Childfree Wealth®

Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP® & Bri Conn

Childfree Wealth® means having the time, money, and freedom to achieve your goals and dreams. Being Childfree or permanently childless does not automatically make you 'rich' but it does give you more flexibility in where you invest your time and resources. Join Bri Conn, CFP®, & Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP®, for discussions on life and personal finance that reflect the unique needs of those who are Childfree or permanently childless.DISCLOSURE: This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisors before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast.  For more information and disclosures, visit https://childfreewealth.com

  1. 3D AGO

    Retire Often? How Mini-Retirements Can Supercharge Your Life & Career with Jillian Johnsrud, Ep 163

    Ever feel like the traditional "work for 40 years, then retire" plan just isn't cutting it anymore? You're not alone! This week we're flipping the script with Jillian Johnsrud, author of Retire Often. We dive deep into the concept of "mini-retirements" – intentional breaks from your primary profession that are a month or longer and focused on something meaningful to you. Jillian shares how these strategic breaks aren't just about vacations; they can actually boost your financial independence and career trajectory in surprising ways! We tackle everything from negotiating time off with your current employer (even if you think you're "too important"!) to navigating those well-meaning but often unhelpful opinions from friends and family. Get ready to challenge your assumptions about work, rest, and living your best life, now! Timestamps: 0:48 Why Jillian wrote Retire Often and the life-changing potential of mini-retirements1:42 Challenging the old life script: Why the 25-year grind to retirement might be outdated2:07 The evolving economy and why frequent career breaks are becoming the new norm3:00 What exactly is a mini-retirement? Defining the key elements5:49 Unpacking the financial benefits: How taking time off can actually make you richer 8:57 The power of pausing: Gaining clarity and new opportunities by stepping off the treadmill11:25 Keeping your job and taking a break: Negotiating a mini-retirement with your current employer17:00 Tackling societal pressures and internal narratives around work and rest25:07 Budgeting for your break: You don't need millions to take a mini-retirementConnect with Jillian WebsiteRetire Often BookBook Purchasing LinkFree Opt-In Worksheets:PlanningNegotiatingWorkbookGroup CoachingSocial Media:InstagramTwitterLinkedInYoutube The Childfree Wealth Podcast, hosted by Bri Conn, CFP®, and Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP®, is a financial and lifestyle podcast that explores the unique perspectives and concerns of Childfree individuals and couples. Like the show? Leave us a rating & review! If you want to join the conversation, email us at media@childfreewealth.com, follow Childfree Wealth® on social media, or visit our website www.childfreewealth.com! Join our newsletter HERE. Schedule a meeting with a Childfree Wealth Specialist® HERE. Instagram: @childfreewealth Facebook: @childfreewealth LinkedIn: @childfree-wealth YouTube: @ChildfreeWealthPodcast Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast.

    31 min
  2. OCT 29

    Navigating Your "Second Half of Life": FIRE vs. FILE and Accessing Your Money Early, Ep 162

    Are you tired of the traditional work-and-retire-at-65 plan? This episode is for you. We're diving into the concepts of FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) and FILE (Financial Independence, Live Early), and exploring how you can break free from the traditional script. Dr. Jay and Bri challenge the idea that retirement is an "on/off switch" and introduce the "dimmer switch" approach of FILE, which allows you to design a life you love now, rather than waiting for a distant retirement. Timestamps 🔹 0:48 - When can I retire vs. do you want to retire? 🔹 2:28 - Are you a FIRE or FILE person? 🔹 3:33 - Dr. Jay's "mental chew toy" 🔹 5:39 - The importance of planning for what you’ll do with your time 🔹 6:40 - The "Purpose Code" and living with lowercase "p" purpose 🔹 11:53 - The difficulty of giving up a specific career path 🔹 14:49 - Overcoming self-limiting beliefs 🔹 15:49 - Why age is the least important factor in retirement 🔹 18:24 - The debate: Are you ready to make a change? 🔹 19:13 - What brings you joy? 🔹 25:23 - Accessing your retirement money before 59½ 🔹 28:37 - The rule of 55 🔹 32:17 - The rule of 72t, or SEPP 🔹 34:05 - Accessing Roth IRA contributions penalty-free 🔹 35:48 - Inherited IRAs 🔹 37:53 - 401k loans: The good, the bad, and the ugly 🔹 45:36 - Health insurance options for early retirees Mentioned in this episode: 🔹 Andy & Libbi Financial Planning Sessions 1️⃣ https://www.buzzsprout.com/2002436/episodes/16367564  2️⃣ https://www.buzzsprout.com/2002436/episodes/16367713  3️⃣ https://www.buzzsprout.com/2002436/episodes/16368047  4️⃣ https://www.buzzsprout.com/2002436/episodes/16962286  5️⃣ https://www.buzzsprout.com/2002436/episodes/17411168  🔹 Finding Purpose Beyond Financial Independence with Doc G, Ep 120 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2002436/episodes/16367437  🔹 The Purpose Code by Jordan Grummet, MD https://jordangrumet.com/books/ The Childfree Wealth Podcast, hosted by Bri Conn, CFP®, and Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP®, is a financial and lifestyle podcast that explores the unique perspectives and concerns of Childfree individuals and couples. Like the show? Leave us a rating & review! If you want to join the conversation, email us at media@childfreewealth.com, follow Childfree Wealth® on social media, or visit our website www.childfreewealth.com! Join our newsletter HERE. Schedule a meeting with a Childfree Wealth Specialist® HERE. Instagram: @childfreewealth Facebook: @childfreewealth LinkedIn: @childfree-wealth YouTube: @ChildfreeWealthPodcast Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast.

