The Irish FIRE Podcast

In this episode, Michael shares what a typical Tuesday looks like in his life now - not filled with long workdays or dramatic financial spreadsheets, but with meaningful work, family time, fitness, golf, and sunshine. He reflects on what FIRE really means to him: not quitting work, but having the freedom to design an extraordinary life on his own terms. Michael also responds to some recent criticism of their FIRE journey and offers his honest thoughts on what FIRE is really about. Show Notes: Join the newsletter at: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael shares how a disagreement with his wife over a €9 cupcake sparked a deeper conversation about budgeting and money spending. He reflects on his evolving perspective on FIRE now that he's technically financial independence, and how his life is gradually transitioning into semi-retirement. He also discusses insights from a recent financial review with Ronan from Metis Ireland and answers a question he received in a WhatsApp group about being financially independent as a landlord. Show Notes: Follow Alan & Katie's Youtube Chanel: https://www.youtube.com/@rebeldonegans Become a newsletter subscriber: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael talks with Shane O'Brien, author of From Bucket List to Best Self. Shane, originally from Clare and now living in Castleconnell, Co. Limerick, recently wrote a book about the power of using a bucket list as a template for personal development. In the episode, he shares how FIRE and personal development go hand in hand and explains how developing a bucket list can support your journey to financial independence. He also opens up about overcoming a childhood tragedy and how his bucket list played a key role in helping him learn to swim” Show Notes Buy the book here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bucket-List-Best-Self/dp/B0DVS1L6WK Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael explores whether his family has officially reached financial independence.  He breaks down their investment portfolio, rental income, and expected expenses to assess if they can sustain a €40,000 annual budget.  He also considers different strategies for managing withdrawals, potential risks, and what financial independence truly means beyond just the numbers. Finally, he reflects on the next steps in his post-FI journey, balancing work, purpose, and leisure. Show Notes: Michael on Ireland AM (about halfway through): https://play.virginmediatelevision.ie/watch/vod/52791801/ireland-am-fri-21-feb Sign up for the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael sits down with Sjoerd Bak, founder of BAMillionaire.com. Originally from The Netherlands, Sjoerd moved to Ireland in 2006 and worked in the tech industry before becoming a qualified financial advisor. Today, he provides financial coaching to help professionals in the tech sector build financial literacy and achieve their financial goals. We dive deep into Sjoerd's own FIRE journey, and he shares valuable insights and advice that he offers to his clients on how to become financially independent. Show Notes: Connect with Sjoerd on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjoerdbak/ Visit Sjoerd's Website: https://www.bamillionaire.com/ Get Sjoerd's tracking template by subscribing to his newsletter: https://bamillionaire.kit.com/template Subscribe to The Irish FIRE Podcast Newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael shares the news that he has been asked to write regularly on personal finance for The Irish Independent and how writing on a main stream newspaper has meant that his near FI status is now being shared on a national scale!  He discusses the challenges and joys of transitioning to semi-retirement, from embracing flexibility in his work schedule to tackling more household tasks. Looking ahead, Michael outlines his family's plans for 2025, including a long-awaited trip to New Zealand and paying off a personal loan for solar panels and vehicle upgrades. He explains the financial balancing act of covering these expenses, working less, and managing higher taxes while letting his FI portfolio coast. Show Notes Read The Irish Independent article here: https://archive.ph/NDQLZ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael discusses how embracing a low-cost lifestyle has helped him and his family move closer to Financial Independence.  He shares updates on his portfolio, his transition into semi-retirement, and the conscious trade-offs he's made to prioritise time freedom over material wealth. Show Notes: The Three Phases of FI https://www.firepodcast.ie/three-phases-of-fi Limerick FI Meet Up Group: https://www.meetup.com/financial-independence-limerick/ Subscribe to the monthly newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael celebrates episode 100 of The Irish FIRE Podcast by looking back over the last 7 years of his FIRE journey, and giving his reflections on a year by year basis since he started his journey in 2018. Michael is now only a few months away from hitting FI, and Michael shares his thoughts on both how his journey has panned out, but also what he expects from the future once he reaches FI. Show Notes Subscribe to the monthly newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael dives into the Playing with FIRE documentary and explores the balance between achieving financial independence and living a fulfilling life in the present. He discusses the Rieckens' journey, the challenges they face, and whether the sacrifices they make are truly aligned with their core mission of spending more time as a family. Show Notes Learn more about An Dúlra Co-Op (planting native forests): https://www.andulra.ie/co-op Youtube "Playing with Fire Full Documentary" to find the Playing with Fire Documentary Mr Money Mustache FIRE video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-Li_sFNc4Q Join the newsletter and keep in touch with monthly updates: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael explores some of the ideas from Ramit Sethi and his book, podcast and TV program 'I will Teach You To Be Rich' and 'How to Get Rich'. He challenges some of the idea's that Ramit presents when it comes to personal finance, and factors in some of the things which Ramit tends to overlook about the FIRE movement. Show Notes Mad Fientist interview with Ramit: https://www.madfientist.com/ramit-sethi-interview/ Carl & Mindy interview with Ramit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fm3jlsW7W34 Ramit's website: https://www.iwillteachyoutoberich.com/ Ramit's Netflix show: https://www.netflix.com/title/81410436 Subscribe to the newsletter & following my FIRE progress: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael explains and introduces the philosophy of 'The Simple Life' - a concept that his wife sold him on back in 2010.  It is a philosophy that ensures that his family can maintain a low cost lifestyle, while ensuring maximum happiness and contentment. If you ever wondered how Michael and his family are able to live in Ireland on approximately €40,000 euro per year - then this is the episode for you! Show Notes: Link to the Limerick FI Meet Up Group: https://www.meetup.com/financial-independence-limerick/ A breakdown of Michael's family monthly budget: https://www.firepodcast.ie/monthly-budget.png Subscribe to the monthly newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael concludes a 3 part series on his FI calculations.  He talks about how the Die with Zero Calculator is actually an improvement on the 4% rule and discusses the art of subtraction once one reaches (or gets close to) FI. Show Notes Link to Die with Zero Calculator: https://www.moneyflamingo.com/free-resources/ Link to my FI calculations: https://www.firepodcast.ie/img/fi-number-calculation.png Link to online meet up on 31st July 2024: https://www.meetup.com/financial-independence-limerick/events/301861738/ Link to Mad Fientist Article: https://www.madfientist.com/happiness-through-subtraction/ Become a subscriber to the monthly newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael covers the 7 steps to financial independence.  He also gives a personal portfolio update, as well as gives his own definition of financial independence. Show Notes: The Die with Zero Calculator: https://www.moneyflamingo.com/free-resources/ The Money Flamingo Update: https://www.moneyflamingo.com/is-this-still-semi-retirement/ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

