Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast PA the FI Way
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
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| 174 | Status Spending: The Lifestyle Inflation Trap of Healthcare Providers | 06 Mar 2026 | 00:19:15 | |
You worked incredibly hard to build your career in healthcare as a physician associate / physician assistant. Years of school, long hours of training, and often six-figure student loan debt. So when the bigger paychecks finally arrive, it’s natural to want to upgrade your life. But many healthcare providers fall into a trap that quietly keeps them stuck: status spending. In this episode, we’re talking about the hidden pressure in medicine to look successful — the bigger house, the luxury vehicle, the constant upgrades that signal you’ve “made it.” The problem? When lifestyle upgrades grow faster than your financial freedom, they can quietly increase your monthly expenses, reduce flexibility, and make it harder to step away from work that’s burning you out. In this episode you’ll learn: • Why PAs and other healthcare professionals are especially vulnerable to status spending If you're early in your financial independence journey, make sure to download your free copy of the PA the FI Way Beginner’s Workbook. Inside you’ll learn how to: ✔ Define your “why” for financial independence Download it here: https://www.pathefiway.com/download-the-free-pa-the-fi-way-beginner-s-workbook
Website / Blog: pathefiway.com Follow PA the FI Way on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/ Connect with Kat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katarina-kat-astrup-mspas-pa-c-175848255/ Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@pathefiway Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
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| 173 | Beyond the Clinic: Protecting Your Heart & Brain, Writing Books, and Expanding Your PA Career as a MSL | 20 Feb 2026 | 00:43:57 | |
In this episode, I sit down with Josh Wageman, PhD, DPT, MPAS, CLS, CSCS — Clinical Lipid Specialist, PA who formerly practiced in Endocrinology, and Medical Science Liaison — to explore the intersection of protecting your healthspan while building wealth and expanding career flexibility as a physician associate. Josh’s PhD research focused on cholesterol disturbances in Alzheimer’s disease, and he’s widely known for his ability to teach complex lipid physiology in a relatable, practical way. We break down cholesterol and cardiovascular risk without the overwhelm, discussing which labs and screening strategies are truly worth the cost and effort — and when age or family history should factor into the decision. He also shares what inspired him to write The Home Security System and the Lipid Neighborhood, how writing can serve as both education and diversified income while having a meaningful impact, and why clinicians don’t have to feel boxed into a single career path. From becoming a Medical Science Liaison (MSL) to building credibility beyond the clinic, this episode highlights how health, impact, and optionality can work together. If you’ve ever wondered how to better understand cholesterol, prevent heart attacks, strokes, and dementia, or expand your career beyond traditional clinical roles, this conversation is for you. Get your copy of Josh's book: https://amzn.to/4rYcpoz Connect with Josh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-wageman-48893445/ Connect with Josh on X: @JoshJWageman Check out Josh's website: lifelovelipids.com
If this episode was helpful, subscribe to the PA the FI Way podcast or YouTube channel for more content to help you build financial independence and prevent burnout along the way.
Are you just beginning your journey to financial independence and want to learn more? Download your free copy of the PA the FI Way Beginner’s Workbook here!
Website / Blog: pathefiway.com Follow PA the FI Way on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/ Connect with Kat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katarina-kat-astrup-mspas-pa-c-175848255/ Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@pathefiway Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
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| 164 | Holistic Wellness and Burnout Healing with Psychiatry PAs from PA Mindset Matters | 19 Sep 2025 | 00:41:46 | |
On today’s episode, Kat sits down with Mercedes and Jessica, psychiatry PAs and hosts of PA Mindset Matters podcast, to talk about holistic wellness and burnout healing for PAs and medical providers. From lifestyle habits to mindset shifts to money stress, this conversation is full of practical tools providers can start using right away to feel more balanced and resilient.