    49 min
  3. OCT 22

    End-of-Year Checklist 2025: Tax Moves, RMDs & Childfree Strategies That Matter, Ep. 161

    As the year comes to a close, it’s time to pause, review, and make sure your finances are in shape for what’s next. In this episode, Dr. Jay and Childfree Wealth Specialist® Scott Barnes walk through their 2025 Year-End Financial Checklist - covering everything from tax strategies and RMDs to Medicare IRMA surcharges, spending analysis, and estate planning for Childfree individuals. They discuss what’s changed this year, what you need to know before the calendar resets, and how to make smart financial decisions that align with your goals and values. From avoiding penalties to ensuring your estate plan reflects your wishes (including care for your pets), this conversation is packed with practical insights to help you end the year confident and prepared. Tune in for clear guidance, actionable steps, and a reminder that financial planning isn’t just about saving money—it’s about designing a life that truly fits you. We’ll cover: 00:00 — End-of-Year Financial Planning Overview 04:12 — Tax Strategies That Still Work (and What’s New) 09:45 — RMDs, IRMA Surcharges & Medicare Must-Knows 15:30 — Spending Analysis: Does Your Money Reflect Your Values? 22:18 — Estate Planning for the Childfree: Protecting Your Legacy Mentioned in this episode: - Get the Childfree Wealth®'s 2025 Childfree Tax Guide: https://childfreewealth.com/2025-childfree-tax-guide/ - Childfree Trust® Website: https://childfreetrust.com/ - Childfree Wealth® Checkup: https://childfreewealth.com/schedule-a-checkup/ The Childfree Wealth Podcast, hosted by Bri Conn, CFP®, and Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP®, is a financial and lifestyle podcast that explores the unique perspectives and concerns of Childfree individuals and couples. Like the show? Leave us a rating & review! If you want to join the conversation, email us at media@childfreewealth.com, follow Childfree Wealth® on social media, or visit our website www.childfreewealth.com! Join our newsletter HERE. Schedule a meeting with a Childfree Wealth Specialist® HERE. Instagram: @childfreewealth Facebook: @childfreewealth LinkedIn: @childfree-wealth YouTube: @ChildfreeWealthPodcast Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast.

    31 min
  4. OCT 15

    Expat and Digital Nomad Stories: Tales of Life Abroad with Maggie & Sibu, Ep 160

    Ever fantasized about moving abroad or traveling the world while working? This episode is your permission slip to start! Join us as we talk with two incredible women living their best expat and digital nomad lives. First, we chat with Maggie Dickens, founder of Unapologetically Childfree, who shares her inspiring journey as a therapist and business owner in Lisbon, Portugal. She gives us the real scoop on what it's like to transition to a new country and why living authentically is the key to a fulfilling life. Then, we dive into the fascinating world of full-time digital nomad Sibu Szymanowska, who has perfected the art of house-sitting to see the world. As the founder of The Hybrid Tours, she shares her best tips on traveling the globe on a budget and how to find a community no matter where you are. Get ready to have your wanderlust sparked and learn that a life of travel doesn't have to break the bank. Key Points: 🔹Introduction to the episode and Maggie 🔹Maggie's decision to move to Portugal 🔹The logistics of being a business owner while abroad 🔹Maggie's advice for those considering a move 🔹Sibu's introduction and her life as a full-time digital nomad 🔹The magic of house-sitting 🔹The story behind The Hybrid Tours 🔹Why traveling won't ruin your career Connect with Maggie Dickens: - Cathartic Counseling | Unapologetically Childfree™️ - Hello@MaggieDickens.com - Instagram  - Facebook  - TikTok - Find Group Coaching here or here. - Book a FREE Consult here. Connect with Sibu Szymanowska: - The Hybrid Tours  - Go Global with Sibu  - Hey@GoGlobalWithSibu.com - Instagram  - LinkedIn - Find Free Accommodation through Trusted Housesitters here. The Childfree Wealth Podcast, hosted by Bri Conn, CFP®, and Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP®, is a financial and lifestyle podcast that explores the unique perspectives and concerns of Childfree individuals and couples. Like the show? Leave us a rating & review! If you want to join the conversation, email us at media@childfreewealth.com, follow Childfree Wealth® on social media, or visit our website www.childfreewealth.com! Join our newsletter HERE. Schedule a meeting with a Childfree Wealth Specialist® HERE. Instagram: @childfreewealth Facebook: @childfreewealth LinkedIn: @childfree-wealth YouTube: @ChildfreeWealthPodcast Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast.

