I retired at 32. Thank you for all you do for us and for sharing your ideas and experiences with the world. You helped me and many others navigate this sea of uncertainty, you are a breath of fresh air in the personal finance landscape.
We've been early retired since mid-August 2024. At this point of discovery, what I can say from our experience is that you only know when you try...experiment...and debrief. You can't know what you will like/not like or what it may feel like until you try. It's the one thing that became very clear. The change was surprisingly easier for my husband who worked until the day before and I did most of the planning and I watched your videos for years. LOL For me, the emotional change going through menopause alongside the change in household duties and relational roles and getting ourselves to start letting the gas out was much more challenging.
Thanks for sharing, Susan-it’s so true that you can’t know until you try. Early retirement isn’t just a financial shift; it’s a massive psychological and relational adjustment, and your experience highlights that beautifully. Laura and I are experiencing this presently... it's a such a big textural shift in life that it forces new relational roles, as you put it. Thanks for always being a part of the conversation!
Enjoyed the episode! I like the discussion around personas. When I retired in 2023 at 55 I identified 5 buckets of "activities". Volunteer, Exercise, Travel, Hobbies and Side Hustle. Over the last two years I have pulled "activities" form each of these buckets. It's working so far!
Hey Eric and Jason! I've watched all your guy's episodes so far(on youtube instead of apple podcasts) but this is my first time commenting! Love the videos because it gives me so much insight that I would only get when I would reach a similar level to you two. But with these videos and your interesting discussions, I've learned so much and my views of what FIRE looks like have adjusted and have become more realistic. I'm building my life now that I want for retirement and I'm hoping that you two will be there guiding me thru these videos as I get closer and closer to my FIRE number. Im 30 and currently almost 10% to my FIRE number which makes it seem farther than it really is, but have time to learn and let my portfolio grow.
I think these Retirement Personae slides are a significant and novel addition to the overall retirement community, early or otherwise. Very insightful work.
I loved the discussion of the personas! I feel like an adventurer/liftlong learner hybrid. That mirrors how my love of travel and money management (travel credit card points, etc) feed into each other and how I'd like to spend my retirement in a few years.
Long time listener / sometimes commentor - this episode really resonated with me. I just retired early at 55 after a long career in one field and definitely identify with a few of the personas (Adventurer, Hobbyist, Lifelong Learner, Fitness Enthusiast). I began testing some of them out in the final years of work and now really look forward to the time freedom every day. I resisted the urge to fill up every minute but it does make me feel guilty at times. I am expressing these personas through a few activities - I have a home workshop and looking to add a 3D printer so I am learning a CAD program from UA-cam, I love travel and we have some trips planned (mostly domestic wide open spaces). I've also spent the past 12 years pursuing a passion of long distance endurance sports (Ironman triathlons, ultramarathons) and set a big goal to run a 300 mile ultramarathon here in a few months. You can model your budget but you can't model your remaining healthy lifetime so I say take the leap!
No matter how long we've planned, it is still surreal. We've worked to walk away at 55 and that is happening this next month. That has been my goal for about 25 years. Pension, savings, being completely debt free and employer medical insurance were the biggest concerns. I think that some of these things can't really be planned for until you are really close to them happening. It is hard to visualize the sudden amount of free time that is on our immediate horizon. I only just started working on a plan for day-to-day things like health and adventure. I guess we (I) focused on the number a lot more at the expense of the reason to do it. Only now when people ask what I am planning to do with my time did I start to really mull it over. -Ready for the next chapter!
Congrats on reaching this huge milestone-it’s amazing to see 25 years of planning pay off! It’s so common to focus on the numbers and only later realize the need to plan the ‘why.’ The free time might feel surreal now, but it’s also full of possibility. Wishing you the best as you step into this next chapter! -Eric
Jason and Eric, thank you for the great content. I watch all your videos. A lot of good and useful information for people planning tor retirement. I am grateful that you make these videos and share your wisdom not for the money and fame, but because you would like to help others on their path. You are professional and informative. I hope you will continue making more content. I am looking to the next video. All the best to you and your families
The way I sum it up when asked - we all reach a tipping point where time freedom has more value for you than earning another dollar from a corporate master. For me, I reached FI just before COVID, but it took the death of a few friends plus a 5 day a week in-office mandate for me to make the leap in 2024. So yes, even when the numbers can work many of us aren't brave enough to jump - but now that I've reached my tipping point I know it was the right time, and it seems almost silly how much stress I put on myself making the decision.