Connect with Mercedes and Jessica with PA Mindset Matters: Website: www.pamindset.com Listen to PA Mindset Matters podcast on Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/5jaHvj5JGxQ81v7oy6okX7 YouTube: youtube.com/@pa_mindsetmatters Instagram: instagram.com/pa_mindsetmatters LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/pa-mindset Contact: info@pamindset.com
Connect with Kat: Are you just beginning your journey to financial independence and want to learn more? Download your free copy of the PA the FI Way Beginner’s Workbook here! Website: pathefiway.com Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katarina-kat-astrup-mspas-pa-c-175848255/ YouTube: @pathefiway www.youtube.com/@pathefiway Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway Questions or thoughts about the show? Email pathefiway@gmail.com
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| 074 | Say "I Do" to Lower Wedding Costs | 01 Jul 2022 | 00:30:01 | |
It is wedding season, and many PAs tend to get married right after PA school. A few other PAs will even get married in the midst of PA school! Weddings can be magical and memorable, as well as unfortunately very expensive. However, the overall cost is actually in your control to decide how much you and your (future) spouse would like to spend. As with many budgeting and financial areas of life, consider what you will truly value on your wedding day, and spend on those things while cutting costs in the other areas that don't mean as much to you. Your special day will fly by, so ask yourself, "Do I really want to spend THAT much money for one day?" In this episode, you'll find some creative ideas of how you can have a lovely wedding day, a beautiful engagement ring, as well as many wonderful memories without breaking the bank. Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway Website: pathefiway.com Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/ Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway Keywords: wedding costs, wedding expenses, physician associate, physician assistant, physician assistant financial independence, physician associate financial independence, physician assistant finances, physician associate finances, physician assistant school, physician associate school, PA school, PA-S, PA-C, pre-PA, physician assistant student, physician associate student | |||
| 073 | Double PA the FI Way: Interview with Married PA-C Couple, Logan and Makenzie Driscoll | 24 Jun 2022 | 00:35:48 | |
Logan and Makenzie Driscoll are a married couple who met in PA school, and have been practicing as surgical specialty PAs for one year. They share how they are trying to pursue financial independence together as a team while balancing their double PA student loan debt with their double PA salaries. They have been trying to make mindful decisions of spending their hard-earned income on things that add value to their lives while trying to also prevent lifestyle creep. Take a listen for some double inspiration to become a PA on the way to financial independence! Reach out to Logan or Makenzie with questions! Logan: Driscoll.Logan@gmail.com Makenzie: MakenzieUrban@gmail.com This episode was sponsored by StudentLoanAdvice.com . Book a consult with Andrew Paulson to plan the best strategy to tackle your PA student loans for your unique situation! Medical survey companies that were mentioned: M3 - https://www.m3globalresearch.com/ InCrowd - https://incrowdnow.com/join-our-crowd/ Reckner Healthcare Surveys - https://healthcaresurveys.reckner.com/?ref=hchead&_ga=2.171236775.687944866.1655776370-380262206.1642021218Interested in checking out the book PA Next Steps that was mentioned? Take a listen to PA the FI Way podcast episode 16 to learn more, or go to https://www.panextsteps.com
Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway
Keywords: physician associate, physician assistant, physician assistant financial independence, physician associate financial independence, physician assistant finances, physician associate finances, physician assistant school, physician associate school, PA school, PA-S, PA-C, pre-PA, physician assistant student, physician associate student, orthopedics physician assistant, orthopedics physician associate, plastic surgery physician assistant, plastic surgery physician associate | |||
| 072 | Bear Markets: What Are They, and What Should You Do? | 17 Jun 2022 | 00:18:56 | |
You have likely recently heard that the stock market value has dropped and has entered into a bear market, and this information may be causing some worry and confusion. In this episode, an overview is provided about what bear markets are, why you should likely not sell your investments at this time, and why staying invested in the market can actually be a good thing for your future.
Resources mentioned: frontlinepay.mn.gov Book and Audiobook: The Simple Path to Wealth by J. L. Collins A guided meditation for when the stock market is dropping by J. L. Collins
Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway
Keywords: bear markets, physician associate, physician associate investing, physician assistant, physician assistant investing, financial independence, physician assistant financial independence, physician associate financial independence, physician assistant finances, physician associate finances | |||
| 071 | The Benefits of Adventuring on the Journey to Financial Independence: Interview with Heidi Dusek, Host of the Ordinary Sherpa Podcast and Author of Beyond Normal | 10 Jun 2022 | 00:59:00 | |
Have you ever thought that traveling and going on adventures would have to stop either when you have kids or when you are saving money to pursue financial independence as a physician associate / physician assistant? Heidi will share how those beliefs are misconceptions!
Heidi Dusek is the founder and host of Ordinary Sherpa podcast and brand designed to inspire families to connect through simple and authentic adventure experiences. Heidi is well-versed in challenging the status quo, connecting people and designing experiences. She has an adventurous lens on life, using empathy and curiosity as critical threads in the fabric of designing an authentic and memorable life. Heidi and her family travel frequently, spend a significant amount of time outside, and create simple adventure experiences near and far. As a working executive, she did not want to choose between her career, being a mom, or having an adventure-filled life resulting in her latest book, Beyond Normal: a field guide to embracing adventure, exploring the wilderness and designing an extraordinary life with kids.