It has been 5 years today since The Irish FIRE Podcast launched - what better way to celebrate with a personal update from Michael, sharing his thoughts on defining enough, as he is looking to adopt early retirement. Show Notes Mad Fientist Bill Perkins Interview: https://www.madfientist.com/bill-perkins-interview/ Join the newsletter for monthly updates: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael continues his conversation with Kel, AKA Mrs Smart Money, who embarked on a "No Spend Year™" in 2019. She reduced her family's expenses by over €27,000, leading her to write a best-selling book, Mindful Money: More Money, More Freedom, More Happiness, became QFA qualified and became a money coach. Since her no spend year, she has harnessed her scientific background to create a powerful coaching formula to help others build the lives they deserve. In part 2, Kel shares details of what happened after her no spend year and how she was able to follow her passion to help more people take control of their finances. Show Notes Learn more about Kel at her website: https://www.mrssmartmoney.com Or you can catch up with her daily insights over on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrssmartmoneyhq Or on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kel-galavan-money-mindset-coach/   Subscribe to The Irish Fire Podcast Newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter    

In this episode, Michael talks with Kel, AKA Mrs Smart Money, who embarked on a "No Spend Year™" in 2019. She reduced her family's expenses by over €27,000, leading her to write a best-selling book, Mindful Money: More Money, More Freedom, More Happiness, became QFA qualified and became a money coach. Since her no spend year, she has harnessed her scientific background to create a powerful coaching formula to help others build the lives they deserve. In part 1, Kel shares details of what led her to adopt the no spend year and how things played out as she embarked on this unconventional path. Show Notes Learn more about Kel at her website: https://www.mrssmartmoney.com Or you can catch up with her daily insights over on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrssmartmoneyhq Subscribe to The Irish Fire Podcast Newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael takes a close look at intentional money spending.  He explains how becoming good at spending money is a skill and gives examples of good and bad money spending habits. Show Notes Join the newsletter at: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael talks to Stephen about travel and FIRE.  Stephen is originally from Ireland but has spent time in Canada as well as countries all over the world.  Stephen spent 6 and a half years back packing around the world, while saving for FIRE.  Stephen works in hospitality, picking up jobs as he travels, traveling on a budget and saving for FI at the same time. These days, Stephen is semi FI and he talks with Michael about how he built this lifestyle, how he will adapt with children, offers travel advise and how he defines his FIRE lifestyle. Show Notes: Follow Stephen at: https://www.youtube.com/@outoftheboxtraveler https://www.instagram.com/outoftheboxtraveler JL Collins new book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pathfinders-Extraordinary-Stories-Financial-Independence/dp/B0CKWFWF95/ https://mrsmoneyhacker.com/ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