Both - every episode down & I can’t say how much listening into your chats has meant to me. Early retirement is very niche & I don’t know anyone in my real life who is on this path, so your musings have been invaluable. It so happens I have been in step with Eric’s journey - although I’ve come to realise a much poorer relation 😂 - I feel that every episode it’s almost as if you have been eavesdropping on my thoughts, and your guidance has been a great comfort. A big shout out to the ladies also - it’s been great having you on - as sometimes early retirement can seem like a man’s world when you look at the content out there. In short thank you we appreciate you 🙏
Thank you-your kind words mean so much! Early retirement can feel isolating, so we’re glad our conversations resonate and provide connection. Love that you’ve related to my journey-it’s all about finding your own path, no matter the scale. Jason + I appreciate your comments and always contributing to the conversation! -Eric
Well gents, another great video. I’m 70 days to retirement and I’m excited. You guys helped me during the pandemic with looking at planning my FI number. You were the first channel that drew me into FI. I am slowly starting my channel but I’m not gifted in videos and content creation. Wish me luck and send me pointers. Cheers!
Been listening from the beginning in 2020. Soooo appreciate you documenting your journey! Hope you continue. Prompts great conversation with my wife, and with the few friends one can talk with about this topic. Sometimes I find myself commenting out loud to the questions asked during the episode. 😂 Your efforts are seen - thank you!
This was a great episode. Focusing on the math is easy. I think the whole second half of the episode has me thinking that we all need to channel our inner 8 year old and figure out how to play again. Most people struggle sitting in a quiet room alone for 10 minutes. What are they going to do with decades? A lot of what you talked about here can help a lot of people figure that out and that is really cool. It is funny talking with some of my friends. They have these elaborate plans for if they win the $1 billion power ball but nothing for their real life. My wife and I have been tossing around ideas over the past few years for totally doable things with our budget and lifestyle and goals. And it feels great. We are, I think, really ready every way except financially 😂 And I have not been called "the best" in a long time. I may be blushing. You guys rock.
Thanks for the thoughtful comment and for always being part of the conversation! You nailed it - most people never practice just being, which makes decades of free time feel daunting. It’s great that you and your wife are brainstorming real, actionable ideas. Starting with what’s possible now-not some lottery win-means you’re already ahead. That kind of intentional planning builds confidence for what’s next, even if finances aren’t fully there yet. Appreciate you sharing your journey-it adds so much to the discussion!
Hey guys, I'm one of those guys who watched all of your episodes multiple times... so much so that my wife makes fun of me as being a FAN BOY. I appreciate you two and your contents.
A persona I can relate to is “The Problem Solver”. I think it lies somewhere between “The Hobbyist”, “The Creative”, and “The Lifelong Learner”. I really enjoy spending time learning a new skill or set of skills to solve a problem, such as home maintenance or repair, car maintenance or repair, financial planning, tax preparation, emergency preparedness, vacation logistics planning, etc. It could also involve stuff like Jason was talking about with his option strategy development. It’s stuff I enjoy when it doesn’t take all of my free time away from work.
Having retired two years ago after turning 51, I identify with several of the personas listed. The beauty of it is I can pick and choose what parts of each I want to deploy and at what time. I have watched every episode you guys have created - many multiple times! Keep up the good work!
Keep it up chaps, love the content and the natural conversation. Great inspiration and the video quality is superb. Definitely is helping me personally with my FIRE journey and getting some real value from your videos. Cheers from the UK👍
Many relatable moments in this podcast. Sitting here finishing Performance Appraisals for my team and asking why am I working one more year. Because I am a hobbyist and throwing my salary this year to set up my hobbies for retirement.
I love you guys... thanks so much for ALL of your efforts in putting these episodes together. I have said this before, but I love hearing two male friends sharing. It's awesome! Your conversations are thoughtful, thought provoking, funny and educational. That's a tough combo to achieve... keep it up! To a happy and prosperous 2025 to everyone!
Really enjoyed the discussion on the personas. Puts some context to the struggles I have trying to determine who I’m go to be after retirement this year.
I’ve been along this journey with your episodes from the beginning. Each one you’ve both shared sincere, relatable thoughts and insightful points to consider. Both of you and your wives have contributed a genuine body of work to this FI conversation. Well done!
Who needs Netflix? We binge watched every episode over the past few months and we're so grateful to you both. Not so much for the numbers stuff, but for the "softer side of FI" conversations regarding the emotional/mental journey, which is for sure lacking out there. As the female in our FI party of two, extra appreciation to Laura for getting on camera so much. Lots for me to relate to as a fellow academic and as a female in her early 50s. We hit our FI number a year ago but due to the lack of psychological preparation, hadn't pulled the ripcord until now. December 2025 is finally in ink. Your work has helped us overcome the "one more year" syndrome. Much appreciation guys!!! I will ponder the archetypes. They're genius.
Thanks for this episode, really great. What I liked most is the introduction of the personas. I also liked the discussion about the non financial side of deciding to retire. I really enjoy your podcast.
I love listening to you both for the friendship shines with thought-provoking information. That persona idea by Eric is so cool! I might be a giver/teacher.
Thanks for all the hard work you two put into your UA-cam channel and podcast. Funny enough, after following your channel for some time I have decided that early retirement is not for me. I still enjoy the fundamentals of my job (pilot). I also know I would struggle with all the emotional aspects of early retirement you guys discuss if I were to retire now. A great thing I have gained from your channel is the confidence that my finances are in good shape. I am taking more time off and enjoying it while my wife and I are healthy.
