Our guest today is Jacqueline (Jack) Howard, head of Money Wellness at Ally Financial, a leading voice in financial health & wellness, and fierce change maker. We are thrilled to bring you this special episode recorded live from FinCon 2024 in Atlanta, GA! It's no secret that we love Ally and talk about them often on the podcast. From the high yield savings accounts to the cool buckets that are perfect for allocating your sinking funds, they're our favorite. But what really blew us away in this interview was Jack's money story and how it led to her incredible work as the face of financial wellness at Ally.
Jack blends personal finance and psychology to help people achieve holistic financial well-being that helps shift their perspective on money. She shares more about Ally's newest community initiative, Money Roots, a free financial education program designed to help people uncover the 'why' behind their money behaviors. Jack also gets vulnerable with us as she shares her own resilient story of the loss of her mother as a young girl and winning her heroic battle against breast cancer. With her giving spirit, she proudly served as chair of the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Detroit in 2023 and 2024.
Special thanks to LLC Attorney for sponsoring the Podcast booth at FinCon 2024.
Thank you to our sponsor:
Resources mentioned on the show:
🌐 Ally.com
Sign up for free Ally ‘Money Roots’ Virtual Workshop
5 steps to uncover your money story
Jack's appearance on the show 'Side Hustlers' (Episode 2)
Catching Up to FI Episode: Sinking Funds Are Sexy | Bill Yount & Becky Heptig | 003
Support Jack’s favorite charity: Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Detroit (Search on 'Jacqueline Howard')
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the show on your podcast player and leave us a rating or review. This helps others find the show and keeps us creating great content for you!
Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.
Karsten Jeske also known as “Big ERN” is the founder and genius behind Early Retirement Now. He writes on all topics related to personal finance but is best known for his comprehensive series on safe withdrawal strategies. In this episode he dives deep into the intricacies of safe withdrawal rates, sequence of return risk, the importance of market valuations for retirees and the 'one more year' syndrome often discussed in the Financial Independence community. Karsten also shares his personal journey from a modest upbringing in Germany to early retirement in the U.S.
Thank you to our sponsor:
Resources mentioned on the show:
The Safe Withdrawal Rate Series
Ten things the “Makers” of the 4% Rule don’t want you to know (SWR Series Part 26)
Karsten on Two Sides of FI YouTube
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the show on your podcast player and leave us a rating or review. This helps others find the show and keeps us creating great content for you!
Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.
In this episode, Jesse Cramer discusses the essential considerations for pre and post-retirement planning and the major factors late starters should consider. Jesse is founder of the award winning 'The Best Interest' blog and podcast. He left a career as a mechanical and aerospace engineer to work with clients at a fiduciary, fee-only financial planning firm. Now, he uses those valuable engineering skills to simplify the most complex financial topics into fun explanations for his clients and his audience.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Boomer Benefits: The nation’s leading family-owned Medicare brokers
Resources mentioned on the show:
Blog Post: The Market Reacts to An Assassination Attempt
Blog Post: It’s Not Too Late: 6 Finance Tips for Older Beginners
Blog Post: NVIDIA’s Day in the Sun(flower)
Social Security Made Simple | Mike Piper | 054
Open Social Security calculator
Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.
By day, Dr. Disha Spath is an internist caring for her patient’s physical and mental health. By night, my she's known as The Frugal Physician and hosts the Finding Financial Freedom podcast. In this episode, Disha shares her personal journey from financial struggles to becoming an advocate for frugality and financial independence. She also discusses the differences between frugal and cheap, the gender wage gap, and strategies to manage income disparities in relationships.
*Trigger warning: There are brief mentions of suicide in this episode.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Boomer Benefits: The nation’s leading family-owned Medicare brokers
Resources mentioned on the show: (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
Finding Financial Freedom Podcast
SPIVA® U.S. Scorecard, Year-End 2023, S&P Dow Jones Indices
“The Loser’s Game” by Charles D. Ellis, Financial Analysts Journal, Jan/Feb, 1995
“Why Lifestyle Creep is Mostly a Myth” by Nick Maggiulli, Of Dollars And Data, July 23,2024
“She makes $550K a year. Her husband makes $60K. Here is how it affects her relationship”, July 25, 2024, CNBC
Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.