 In this episode, Michael talks with Andrew, who was last on the podcast in 2021 talking about Investment Trusts.  This time, Michael and Andrew compared property VS stock.  Likely the most discussed topic on many FIRE groups, what is the better investment, property or stocks? Andrew looks at the pros and cons of each and makes a conclusion about the better investment. Disclaimer: Michael and Andrew are not professional investors and nothing in this episode should be considered financial advise. Show Notes: Andrew's previous podcast episode: https://www.firepodcast.ie/investment-trusts-with-andrew Join the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael continues his conversation with Tom, a 26 year old pharmaceutical salesperson based in Wexford. In part two, we cover: - Tom discussed the power of the flexible work place and reasons not to worry about retiring early if you love your job. - Why the real journey from FIRE is to build a life you around work, rather than trying to escape from work. - Why the RE of FIRE is really just about leaving the 9-5 grind, more so than retiring in the traditional sense. - Michael compares his life from 2017 to today - to highlight how FIRE has changed his life. - Tom discusses how he plans to adjust his life for potentially having a family one day. - Tom discusses his financial education and how he discovered the FIRE movement. - Tom discusses property and why he likes investing in property - Tom and Michael give their opinion on cryptocurrency - Tom and Michael discuss compound interest. Show Notes: If you missed part 1 of the interview, go back and have a listen: https://www.firepodcast.ie/the-gen-z-fire-blue-print Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

Tom, a 26 year old pharmaceutical salesperson based in Wexford, shares his FIRE story with Michael.  Tom was able to save €40,000 by the time he was 25 and purchase his first house aged 26. Tom's story is inspiring as he managed to avoid so many of the common financial pitfall's from such a young age.  His story shows what it possible when making sound financial decisions from a young age and is a blue print for anyone looking to pursue financial independence at any age. There will be more to come in part two of this interview. Show Notes: Follow Michael's process at: www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael pays tribute to the Money Flamingo website (https://www.moneyflamingo.com).  He mentions how Tina's work has been a huge motivator for him, especially since 2021 and explores how many attributes from the Money Flamingo website are starting to apply to his own FIRE journey. Show Notes: Link to the Money Flamingo Article: https://www.moneyflamingo.com/time-to-semi-retire/ The Die with Zero Calculator: https://www.moneyflamingo.com/free-resources/ The Money Flamingo Podcast Interview: https://www.firepodcast.ie/flamingo-fire-the-money-flamingo-interview Subscribe to The Irish FIRE Podcast Monthly email: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael answers a few questions that he has received over the last few weeks from podcast listeners. These questions include: - What are the best broker accounts in Ireland? - What are the top two things Michael recommends when pursuing FIRE? - What are some of my options around travel expenses when self employed? - Questions around refinancing property to buy an investment property. Show Notes: Investment Trusts with Andew Driver: https://www.firepodcast.ie/investment-trusts-with-andrew-driver Legal Deductions when you own your own company episode: https://www.firepodcast.ie/legal-tax-deducations-when-you-own-a-company Revenue guidelines on travel expenses: https://www.revenue.ie/en/employing-people/employee-expenses/travel-and-subsistence/index.aspx Mortgages with Laura Mansbridge: https://www.firepodcast.ie/mortgages-with-laura-mansbridge Sign up at the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael discusses the basic things that one needs to do to become a property investor.  He covers the ins and outs of looking for the right property to buy, to negotiating through the sales process.  The episode covers things such as the Rent Pressure Zone in Ireland, but is also suitable for listeners overseas. Show Notes: Episode with Ken: https://www.firepodcast.ie/talking-financial-independence-with-ken-from-the-humble-penny Previous Episodes on Property: https://www.firepodcast.ie/mortgages-with-laura-mansbridge https://www.firepodcast.ie/buying-an-investment-property-with-no-deposit https://www.firepodcast.ie/buying-property-in-2022 https://www.firepodcast.ie/my-property-strategy https://www.firepodcast.ie/why-i-buy-property Rent Pressure Zone Calculator: https://www.rtb.ie/calculator/rpz Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael adds another chapter to his original episodes released back in 2019 on income.  He reviews various additional methods of potential ways to increase your income, including some of the recent methods being adopted by some members of the FIRE community.  Some of these methods are extreme, so please do your own research and take your own circumstances into account before pursuing any of these. Show Notes: Join the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael introduces the 20:20 rule.  A simple concept that is a great starting point for anyone new to the FIRE movement.  He also gives some quick starting points on how to reduce expenses and increase income. Show Notes: Interview on RTE with Brendan O'Connor: https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22285693/ Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael discusses some strategies around how he and his family grocery shop.  He mentions some of the traps that he see's when shopping for food and shares some tips on how you can reduce your grocery bill. He also shares the one item in Aldi that hasn't gone up in price for many years, as well as another item which has increased in price by 500% over the last year or so! Show Notes: Come along to an online or face to face meet up: https://www.meetup.com/financial-independence-limerick Watch How to Get Rich on Netflix: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27206017/ Join the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael discusses everything solar panels related!  He goes through his own experience of having solar panels installed 12 months ago and lists the pro's and con's of installing solar panels.  Solar panels can be a great investment, but what factors should you consider before installing solar panels?  Michael looks to answer these questions in this episode. Show Notes Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter Solar Panel Installers worth getting a quote from: Eco Green Resources - https://www.egr.ie Dolphin Utilities - https://dolphinutilities.com Open Solar - https://www.opensolar.com