Glad to hear you’ve found clarity about what works best for you. Loving your job and recognizing potential challenges with early retirement shows a lot of self-awareness. Prioritizing more time off while you and your wife are healthy sounds like a fantastic way to strike the right balance-you’re truly living with intention. On a personal note, I’m grateful for skilled pilots like you who make travel possible! We’re thrilled the channel has been helpful on your journey.
Both of you do an exceptional job at discussing all the nuances of retirement. I like many focused on the finance day one out of college, not so much on the purpose after retirement. Retired almost 2 years now and still seeking my purpose after leaving a meaningful, challenging career. I’m finally getting comfortable didn’t g retired though.
Another fabulous episode! You two + Laura in composite share our experiences, perspective and value system and so uniquely fill a space for me about work (and calling) and non-work that I don’t see much elsewhere. So thanks. Your personas are terrific, Eric. I am thinking that there is another one for me, at least initially and temporarily, and it is something like “In a State of Healing” which combines attention to physical exercise and elements of these other personas, but also is about having the time to just wonder and breathe for a bit. It is a little different than leisure-it is sort of leisure but with the intention of self-repair after giving so much for so long. Anyway, these are fun to think with.
Thank you for such a thoughtful comment-it means a lot to hear how much the episodes resonate with you. 'In a State of Healing' is such a great way to frame that transition (Laura esp. agrees!) -it’s not just leisure but intentional recovery and recalibration...taking time to wonder, breathe, and repair after years of giving so much is so important, and it’s great you’re leaning into that. We’re grateful to be part of your journey!
Great episode guys. I love the way you've summarized and presented the personas. I'm so glad you found "The Connector" as I had been thinking that is one of the most valuable personas I have met and a great one to take on in retirement. It might be interesting for you to also consider the "dark side" of these personas as well and the implications of overdoing it in some way. For example the classic dark side of The Connector would be someone like the Great Gatzby.
Hey I guess I'm a real one. Thank you guys for continuing to share these insightful conversations. It's like hanging around a campfire with old friends and a few cold ones. I'll have to rewatch the personas segment. They're all pretty intuitive, but what a difference seeing them written-out in a framework like that. I'm still a few years out, but getting real excited about all the fulfilling facets to pursue. Cheers,
Thanks so much-so glad to hear the conversations feel like that kind of familiar, relaxed vibe. That’s exactly what we aim for! And, getting excited about what’s ahead is half the fun-cheers to the next steps for you... -Eric
Great episode. I think I have a little of each of those personas going. I'm not quite retired yet, but getting close and am fortunate to be in a job that allows me the time to do a lot of the big things I want to do. That said, I'm ready to be done soon.
Another great video with relatable content thank you for all your preparation for this one! I love the personas and one that doesn’t or hasn’t fit me in the past is the Creative and that is something I’m really hoping to tap into in retirement. I know I will spend a considerable amount of time in the Connector category. I’m only 54 but by April, we will have seven grandkids! Looking forward to May 1, finally set an actual date :-)
The personas conversation is very powerful and I can totally relate, given that I'm on the same journey. I think I'll end up doing pieces of several of these different personas. What I know for sure is that I won't be able to just sit around and do nothing.
I liked the description of all the possible personas (personae?) that one might have during retirement, and it was interesting to see how many of the buckets my spouse and I fall into. Great content as usual, and Happy Thanksgiving. :)
Thanks for another great episode! I like the idea of getting some third party input. I have reached my calculated FI number but I am conservative so probably need some confirmation that all is as it should be. I'm starting to make some more concrete plans so that is a good sign. Love the personas, I think I see elements of Life long learner, Hobbyist and Giver in myself.
In order from the start of my retirement. The Leisure Seeker taking a ew months to do nothing other than downsizing, Adventurer/Explorer trips in various locations, creator through writing music and giver through volunteering. This might become some sort of personality quiz Eric. Nice work.
Wife and I are 10.5 years from our target retirement, based on her pension. Assuming reasonable projections, I could step away sooner, but I would want to find something purposeful to avoid feeling like a mooch by being lazy all day while she's at work. I want to be absolutely positive that when I step away, we don't develop any resentment between those dates. Perhaps that means I work until she doesn't either, but I would very much prefer transitioning to a passion project that helps with those feelings.
I wonder if any has had the opposite experience of "one more year". Meaning you've basically hit your number, but no real desire to retirement until one day something happens and you suddenly decide "I"m done!" I came back from a 3 week vacation and I realized I was done.
The benefit of a defined benefit pension and retiree medical makes setting your retirement date and FI number much simpler. Knowing your pension will be designated towards your housing payment allows for better managing your buckets of money.
@@TwoSidesOfFI I think there are two things tamping down the entrepreneur in me. One is the fact that I retired at the first moment it was possible. I was not a victim of the one more syndrome. This means there isn't a lot of margin for error in my plan so I can't take risks. Most decisions are about not screwing up what I have instead trying to get more. The other factor is that I think I'm just getting lazier. It doesn't take much to entertain me these days. But I think I'm pretty busy without working too. I still have rentals to deal, I'm always thinking "I should make a video" and we bought a house in a far away land that I haven't announced on my channel yet. That is taking up a lot of head space and will keep me very busy too.
