Two Sides of FI

We avoided estate planning for a long time; here's why you shouldn't. Without an estate plan, you're giving over the control of what happens to all your assets to others. In part one of this two-part series, Eric + Jason talk about what they did to - finally - get their respective plans in place. Topics discussed in this episode include the elements of estate planning, why people delay + how to get started, living trusts, and taking care of your heirs. Don't be like those who put this off "until they're older": join us now for the first episode of this two-part series.

Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/houseinorder

Am I leaving my financial advisors after seven years? Is that foolish? Parting ways with a trusted financial advisor is a difficult and impactful decision. In our last episode, Jason talked with Eric about his thoughts to end his longterm relationship with his financial planners and take the reins himself. In this video, we learn the outcome of that conversation and talk about what their decision means for Jason and Lorri going forward.

Did you miss the first part of this conversation? If so, check out Episode 33: "Breaking Up With My Financial Advisor?"

Did you know that financial advisor fees can eat up HALF of your portfolio's value over time? While happy with the good support and great relationship he had with them, Jason was thinking about leaving his financial planners late last year. In this episode, we capture a conversation Eric + Jason had on this topic, as they discussed the merits and downsides of paying assets under management (AUM) fees. Topics covered in this episode include why he stuck with them over the years, the value advisors can bring, more cost-effective options for financial advice, and how Jason is making his decision. Get the facts and make the right choice for yourself!

Kids are incredibly impressionable and as parents, we have a responsibility to educate them in all ways, including in financial matters. In this second installment of a two part series, we continue our discussion on a topic that's been requested many times by viewers: all things relating to kids. Concepts discussed in this episode include saving for college and the roles of parents vs children in that, budgeting, investing, and sharing life lessons by example. 

Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/kids

How has the recent market downturn changed our plans? Jason + Eric candidly discuss their pre- and post-FI moods in this volatile time. Learn what they're doing and thinking about right now as Jason nears the two-year post-FI mark and Eric contemplates pushing his 2024 FI date back.

show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/crash

Having children comes along with many necessary expenses, but also provides a key opportunity to provide them with a solid financial education. In part one of a two part series, we tackle a topic that's been requested many times by viewers: all things relating to kids. Topics discussed in this episode include our own financial upbringing, early attempts to teach our kids about saving + investing, the value of teens having jobs, and talking with them about FIRE. Join us for the first episode of this two-part series.

I reallocated my investment portfolio, sold out of my 100% equity position and I'm not happy about it. Part two of a two-part series, you'll learn why and how I'm making peace with it. Ensuring that your investment portfolio can fund your lifestyle for the duration of your lifespan is essential to success in FIRE. One of the most impactful elements of that is how your portfolio is constructed, or your asset allocation. In this episode, Eric discusses his desire to reduce the risk of his portfolio with Jason, and ensure he + Laura are set up for success. Topics discussed include the role of bonds + fixed income, the types of investment risk, seeking feedback from internet forums, and tax considerations. Join us for the second episode of this two-part series on Eric's reallocation experience.

**Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/eric-reallocation2

Making big decisions like reallocating your investment portfolio can be pretty stressful. They're also impactful, so alignment with your partner or spouse on them is essential. In this bonus episode, get a behind the scenes look at how Eric + Laura navigated their decision to add bonds to their FIRE portfolio. Topics discussed include how they determined the stocks / bonds mix, their research process, and how it felt to make these impactful decisions. Their conversation continues into broader FIRE strategy, including saving for college and setting limits for individual discretionary spending.

I reallocated my investment portfolio, sold out of my 100% equity position and I'm not happy about it. In this two-part episode, you'll learn why and how I'm making peace with it. Ensuring that your investment portfolio can fund your lifestyle for the duration of your lifespan is essential to success in FIRE. One of the most impactful elements of that is how your portfolio is constructed, or your asset allocation. In this episode, Eric discusses his desire to reduce the risk of his portfolio with Jason, and ensure he + Laura are set up for success. Topics discussed include the role of bonds + fixed income, the types of investment risk, seeking feedback from internet forums, and tax considerations. Join us for first episode of this two-part series on Eric's reallocation experience.

We all daydream about what retirement will be like, but will reality live up to expectations? In this episode, Eric and Jason are joined by Fritz Gilbert, who blogs at The Retirement Manifesto (https://theretirementmanifesto.com). Now nearly four years after retiring early, Fritz brings valuable experience + perspectives to this question. Our discussion goes well beyond the numbers, covering topics including finding your purpose, working "one more year", determining your FIRE timing, and the keys to success in retirement.

*Be sure to check out the show notes for links to all the blog posts we referenced in the show: https://twosidesoffi.com/fritz-retirement/