In this episode, Michael is interviewed by Joshua from The Art of Money and Communication Podcast.  The interview covers various aspects, from trying to FIRE with children, embracing FIRE in a high inflation environment, discussing other FIRE influences and discussing some of the core aspects of FIRE - such as being uncomfortable and compounding your ability to earn, save and reduce expenses. Show Notes: The original recording can be found at: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/high-inflation-high-ambitions-unlocking-financial-independence/id1508117788?i=1000616927112 Subscribe to the monthly newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael interviews Joshua from The Art of Money & Communication Podcast. Joshua is originally from Wales and now living in London.  He is an Opera Singer and has been pursing FIRE for a number of years. Michael & Joshua talk about a range of FIRE topics, from happiness in your career, trying to FIRE in the arts industry, following a simple investment strategy, how to decide to a job, to getting your partner onboard with FIRE.  Show Notes: Listen to Joshua's Podcast at: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-art-of-money-communication/id1508117788 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael responses to a listener email.  The email asked Michael why he doesn't look to apply more moderation and consistency to his FI journey.  Michael responses by talking about the elephant in the room - that FIRE is extreme and that to make it work long term, it often needs to be done in phases. He also talks about how compounding not only investments, but also our ability to earn income and reduce expenses, ultimately is what makes ones FI journey not a linear thing. Show Notes: Download and try The Die With Zero Calculator: https://www.moneyflamingo.com/free-resources/ Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael talks with Laura Mansbridge, a mortgage broker based in Limerick.    Michael and Laura talk everything mortgages, including mortgages for first time buyers, equity release, buying property through a company and a pension, advantages of using a mortgage broker and associated costs. Show Notes: Laura can be reached at: Email - laura@mortgageabc.ie Phone - 087 942 1243 Disclaimer: Information in this episode is for education purposes only.  When it comes to mortgages, all situations are different.  Please consult your own mortgage broker or contact Laura directly to answer any specific questions. Subscribe to the monthly newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael covers the second part of his 12 FIRE rules. In part two, he covers his 5 rules related to income and investing. Michael shares his advise around why income is the most important FIRE attribute, the importance of an emergency fund, why keeping investing simple is the best approach and that average market returns are OK! He also provides a quick personal update on his FIRE journey in life post Flamingo FIRE! Disclaimer: Michael is not a financial advisor and any investment advise in this episode is for entertainment purposes only. Show Notes: Subscribe to the monthly newsletter at: www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael covers his 12 FIRE rules.  In part one, he covers his 7 rules related to managing expenses.  Since 2018, Michael has actually decreased his annual expenses, even with rising inflation.  He lists his 7 rules related to how his family have reduced expenses overtime. He also provides a quick personal update on his FIRE journey, which has hit a significant milestone in May 2023. Show Notes: Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter Track Michael's Monthly Progress: https://www.firepodcast.ie/progress