67 and FI here. Still working three days a week in my business. I am at the peak of my career and living the life. I plan to collect social security at age 70 and continue to work until it isn't fun anymore. I feel so fortunate to be where I am today.
Hey, not a podcast listener at all, But I watch your videos here (from Monterrey, México) 😅😂🤣 As for the "Persona" type, not sure, maybe something between the "Lifelong learner" and "Hobbyist" 🤓 Thanks for sharing your conversations Saludos!
I don't like the idea that I would take 4% or whatever every year.... I have been planning to retire on dividends...dividends allow you to leave your principle which is my preference. It sounds like you guys are more comfortable with a principle withdrawal each year.... it also seems to be working for you which is great.
Dividend investment limits you only to the generally lower return, dividend-paying companies. Having a target withdrawal rate across a diversified portfolio allows you to choose where to withdraw from, be it from your dividend pot (recommend DRIP) or from your growth stocks. Aligning your lifestyle to the dividend schedule will be, lumpy, I imagine.
As a someone who retired recently at 51 with a pension with full benefits 3 years ago from the state, and a disabled military veteran, my readiness to retire was based on how much money I get to keep after expenses is paid while living in the USA since it’s expensive to live there with a good lifestyle. I needed to be able to keep half of my take home pay. I knew eventually moving abroad would be an option for me as I did move to Colombia in May last year, and to Europe in a few more years. Now I’m able to keep more than half of my income. I love traveling, so having enough income for that lifestyle was the main driver. Living abroad allows the most opportunities for that.
All this FIRE talk has hurt me more than helped me. I was getting excited about potentially retiring early a few years ago. Seemed I had enough and was on the right track. Worst thing I did was mentioning it to a financial planner in 2020 that talked me into him managing half my assets and thought since I wanted to retire early he said to invest it defensively. Worst decision ever. Got terrible returns and now I’m likely going to have to keep working. I fired the advisor and trying to go Bogleheads and did ok but having a hard time unwinding the mess he put me in. I need advice but having a really hard time finding an advisor that I can trust now. Most only want to manage your assets. I’ve tried a few hourly advisors but get different suggestions that don’t make sense to me. Honestly, this journey to FIRE has just given me anxiety and depression.
You badly need a trusted friend, former colleague, or extended family member to talk to, who has done all of this successfully. Since there are so many of us now that has been successful at this, at least you have a chance of finding a trusted personal resource to talk to. You need "counselling" about what could work, and work for you, given your history. I suspect you cannot separate the signal from the noise at this point and it is, rightly, causing you anxiety and depression. You are probably better equipped for this than you think and don't have to do that much; take a deep breath and consider my general advice here.
What is your retirement persona and how do you express it?
I think I would be a life long learner (current high school teacher) and volunteer.
I retired at 32. Thank you for all you do for us and for sharing your ideas and experiences with the world. You helped me and many others navigate this sea of uncertainty, you are a breath of fresh air in the personal finance landscape.
Thanks very much! 🙏
We've been early retired since mid-August 2024. At this point of discovery, what I can say from our experience is that you only know when you try...experiment...and debrief. You can't know what you will like/not like or what it may feel like until you try. It's the one thing that became very clear. The change was surprisingly easier for my husband who worked until the day before and I did most of the planning and I watched your videos for years. LOL For me, the emotional change going through menopause alongside the change in household duties and relational roles and getting ourselves to start letting the gas out was much more challenging.
Thanks for sharing, Susan-it’s so true that you can’t know until you try. Early retirement isn’t just a financial shift; it’s a massive psychological and relational adjustment, and your experience highlights that beautifully. Laura and I are experiencing this presently... it's a such a big textural shift in life that it forces new relational roles, as you put it. Thanks for always being a part of the conversation!
Enjoyed the episode! I like the discussion around personas. When I retired in 2023 at 55 I identified 5 buckets of "activities". Volunteer, Exercise, Travel, Hobbies and Side Hustle. Over the last two years I have pulled "activities" form each of these buckets. It's working so far!
Hey Eric and Jason! I've watched all your guy's episodes so far(on youtube instead of apple podcasts) but this is my first time commenting! Love the videos because it gives me so much insight that I would only get when I would reach a similar level to you two. But with these videos and your interesting discussions, I've learned so much and my views of what FIRE looks like have adjusted and have become more realistic. I'm building my life now that I want for retirement and I'm hoping that you two will be there guiding me thru these videos as I get closer and closer to my FIRE number. Im 30 and currently almost 10% to my FIRE number which makes it seem farther than it really is, but have time to learn and let my portfolio grow.
I think these Retirement Personae slides are a significant and novel addition to the overall retirement community, early or otherwise. Very insightful work.
