9 to FI - Financial Independence Conversations

Elliot and Josh
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9 to FI is a Financial Independence podcast hosted by Elliot and Josh from St. Louis. Together, they share honest commentary on their journey to FI—covering wins, challenges, and lessons learned along the way. With real conversations and practical insights, they aim to help others navigate the same path, taking Financial Independence from dream to reality.

  1. 3D AGO

    The Great Transition - From FTE to RE | 9 to FI 031 | 9 to FI Podcast

    Do you have feedback or suggestions? We want to hear from you! Contact Elliot: Elliot@ninetofipod.com Contact Josh: Josh@ninetofipod.com The Great Transition: How to Move from Full-Time Work to Early Retirement Without One-More-Year SyndromeElliot and Josh discuss the under-covered topic of transitioning from full-time employment into early retirement. Josh recounts how he ended up at a company he hadn’t heard of, worked there for 25 years, and viewed work primarily as a means to provide benefits and income rather than an identity. They share tactics for excelling while protecting time—prioritizing what a boss says matters most, pushing back on low-value meetings, managing deadlines, and avoiding burnout by not immediately turning in work early—which Josh says helped him become highly efficient and even led to two back-to-back promotions. The conversation then shifts to retirement logistics and psychology: Josh gave 14 months’ notice to a new manager, explains why he wasn’t worried about being let go, and contrasts Elliot’s experience of being quickly escorted out of a sensitive cybersecurity role (though paid out for his notice). They address “one more year syndrome,” with Josh describing how he delayed retirement for milestones like paying off the house and getting their youngest through high school, and how setting a firm retirement date tied to his 25-year anniversary helped commit him to leaving. Josh emphasizes preparing for retirement by testing hobbies and routines before quitting, asking what a perfect day looks like, and ensuring activities are scalable and fulfilling; he admits to pre-retirement anxiety about running out of things to do despite having many interests. They also discuss the social friction of being retired—how people ask “what do you do?”—and how the FI community provides more authentic conversations than broader work-centered culture. Josh shares a recent doctor visit where the doctor was surprised by his retirement and Josh framed his activities as managing rental properties. They close by encouraging listeners to flip the “I’ll be bored” script, use current interests (including social media algorithms) as clues for passions, and start experimenting with how to spend time if money were not a constraint. 00:00 Kicking Off: From ‘Being Vertical’ to Early Retirement Talk 00:29 Why the ‘Retirement Transition’ Is the Missing FIRE Conversation 02:43 Josh’s Career Origin Story: Falling Into a 25-Year Job 04:33 Work as a Means to an End: Not Living to Work 07:43 Cracking the Corporate Code: Priorities, Saying No, and Time Defense 15:54 Cruise Control & Side Hustles During the Workday (Rentals + Woodworking) 20:01 Giving Notice: Why Josh Told His Boss 14 Months Early 21:36 Risk of Getting Shown the Door + Beating ‘One More Year’ Syndrome 28:30 Coordinating Retirement Timing & Hitting Key Milestones 29:10 The ‘One More Year’ Trap: Layering Conservatism in FIRE Plans 32:23 Two Sides of the Decision: Money Confidence vs. Time Purpose 36:44 Designing Your Perfect Day: Test-Driving Retirement Before the Ripcord 39:37 ‘What Do You Do?’: Identity, Productivity, and Being Authentic After FIRE 45:51 Why Community Matters (and When FIRE Media Becomes Consumption) 51:33 Closing Advice: Flip the Script on Boredom & Reverse-Engineer Your Day Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support! Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠ ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠ Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠ ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠ Books mentioned in this episode: Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI

    56 min

  2. FEB 16

    Craft Your Legacy - Reverse Obituary | 9 to FI 030 | 9 to FI Podcast

    Navigating Life's Inevitable: Reverse Obituaries, Financial Planning, and Living Fully In this episode, Josh and Elliot discuss the impact of Snow Apocalypse 2026 and delve into the concept of a 'reverse obituary,' inspired by Warren Buffet's idea of planning life with the end in mind. They highlight the importance of financial preparedness and estate planning, emphasizing actions like creating wills, trusts, and TODs. Personal anecdotes about preparing for the inevitable and ensuring smooth transitions for loved ones are shared. Additionally, they touch on balancing life and work within the FIRE community, advocating for thoughtful life planning and making the most of the present. 00:00 Introduction and Snow Apocalypse 2026 00:50 The Concept of a Reverse Obituary 01:50 Personal Stories and Financial Preparedness 05:45 Balancing Life and Work 10:55 Reflecting on Life Goals 22:15 Practical Steps for Financial Planning 26:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Do you have feedback or suggestions? We want to hear from you! Contact Elliot: Elliot@ninetofipod.com Contact Josh: Josh@ninetofipod.com Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support! Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠ ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠ Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠ ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠ Books mentioned in this episode: The Art Of Spending Money: https://amzn.to/45SnKOp Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI

    27 min

  3. FEB 9

    Missing Work and Improving Health | 9 to FI 029 | 9 to FI Podcast

    Navigating Early Retirement: Reflections and Plans In this episode of 'Nine to FI,' hosts Josh and Elliot discuss the ups and downs of early retirement. Josh shares his experiences since retiring at 48, including the surprising challenges of maintaining a routine and staying healthy. The duo also reflects on 'Blue Monday' and its impact on mental health. They talk about their plans for the future, including potential travel to France and Glacier National Park. The conversation covers the perks and drawbacks of leaving the corporate world, with a focus on social connections and the sense of stability provided by a steady paycheck. Both hosts reveal their personal goals and struggles, aiming to inspire listeners who are considering early retirement. 00:00 Introduction to Nine to FI Podcast 00:39 Discussing Blue Monday and Personal Updates 01:49 Planning Summer Adventures 06:23 Reflecting on Full-Time Employment 17:10 Maintaining Relationships Post-Retirement 29:13 Health and Fitness Goals 41:57 Conclusion and Listener Engagement Do you have feedback or suggestions? We want to hear from you! Contact Elliot: Elliot@ninetofipod.com Contact Josh: Josh@ninetofipod.com Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support! Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠ ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠ Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠ ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠ Books mentioned in this episode: Come find us and subscribe on ⁠YouTube⁠: ⁠http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI⁠

    43 min

  4. FEB 2

    Setting Up and Helping Out Kids | 9 to FI 028 | 9 to FI Podcast

    Balancing Financial Support: Navigating Family Investments in Children's Futures In this episode, hosts Josh and Elliot discuss varying approaches to financially supporting children from high school through to adulthood. They explore concepts such as purchasing first cars, college funding, and financial independence, drawing on their own experiences as well as the evolving landscape of education and employment. They also touch on the importance of balancing support with encouraging self-reliance, and consider the potential benefits of providing financial assistance at pivotal life milestones like weddings and buying a first home. The conversation is framed within the broader context of creating a stable, supportive family environment while fostering independence and financial responsibility. 00:00 Introduction: Supporting Children Financially 00:26 Hosts' Personal Updates and Reflections 04:10 High School Years: Car Purchases and Responsibilities 17:00 College Support: Plans and Perspectives 31:06 Post-College Independence and Financial Responsibility 34:15 Weddings and Financial Gifts 39:57 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support! Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠ ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠ Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠ ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠ Books mentioned in this episode: Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI We want to hear from you! Contact Elliot: Elliot@ninetofipod.com Contact Josh: Josh@ninetofipod.com

    46 min

  5. JAN 26

    2025 Expenses - Sharing Our Real Numbers | 9 to FI 027 | 9 to FI Podcast

    Year-End Financial Review: Analyzing Spending Habits and Optimizing SavingsIn this episode of Nine to FI, Josh and Elliot delve into their year-end financial reviews, discussing Josh's early retirement journey and Elliot's steps towards the same goal. The hosts share their insights on managing finances post-retirement, including a detailed analysis of their spending categories such as travel, groceries, dining out, and utilities. Josh explains their approach to utilizing owner distributions from rental properties to cover expenses, while Elliot reflects on using various financial tools and spreadsheets to track savings and manage investments. Both emphasize the importance of scrutinizing expenses to identify possible areas for optimization and share strategies for continuous financial improvement. The episode wraps up with plans to revisit this detailed financial review in the future to keep refining their budgeting processes.00:00 Introduction to Nine to FI Podcast00:39 Casual Catch-Up and Weather Talk01:52 Year-End Financial Review04:59 Detailed Breakdown of Expenses11:06 Comparing Annual Spending14:39 Tools and Methods for Financial Tracking22:26 RSUs and Future Financial Planning23:26 Josh's Financial Estimates and Projections25:07 Analyzing Credit Card Spending25:56 Grocery and Household Expenses27:13 Travel Expenditures Breakdown28:42 Dining Out Costs34:16 Bills and Utilities Overview34:52 Cutting Down on Subscriptions36:29 Entertainment and Shopping36:55 Automotive and Home Improvement40:47 Income and Cash Flow Management45:16 Optimizing Business Expenses46:35 Conclusion and Future Plans Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support! Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠ ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠ Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠ ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠ Books mentioned in this episode: Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI We want to hear from you! Contact Elliot: Elliot@ninetofipod.com Contact Josh: Josh@ninetofipod.com

