power Move!” ChooseFI Local Groups Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Mindy Jensen Carl Jensen Mark’s Money Mind Podcast Amberly Grant/FinTalks Cruise Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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...

Doug and Dusti answer questions from the Facebook mailbag. Chris For Doug: I know this is a stereotypical interview question, but where do you see yourself in 5 years? With Elizabeth’s recent retirement and your continued involvement with the FI community, how do you see your life changing (or perhaps not) in the next handful of years? For Dusti: How is retirement going? Any updates or new observations since you were last on the podcast? Niel – I would be interested to hear more about your hobbies, even if you aren’t actively pursuing them at the moment. Homebrewing, cooking, BBQ, guitar, etc. Bonus points if you can relate it to FIRE but not necessary. Erin – Does living in Longmont make it easier to retire and have a social group where people understand? Are you also experiencing people around you busier due to the cost of living? Be sure to check out the new GhostBed Massage Topper. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug afford his own “I Love Camping” hat by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) Connect with Dusti: Instagram Facebook Dusti on MHFI Episode 172 Episode 178 Episode 223 Episode 224 Mile High FI Facebook Group EconoMe Conference Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook ChooseFI Local Groups Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 q...

Doug chats with Jesse Cramer from “The Best Interest” blog & podcast about retirement planning. They discuss the impact of making overly conservative vs aggressive assumptions, exploring key factors such as investment returns, inflation, spending, tax rates, and social security. Jesse highlights the importance of understanding personal risk tolerance, leveraging third-party advice, and continuous learning to make informed decisions about financial independence and retirement. Be sure to check out the new GhostBed Massage Topper. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help Doug contribute to his retirement fund by providing support at Buy Me A Coffee. Links Jesse Cramer, “The Best Interest” The Best Interest, “The Crushing Cost of Conservative Retirement Planning” Doug on “The Best Interest” podcast: Apple Podcasts Spotify FinCon Michael Kitces Jim Dahle/White Coat Investor The White Coat Investor, “Michael Kitces on the State of Financial Planning” ChooseFI Joel & Matt/How To Money Dave Ramsey MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Check out Producer Chris’s new 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 3:21 Transition from engineering to finance 8:47 Conservative retirement planning 12:55 Impact of conservative vs aggressive assumptions 18:34 Social security & spending in retirement...

Doug chats with Carl about his decision to leave the podcast to focus on wrapping up personal projects. Carl shares struggles with balancing podcast duties, fitness goals, burnout, and family obligations. He shares some regrets from his MHFI podcasting experience while also reflecting on his fondest memories. Doug talks about the future of the podcast and brainstorms how it may look going forward. Be sure to check out the new GhostBed Massage Topper. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Need a fee only advisor? Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help us find a replacement co-host by contributing to our candidate search fund at Buy Me A Coffee. Links “The Doug Show” podcast CampFI EconoMe Conference ChooseFI, “Update: Healthiest Year Ever | Dean Turner | Ep 480” Brad Barrett/ChooseFI FinCon Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache Bob Haines on MHFI episode 210 BJ on MHFI episode 217 Amberly Grant Maggie Tucker, “Inside Out Money” podcast Jesse Cramer, “The Best Interest” MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Carl’s blog: 1500 Days — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s our 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 1500 Days, Carl’s Blog about Early Retirement Email us here: [email protected] or [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 5:14 Carl’s busy schedule & buyer’s remorse 12:47 Fitness update & sleep issues 20:48 Production/promotion regrets 27:59 FI burnout 30:20 Positive/memorable moments 35:20 Future of the MHFI podcast ...

Join Doug and Carl as they embark on a road trip in Carl’s Tesla Model Y. In this episode, they discuss the state of their podcast, upcoming exciting series on happiness, and their plans for book writing. (Sorry about the audio! Doug sounds horrible, first time recording like this so I hope next time it’ll be better…) The duo shares their personal experiences, insights on podcast growth, and humorous tangents. Support our sponsor: GhostBed! Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed.com/milehighfi (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Help us buy enough Lazy Books to make it a New York Time’s best seller by supporting us at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) EconoMe Conference FinCon ChooseFI, “Deep Dive: Roth IRA Conversion Ladder | Ep 503” ChooseFI, “How and Why to Set up a Roth IRA Conversion Ladder” Brad Barrett/ChooseFI Jordan Grumet/Doc G, “The Purpose Code” Kindle Hardcover David Goggins, “Can’t Hurt Me” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Stephen King, “You Like It Darker” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Jeremy Schneider on MHFI episode 122 Celeste Headlee, “Do Nothing” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook CampFI Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache Mark Trautman MHFI Facebook group Doug’s site Carl’s blog: 1500 Days — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s our email list! Get MHFi Merch – It helps support the show. Get t-shirts & more **Disclaimer: The podcast is...