In this episode, Michael gives his five key takeaways from the book 'Die with Zero', which has because a bit of a stable for FIRE enthusiasts.  He lists his five main takeaway points from the book and gives his own take on how he has implemented changes after listening to the book. Show Notes Listen to the book: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCsfH3U51jA Sign up to the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael discusses one of the hidden secrets of the FIRE movement - the element of luck, or chance!  Luck (both good and bad) plays a huge role in one's ability to hit FIRE and is often underrated.  Michael gives examples of those in the FIRE community that have experienced good luck on their journey, as well as giving examples of his own good luck from the last 5 years. Show Notes: March blog update: https://www.firepodcast.ie/march-2023-portfolio-update Example of typical Market Watch article with an early retiree who was nothing but lucky (in this case, they borrowed significant money from his in-laws) https://www.businessinsider.com/real-estate-investing-passive-income-teacher-retires-early-2021-2 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael talks about how his perception of work as changed as his progress towards FI has progressed.  He mentions that there is a great sense of irony that the closer he moves to early retirement, the more he is enjoying work.  He talks about why this is and how work can still play an important part of your life in early retirement. Show Notes Blog Article One on Money Flamingo: https://www.moneyflamingo.com/the-many-paths-that-lead-to-fi/ Blog Article Two on Money Flamingo: https://www.moneyflamingo.com/the-many-paths-that-lead-to-fi-part-2/ Money Flamingo Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/semiretirement Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael provides insights into his thinking around how to plan for withdrawals in early retirement.  He discusses the challenge of working out whether to pay down current mortgages on investment properties, or continue to buy new properties. He also provides a work update as he looks to scale back him working hours in 2023. Show Notes The Die with Zero Calculator: https://www.moneyflamingo.com/how-to-die-with-zero/ Case study on Michael on the Money Flamingo Blog: https://www.moneyflamingo.com/the-many-paths-that-lead-to-fi/ Article on Building Cashflow with Mortgages: https://www.firepodcast.ie/september-2022-portfolio-update Subscribe to the monthly newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael asks the question, is the traditional FIRE movement dead?  With so many great FIRE alternatives available now, he considers if the traditional route of work hard and retire is no longer applicable, especially in a post COVID world, where so many other income alternatives are available. Show Notes: Read the Money Flamingo Blog Article on the real definition of early retirement: https://www.moneyflamingo.com/what-does-fire-really-stand-for/ Follow my monthly updates & subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie

In this episode Michael talks with Anders Skagerberg, AKA The Coast FI Guy.  Coast FI is the concept of building a smallish portfolio and let it compound in the background, while you work part-time and wait until your portfolio grows enough large enough to fully retire. Quotes from the episode: "I don't have to do work that I hate for the rest of my life." "I think some of the most important work I have to do in my life, is to spend time with my kids and be a good Dad." "Coast FI just means that saving is optional.  That doesn't mean that you cannot save money while coasting to financial independence." "There are no true rules when your designing a custom FI strategy that works for your lifestyle." Show Notes What is Coast FI? https://www.moneyflamingo.com/coast-fi/ Coast FI Calculator: https://walletburst.com/tools/coast-fire-calc/ Get in Touch with Anders: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anders.skagerberg  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anders-skagerberg-631089158/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/The_CoastFI_Guy Website: https://www.coastfiguy.com/