    47 min

  6. JAN 19

    Time To Leave The FIRE Community | 9 to FI 026 | 9 to FI Podcast

    Navigating the Journey Beyond Financial IndependenceIn this episode of the 'Nine to FI' podcast, hosts Josh and Elliot discuss an article from the Mad Fientist about leaving the FIRE (Financial Independence Retire Early) movement. They explore the nuanced stages of pursuing financial independence and the shift in focus from aggressive saving to enjoying financial freedom. The conversation highlights the challenges of maintaining the FIRE mentality post-retirement, the evolution of personal priorities, and the importance of balancing community engagement with other life interests. The hosts also reflect on their own experiences and share insights for both newcomers and seasoned members of the FIRE community.00:00 Introduction to Nine to FI Podcast00:45 Discussing the Mad Fientist Article03:04 Reactions to the Article's Bold Statements05:42 Personal Experiences with the FIRE Community10:40 Balancing FIRE and Personal Life16:12 Challenges of Maintaining FIRE Habits18:47 Reflections on FIRE and Future Directions37:33 Closing Thoughts and Listener Appreciation Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support! Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠ ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠ Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠ ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠ Books mentioned in this episode: Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI We want to hear from you! Contact Elliot: Elliot@ninetofipod.com Contact Josh: Josh@ninetofipod.com

    38 min

  7. JAN 12

    Hey Amazon, you're fired! | 9 to FI 025 | 9 to FI Podcast

    Navigating Holiday Breaks and Amazon Prime CancellationIn this episode of the Nine to FI podcast, hosts Josh and Elliot discuss their experiences and reflections on holiday breaks, detailing the contrast between Josh's retired life and Elliot's imminent return to full-time employment. They dive into the 'Sunday scaries' and how the ability to manage time during holidays has shifted. The episode also covers a discussion on the decision to cancel Amazon Prime in favor of supporting local businesses, including the reasons behind it and the resulting changes to their shopping habits. The hosts highlight their ad-free podcast model and encourage listener support through links in the show notes.Is amazon prime worth it? Amazon prime cancellation. Breaking up with Amazon. Quitting Amazon. Why I cancelled amazon prime00:00 Introduction to Nine to FI Podcast00:41 Holiday Reflections and Work Transitions01:37 Balancing Work and Personal Life04:38 Morning Routines and Exercise07:10 Amazon Prime Cancellation Discussion09:42 Supporting Local Communities Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support! Mint Mobile - We both use ⁠Mint Mobile⁠ and save a ton on our phone plan: ⁠https://fbuy.me/vgAmz⁠ ⁠Empower⁠ is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting Wanna create a podcast? We use ⁠Descript⁠ Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of ⁠Chase⁠ ⁠Buy Us a Coffee⁠ - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you Want to save money on gas? Try ⁠Upside!⁠ Books mentioned in this episode: Come find us and subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@9toFI We want to hear from you! Contact Elliot: Elliot@ninetofipod.com Contact Josh: Josh@ninetofipod.com

    39 min

  8. JAN 5

    Do you have Goals or Resolutions? | 9 to FI 024 | 9 to FI Podcast

    Setting Intentional Goals and Resolutions for Growth in 2026 In this episode, Josh and Elliot discuss their approaches to goal-setting and New Year's resolutions as they enter 2026. Josh shares his practice of yearly goal-setting with his wife while Elliot shares his preference for building sustainable systems over resolutions. They reflect on their journeys, including lessons learned from the financial independence (FI) community, the importance of planning, and the significance of maintaining health. They also commit to becoming each other's accountability partners for health goals in 2026. The episode ends with a request for listener support via YouTube subscriptions to help enhance the podcast's quality. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:06 Setting Goals for the New Year 03:59 The Concept of Resolutions vs. Goals 04:58 Personal Experiences with Resolutions 16:05 Health and Wellness Goals 28:34 Podcast Journey and Future Plans 35:27 Conclusion and Call to Action Any of these products help the show. Thanks for your support! Mint Mobile - We both use Mint Mobile and save a ton on our phone plan http://fbuy.me/vgAmz Empower is Josh’s choice for Net Worth and Budgeting https://empowerreferral.link/joshuaepley Wanna create a podcast? We use Descript https://descript.cello.so/IVNVNzQT7Gf Looking for a new credit card?  We’re big fans of Chase https://www.referyourchasecard.com/226d/VXSG31N8OF Buy Us a Coffee - One time donation or monthly, it’s up to you https://buymeacoffee.com/9tofi Want to save money on gas? Try Upside! https://upside.app.link/JOSH56339 Books mentioned in this episode: James Clear's Atomic Habits: https://amzn.to/49zWfv7

    37 min
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4.6
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

9 to FI is a Financial Independence podcast hosted by Elliot and Josh from St. Louis. Together, they share honest commentary on their journey to FI—covering wins, challenges, and lessons learned along the way. With real conversations and practical insights, they aim to help others navigate the same path, taking Financial Independence from dream to reality.

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