In this episode we discuss the benefits of trying to incorporate simple and affordable family adventures, and we review some of the neuroscience and research that support how beneficial adventuring can be. Take a listen to be inspired to plan an adventure today in your own backyard!
Claim your freebie with 50+ everyday adventure ideas by clicking here! Visit ordinarysherpa.com to learn more, check out her podcast and book, Beyond Normal, and to connect with Heidi! Instagram: @ordinarysherpa https://www.instagram.com/ordinarysherpa/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ordinarysherpa/
Interested in learning more about travel hacking with travel rewards from credit cards? Check out this blog post: http://pathefiway.com/how-to-utilize-travel-rewards-for.../ Or take a listen to the two past PA the FI Way podcast episodes about travel hacking (episodes 22 and 47) through here: http://pathefiway.com/podcast/Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway | |||
| 070 | From Being a PA Experiencing Burnout, to Teaching Other PAs about Burnout and Wellness: Interview with Meg Leddy, PA-C | 03 Jun 2022 | 00:30:15 | |
Unfortunately, many physician associates / physician assistants have experienced or will experience burnout. Meg Leddy, PA-C, went from experiencing burnout to teaching other PAs and other healthcare professionals about burnout and wellbeing. In this episode, Meg shares her burnout story, and also discusses why sleep and other elements of self-care are so important for helping with burnout. We also discuss how physician associate / physician assistant finances affect burnout. She is the host of the podcast called "Burnout: What I Have Learned So Far with Meg Leddy", so you definitely have to check out her show where she provides education as well as tips about treating and preventing burnout! Check out Meg's website: https://www.megleddy.com Follow Meg on Instagram: @megleddy923 Books mentioned in this episode: Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams
Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway
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| 069 | An Overview of AAPA Conference 2022 and an Update on PANRE-LA, the New Recertification Exam Alternative for PAs | 27 May 2022 | 00:19:19 | |
Did you make it to the AAPA Conference 2022 this week in Indianapolis, or are you planning on attending next year in Nashville? In this episode, I share some of the highlights of this years' conference as well as what you can expect when you attend an AAPA conference as a physician associate / physician assistant.
During the conference this year, it was so interesting to hear Simone Biles and Jane Pauley discuss their mental health journeys over the years. Hayley Arceneaux then shared her incredible story of being a pediatric cancer survivor, working for St. Jude's as a PA, then getting to be part of the SpaceX Inspiration 4 team where she was the first PA in space as their medical officer. She is such an inspiration and an example of a PA doing some pretty cool stuff!
NCCPA also provided an update on PANRE-LA during the conference, which is the alternative to the PANRE (previously the only option for a recertification exam for PAs). Take a listen to hear about the overview of the exam as well as some of the benefits of this exam option. If you're due for recertification in 2024, 2025, or 2026, the application period for PANRE-LA opens soon in July 2022! Learn more about PANRE-LA here: https://www.nccpa.net/news/panre-la/
Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway | |||
| 068 | Preparing for PA School on the Way to Financial Independence: Interview with Skyler and Rebecca Fleming, PA-S | 20 May 2022 | 00:42:06 | |
If you're fortunate enough to learn about financial independence and starting to become financially literate before PA school, what can you do ahead of time to prepare and set yourself up for success? Rebecca is a brand new PA student (she just started last week!), and her husband, Skyler, is the FI part of the couple as he loves spreadsheets and optimizing their finances. They also share how they can communicate well as a couple when trying to discuss finances on their way to FI. Whether you're a pre-PA student, PA student, or a married PA, you'll find the information in this episode helpful!
Today's episode was sponsored by Student Loan Advice . Reach out to Andrew to have a consult for the best way to pay off your student loans!
Find Skyler's podcast (Money Talk with Skyler Fleming): https://www.skylerfleming.com/ https://www.instagram.com/MoneyTalk.SkylerFleming/ https://www.facebook.com/MoneyTalk.SkylerFleming/ Connect with Rebecca on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccajebeccafleming/Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway | |||
| 067 | Planning for PA School as an Accepted Neurodivergent Pre-PA Applicant: Interview with Mira | 13 May 2022 | 00:35:47 | |
Mira, who goes by The Neurodivergent Pre-PA, has received the exciting news that she was accepted into two PA programs and is also on the wait list of others. She plans to start PA school in the fall of 2022. During our discussion, Mira shares what her school and work experiences have been like as a neurodivergent individual. Her life experiences have prompted her to be an advocate for those with disabilities. She also shares some of the financial struggles and considerations that she has had as a Pre-PA student, and how she is beginning her journey to become a future PA on the way to financial independence! Use code PAFI (in all caps) at mypabox.com for 15% off your My PA Box subscription! Take a listen to episode 044 to learn more about My PA Box. Apply to the PA-preneurs Giving Back Scholarship! Applications are due by June 1st, 2022.