I loved the discussion of the personas! I feel like an adventurer/liftlong learner hybrid. That mirrors how my love of travel and money management (travel credit card points, etc) feed into each other and how I'd like to spend my retirement in a few years.
well done..please keep going guys. love the journey both of you are on and thanks for sharing
Long time listener / sometimes commentor - this episode really resonated with me. I just retired early at 55 after a long career in one field and definitely identify with a few of the personas (Adventurer, Hobbyist, Lifelong Learner, Fitness Enthusiast). I began testing some of them out in the final years of work and now really look forward to the time freedom every day. I resisted the urge to fill up every minute but it does make me feel guilty at times.
I am expressing these personas through a few activities - I have a home workshop and looking to add a 3D printer so I am learning a CAD program from UA-cam, I love travel and we have some trips planned (mostly domestic wide open spaces). I've also spent the past 12 years pursuing a passion of long distance endurance sports (Ironman triathlons, ultramarathons) and set a big goal to run a 300 mile ultramarathon here in a few months.
You can model your budget but you can't model your remaining healthy lifetime so I say take the leap!
Still here. Thank you!
Thanks for the UA-cam’s! Definitely motivational.
No matter how long we've planned, it is still surreal. We've worked to walk away at 55 and that is happening this next month. That has been my goal for about 25 years. Pension, savings, being completely debt free and employer medical insurance were the biggest concerns. I think that some of these things can't really be planned for until you are really close to them happening. It is hard to visualize the sudden amount of free time that is on our immediate horizon. I only just started working on a plan for day-to-day things like health and adventure. I guess we (I) focused on the number a lot more at the expense of the reason to do it. Only now when people ask what I am planning to do with my time did I start to really mull it over. -Ready for the next chapter!
Congrats on reaching this huge milestone-it’s amazing to see 25 years of planning pay off! It’s so common to focus on the numbers and only later realize the need to plan the ‘why.’ The free time might feel surreal now, but it’s also full of possibility. Wishing you the best as you step into this next chapter!
-Eric
@ Thank you!
Jason and Eric, thank you for the great content. I watch all your videos. A lot of good and useful information for people planning tor retirement. I am grateful that you make these videos and share your wisdom not for the money and fame, but because you would like to help others on their path. You are professional and informative. I hope you will continue making more content. I am looking to the next video. All the best to you and your families
The way I sum it up when asked - we all reach a tipping point where time freedom has more value for you than earning another dollar from a corporate master. For me, I reached FI just before COVID, but it took the death of a few friends plus a 5 day a week in-office mandate for me to make the leap in 2024. So yes, even when the numbers can work many of us aren't brave enough to jump - but now that I've reached my tipping point I know it was the right time, and it seems almost silly how much stress I put on myself making the decision.
I love the term “tipping point”. That’s what happened with me and it was fairly sudden and from the heart.
Both - every episode down & I can’t say how much listening into your chats has meant to me. Early retirement is very niche & I don’t know anyone in my real life who is on this path, so your musings have been invaluable.
It so happens I have been in step with Eric’s journey - although I’ve come to realise a much poorer relation 😂 - I feel that every episode it’s almost as if you have been eavesdropping on my thoughts, and your guidance has been a great comfort.
A big shout out to the ladies also - it’s been great having you on - as sometimes early retirement can seem like a man’s world when you look at the content out there.
In short thank you we appreciate you 🙏
Thank you-your kind words mean so much! Early retirement can feel isolating, so we’re glad our conversations resonate and provide connection. Love that you’ve related to my journey-it’s all about finding your own path, no matter the scale. Jason + I appreciate your comments and always contributing to the conversation!
-Eric
Well gents, another great video. I’m 70 days to retirement and I’m excited. You guys helped me during the pandemic with looking at planning my FI number. You were the first channel that drew me into FI. I am slowly starting my channel but I’m not gifted in videos and content creation. Wish me luck and send me pointers. Cheers!
I love these archetypes of retirement. Good stuff guys!
Thank you for the content! Your UA-cam content is the most useful of all FI channels for me. Keep up the amazing work!
Nice show. Thank you. 😊
Phenomenal work, folks! These archetypes were surprisingly insightful and helpful for self-reflection
Been listening from the beginning in 2020. Soooo appreciate you documenting your journey! Hope you continue. Prompts great conversation with my wife, and with the few friends one can talk with about this topic. Sometimes I find myself commenting out loud to the questions asked during the episode. 😂
Your efforts are seen - thank you!
thanks so much for your longtime support! we appreciate you
Keep up the good work. I like being able to hear your stories.
This was a great episode. Focusing on the math is easy.
I think the whole second half of the episode has me thinking that we all need to channel our inner 8 year old and figure out how to play again. Most people struggle sitting in a quiet room alone for 10 minutes. What are they going to do with decades? A lot of what you talked about here can help a lot of people figure that out and that is really cool.
It is funny talking with some of my friends. They have these elaborate plans for if they win the $1 billion power ball but nothing for their real life. My wife and I have been tossing around ideas over the past few years for totally doable things with our budget and lifestyle and goals. And it feels great. We are, I think, really ready every way except financially 😂
And I have not been called "the best" in a long time. I may be blushing. You guys rock.
