You're listening to Two Sides of FI, a conversation between two lifelong friends about financial independence - what it takes to get there and what comes after. One of us reached FI in 2020, the other in 2024. We started this show to document our different paths, and now that we're both post-FI, we're still figuring out how to use the freedom we spent years working toward. I'm Eric and I'm joined by my friend Jason, and this is our story.
Episodes
Nov 5, 2023
Nov 5, 2023
38 min
If you're not giving mental and physical health the same level of attention as your financial health, you're playing with fire. In this episode, Jason talks with Eric about what steps he's taking to prioritize his own wellness in early retirement, including a frank conversation about mental health. Here they discuss steps to promote wellness, the distinct challenges of retirement, and much more. Don't miss the show notes as they include a link to Jason's latest blog post on the topic of mental health.
Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/wellness
Oct 22, 2023
Oct 22, 2023
39 min
Can you imagine changing your mind about retiring early just as the finish line comes into view? What factors could cause someone to consider working one more year? In this episode, Eric talks with Jason about the idea to delay his retirement. Topics covered include why he's considering it, getting agreement with your spouse, how others reacted to the idea, and much more.
Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/OMY
Oct 8, 2023
Oct 8, 2023
45 min
Would you spend $1000 on dinner for a special occasion - or more? Eric and Jason recently enjoyed a milestone birthday celebration with their spouses + friends at a world famous restaurant. The total cost may shock you. In this episode, they talk about the experience, spending decisions pre- vs, post-financial independence, and whether it was actually worth it.
Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/frenchlaundry
Sep 24, 2023
Sep 24, 2023
47 min
How would your spouse feel if you retired early while they kept working? In this episode, Eric + Jason talk with our friend Erik, who recently left the workplace while his wife continues to work. How does this arrangement work for them, and why is a coastFIRE path their choice? Topics discussed include being thrown into retirement, finding purpose, talking about FIRE, and much more.
Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/erik
Aug 20, 2023
Aug 20, 2023
42 min
Can you shorten the time to achieve financial independence (FI)? In this episode, Eric talks with Jason about his journey to FI and the steps he took to reach FI faster and retire before 50. Topics discussed include risks taken + sacrifices made, how Eric's path differed, why early retirement is so attractive, and much more.
Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/fasterFI
Jul 23, 2023
Jul 23, 2023
44 min
How can you accelerate the boring middle on the path to reaching your financial independence goals? Online FIRE communities are full of posts talking about the challenges of "the messy middle" and, "the long boring middle." Eric and Jason discuss the topic from their pre- and post-FI viewpoints, sharing their own experiences.
Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/messymiddle
Jul 3, 2023
Jul 3, 2023
1hr 27 min
Are you on the FIRE path or interested in learning more about early retirement? Three years ago I retired from my career at age 47 after reaching financial independence the prior year. This video is from a livestream where community members had the opportunity to ask me questions about what my experience has been like. Thanks to all who joined! Don't miss the extensive show notes, which list all the episodes and resources discussed in the episode:
Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/AMA
May 21, 2023
May 21, 2023
33 min
Questioning their roles, priorities, and the uncertain future of Two Sides of FI, Jason and Eric unveil hidden tensions arising from the pursuit and realization of financial independence. Will they find common ground and keep the project alive?
Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/fightclub
May 7, 2023
May 7, 2023
35 min
Do you have a process for regular financial reviews? If not, you aren't alone - many people are unsure about how to calculate their net worth and keep their personal finances on track. In this episode, Eric and Jason share their simple pre- and post-FI review processes for net worth tracking, portfolio review, setting savings and budget goals, and more.
Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/networth
Apr 23, 2023
Apr 23, 2023
16 min
Do you like the idea of a portfolio withdrawal strategy that can't run out of money? This walkthrough video is the third part in our Safe Withdrawal Rate (SWR) series, and teaches you how to model a variable withdrawal strategy based on the CAPE ratio. Using this powerful and FREE tool created by Karsten Jeske, you can design a personalized plan that works with your own financial situation. Be sure to see the show notes below to get your free copy, to see the two prior episodes, and for all the links we discuss in the video.
Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/toolbox