    1h 7m
  5. OCT 8

    Ditching the "Standard Life Script" and Building Their Childfree Dream, Ep 159

    Join us for a transparent and insightful Childfree Wealth® Checkup with Casey and Garrett, a couple who are preparing to trade in the corporate grind for time abroad. We dive deep into the unique financial fears and planning complexities of a childfree couple in their late 20s and early 30s with a solid net worth. 🔹0:15 What Casey and Garrett want to make sure they talk about in their financial checkup 🔹2:30 Why chasing a child-free financial plan means ditching your parents' and the "standard life script" advice 🔹8:45 Garrett's tax questions, specifically around Roth IRAs and future income clarity 🔹12:10 Casey's goal to live abroad in the next 10–15 years, seeking universal healthcare and residency status, and the emotional struggle between taking the leap and feeling secure  🔹18:55 The reality of remote work and digital nomad visas: why their current jobs won't allow it, and the potential to keep their US residency while wandering the world 🔹24:00 The "social pressures" roadblock: trying to time their big move around family milestones and friends' weddings (the "wedding-baby shower era") 🔹31:30 Breaking down their current spending ($150k in 2024, inflated by a wedding) and the realization that their money isn't always aligning with their values—especially the $30k of "stuff" 🔹38:15 Challenging the FIRE community's "scrimping" mindset and the fear of "mindlessly saving" when they already have a $450,000 net worth 🔹45:00 The goal: having a remote job by 2027, spending $50,000 for the entire move, and being living their best life in another country by 2028 🔹51:45 Actionable steps now: maxing out their Roth 401(k)s before worrying about the complexity of Roth IRAs Mentioned in this episode: 🔹Andy & Libbi planning series - watch the full series here! The Childfree Wealth Podcast, hosted by Bri Conn, CFP®, and Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP®, is a financial and lifestyle podcast that explores the unique perspectives and concerns of Childfree individuals and couples. Like the show? Leave us a rating & review! If you want to join the conversation, email us at media@childfreewealth.com, follow Childfree Wealth® on social media, or visit our website www.childfreewealth.com! Join our newsletter HERE. Schedule a meeting with a Childfree Wealth Specialist® HERE. Instagram: @childfreewealth Facebook: @childfreewealth LinkedIn: @childfree-wealth YouTube: @ChildfreeWealthPodcast Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast.

    51 min
  6. OCT 1

    Thinking of Moving Abroad? Expat Life, Finances, and Exit Plans, Ep. 158

    Is 2025 the year you’re finally considering a move outside the US? Dr. Jay and Bri dive into the increasingly popular topic of becoming an expat, an idea more and more people are considering. They get into the weeds of what it really takes to make moving abroad work, from the financial realities of moving pets (it's not cheap!) to the complex world of tax treaties and international law. Whether you're looking for a permanent move or just a temporary change of scenery, this episode will help you think through the financial and personal considerations you need to live a life on your own terms. Timestamps: 🔹1:20 - Why every country has its "own weirdness" and the importance of having an exit plan 🔹2:50 - The financial realities of an expat life, including the cost of moving pets 🔹5:30 - The first step: looking into citizenship by heritage 🔹9:20 - Exploring digital nomad and retirement visas as an alternative to citizenship 🔹11:45 - The importance of getting professional help early from a CFP, lawyer, and CPA 🔹16:30 - How tax treaties can affect your Roth contributions and other investments 🔹18:20 - Planning for healthcare and long-term care abroad 🔹20:55 - The "expat not expat" plan: maintaining US residency while living abroad 🔹23:25 - Addressing the emotional and social challenges of leaving friends, family, and community 🔹25:30 - A final word on fear and finding a plan that balances your life and finances Mentioned in this Episode: Nomad Capitalist: https://nomadcapitalist.comJoin the Childfree Trust Waitlist: https://childfreelegacy.comSchedule your Childfree Wealth Checkup: https://childfreewealth.com/schedule-a-checkup/ The Childfree Wealth Podcast, hosted by Bri Conn, CFP®, and Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP®, is a financial and lifestyle podcast that explores the unique perspectives and concerns of Childfree individuals and couples. Like the show? Leave us a rating & review! If you want to join the conversation, email us at media@childfreewealth.com, follow Childfree Wealth® on social media, or visit our website www.childfreewealth.com! Join our newsletter HERE. Schedule a meeting with a Childfree Wealth Specialist® HERE. Instagram: @childfreewealth Facebook: @childfreewealth LinkedIn: @childfree-wealth YouTube: @ChildfreeWealthPodcast Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast.