Thanks for the thoughtful comment and for always being part of the conversation! You nailed it - most people never practice just being, which makes decades of free time feel daunting.
It’s great that you and your wife are brainstorming real, actionable ideas. Starting with what’s possible now-not some lottery win-means you’re already ahead. That kind of intentional planning builds confidence for what’s next, even if finances aren’t fully there yet.
Appreciate you sharing your journey-it adds so much to the discussion!
Hey guys, I'm one of those guys who watched all of your episodes multiple times... so much so that my wife makes fun of me as being a FAN BOY. I appreciate you two and your contents.
Thanks so much! Guess we still have some work to do winning over your wife, though… challenge accepted!
You guys are an inspiration and you keep me on track to a time when I’ll be ditching the keyboard
Jason, Eric - can you make an episode about keeping your mortgage in retirement? Thank you, love your channel.
A persona I can relate to is “The Problem Solver”. I think it lies somewhere between “The Hobbyist”, “The Creative”, and “The Lifelong Learner”. I really enjoy spending time learning a new skill or set of skills to solve a problem, such as home
maintenance or repair, car maintenance or repair, financial planning, tax preparation, emergency preparedness, vacation logistics planning, etc. It could also involve stuff like Jason was talking about with his option strategy development. It’s stuff I enjoy when it doesn’t take all of my free time away from work.
Having retired two years ago after turning 51, I identify with several of the personas listed. The beauty of it is I can pick and choose what parts of each I want to deploy and at what time. I have watched every episode you guys have created - many multiple times! Keep up the good work!
Thanks so much for the kind words and for being such a loyal viewer!
So enjoy your open discussions! Thank you! Please continue! :)
Keep it up chaps, love the content and the natural conversation. Great inspiration and the video quality is superb. Definitely is helping me personally with my FIRE journey and getting some real value from your videos. Cheers from the UK👍
Thank you! Will do!
Many relatable moments in this podcast. Sitting here finishing Performance Appraisals for my team and asking why am I working one more year. Because I am a hobbyist and throwing my salary this year to set up my hobbies for retirement.
Love this plan! Heads down through those Performance Appraisals for OMY...good luck and keep us posted!
I love you guys... thanks so much for ALL of your efforts in putting these episodes together. I have said this before, but I love hearing two male friends sharing. It's awesome! Your conversations are thoughtful, thought provoking, funny and educational. That's a tough combo to achieve... keep it up! To a happy and prosperous 2025 to everyone!
Thanks so much! 🙏
Really enjoyed the discussion on the personas. Puts some context to the struggles I have trying to determine who I’m go to be after retirement this year.
Hi guys, I love your conversations and I have watched every episodes. I hope you enjoy your retirement and if possible keep recording.
I’ve been along this journey with your episodes from the beginning. Each one you’ve both shared sincere, relatable thoughts and insightful points to consider. Both of you and your wives have contributed a genuine body of work to this FI conversation. Well done!
🙏
Who needs Netflix? We binge watched every episode over the past few months and we're so grateful to you both. Not so much for the numbers stuff, but for the "softer side of FI" conversations regarding the emotional/mental journey, which is for sure lacking out there. As the female in our FI party of two, extra appreciation to Laura for getting on camera so much. Lots for me to relate to as a fellow academic and as a female in her early 50s. We hit our FI number a year ago but due to the lack of psychological preparation, hadn't pulled the ripcord until now. December 2025 is finally in ink. Your work has helped us overcome the "one more year" syndrome. Much appreciation guys!!! I will ponder the archetypes. They're genius.
Thanks for this episode, really great. What I liked most is the introduction of the personas. I also liked the discussion about the non financial side of deciding to retire. I really enjoy your podcast.
Appreciate the kind words + support!
I love listening to you both for the friendship shines with thought-provoking information. That persona idea by Eric is so cool! I might be a giver/teacher.
Very relatable discussion guys, thanks. I like the idea of the different personas.
Thanks for all the hard work you two put into your UA-cam channel and podcast. Funny enough, after following your channel for some time I have decided that early retirement is not for me. I still enjoy the fundamentals of my job (pilot). I also know I would struggle with all the emotional aspects of early retirement you guys discuss if I were to retire now. A great thing I have gained from your channel is the confidence that my finances are in good shape. I am taking more time off and enjoying it while my wife and I are healthy.
Glad to hear you’ve found clarity about what works best for you. Loving your job and recognizing potential challenges with early retirement shows a lot of self-awareness. Prioritizing more time off while you and your wife are healthy sounds like a fantastic way to strike the right balance-you’re truly living with intention. On a personal note, I’m grateful for skilled pilots like you who make travel possible! We’re thrilled the channel has been helpful on your journey.
Excellent! More on this.
Gentlemen, cheers to another valuable episode. I always look forward to your episodes and for good reason. Continued luck to both of you.