Connect with Mira: Follow on Instagram or TikTok: @the.neurodivergent.prepa Connect on LinkedIn Email: mbhattacharya1@fordham.edu
Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway | |||
| 066 | The Intentionally Wandering Path from Chiropractor to Minimalist to PA: Interview with Jeff, PA-C | 06 May 2022 | 00:58:37 | |
Jeff, who refers to himself as a "retired chiropractor" turned PA-C, shares his incredibly unique story of how he has pursued many career paths prior to recently becoming a PA. He has also tried various hobbies over the years, enjoyed various roadtrips and sabbaticals, and has embraced the minimalism lifestyle. He also discusses how minimalistic concepts correlate well with several financial independence concepts. Take a listen to hear how a wandering path can actually be quite intentional living!
Resources mentioned:
Books:
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck
Websites:
https://www.theminimalists.com https://www.becomingminimalist.com
Poem where the concept of "Daily Delight" comes from: https://poetrysociety.org/features/readinginthedark/c-dale-young
Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway | |||
| 065 | How to Practice Medicine Abroad as a PA: Interview with Megan, The Expat PA | 29 Apr 2022 | 00:22:13 | |
Have you ever considered moving to another country, and then wondered if you could still practice medicine as a physician associate or a physician assistant while living there? There are now several countries where you could work as a PA, and the amount of countries that recognize the PA profession keeps expanding. Megan, aka The Expat PA, joins the show to share her experience having transitioned from being trained and practicing in the US to now living abroad and practicing in the UK. The best part is that she can help guide you through the process so you can work overseas if interested as well! In this episode, we also discuss what it's like practicing medicine abroad as well as utilizing a national healthcare system in the UK. Megan also shares why she thinks that pursuing financial independence helps you as a PA to have more flexible options throughout your career. You don't want to miss this informative conversation, and consider sharing the link to this episode with a PA colleague who has talked about practicing abroad! Here is a link to Megan's PA services (such as coaching you through the process of working abroad as a PA, helping you with a mock interview, or personal statement assistance) on Fiverr: https://www.fiverr.com/expat_pa ***Don't forget to use the promo code FVRR10COUPON for 10% off any of these services, or you can message Megan on Fiverr (expat_pa) or on Instagram (@ExpatPA) and say that you are a PA the FI Way listener to get the discount!*** Follow Megan on Instagram: @ExpatPAEnjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway
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| 163 | Pause to Heal: How Sabbaticals Can Beat Healthcare Burnout with Leigha Barbieri, PA-C | 05 Sep 2025 | 00:56:05 | |
Burnout is all too common in healthcare, but what if the solution isn’t pushing through... it’s pressing pause? In this episode, we sit down with Leigha Barbieri, PA-C, to talk about the transformative power of taking a sabbatical. Leigha shares her own story of moving from exhaustion to renewal, including how prioritizing her mental health, traveling around the world, and resting intentionally helped her reconnect with her purpose. She opens up about the challenges of stepping away from her PA role, the financial strategies that made it possible, and the surprising benefits of house and pet sitting along the way. Leigha also introduces her course, Pause to Heal, created to help healthcare professionals reimagine their careers, take control of their well-being, and return to medicine on their own terms.
Connect with Leigha: YouTube: @seeyaleigha https://www.youtube.com/@seeyaleigha Instagram: @helloimthepa https://www.instagram.com/helloimthepa/ TikTok: @helloimthepa https://www.tiktok.com/@helloimthepa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leigha-barbieri-515751230/ Website + Course: offdutyonpurpose.com
Connect with Kat: Are you just beginning your journey to financial independence and want to learn more? Download your free copy of the PA the FI Way Beginner’s Workbook here!
