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Let’s catch up! I’ve been away from the mic for a while, but I want to get back into the grind! I apologize for the audio quality, but I’m on the road and didn’t have my usual set up. Future episodes will be much better, I promise!

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Rob and Becky are facing the financial realities that many homeowners dread - multiple expensive home repairs colliding with everyday budget challenges. Their journey through pool repair financing and potential HVAC replacement decisions offers a candid look at how couples navigate significant financial choices together.

When they discovered their grocery bill had already hit $400 halfway through the month despite actively trying to reduce spending, it highlighted how even careful budgeters can be surprised by inflation's impact on essentials. Add in an unexpected $500 car repair, and you've got the perfect financial storm that many households recognize all too well.

The heart of their story revolves around securing financing for a $23,000-$25,000 pool repair with monthly payments of approximately $252. After researching options, they found an 8.9% interest rate over 15 years would be more favorable than a 10.9% rate over 20 years. Their approach to fitting this new payment into their budget demonstrates practical financial problem-solving - they plan to redirect funds currently going toward another account that will soon be paid off.

What makes this couple's financial journey particularly relatable is their commitment to weekly "money dates" where they discuss finances together. This structured approach to financial communication has helped bridge their different money personalities - Becky's constant financial awareness versus Rob's preference to compartmentalize money discussions. Their honest exchanges about communication preferences show the human side of financial management that's rarely discussed but critically important.

Looking for practical strategies to manage your own home repair emergencies or improve financial communication with your partner? This episode offers valuable insights on researching financing options, getting multiple quotes for major repairs, tracking spending effectively, and creating dedicated funds for anticipated expenses. These real-world lessons from Rob and Becky's experience might just help you navigate your next financial challenge with more confidence.

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Please join me on my different platforms and follow along my journey towards FIRE.

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Support the show

Please join me on my different platforms and follow along my journey towards FIRE.

https://laswell.veteran.cards/

Send us a text

Support the show

Please join me on my different platforms and follow along my journey towards FIRE.

https://laswell.veteran.cards/

Send us a text

Support the show

Please join me on my different platforms and follow along my journey towards FIRE.

https://laswell.veteran.cards/

Send us a text

Support the show

Please join me on my different platforms and follow along my journey towards FIRE.

https://laswell.veteran.cards/

Send us a text

Discover how Marine Corps veteran Michael Cragholm turned his military discipline into entrepreneurial success, reshaping the way we view veteran transitions with his tech innovation, Grappl.io. Join us as Michael reveals his inspiring journey from the rigorous world of the Marine Corps to the dynamic sphere of entrepreneurship. His story is more than just a career change—it's a testament to the transformative power of resilience and leadership honed in the military, now inspiring a new wave of veteran entrepreneurs to pursue unconventional paths.

Uncover the evolution from personal jiu-jitsu sessions to the creation of a scalable tech solution aimed at martial arts enthusiasts. Michael's journey from founding Space Coast Mobile Jiu-Jitsu to developing the Grappl App highlights the power of technology in solving niche problems and broadening horizons beyond traditional boundaries. Hear firsthand how the challenges of maintaining a physical service sparked a pivot toward the tech industry, and how effective SEO strategies put Grappl App on the map as a go-to resource for finding jiu-jitsu gyms and open mats.

Explore the profound impact of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) on personal growth and community building. We delve into the balance between strength training and cardio in BJJ, highlighting its therapeutic nature akin to surfing. Michael shares insights on overcoming mental hurdles and the importance of mentorship in martial arts. This episode is not just about physical prowess—it's about fostering human connection, finding belonging, and achieving personal and professional success through entrepreneurship and martial arts. Tune in for an engaging discussion that weaves together military experiences, tech innovation, and the empowering world of jiu-jitsu.

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Discover the intricate dance between finance, gaming, and veteran empowerment in our latest episode with Joey Laswell, a certified financial social worker and former Air Force member. Joey shares his expert insights on personal finance management, highlighting the psychological factors that influence financial decision-making. Explore the innovative efforts of Military Broadcast Radio (MBR), a Denver-based nonprofit that's revolutionizing veteran support through podcasting and gaming. Joey helps us unpack the timeless benefits of gaming for veterans, while breaking down misconceptions and spotlighting the profound community-building it fosters.