Andy Hill is an award-winning blogger, podcaster, Youtuber and family finance coach. All under the brand of 'Marriage, Kids, and Money’, his primary focus is helping families build wealth and happiness. He shares his inspiring story of going from a $50,000 negative net worth to achieving financial independence and now living his best 'Coast FI' life with his family. Andy also shares how he is creating a meaningful legacy of giving and generosity with his kids.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Boomer Benefits: The nation’s leading family-owned Medicare brokers https://boomerbenefits.com/catchingup/
DeleteMe: Your personal data is yours again. Hands-free subscription service that removes you from data broker sites. Enter the code Catchingup at checkout to get 20% off http://joindeleteme.com/catchingup
Resources mentioned on the show: (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
🌐 Marriage, Kids, and Money Website https://www.marriagekidsandmoney.com
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@MarriageKidsandMoney
Instagram http://instagram.com/marriagekidsandmoney
Podcast https://marriagekidsandmoney.com/podcast-archive/
Coast FIRE Number: What Is It And How To Calculate It https://marriagekidsandmoney.com/coast-fire-number/
Charities for Children: 12 Organizations Giving Kids a Better Chance at Life https://marriagekidsandmoney.com/top-charities-for-children/
An Alternative to 10% Giving for the Modern Family https://marriagekidsandmoney.com/podcast/alternative-to-10-percent-giving/
🕒 Timestamps/Chapters:
00:00 The Financial Wake-Up Call
00:41 Discovering the Debt-Free Movements
02:25 Introduction to Andy Hill
06:18 Andy Hill's Financial Journey
13:37 The House Blunders and Lessons Learned
17:31 The Psychological Benefits of Being Mortgage-Free
28:02 Understanding Coast FI
31:47 Understanding Coast FI
33:16 Personal Journey to Coast FI
33:41 Balancing Work and Life
35:22 Marriage Counseling and Career Shift
38:38 Transition to Financial Coaching
42:40 Generational Wealth and Giving
44:33 Teaching Kids About Money and Generosity
53:17 Family Traditions and Generosity
55:25 Final Thoughts and Reflections
Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.
This episode explores the intricate and confusing world of Medicare with leading expert Danielle Roberts. Danielle is founding partner at Boomer Benefits, an agency that has helped thousands of ordinary Americans learn and navigate their entry into Medicare since 2005. She's also author of the bestselling book '10 Costly Medicare Mistakes You Can't Afford to Make'. Danielle breaks through the confusion and explains Medicare's history, enrollment rules, Parts A, B, C, and D, and the differences between Medigap and Medicare Advantage plans. Discover the importance of early planning, common pitfalls to avoid, and critical decisions about Medicare coverage.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Boomer Benefits: The nation’s leading family-owned Medicare brokers https://boomerbenefits.com/catchingup/
DeleteMe: Your personal data is yours again. Hands-free subscription service that removes you from data broker sites. Enter the code Catchingup at checkout to get 20% off http://joindeleteme.com/catchingup
Resources mentioned on the show: (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
🌐 Boomer Benefits Website: https://boomerbenefits.com
Boomer Benefits YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@boomerbenefits
Boomer Benefits Facebook Group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/BoomerBenefits/
📗 10 Costly Medicare Mistakes You Can't Afford to Make: https://amzn.to/3BLdL1b
Catching Up to FI Health Savings Account Episode Part 1, Episode 98: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vaUH8UfPTQ&t=3629s
Catching Up to FI Health Savings Account Episode Part 2, Episode 99: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36S67X4s4pc&t=8s
🕒 Timestamps/Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Medicare Planning
00:25 Common Medicare Mistakes
01:28 Welcome to Catching Up to FI
02:04 Shoutouts and Acknowledgements
03:31 Introducing Danielle Roberts
05:31 History and Evolution of Medicare
07:59 Medicare Eligibility and Enrollment
10:55 Understanding Medicare Parts A and B
18:40 Medicare Part D: Drug Coverage
27:24 Medigap Plans Explained
36:56 Medicare Advantage Plans
42:17 Understanding Medigap and Medicare Advantage Plans
44:00 Cost Savings with Medicare Advantage
45:21 Tips for Medicare Advantage Plan Holders
46:57 Using HSA Dollars for Medicare Premiums
50:56 Common Medicare Mistakes to Avoid
01:08:22 The Importance of Reviewing Your Coverage Annually
01:12:19 Final Thoughts and Future of Medicare
Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.