Doug and Carl answer questions from the Facebook mailbag. Akshay – I like the concept of giving money away, but I don’t want to die with zero. This is too close for comfort. I agree with helping out kids with their education, as long as they have skin in the game. I also agree with the idea of not wanting to wait until the end to pass your wealth onto your kids. It’s very much aligned with our life plans. However, I prefer to not die with zero, even though the book, by the same name, is nothing short of genius. Here’s why – say you give away all your money before you die and you need some or all of it back, you might need extra money based on your condition, health, other expenses for end of life, assisted living, etc Branden – More stories of people who did it without rental real estate! Angela – I’d like to hear about what to do in the last 5 years before retirement. Things like buffering HYSA, acquiring bonds (sell stocks or buy bonds outright?), health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, things I might want to consider before I quit my job. Jon – Withdrawal tactics – from index funds to short & medium term living expenses or keeping a high interest account, etc Chris – It’s been a little over 1 year since you & Mindy were on Ramit’s podcast. MHFI episode 167 provided a good recap where both of you discussed some changes you wanted to make. Can you provide an update and discuss any changes you actually made, what changes you still would like to make, and any challenges/struggles you’ve faced along the way? Be sure to check out the new GhostBed Massage Topper. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Nectarine is a network of financial advisors where you just pay for investing & planning advice. Advisors don’t manage your money, sell products, or earn commissions. We’re affiliates so we can earn a commission if you sign up. Thanks for the support. https://milehighfi.com/nectarine Feel bad that Carl STILL hasn’t installed those pesky door knobs? Support us at Buy Me A Coffee so he can afford to pay someone to install them. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) MHFI Facebook group Bill Perkins, “Die With Zero” Kindle Hardcover Paperback Audiobook Darren & Jolene on MHFI episode 228 Bob Haines on MHFI episode 210 Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache Brad Barrett/ChooseFI JL Collins, ““How I Lost Money in Real Estate Before It Was Fashionable” Kindle Hardcover Paperback ...

Doug and Carl chat about various aspects of consumerism including recent trends, rising costs, and the evolving culture of tipping. They discuss the rising cost of vehicle prices & financing, increasing cost of car insurance, the future of autonomous cars, and compare fast food & grocery costs over the last decade. They also delve into the confusing culture of tipping to debate proper etiquette and question when & how much to tip. Be sure to check out the new GhostBed Massage Topper. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Similar to autonomous vehicles, we believe the future of podcasting should be autonomous as well. Help us transition this show to AI & robots by supporting us at Buy Me A Coffee. Links Tony Seba KBB, “When Will New Car Prices Drop?” LendingTree, “Average Car Payment and Auto Loan Statistics 2024” Statista, “Share of used and new vehicles with financing in the United States from 2017 to 2023” Bankrate, “The true cost of auto insurance in 2024” FinanceBuzz, “Is Fast Food Affordable Anymore? Here’s How Menu Prices Have Changed Over the Years [2024]” Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache Brad Barrett/ChooseFI Mile High FI Facebook Group Doug’s site Carl’s blog: 1500 Days — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s our 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 1500 Days, Carl’s Blog about Early Retirement Email us here: [email protected] or [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 2:35 Car prices & payments 8:07 The future of autonomous cars 12:46 Increasing cost of car insurance 17:04 Rising fast food costs 23:38 Impact of inflation on food & grocery purchases 26:45 Tipping culture: confusion & controversy 31:21 Expansion of tipping into more & more locations 39:28 Soundcheck – Mini fitness updates