Our pleasure! Thanks and same to you
Both of you do an exceptional job at discussing all the nuances of retirement. I like many focused on the finance day one out of college, not so much on the purpose after retirement. Retired almost 2 years now and still seeking my purpose after leaving a meaningful, challenging career. I’m finally getting comfortable didn’t g retired though.
Another fabulous episode! You two + Laura in composite share our experiences, perspective and value system and so uniquely fill a space for me about work (and calling) and non-work that I don’t see much elsewhere. So thanks. Your personas are terrific, Eric. I am thinking that there is another one for me, at least initially and temporarily, and it is something like “In a State of Healing” which combines attention to physical exercise and elements of these other personas, but also is about having the time to just wonder and breathe for a bit. It is a little different than leisure-it is sort of leisure but with the intention of self-repair after giving so much for so long. Anyway, these are fun to think with.
Thank you for such a thoughtful comment-it means a lot to hear how much the episodes resonate with you. 'In a State of Healing' is such a great way to frame that transition (Laura esp. agrees!) -it’s not just leisure but intentional recovery and recalibration...taking time to wonder, breathe, and repair after years of giving so much is so important, and it’s great you’re leaning into that. We’re grateful to be part of your journey!
Thanks for the content! Always fun to listen to you.
Ciao, from Italy
Really really enjoy your discussions. Keep up the great work, really high value. Watched the whole video! 😂
Great discussion fellas! Hit a lot of items rattling around my head!
Thanks for sharing and always good réflexion! Bonne année du Québec!
Love the channel! I may be either a giver or a hobbyist or life long learner or a combo of all three!
Great episode guys. I love the way you've summarized and presented the personas. I'm so glad you found "The Connector" as I had been thinking that is one of the most valuable personas I have met and a great one to take on in retirement. It might be interesting for you to also consider the "dark side" of these personas as well and the implications of overdoing it in some way. For example the classic dark side of The Connector would be someone like the Great Gatzby.
Hey I guess I'm a real one. Thank you guys for continuing to share these insightful conversations. It's like hanging around a campfire with old friends and a few cold ones.
I'll have to rewatch the personas segment. They're all pretty intuitive, but what a difference seeing them written-out in a framework like that. I'm still a few years out, but getting real excited about all the fulfilling facets to pursue. Cheers,
Thanks so much-so glad to hear the conversations feel like that kind of familiar, relaxed vibe. That’s exactly what we aim for! And, getting excited about what’s ahead is half the fun-cheers to the next steps for you...
-Eric
Thank you for the insight!
Great episode. I think I have a little of each of those personas going. I'm not quite retired yet, but getting close and am fortunate to be in a job that allows me the time to do a lot of the big things I want to do. That said, I'm ready to be done soon.
Great episode as always thanks guys
I look forward to every episode! Enjoy your vacations Eric :) Left you a review on Apple Podcasts finally.. :)
Thanks! And, we really appreciate the review! -Eric
Really love Eric's creation on personas!
Cheers, thanks! -Eric
Another great video with relatable content thank you for all your preparation for this one! I love the personas and one that doesn’t or hasn’t fit me in the past is the Creative and that is something I’m really hoping to tap into in retirement. I know I will spend a considerable amount of time in the Connector category. I’m only 54 but by April, we will have seven grandkids! Looking forward to May 1, finally set an actual date :-)
I’m still here at the end of the video. 😊
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The personas conversation is very powerful and I can totally relate, given that I'm on the same journey. I think I'll end up doing pieces of several of these different personas. What I know for sure is that I won't be able to just sit around and do nothing.
Great podcast guys.
I liked the description of all the possible personas (personae?) that one might have during retirement, and it was interesting to see how many of the buckets my spouse and I fall into. Great content as usual, and Happy Thanksgiving. :)
Thanks for another great episode! I like the idea of getting some third party input. I have reached my calculated FI number but I am conservative so probably need some confirmation that all is as it should be. I'm starting to make some more concrete plans so that is a good sign. Love the personas, I think I see elements of Life long learner, Hobbyist and Giver in myself.
Father’s Day, this year. Aged 47. Can’t wait.
Countdown is on... you're going to love it!
-Eric
Time is of the essence
In order from the start of my retirement. The Leisure Seeker taking a ew months to do nothing other than downsizing, Adventurer/Explorer trips in various locations, creator through writing music and giver through volunteering. This might become some sort of personality quiz Eric. Nice work.
Cheers, thank you! -Eric
Wife and I are 10.5 years from our target retirement, based on her pension. Assuming reasonable projections, I could step away sooner, but I would want to find something purposeful to avoid feeling like a mooch by being lazy all day while she's at work. I want to be absolutely positive that when I step away, we don't develop any resentment between those dates. Perhaps that means I work until she doesn't either, but I would very much prefer transitioning to a passion project that helps with those feelings.
I wonder if any has had the opposite experience of "one more year". Meaning you've basically hit your number, but no real desire to retirement until one day something happens and you suddenly decide "I"m done!" I came back from a 3 week vacation and I realized I was done.