Cris Gawlik sold all her possessions in 2019 to travel the world, and in this episode she shares her fascinating nomadic journey. Learn how she utilizes geo-arbitrage, manages her finances on the go, and maintains strong social connections across the globe. She gives us insights into how she handles banking, health insurance, and taxes while living internationally. This conversation provides a comprehensive guide for those considering a similar path to financial independence. Get inspired by her creative approach to generating income and the community she finds along her adventurous journey.
Thank you to our sponsor:
DeleteMe: Your personal data is yours again
Hands-free subscription service that removes you from data broker sites. Enter the code Catchingup at checkout to get 20% off: http://joindeleteme.com/catchingup
Resources mentioned on the show: (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
Website
https://christinagawlik.wixsite.com/asuitcaseandasmile
https://www.facebook.com/asuitcaseandasmile
Linktree
https://linktr.ee/ChristinaGawlik
IRS Foreign earned income exclusion
https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-earned-income-exclusion
🕒 Timestamps/Chapters:
00:00 Why I Chose to Leave the U.S.
00:38 Designing a Life Abroad
02:18 Welcome to Catching Up to FI
03:19 Introducing Dr. Christina Gawlik
04:34 Chris's Nomadic Lifestyle
08:01 Early Life and Influences
13:47 Financial Missteps and Lessons Learned
22:03 Transition to a Nomadic Life
32:31 Building a Business on the Road40:10 Creative Job Hunting Strategies
41:29 Navigating Logistics as a Digital Nomad
41:52 Banking Tips for Global Travelers
46:16 Overcoming Language Barriers
48:16 Health Insurance and Medical Care Abroad
57:48 Handling Taxes as an Expat
59:32 Social Life and Loneliness
01:02:50 Impact of COVID-19 on Nomadic Life
01:06:12 Future Plans and Reflections
Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.
Subscribe and Watch on YouTube
Join host Bill and guest Diana Falck as they explore the intersection of community resilience and getting involved. In the wake of a recent crisis in Western North Carolina and East Tennessee, the duo highlights local relief efforts and community collaboration. Then in this special 100th episode, we get back to the basics with a step-by-step guide for late starters on the path to financial independence. Our guest for this special episode is original Catching Up to FI co-host, Becky Heptig! She joins Bill and Jackie as they share insights and guide you through how to get on track with your finances. They not only share what to do but in what order. It’s hard starting late and feeling like you’ve done everything wrong. The good news is, there is time to catch up and this is the place to start.
Thank you to our sponsors:
💵 Abundo Wealth: Advice-Only Financial Planning for Everyone https://www.abundowealth.com
❌ DeleteMe: Your personal data is yours again http://joindeleteme.com/catchingup
🧑🏼🏫 Personal Finance Club (Use code CUTOFI to get $30 OFF) PFC courses https://courses.personalfinanceclub.com/?ref=0114d0 or PFC investing course only https://courses.personalfinanceclub.com/courses/build-wealth-by-investing-in-index-funds?ref=0114d0
🍑 Nectarine: Advice-Only Financial Advisors https://hellonectarine.com/r/cutfi (Catching Up to FI will be compensated by Nectarine if you use our affiliate link, which creates an incentive and conflict of interest. We are not current clients or employees of Nectarine.)