Embark on a journey through the whirlwind world of penny stocks and cryptocurrency trading. We'll tackle the pros and cons of penny stocks and how platforms like E-Trade, TD Ameritrade, and Acorns can simplify your trading experience. Joey offers his take on the tumultuous crypto market, referencing memorable events like Tom Brady's infamous trade, and how political shifts leave imprints. Our exploration doesn't stop there; we dive into the role of media and streaming services versus traditional cable, and how these affect veterans in more ways than one.

In our final segment, we honor veterans by amplifying their voices and stories—shedding light on their unique experiences and challenges. Joey opens up about his personal journey with ADHD and brain injuries, setting the stage for future endeavors in gaming and personal growth. We delve into strategies for building a supportive community that tackles serious issues like veteran suicides through meaningful communication. As we look ahead to 2025, exciting plans unfold for expanding gaming and streaming content to platforms like Twitch and Roku, providing veterans with more opportunities for empowerment and connection.

#MBR, #MilitaryBroadcastRadio

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Join us for an eye-opening conversation on the Fire Social Worker Show as we feature Marthea Pitts, the powerhouse known as the MSW Coach. With a career journey that has taken her from state government call centers to a PhD candidate at Florida A&M University, Marthea’s story is one of tenacity and innovation. She reveals her unique approach to social work, driven by a talent for demystifying complex policies and a commitment to uplift underserved communities. Discover how Marthea’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to create coaching programs that empower social workers to transform their passion into profitable ventures.

Our discussion navigates the often challenging landscape of social work careers, offering strategies for social workers to enhance both job satisfaction and financial well-being. Marthea and I stress the importance of building a personal brand and being strategic about academic and professional choices to open doors to fulfilling opportunities. From negotiating job offers to exploring tech-driven roles, Marthea provides invaluable insights into how social workers can effectively advocate for themselves and leverage their unique skills in a variety of settings.

As we wrap up, the episode touches on the promising intersection of social work and technology, and how social workers can step into roles that use tech to streamline operations and dispel misinformation. Through compelling stories of success and empowerment, listeners are encouraged to embrace bold career choices and seize the opportunities that lie ahead. Don’t miss the chance to learn from Marthea’s expertise and consider how you too can craft a rewarding path in social work.

www.macroandpaid.com

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In this heartfelt and insightful episode of Money in the Military, host Joey Laswell brings his brother, Kenny Laswell, retired Master Sergeant of the Air Force, onto the show for an in-depth discussion about life in the military, personal finances, and transitioning to civilian life.

Highlights:

Kenny’s Military Journey: Kenny shares his story of joining the Air Force in 2003, motivated by a desire to create a better life for his growing family. Over a 20-year career, he served as a structures troop in the Civil Engineer Squadron, with five deployments under his belt.
Financial Wisdom: Kenny emphasizes the importance of living within your means and offers tips for saving during deployments, such as avoiding lifestyle inflation and taking advantage of tax-free bonuses. He reflects on how contributing more to his Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) earlier could have made a significant impact.
Transition to Civilian Life: Kenny discusses the challenges of transitioning from active duty to civilian life, including navigating federal job opportunities and finding affordable housing. He shares how his family temporarily lived in a camper to manage costs and adjusted their lifestyle to fit their retirement pay and savings.
Early Retirement Goals: Kenny outlines his dream of retiring at 55, enjoying hobbies like golfing and fishing, and focusing on his family. He also contemplates creating a foundation to support veterans, highlighting his dedication to giving back to the community.
Key Takeaways:

Discipline in finances is critical during and after military service.
Start preparing for separation or retirement at least a year in advance to build a financial cushion.
Be cautious with credit options like the military Star Card to avoid financial pitfalls.
The episode concludes with Kenny’s reflections on the values of functionality and balance, both financially and in life, and an inspiring message about the importance of veteran support. #veteransresources #personalfinance #financialfreedom #podcast #financialliteracy #veteransaffairs #federaljobs #financialindependence #fire #firemovement 

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Please join me on my different platforms and follow along my journey towards FIRE.

https://laswell.veteran.cards/