9 to FI - Financial Independence Conversations

9 to FI - Financial Independence Conversations

By Elliot and JoshBusinessInvesting
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9 to FI - Financial Independence Conversations episodes

  • Winning With Side Hustles | 9toFI 021 | 9 to FI Podcast

    In this episode of Nine to FI, hosts Josh and Elliot dive deep into the world of side hustles, discussing their own experiences and the various types of side gigs people undertake. The episode covers the financial and personal benefits of side hustles, highlighted by interesting statistics and generational differences. They explore part-time jobs, gig economy roles, freelance work, entrepreneurial ventures, and credit card reward hacking. Josh and Elliot also share stories from their own lives, emphasizing skill-building and the impact on their journey towards financial independence. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to examine their own expenses and consider the potential of side hustles in their lives.

    00:00 Introduction and Audio Quality Disclaimer

    00:35 The Benefits of Side Hustles

    01:23 Personal Experiences and Seasonal Chit-Chat

    03:26 Statistics on Side Hustles in the US

    05:42 Generational Differences in Side Hustles

    09:33 Motivations Behind Side Hustles

    12:28 Cutting Down on Recurring Expenses

    20:23 The Impact of Reducing Expenses on FI

    21:28 Listener Engagement and Feedback

    22:59 Josh's Side Hustle Journey

    27:41 Personal Side Hustle Stories

    29:46 Exploring the Gig Economy

    30:29 Freelancing and Entrepreneurship

    33:04 The eBay Store Experience

    38:07 YouTube Ventures

    52:20 Credit Card Reward Hacking

    54:32 Dawn's Entrepreneurial Journey

    56:31 Conclusion and Future Plans

    #sidehustle

    Do you have feedback or suggestions? We want to hear from you!

    Contact Elliot: [email protected]

    Contact Josh: [email protected]


    Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support!

    Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠

    ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting

    Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠

    Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠

    ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you

    Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠

    Books mentioned in this episode:


    Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI

    59 min
  • Can Elliot Retire Soon? | 9toFI 020 | 9 to FI Podcast

    Preparing for Early Retirement: Elliot's Journey and Financial Planning


    In this episode, hosts Elliot and Josh delve into Elliot's financial journey and imminent transition to early retirement. They discuss key aspects that contribute to readiness for retirement, such as setting retirement dates, understanding the 4% rule, evaluating current and projected expenses, and planning for major upcoming costs. Elliot reveals his financial numbers, including savings, investments, and his approach to healthcare expenses. The conversation also touches on psychological aspects of retirement, like avoiding the 'one more year syndrome' and planning for a balanced post-retirement life with personal goals and explorations. They conclude by discussing the emotional and practical steps Elliot is taking as he approaches his retirement target date of March 2027.

    00:00 Introduction: Can Elliot Retire Yet?

    00:16 Elliot's Early Retirement Plan

    03:37 Financial Considerations and Strategies

    04:03 Discussing the 4% Rule and Withdrawal Rates

    10:35 Elliot's Financial Snapshot

    13:02 Planning for the Future: Expenses and Savings

    33:42 Healthcare and Insurance Plans

    42:04 Life After Retirement: Goals and Concerns

    48:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Do you have feedback or suggestions? We want to hear from you!

    Contact Elliot: [email protected]

    Contact Josh: [email protected]


    Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support!

    Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠

    ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting

    Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠

    Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠

    ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you

    Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠

    Books mentioned in this episode:


    Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI

    53 min
  • Withdrawal Strategy - Josh's Case Study part 1 | 9toFI 019 | 9 to FI Podcast

    In this episode of the Nine to FI podcast, hosts Josh and Elliot dive into a comprehensive discussion about Josh's early retirement strategy. Josh retired at the age of 48, while his wife Lori still works full-time but is considering a shift to part-time employment. The episode offers a detailed look at their current financial status, including their cash reserves, brokerage account, and rental income. Josh shares his spreadsheet calculations and insights from his Empower account, discussing their monthly and annual expenses, and potential strategies for Lori's reduced work hours or complete retirement. The conversation touches on important financial concepts like the 4% rule, Roth conversion ladders, and 72-T distributions, aiming to find the best approach for their family. The hosts also emphasize the importance of adaptability and proper planning to ensure financial security in early retirement. Feedback and topic suggestions are welcomed at [email protected].

    00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

    00:59 Josh's Retirement and Financial Situation

    01:46 Current Financial Snapshot

    04:01 Income and Expenses Breakdown

    07:49 Lori's Potential Part-Time Work Impact

    16:14 Full Retirement Scenario for Lori

    18:13 Empower Retirement Planner Insights

    24:20 Withdrawal Strategies and Future Planning

    30:25 Conclusion and Future Discussions

    Do you have feedback or suggestions? We want to hear from you!

    Contact Elliot: [email protected]

    Contact Josh: [email protected]


    Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support!

    Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠

    ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting

    Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠

    Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠

    ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you

    Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠

    Books mentioned in this episode:


    Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI

    32 min
  • Add-On, Move, Do Nothing? Elliot's Housing Case Study: Part 1 | 9toFI 018 | 9 to FI Podcast

    In this episode of the Nine to FI podcast, hosts Josh and Elliot kick off a case study addressing Elliot's housing dilemma. They discuss the pros and cons of moving, building a new home, or expanding the current one, considering financial constraints and family needs. Elliot shares past experiences with contractors and the challenges of financing a large home addition through loans. They also explore different loan options like HELOC, home equity, and construction loans, contemplating the impact of these choices on their financial independence journey. Audience feedback and ratings are encouraged to help the podcast grow.

    00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

    01:05 Elliot's House Dilemma: Initial Thoughts

    02:03 Exploring Housing Options and Costs

    07:32 Financial Considerations and Loan Options

    16:15 Family Dynamics and Final Thoughts


    Do you have feedback or suggestions? We want to hear from you!

    Contact Elliot: [email protected]

    Contact Josh: [email protected]


    Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support!

    Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠

    ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting

    Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠

    Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠

    ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you

    Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠

    Books mentioned in this episode:


    Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI

    22 min
  • Old Truck to Financial Freedom | 9toFI Ep017 | 9 to FI Podcast

    In this episode of nine to FI, we dive into how owning a 13-year-old Chevy Colorado for over nine years has significantly contributed to my journey towards financial independence and early retirement. Join Josh and Elliot as they discuss the financial benefits of keeping an older vehicle, the insights from recent car ownership statistics, and practical steps for turning a vehicle from a money pit into a money-making asset. We also share strategies on monthly savings, the gig economy, and how to maximize your car's utility for small businesses and side hustles. Don't miss out on the valuable tips for anyone looking to make thoughtful financial decisions about car ownership!

    00:00 Introduction: Can Cars Build Wealth?

    00:25 Meet the Hosts: Josh and Elliot

    00:56 Car Ownership Stats and Trends

    03:21 Commuting and Carpooling Insights

    05:57 Monthly Savings Project

    06:40 Streaming Services and Mobile Savings

    09:47 Internet Provider Hacks

    15:36 Josh's Truck: A Wealth-Building Tool

    22:38 Cost of Ownership and Financial Impact

    24:44 Mindset and Identity: Truck as a Symbol

    30:19 Turning Vehicles into Moneymakers

    32:12 Advice for Younger Self and Conclusion

    Do you have feedback or suggestions? We want to hear from you!

    Contact Elliot: [email protected]

    Contact Josh: [email protected]


    Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support!

    Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠

    ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting

    Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠

    Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠

    ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you

    Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠

    Books mentioned in this episode:


    Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI

    37 min
  • Car Maintenance 101: DIY Tips and Financial Strategies | 9toFI 016 | 9 to FI Podcast

    In this episode of 'Nine to FI', hosts Josh and Elliot delve into the financial burdens and benefits of car ownership. They explore the average costs associated with car maintenance and offer practical tips for managing these expenses effectively. The conversation highlights the importance of preventative maintenance, how it can enhance vehicle longevity, improve safety, and save money in the long run. The hosts share personal anecdotes and recommendations for DIY maintenance, reflecting on their own car maintenance journeys. Addressing common reasons people delay car care, like cost and time constraints, they propose solutions to help listeners better manage their vehicle maintenance and expenses. The episode aims to provide valuable insights and actionable advice for those seeking financial independence and reliability in their vehicles.

    00:00 The Financial Burden of Car Ownership

    00:20 Introduction to the Episode

    01:30 Car Maintenance Costs and Tips

    07:33 Personal Car Maintenance Stories

    19:05 The Importance of Preventative Maintenance

    30:49 Personal Car Maintenance Stories

    31:20 Common Reasons for Neglecting Car Maintenance

    32:41 The Importance of Regular Car Maintenance

    36:49 Benefits of Preventative Maintenance

    38:23 Cost of Car Ownership

    42:50 Tracking Car Maintenance

    47:11 DIY Car Repairs and Savings

    55:36 Rapid Fire Questions

    01:01:02 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

    Do you have feedback or suggestions? We want to hear from you!

    Contact Elliot: [email protected]

    Contact Josh: [email protected]


    Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support!

    Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠

    ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting

    Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠

    Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠

    ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you

    Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠

    Books mentioned in this episode:


    Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI

    1 hr 2 min
  • Driving to Financial Freedom | 9toFI 015 | 9 to FI Podcast

    How CARS helped me achieve FIRE (reducing the cost for one of the BIG 3)

    In this episode of Nine to FI, Josh and Elliot explore the complex world of auto financing. They offer practical tips for car purchasing, share a mix of success and failure stories, and discuss their personal car ownership journeys. This episode kicks off a multi-part series focusing on cars and financial independence. Tune in for insights on making smarter car decisions and the financial benefits that come with it. Enjoy the casual conversation and learn how you can turn your car savings into investments for a secure and comfortable future.


    00:00 Introduction to Smart Car Ownership

    00:40 Meet the Hosts: Josh and Elliot

    01:24 Halloween Fun and Family Talk

    03:14 Shocking Car Payment Statistics

    09:54 Call to Action: Support the Show

    10:36 Personal Car Ownership Stories

    26:30 Financial Strategies for Car Purchases

    28:50 The Money Guy Show's Car Buying Rule

    32:46 The Cost of Car Ownership

    34:44 Interest Rates and Financing

    37:28 Smart Spending Strategies

    49:45 Leveraging Your Car for Income

    54:39 Shifting Mindsets for Financial Freedom

    57:09 Rapid Fire Questions

    01:03:43 Closing Thoughts

    Do you have feedback or suggestions? We want to hear from you!

    Contact Elliot: [email protected]

    Contact Josh: [email protected]


    Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support!

    Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠

    ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting

    Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠

    Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠

    ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you

    Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠

    Books mentioned in this episode:


    Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI

    1 hr 6 min
  • Navigating Life's Big Decisions (bonus episode) | 9toFI 014 | 9 to FI Podcast

    Navigating Retirement and Housing Dilemmas: A Conversation on Financial Strategies

    In this episode, Josh and Elliot delve into personal financial challenges and decisions. Josh grapples with his wife Lori's reluctance to leave full-time work due to uncertainties about income replacement post-retirement. This kicks off a discussion on withdrawal strategies and asset management. Elliot shares his own dilemma about whether to move to a larger house, which is complicated by the high cost and the location his family enjoys. The episode further explores housing decisions as Josh considers downsizing to a more amenable town, but struggles with finding the right property. Both hosts commit to returning with detailed financial analyses, hoping these conversations will help others facing similar issues.

    00:00 Introduction and Podcast Purpose

    00:35 Discussing Retirement and Financial Planning

    03:22 Exploring Housing Dilemmas

    05:41 Comparing Housing Options and Financial Implications

    08:55 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

    Do you have feedback or suggestions? We want to hear from you!