Automation for options trading? Is there a video? Where can they get more information on the subject? Thank you
Check the channel page for the options trading video Jason recently made...
I get a sense that people use the mathematical aspect of retirement planning as a distraction from the emotional aspect. I know I do.
Me too! -Eric
Eric - Have you planned any of your trips with Brian & Carrie? It would be fun if you had them on.
That would be fun, especially if our travel plans overlapped!
The benefit of a defined benefit pension and retiree medical makes setting your retirement date and FI number much simpler. Knowing your pension will be designated towards your housing payment allows for better managing your buckets of money.
In my early retirement I think I'm shifting from 90% entrepreneur and 10% adventurer to 45% Adventurer 45% leisure seeker and 10% entrepreneur.
Hey Jeff...you'll have to share how you were able to keep the entrepreneur in check, I'm having a hard time with that!
@@TwoSidesOfFI I think there are two things tamping down the entrepreneur in me. One is the fact that I retired at the first moment it was possible. I was not a victim of the one more syndrome. This means there isn't a lot of margin for error in my plan so I can't take risks. Most decisions are about not screwing up what I have instead trying to get more. The other factor is that I think I'm just getting lazier. It doesn't take much to entertain me these days. But I think I'm pretty busy without working too. I still have rentals to deal, I'm always thinking "I should make a video" and we bought a house in a far away land that I haven't announced on my channel yet. That is taking up a lot of head space and will keep me very busy too.
67 and FI here. Still working three days a week in my business. I am at the peak of my career and living the life. I plan to collect social security at age 70 and continue to work until it isn't fun anymore. I feel so fortunate to be where I am today.
“The Competitor” … finally having enough time to commit to a craft/pursuit/skill where you/I can compete at a meaningful level.
Good addition to the list! I like this…
-Eric
What's FI stand for?
Financial independence
Anyone know what the watch on the thumbnail was?
I've been 'making' watches in Midjourney as a side project, this was one I liked. So, not real unfortunately! Cheers... Eric
No Itunes review from my side X-D
Do like this show though
Happy (January) Thanksgiving!
Right? Forgot that we recorded this so long ago...ha...
Hey, not a podcast listener at all, But I watch your videos here (from Monterrey, México) 😅😂🤣
As for the "Persona" type, not sure, maybe something between the "Lifelong learner" and "Hobbyist" 🤓
Thanks for sharing your conversations
Saludos!
I don't like the idea that I would take 4% or whatever every year.... I have been planning to retire on dividends...dividends allow you to leave your principle which is my preference. It sounds like you guys are more comfortable with a principle withdrawal each year.... it also seems to be working for you which is great.
Dividend investment limits you only to the generally lower return, dividend-paying companies. Having a target withdrawal rate across a diversified portfolio allows you to choose where to withdraw from, be it from your dividend pot (recommend DRIP) or from your growth stocks. Aligning your lifestyle to the dividend schedule will be, lumpy, I imagine.
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Dividend investing and I'm out in a few years.
As a someone who retired recently at 51 with a pension with full benefits 3 years ago from the state, and a disabled military veteran, my readiness to retire was based on how much money I get to keep after expenses is paid while living in the USA since it’s expensive to live there with a good lifestyle. I needed to be able to keep half of my take home pay. I knew eventually moving abroad would be an option for me as I did move to Colombia in May last year, and to Europe in a few more years. Now I’m able to keep more than half of my income. I love traveling, so having enough income for that lifestyle was the main driver. Living abroad allows the most opportunities for that.
I do not undestand why donde Just keep the business but instead of managing yourself create amd structure that handle mostly everything
We're finding it less stressful to manage and operate in a limited time window each week. So far so good!
All this FIRE talk has hurt me more than helped me. I was getting excited about potentially retiring early a few years ago. Seemed I had enough and was on the right track. Worst thing I did was mentioning it to a financial planner in 2020 that talked me into him managing half my assets and thought since I wanted to retire early he said to invest it defensively. Worst decision ever. Got terrible returns and now I’m likely going to have to keep working. I fired the advisor and trying to go Bogleheads and did ok but having a hard time unwinding the mess he put me in. I need advice but having a really hard time finding an advisor that I can trust now. Most only want to manage your assets. I’ve tried a few hourly advisors but get different suggestions that don’t make sense to me. Honestly, this journey to FIRE has just given me anxiety and depression.
Sorry to hear that. What are the poor suggestions you got from the other advisors?
You badly need a trusted friend, former colleague, or extended family member to talk to, who has done all of this successfully. Since there are so many of us now that has been successful at this, at least you have a chance of finding a trusted personal resource to talk to. You need "counselling" about what could work, and work for you, given your history. I suspect you cannot separate the signal from the noise at this point and it is, rightly, causing you anxiety and depression. You are probably better equipped for this than you think and don't have to do that much; take a deep breath and consider my general advice here.
doesn't make money ??!!! Don't sell yourself short. You two are a bargain at twice the price