In this episode, Michael shares his reasons why he has been buying rental properties.  He explains that while landlords are currently leaving the property market, he is buying and his reasons for doing so.  Quotes from the episode: "I think landlords are forgetting that a tenant is paying down a mortgage.  Landlords fail to release the difference between cashflow and profit." "I remember looking at property back in 2013 when property prices were half of what they were today... there were still good deals, there were still bad deals" "As I see it, I'm not worried about what the property market is doing... what I care about, is can I find a deal I like." "No one will ever feel rich having a million euro broker account, but buy a few properties and you will feel rich in far more ways than just financially." Show Notes https://www.irishtimes.com/property/2023/01/21/landlords-have-their-say-investors-are-not-in-the-game-at-the-moment/ https://www.firepodcast.ie/buying-an-investment-property-with-no-deposit https://www.firepodcast.ie/my-property-strategy Subscribe to the monthly newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael discusses the great myth or lie about the FIRE movement, the notion of early retirement.  He mentions that most people that achieve FIRE don't actually retire in the traditional sense and continue bringing in some form of income. While they might retire from the traditional corporate world, chances are income will still come in one way or another, so we should plan for this when looking at our own early retirement planning. Show Notes Living a FI: https://livingafi.com/2021/03/17/the-2021-early-retirement-update Mr Money Mustache: https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2012/05/14/first-retire-then-get-rich Madfientist https://www.madfientist.com/third-year-of-freedom Mr Money Mustache - Definition of Retired: https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2013/02/13/mr-money-mustache-vs-the-internet-retirement-police 1500 Days https://www.1500days.com/thankful-to-be-thankful Choose FI Quote: https://money.com/married-couple-fire-million-financially-independent Savoteur https://savoteur.com/are-fire-bloggers-truly-chasing-fire Money Flamingo https://www.moneyflamingo.com/the-retirement-lie Follow my FI Progress: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael talks with Jesse Borst from Money Principles.  Jesse is a professional investor and has his own Youtube Channel, where he shares tips on financial freedom, personal finance and covers topics such as generational wealth. In this interview, Jesse talks about investing in 2022/23, the importance of building an investing strategy and offers great advice on how to think like a professional investor. Show Notes: Jesse's Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MoneyPrinciples Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/money.principles TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@money.principles Subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael discusses how he goes about buying investment property in Ireland.  He lists the requirements from the banks, to working with auctioneers, to the in's and out's of putting a property deal together in Ireland. He highlights the 9 steps he takes when it comes to working through a property deal and shares his experience of buying property in Ireland. To sign up for the newsletter visit: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael has a conversational style catch up with Alva Damon, who last appeared on the podcast back in early March 2020.  We talk everything FIRE from: - FIRE strategies - Investing strategies - Property VS Index Funds - FIRE alternatives - Travel Hacking & Travel Tips - Enjoying the FIRE journey & more. Show Notes: Flight Deals: www.kiwi.com Apply for a European Health Card: https://www2.hse.ie/services/schemes-allowances/ehic/apply/ Subscribe to the newsletter at: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael reflects on his FIRE journey over the last 5 years and lists the top 10 regrets that he has had to date. From Peer to Peer Lending, too much money in his pension, Forex Trading, Passive Income, Scalable Businesses, having to many companies and more! Show Notes Check out the Co-Op I Co-Founded: https://www.andulra.ie Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael gives an update on his overall FIRE progress and explains why semi-retirement will likely be the best path for his FIRE journey. Michael has spent the last 12 months increasing his savings rate considerably and with that, he has been focusing on FIRE shortcuts.  However, in 2022 with high inflation, it has made it more and more difficult when it comes to planning for early retirement. Michael explains why semi-retirement could be the best path for most, especially as it gives a balanced approach to early retirement. To subscribe to the newsletter, visit: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael describes daily working life for him.  He briefly described what has happened to him work life over the last 12 months or so and explains how he handles getting through the daily grind.  He discusses how he views work and how he comes up with early exit strategies in the event that he decides that the daily grid isn't worth it. Show Notes Follow the Newsletter at: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael shares a list of 12 ideas to help reduce expenses. With inflation running at 40 year highs, reducing expenses can be a great way to tackle the impact on inflation. Be sure to subscribe to the Monthly Newsletter to keep up with Michael's latest portfolio updates: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter Show Notes Article on  upgrading to a more economic car: https://www.firepodcast.ie/march-2022-portfolio-update Article on Solar Panel Investment: https://www.firepodcast.ie/july-2022-portfolio-update Dolphin Utilities: https://dolphinutilities.com

In this episode, Michael shares his story of buying an investment property in 2022. He shares his high's and low's of activity looking for an investment property in Limerick - and explains what has changed in 2022 when buying a property. Show Notes Join The Irish FIRE Newsletter by visiting: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter

In this episode, Michael talks to the author of the Money Flamingo Blog.  Tina is originally from Europe and is now living in Australia.  She become "Flamingo FI" in 2020 and has been living a semi retired lifestyle since then. Tina tells her own story, and shares her wisdom of why she adopted Flamingo FI.  As she mentions, "the real goal is the happiness that you can achieve along the path [to FI]". Show Notes: Check out Tina's blog at (and join her newsletter): https://www.moneyflamingo.com Coast FI Grid https://www.moneyflamingo.com/coast-fi Join The Irish FIRE newsletter at: https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter