Contempt, concern, surprise, envy, admiration, and support; just a few of the reactions Laura received when she announced she was retiring early, closing her biomedical research laboratory, and beginning a new phase of life beyond work. Some reactions were expected and some surprised her. In this episode, Eric and Laura unpack these interactions and chart their next steps as they prepare to leave work and step into early retirement. Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/unexpected ..read more

What essential lessons did Jason learn from the most impactful travel he's done to date? In this episode, Eric and Jason catch up on a number of recent changes in their lives. Topics discussed include Eric and Laura's recent big announcement, Jason's Camino experience, the benefits and challenges of pre- and post-FI travel, and much more. Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/catchingup ..read more

Eric and Laura discuss their preparations as they near their FI number and Laura prepares to notify her employer that she's leaving. Recorded in the fall of 2023, this behind-the-scenes discussion was prepared for release on the week that Laura submits her resignation letter (which she did on Thursday!) They discuss their hesitations, changes of heart, and ready themselves for what's ahead. Show notes + resources: https://twosidesoffi.com/one-step-closer-to-fi ..read more

Have you considered living a life outside of your home country in retirement? Jeff went from broke at 38 to financially independent at 45 with six rental properties supporting them. He and his wife relocated to St Thomas, USVI for a few years, bought a rental property in Puerto Rico and now they’re preparing to relocate to Spain. So, if you’ve considered what a life outside the mainland US might look like, I think you’ll find his story interesting. Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/retirementality ..read more

What's the true cost of healthcare in early retirement and can it break your budget? In this episode, Jason shares his experiences with Eric after three years on an ACA health insurance plan. Topics discussed include selecting and evaluating plans, how to estimate your income, premium tax credits, and why 2023 was Jason's worst year for healthcare expenses to date. Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/ouch ..read more

What financial lessons did we learn last year and what will we do differently in 2024? In today's episode, Eric and Jason discuss their end of year review processes. Topics include investing goals, their net worth reviews, lessons learned, and much more. Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/newyear ..read more

What happens if all the travel you want to do after retiring would break the budget? In this episode, Eric and Jason talk about the importance of travel to their early retirement plans. Topics discussed include financial concerns, disagreeing with your spouse, the value of planning by age range, and much more. Show notes: https://twosidesoffi.com/travel ..read more

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 ..read more

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 ..read more

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 ..read more