    28 min
  7. SEP 24

    Giving with a "Warm Hand": Alison Patterson on Intentional Philanthropy, Ep 157

    Ever feel like you don't have enough to make a real difference? Or maybe you're just overwhelmed by all the options for giving? You're not alone. This week, we're joined by Allison Patterson of Patterson Philanthropic Advisors, who acts as a "giving coach" to help everyday people create a strategy for their generosity. Listen in to learn how to make an impact that's meaningful to you, no matter what you have to give. 🔹 00:58 - The biggest challenges people face with giving 🔹 01:56 - Overcoming the "scarcity mindset" 🔹 03:01 - How to make a difference that's unique to you 🔹 04:19 - Measuring your impact with your own "measuring stick" 🔹 05:46 - Giving with a warm hand vs. a cold hand 🔹 08:50 - How to identify which charities you can trust 🔹 10:49 - The difference between project, capital, and trust-based giving 🔹 13:03 - The debate between giving to nonprofits and B Corps Connect with Alison: + Website: https://www.patterson-advisors.com/ + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letsgogiveyall/  + LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-b-patterson-mpa-ipa-95aa84b/ Alison offers custom Generosity Strategy Sessions to help you create a giving plan that aligns with your values, resources, and long-term goals. Your generosity should feel authentic, empowering, and impactful. Let's guild a plan that makes a difference-on your terms. https://www.patterson-advisors.com/workwithme The Childfree Wealth Podcast, hosted by Bri Conn, CFP®, and Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP®, is a financial and lifestyle podcast that explores the unique perspectives and concerns of Childfree individuals and couples. Like the show? Leave us a rating & review! If you want to join the conversation, email us at media@childfreewealth.com, follow Childfree Wealth® on social media, or visit our website www.childfreewealth.com! Join our newsletter HERE. Schedule a meeting with a Childfree Wealth Specialist® HERE. Instagram: @childfreewealth Facebook: @childfreewealth LinkedIn: @childfree-wealth YouTube: @ChildfreeWealthPodcast Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast.

    32 min
  8. SEP 17

    The Scariest Thing I've Ever Done: Behind the Scenes of a TEDx Talk, Ep 156

    This episode takes a departure from the usual financial advice to get an unfiltered look at Dr. Jay’s journey to the TEDx stage. Listeners will hear about the months of intense preparation, the fear of stepping on stage, and the unexpected challenges that arose along the way, including a moment where he completely forgot his script. The episode explores how he, a self-described "hardcore introvert," believes this terrifying experience—scarier than his time as a paramedic—was a crucial step to propel the company's mission and start a vital conversation about the Childfree economy with a broader audience. Timestamps: 🔹1:12 The mission: spreading the word about the childfree community. 🔹2:06 Understanding the TEDx platform and how I got involved. 🔹2:59 The demographic "pitch" that started it all. 🔹4:09 Navigating a politically charged topic in the Deep South. 🔹4:48 The insane amount of preparation and work involved. 🔹7:18 Why a verbatim script was a huge challenge for me. 🔹8:52 The core message of my talk: immigration and sustainable growth. 🔹11:34 The unexpected moment that rattled my nerves and safety. 🔹19:40 The moment I stepped on the red dot and the nerves kicked in. 🔹24:00 The on-stage mistake and what happened next. 🔹25:49 What's next and why this was the right choice. 🔹26:33 The bonus of having a TEDx Talk and the call to action. 🔹28:57 Navigating online "haters" and why this is so important. The Childfree Wealth Podcast, hosted by Bri Conn, CFP®, and Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP®, is a financial and lifestyle podcast that explores the unique perspectives and concerns of Childfree individuals and couples. Like the show? Leave us a rating & review! If you want to join the conversation, email us at media@childfreewealth.com, follow Childfree Wealth® on social media, or visit our website www.childfreewealth.com! Join our newsletter HERE. Schedule a meeting with a Childfree Wealth Specialist® HERE. Instagram: @childfreewealth Facebook: @childfreewealth LinkedIn: @childfree-wealth YouTube: @ChildfreeWealthPodcast Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast.

    26 min
4.9
out of 5
38 Ratings

About

Childfree Wealth® means having the time, money, and freedom to achieve your goals and dreams. Being Childfree or permanently childless does not automatically make you 'rich' but it does give you more flexibility in where you invest your time and resources. Join Bri Conn, CFP®, & Dr. Jay Zigmont, CFP®, for discussions on life and personal finance that reflect the unique needs of those who are Childfree or permanently childless.DISCLOSURE: This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisors before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast.  For more information and disclosures, visit https://childfreewealth.com

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