    Contact Elliot: [email protected]

    Contact Josh: [email protected]


    Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support!

    Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠

    ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting

    Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠

    Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠

    ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you

    Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠

    Books mentioned in this episode:


    Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI

    12 min
  • Raising a FIRE-Conscious Family | 9toFI 013 | 9 to FI Podcast

    Raising a FIRE-Conscious Family | 9toFI 013 | 9 to FI Podcast

    Join hosts Josh and Elliot on the 9 to FI Podcast as they discuss strategies for raising a family with a mindset focused on Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE). They share personal experiences, including the concept of the 'Bank of Mom and Dad', emphasizing the value of teaching money management and values to children from different age groups. The conversation covers practical ways to cut costs, such as using libraries, buying secondhand, and leveraging credit card reward hacking for economical travel. They also delve into the significance of making intentional big purchases, the benefits of not always having the latest and greatest, and the importance of experiences over material items. Wrapping up with rapid-fire questions, they highlight key financial lessons and family splurges that reinforce the FIRE principles.

    00:00 Welcome to the 9 to FI Podcast

    00:11 Introducing the Concept of a FIRE Conscious Family

    01:34 The Bank of Mom and Dad: Teaching Financial Responsibility

    08:45 Balancing Extracurricular Activities and Financial Independence

    14:24 The Value of Secondhand Items

    22:44 Travel Hacking: Saving Money on Family Trips

    26:32 Big Purchases: Vehicles and Housing

    33:26 The Bond of Twins and House Hacking

    34:17 Minimalist Gift-Giving Strategies

    41:24 Library Hacks and Resourcefulness

    47:02 529 Plans and College Costs

    52:41 The True Cost of Raising Kids

    55:43 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

    Do you have feedback or suggestions? We want to hear from you!

    Contact Elliot: [email protected]

    Contact Josh: [email protected]


    Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support!

    Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠

    ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting

    Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠

    Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠

    ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you

    Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠

    Books mentioned in this episode:


    Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI

    1 hr 3 min
  • How Real Estate Fast-Tracked Financial Freedom | 9toFI 012 | 9 to FI Podcast

    How Real Estate Fast-Tracked Financial Freedom | 9toFI 012 | 9 to FI Podcast

    In this episode of 9 to FI, hosts Josh and Elliot delve into how building a portfolio of properties can accelerate the path to financial independence. Josh shares his personal journey, starting from his first fixer-upper in the early 2000s to a diversified portfolio that generates significant cash flow. Along the way, they discuss the skills needed for property renovation, the BRRRR strategy, and the challenges faced in real estate investing. Whether you're curious about getting started in real estate or looking to expand your investment knowledge, this episode is packed with valuable insights and real-world experiences.

    00:00 Introduction to Real Estate and Financial Independence

    01:05 Josh's First Real Estate Experience

    02:18 Developing Handy Skills and Early Influences

    05:22 Transitioning to Real Estate Investment

    07:25 The Role of Mentorship and Networking

    18:42 First Property Purchase and Renovation

    25:39 Executing the BRRRR Strategy

    31:33 The Hustle Culture and Time Freedom

    33:33 Balancing Real Estate and Parenting

    34:34 Involving Kids in Real Estate

    37:03 Financial Strategies and Cash Flow

    42:44 The Challenges of Real Estate Investing

    45:11 The Big Renovation Project

    51:20 Lessons Learned and Advice for New Investors

    58:13 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

    Do you have feedback or suggestions? We want to hear from you!

    Contact Elliot: [email protected]

    Contact Josh: [email protected]


    Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support!

    Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠

    ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting

    Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠

    Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠

    ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you

    Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠

    Books mentioned in this episode:


    Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI

    1 hr 5 min

About 9 to FI - Financial Independence Conversations

From the publisher's feed

9 to FI is a Financial Independence podcast hosted by Elliot and Josh from St. Louis. Together, we share honest commentary on our journey to FI—covering wins, challenges, and lessons learned along the…