🏦 Boston Institute of Finance Personal Growth Track: Enter code catchingup to get 5% off any “Personal Growth Track” course or package http://www.bostonifi.com/personal-growth
Resources mentioned on the show: (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
Red Cross: Donate
Episodes:
Retiring Before Mom & Dad | Rob Berger | 25
A Hero’s Journey: The Mother of All Case Studies! | Krista and Ed Kim | 97
Enoughness: Your Life or Your Money | Vicki Robin | 95
Doña Quixote, Life Energy, and The Coming of Aging | Vicki Robin | 94
Shocking Simple Math Behind Early Retirement ~Mr. Money Mustache
The Simple Path to Wealth: Your Road Map to Financial Independence and a Rich, Free Life ~JL Collins
Ally High Yield Savings Account (4% as of 10/4/24 + $100 Bonus with direct deposit-by 12/31/22024)
Personal Finance Club - example for late starters: https://www.personalfinanceclub.com/is-it-too-late-to-start-to-investing
The Ultimate Investing Checklist: https://www.personalfinanceclub.com/the-ultimate-investing-checklist
Ground Rules according to the Money Guys 2/1/24: https://moneyguy.com/article/foo
🕒 Timestamps/Chapters:
00:00 Call to Action: How You Can Help in the Disaster in North Carolina and Tennessee
05:28 Introduction
07:50 Celebrating 100 Episodes with Becky Heptig
10:52 Why People Get a Late Start in Financial Independence 17:16 Disadvantages of a Late Start
25:26 Advantages of a Late Start
38:01 Financial Order of Operations for Late Starters
44:57 Eliminating Debt: The First Step to Financial Freedom
45:57 Big Picture Wealth Building Strategies
47:27 Calculating Your Net Worth and FI Number
49:32 Increasing Income and Reducing Expenses
51:06 Playing Defense: Insurance and Protection
54:51 Offensive Strategies: Emergency Funds and Employer Matches
01:01:35 Investing Wisely: Roth IRAs, HSAs, and More
01:06:15 Risk Tolerance and Rebalancing Your Portfolio
01:10:02 Maximizing Employer Plans and Mid-Range Debts
01:12:55 Hyperaccumulation and Taxable Brokerage Accounts
01:16:06 Prepaying Future Expenses and College Funding
01:22:57 Reevaluating and Automating Your Financial Plan
01:27:09 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Don't forget to subscribe to "Catching Up to FI" for more insightful episodes. Tap the bell icon 🔔 to get notified of new episodes!
✍🏻 Leave a Comment: Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below. Have questions for our guests or the hosts? Drop them here, and we’ll get back to you!
👍🏻👍🏿 Like, Share, and Subscribe: If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe! Your support helps us bring more valuable content to you.
Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.
In the second episode of this special two-part series we continue with our deep dive conversation about Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) with Bill and Jackie, and guest co-host, Jeff York (also known as the Wealthy Custodian from episode 74 & 76). We break down in-depth scenarios, including unique contribution rules for domestic partners and adult children, investment strategies, drawdown plans and estate planning considerations. We answer listener questions and share our wish list for HSAs in the future.
For this episode we are providing a formal presentation here:
Thank you to our sponsors:
Abundo Wealth: Advice-Only Financial Planning for Everyone
DeleteMe: Your personal data is yours again
Personal Finance Club: Use code CUTOFI to get $30 OFF any course or PFC investing course only
Nectarine: Advice-Only Financial Advisors (Catching Up to FI will be compensated by Nectarine if you use our affiliate link, which creates an incentive and conflict of interest. We are not current clients or employees of Nectarine.)
Boston Institute of Finance Personal Growth Track: Enter code catchingup to get 5% off any “Personal Growth Track” course or package
Resources mentioned on the show: (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
HSA Rules and Regulations (IRS Pub#969)
Qualified Medical/Dental/Vision Expenses (IRS Pub#502)
Preventive Care and Chronic Conditions (IRS Notice)
Morningstar / Best HSA Providers
Kitces / HSA ‘Deathbed Drawdown’
Wex Health / HDHP with HSA vs. traditional health plan calculator
Consumer Friendly List of HSA-Eligible expenses
🕒 Time stamps:
00:00 Introduction to HSA Series Part Two
00:23 Maximizing HSA Contributions for Families
02:34 Drawdown Strategies for Health Savings Accounts
06:59 Planning for HSA Beneficiaries
14:55 Case Study: Domestic Partners and HSA Contributions
20:06 Q&A Session: HSA Myths, Tips, and Tricks
28:17 Evaluating HSA Options for Chronic Conditions
28:53 Financial Considerations for High Deductible Plans
29:54 Using Calculators to Compare Health Plans
31:25 HSA Contributions and Family Plans
33:18 Maximizing HSA Benefits and Investment Strategies
43:54 Legislative Changes and Future of HSAs
47:57 HSAs for Late Starters in Financial Independence
53:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.
In this special two-part episode we unveil the 'Wealthy Custodian,' Jeff York (from episode 74 & 76), and take a deep dive into the world of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). Jeff joins as co-host along with Bill and Jackie (our HSA Maven) to share how they supersized thier HSAs and discovered how powerful they can be on the path to FI. This comprehensive series starts with Part 1 where we explore tips, tricks, and common misconceptions about HSAs and tackle little known strategies that are rarely discussed. We'll also talk about who should consider a high deductible plan, eligible expenses, bright ideas like using your HSA for health expenses abroad, and even IRA to HSA transfers. Whether you are new to HSAs or looking to maximize your FI strategy, you won't want to miss this episode. Stay tuned for Part 2 where we explore HSA drawdown strategies, advanced scenarios and answer listener questions!