Doug and Carl chat with Dan Manwaring, a former medical device salesman, who transformed his life from being $60K in debt to retiring early and traveling the world. Dan discusses his professional journey, his approach to financial independence, and his unique travel experiences along with fitness routines, eating habits, and the importance of enjoying simple daily routines for overall happiness. Note: This is a rebroadcast of MHFI episode 130 Be sure to check out the new GhostBed Massage Topper. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Unfortunately we still can’t find any breweries to sponsor us, so hopefully you can help us out instead over at Buy Me A Coffee. Links Connect with Dan on Instagram Mark Trautman FI Chautauqua Pete Adeney/Mr. Money Mustache Mr. Money Mustache, “Happiness is the Only Logical Pursuit” “Playing with Fire” movie Brandon Ganch/Mad Fientist David Baughier on MHFI episode 138 Stephen Baughier/CampFI Wait But Why, “The Tail End” Huberman Lab Peter Attia, “Centenarians” Mile High FI Facebook Group Doug’s site Carl’s blog: 1500 Days — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s our 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 1500 Days, Carl’s Blog about Early Retirement Email us here: [email protected] or [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 2:08 Deep Sleep 10:05 Pharmaceutical & medical sales 15:12 Discovering FI 23:00 Challenges & reflections on the FI journey 30:04 Decompressing after retirement 36:42 Travel adventures 41:43 Spending time with family 47:09 Fitness & health 56:49 Keto & the perfect day 1:04:59 Soundcheck – Longmont breweries

Doug and Carl catch up to discuss their recent summer adventures. They discuss Carl’s FI-centric road trip & his future travel plans, Doug’s experience with timeshares, fitness routines while traveling, and an update on Doug’s back injury. And because this is a money podcast, they also touch on the current state of the stock market. Be sure to check out the new GhostBed Massage Topper. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Want to support our new product line of Mile High FI eye masks (complete with googly eyes)? If so, head over to Buy Me A Coffee. Links ChooseFI Local Groups Physician on FIRE on MHFI episode 112 Physician on FIRE, “A Timeshare Presentation Survival Guide: Getting to No” FinCon Chris Hutchins, “My New Routine, Timeshare Pitches, and Podcast Plans for 2024” CampFI Matt & Joel/How to Money, “Should You Buy a Refurbished Phone?” Mark Trautman Mile High FI Facebook Group Doug’s site Carl’s blog: 1500 Days — Join the Mile High FI Club – It’s our 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 1500 Days, Carl’s Blog about Early Retirement Email us here: [email protected] or [email protected] 0:00 Introduction 1:44 Carl’s recent road trip 5:59 Traveling less 10:20 Doug’s timeshare experience 17:58 Future timeshare research 21:22 The math behind timeshares 28:55 New member of the family 33:35 Voice-to-text woes 40:52 Doug’s back injury 44:43 Working out on the road 51:04 Current stock market volatility 57:08 Soundcheck – Summer heat

Doug and Carl answer a potpourri of audience questions at CampFI Rocky Mountain with help from Mark Trautman (Mark’s Money Mind), Pete Adeney (Mr. Money Mustache), Travis Hughes (Downshift Financial), and Mindy Jensen (BiggerPockets Money/Mindy on Money). On a scale of 1 to 10, how happy were you to see asparagus served in the cafeteria at CampFI? What was the most embarrassing moment on the way to FI? For Pete: How do you navigate a complex case study – how do you look at it, and how do you simplify? If we find ourselves in a really good situation it might be better to change the world a little bit while we’re still alive. Why do we have to wait until we’re dead? How do you feel about asparagus? Can you talk about your interest in coaching and why you enjoy it? What has surprised you about post-FI life? What is still on your bucket list to do post-FI? As a recovering FIRED software engineer, I’m still too much into routines and planning. How do I introduce more spontaneity into my life post-FI? What is your second favorite vegetable (besides asparagus)? For Travis: Is a Roth conversion considered earned income? Is it income that can be deducted for HSA, rental loss, other business loss, capital gain loss? What is the weird habit you do in the bathroom that you don’t want anyone to know? What percentage of assets should be in bonds vs stocks and when should you rebalance? Why is Emma so awesome? For Mindy: What is your favorite part of CampFI? Compare and contrast index funds vs real estate Any interest in a new FI movement – Sasquatch FI (whereby you pursue FI to find a life dedicated to traveling the world in search of the elusive, enigmatic Bigfoot)? FI has changed a little bit from the early blogging days, so how do you see it shifting with “Die With Zero”? How do you see the new wave of FI? David Lee Roth or Sammy Hagar? Be sure to check out the new GhostBed Massage Topper. Save 50% site-wide on your new mattress, pillow, and bedding over at GhostBed (coupon code: MILEHIGHFI) Missed CampFI but still want to hang out? If so, join us in our Facebook group or over at Buy Me A Coffee. Links (*Some affiliate links so we might earn a commission if you buy something) CampFI Mark Trautman Mark’s Money Mind website Mark’s Money Mind podcast Pete Adeney Mr. Money Mustache blog Instagram