Diania Merriam is the founder of The EconoMe Conference, a party about money designed for the FI/FIRE Movement.  She is also the host of the popular podcast, Optimal Finance Daily, where she narrates articles from the best personal finance blogs on the planet (1M downloads per month). Discovering the FIRE movement in 2015 led her to get out of $30k of debt in 11 months, save 60% of her income, take a 2-month sabbatical to walk 500 miles across northern Spain on the Camino de Santiago, and self-fund her own business.  She retired from her corporate career at 33 years old and now helps others find community and inspiration on the path to financial freedom. 

Find Your Camino | Diania Merriam | 029

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Meet Christine Benz, the Director of Personal Finance and Retirement Planning at Morningstar. Christine shares her extensive insights into retirement planning, emphasizing the flexibility and adaptability of the 4 percent guideline over the rigid 4 percent rule. She discusses the value of variable withdrawal strategies, the importance of personalizing one's retirement plan, and tackles the nuances of various saving vehicles like HSAs. Bill, Jackie, and Christine also chat about the sequence of returns risk and offer practical advice on asset allocation and preparing for healthcare costs in retirement. Additionally, Christine highlights the significance of community and working in retirement for financial and non-financial well-being, along with a sneak peek into her upcoming book and the Bogleheads conference. Welcome to the show, Christine! 

The Life and Death of The 4% Rule | Christine Benz | 077

In part 2, Jeff York continues his discussion with Bill and Jackie about the financial importance of amicable divorces, the nitty gritty on his investments, and how he was able to "graduate" on his modest salary. The three also dive deep into Jeff's unique lifestyle, the necessity of personal health before and after retirement, and the rewarding nature of sharing knowledge through educating and mentoring. 

The Wealthy Custodian Part 2: From Janitor to Millionaire | Jeff York | 076

In this special pop up episode, Bill, Jackie, and special guest Amy Coroso engage in a thought-provoking discussion sparked by a controversial New York Times Magazine article about the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement. The three chat about the article's portrayal of diverse financial independence approaches as well as the article's impact on the FIRE community, discussing its potential to both attract attention and misconstrue the movement's core values.  

Pop Up Podcast: Behind the Sensation Talking FI with the NY Times | 075

Jeff York is a remarkable individual whose journey from custodian to millionaire offers a wealth of inspiration and practical advice. Jeff's story breaks down conventional barriers, showcasing the power of education, financial literacy, and personal responsibility. From his unique investment strategies and the importance of health to his experiences with divorce and the insights gained therefrom, the conversation delves into the essence of achieving financial independence and living a fulfilled life. Stay tuned for part 2! 

The Wealthy Custodian Part 1:  A Blue Collar Guide to Financial Freedom | Jeff York | 074

He’s here, Mr. Money Mustache! Also known as Pete Adeney, the financial independence OG shares his story with Bill and Jackie. From retiring at 30 and starting one of the most popular blogs in the community to the importance of choosing sustainability with your money. The three discuss some of Pete’s most impactful articles (listed below), highlighting alternative health insurance options and discussing socially responsible investing. Pete also chats candidly about life post-divorce, the temptations of consumerist culture, and the potential of car-free communities.  

Find Your Camino | Diania Merriam | 029

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