For this episode we are providing a formal presentation here:
Thank you to our sponsors:
Abundo Wealth: Advice-Only Financial Planning for Everyone
DeleteMe: Your personal data is yours again
Personal Finance Club: Use code CUTOFI to get $30 OFF any course or PFC investing course only
Nectarine: Advice-Only Financial Advisors (Catching Up to FI will be compensated by Nectarine if you use our affiliate link, which creates an incentive and conflict of interest. We are not current clients or employees of Nectarine.)
Boston Institute of Finance Personal Growth Track: Enter code catchingup to get 5% off any “Personal Growth Track” course or package
Resources mentioned on the show: (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
HSA Rules and Regulations (IRS Pub#969)
Qualified Medical/Dental/Vision Expenses (IRS Pub#502)
Preventive Care and Chronic Conditions (IRS Notice)
Morningstar / Best HSA Providers
Kitces / HSA ‘Deathbed Drawdown’
Wex Health / HDHP with HSA vs. traditional health plan calculator
Consumer Friendly List of HSA-Eligible expenses
🕒 Time stamps:
00:00 Introduction to the Special Episode
00:07 Unveiling the Wealthy Custodian
00:33 Diving into HSAs: Tips, Tricks, and Misnomers
03:00 Personal HSA Journeys
13:09 Understanding High Deductible Plans
25:02 Flexible Spending Accounts vs. Health Savings Accounts
28:11 HSA Eligibility and Contribution Limits
34:09 State-Specific HSA Tax Rules
37:58 Unique Provisions for Different States
38:10 Understanding the Last Month Rule
40:09 HSA Eligible Expenses
41:48 Supersizing Your HSA
42:27 Investment Strategies for HSA
44:50 Maximizing Contributions and Advanced Strategies
47:20 Reimbursement Strategies and Record Keeping
52:40 IRA to HSA Conversions
01:02:16 Bright Ideas for HSA Usage
01:09:21 Using HSA Funds Abroad
01:11:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.
This heartfelt episode dives into the incredible story of Krista and Ed. From growing up in poverty to facing financial insecurity as adults, this resilient couple shares their journey of overcoming adversity and finding hope in the FIRE movement. Discover how a deep bond of love, open communication, strategic planning, and an unwavering spirit led them to financial independence. Learn about their pivotal experiences, including a live case study at the EconoMe conference and actionable tips that can help you on your financial journey. Don’t miss their powerful message of never giving up and transforming your dreams into reality.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Abundo Wealth: Advice-Only Financial Planning for Everyone
DeleteMe: Your personal data is yours again
Personal Finance Club: Use code CUTOFI to get $30 OFF any course or PFC investing course only
Nectarine: Advice-Only Financial Advisors (Catching Up to FI will be compensated by Nectarine if you use our affiliate link, which creates an incentive and conflict of interest. We are not current clients or employees of Nectarine.)
Boston Institute of Finance Personal Growth Track: Enter code catchingup to get 5% off any “Personal Growth Track” course or package
Resources mentioned on the show: (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
EconoMe Case Study: Real Life Numbers
Case Study Template🕒 Time stamps:
00:00 A Childhood of Hardship and Resilience
02:11 Introduction to the Case Study
02:27 Meet Krista and Ed
03:03 The Financial Journey Begins
06:37 Krista's Reading Habit
08:11 Ed's Gaming Passion
08:45 Ed's Immigrant Upbringing
15:00 Krista's Struggles and Triumphs
25:44 The Debt Story Unfolds
36:56 Exploring Contentment and Consumerism
37:16 Discovering the FI Movement
39:09 Joining the ChooseFI Community
41:32 Applying for the EconoMe Case Study
42:49 Sharing Financial Details Publicly
45:53 Case Study Insights and Learnings
47:22 Financial Goals and Planning
52:57 Budgeting and Debt Management
01:03:59 Investment Strategies and Risk Tolerance
01:07:25 Final Thoughts and Advice for Late Starters
Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.Your feedback is valuable to us. Should you encounter any bugs, glitches, lack of functionality or other problems, please email us on [email protected] or join Moon.FM Telegram Group where you can talk directly to the dev team who are happy to answer any queries.