Website: pathefiway.com Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katarina-kat-astrup-mspas-pa-c-175848255/ YouTube: @pathefiway www.youtube.com/@pathefiway Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway Questions or thoughts about the show? Email pathefiway@gmail.com
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| 064 | Investor Mama: Finances for Women and Moms with Jen Narciso | 22 Apr 2022 | 00:46:43 | |
Some women and moms find that learning about finances can seem challenging. Jen Narciso, host of the Investor Mama podcast, started her show to help with some of these challenges and prove that investing while pursuing financial independence is for everyone. We dive into a variety of topics in this episode including motherhood, relationships with significant others, real estate investing, house hacking, caring for aging parents, and loss of loved ones. It is critical that women feel empowered to learn about finances for so many reasons, so don't miss this discussion!
Connect with Jen from Investor Mama: Investormama.com Listen to the Investor Mama Podcast here Follow on Instagram and join the Facebook Group Resource mentioned in the show: Rich Dad Poor Dad (book)Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
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| 063 | Burnout in Healthcare, Becoming a First Gen PA, Building Wealth, and Being Productive - Part 2: Interview with Karen Calcaño, PA-C | 15 Apr 2022 | 00:33:23 | |
Karen Calcaño, PA-C, is our lovely guest on today's episode, which is Part 2 of a two part series. Karen shares her amazing and moving story of resilience as she became a first gen PA, then struggled with burnout in our broken healthcare system, and now is focused on building both wealth and a life she loves. She also dives into some tips on how to be more productive in this episode. The best part is that she has incredible resources to help you on her blog, www.scalpelandheart.com , and she also just opened up her Personal Statement Mastery course to help pre-PA students with their personal statements! Resources mentioned in the show: Karen's post on burnout and recovery - BURNOUT IN HEALTHCARE: 3 PILLARS OF RECOVERY Karen't post on productivity - HOW TO BE RADICALLY MORE PRODUCTIVE Your Money or Your Life (book) Follow Karen on Instagram! @kcalcano
Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway
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| 062 | Burnout in Healthcare, Becoming a First Gen PA, Building Wealth, and Being Productive - Part 1: Interview with Karen Calcaño, PA-C | 08 Apr 2022 | 00:49:15 | |
Karen Calcaño, PA-C, is our lovely guest on today's episode, which is Part 1 of a two part series. Karen shares her amazing and moving story of resilience as she became a first gen PA, then struggled with burnout in our broken healthcare system, and now is focused on building both wealth and a life she loves. The best part is that she has incredible resources to help you on her blog, www.scalpelandheart.com , and she also just opened her Personal Statement Mastery course to help pre-PA students with their personal statements. Be sure to tune in again next week for Part 2 of our discussion! Resources mentioned in the show: Karen's post on burnout and recovery - BURNOUT IN HEALTHCARE: 3 PILLARS OF RECOVERY Your Money or Your Life (book) Follow Karen on Instagram! @kcalcano Show Sponsor: StudentLoanAdvice.com/PAFI Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
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| 061 | The Benefits of Being a Member of AAPA and Your State PA Society | 01 Apr 2022 | 00:17:21 | |
If you're a practicing physician assistant / physician associate or a PA student, consider joining both the national PA society (AAPA) as well as your state PA society. These organizations have many benefits for both you as an individual as well as for the PA profession as a whole. Some of the benefits include the following: advocacy for legislative changes, promotion of the profession, access to free CME, networking amongst colleagues and new friends, and even AAPA member discounts for various services and products. If you're not a member, consider joining today!
Show Sponsored by StudentLoanAdvice.com/PAFI
Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
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| 060 | How to Legally Lower Your Taxes as a PA | 25 Mar 2022 | 00:17:57 | |
Depending on how much income you or you and your spouse earn, you may end up being required to pay a large amount of taxes. The amount of federal and state taxes that you pay will also very likely increase over the years as your income grows as a practicing physician assistant / physician associate. But did you know that there are various ways that you can actually reduce your tax burden, and some of these suggestions can help you build more wealth with time? And of course, these are completely legal things for you to consider without including anything shady or sketchy as we are not about any funny business or tax fraud. ***Not actual tax advice. Please consult with your CPA / tax professional with any concerns or questions.
Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
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| 059 | Locum Tenens and 1099 Jobs as a Physician Assistant / Physician Associate - Part 2: Interview with Caroline, PA-C | 18 Mar 2022 | 00:39:53 | |
Have you ever considered finding a locum tenens assignment either in your own state or throughout the country as a travel PA? Many physician assistants / physician associates who work locums gigs are 1099 independence contractors instead of W2 employees. As a 1099, you're both the "business" and the "employee". But what does all of this mean? Take a listen to hear Caroline continue to discuss these topics in Part 2 of our conversation! In this episode, she also shares why she thinks that working as a locum tenens PA is great for the PAs who are pursuing financial independence. Interested in learning more? Join the Facebook group that Caroline has created: APP Networking for Locums Newbies Resources Mentioned in the Parts 1 & 2: Sponsor: StudentLoanAdvice.com The Simple Path to Wealth (book by J.L. Collins) Travel Rewards to Earn Free Travel
Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
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| 058 | Locum Tenens and 1099 Jobs as a Physician Assistant / Physician Associate - Part 1: Interview with Caroline, PA-C | 11 Mar 2022 | 00:50:55 | |
Have you ever considered finding a locum tenens assignment either in your own state or throughout the country as a travel PA? Many physician assistants / physician associates who work locums gigs are 1099 independence contractors instead of W2 employees. As a 1099, you're both the "business" and the "employee". But what does all of this mean? Caroline dives into these topics in detail over a two part series on the show, so make sure to come back next week for part 2! Interested in learning more? Join the Facebook group that Caroline has created: APP Networking for Locums Newbies Resources Mentioned in the Parts 1 & 2: Sponsor: StudentLoanAdvice.com The Simple Path to Wealth (book by J.L. Collins) Travel Rewards to Earn Free Travel
Enjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow PA the FI Way along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
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| 057 | Are Dave Ramsey's Personal Finance Recommendations Consistent with FI? | 04 Mar 2022 | 00:18:58 | |
If you're trying to learn more about personal finance, Dave Ramsey and his 7 baby steps have likely come up in your research. Dave's personal finance suggestions have helped countless individuals and couples get out of debt. But how many of his 7 baby steps and other teachings and recommendations are sound advice through the lens of those pursuing financial independence?
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| 056 | Why It's Essential for All PAs to Consider Pursuing Financial Independence | 25 Feb 2022 | 00:32:13 | |
Are you a current or future physician assistant / physician associate and have wondered how to get a better handle on your finances to become more financially literate? Have you wondered how in the world are you going to pay off your astronomically high student loan debt? Or have you ever experienced burnout and have asked yourself, “Do I really need to work until the traditional retirement age of 65?” Pursuing financial independence as a PA can be the solution to help you take control of both your finances and your family’s finances, pay off your debt while investing for your future, avoid the temptation to spend on flashy luxuries, and enjoy your life now instead of completely delaying gratification until you hopefully can retire in the later years of your life. Take a listen to hear the many reasons why it is essential that all PAs consider pursuing financial independence! Resources mentioned: StudentLoanAdvice.com to come up with your personalized student loan repayment plan Financial Independence Book Recommendations Travel Rewards Credit CardsEnjoy the show? You can now support the PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
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| 055 | A Unique Path to Becoming a PA with Truly Ludi | 18 Feb 2022 | 00:24:23 | |
Take a listen to hear Ludi's story of how she came to the United States from Haiti as an older teenager, went to undergrad, started working, and eventually went to PA school! She worked hard and took guidance from others to take the leap to become a PA. Ludi also shares how she graduated without having to take out any student loan debt. She is working on a few projects including a future children's finance book, and check out her 2022 Gratitude Journal that she has released! Follow Truly Ludi on Instagram: @trulyludi Check out her blog: trulyludi.com
Enjoy the show? You can now support PA the FI Way podcast through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
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| 162 | How and When to Find a Financial Planner You Can Trust: Interview with Caleb Pepperday, CFP®, ChFC® | 22 Aug 2025 | 00:45:46 | |
In this episode, I sit down with Caleb Pepperday, CFP®, ChFC®, fee-only fiduciary financial planner and founder of Advanced Practice Planning, to discuss financial planning for physician associates and other healthcare professionals. Caleb shares what drew him to work with PAs and other APPs, and how his dual designations as a Certified Financial Planner and Chartered Financial Consultant give him a unique perspective when guiding clients toward financial independence. He also breaks down the confusing landscape of financial credentials and explains why not all financial advisors are created equal. Caleb helps demystify what PAs should look for in a trustworthy planner. He explains what it really means to be a fiduciary, the red flags to watch for in the industry, and the key questions to ask when interviewing a potential advisor. Caleb also walks us through the different ways financial professionals get paid (commission-based, assets under management / AUM, and flat-fee models) and highlights the pros and cons of each. For those wondering when it makes sense to manage your own money versus bringing in professional help, Caleb provides a balanced perspective tailored to busy healthcare professionals who want to build wealth without burning themselves out along the way. Finally, we dive into a case study featuring a mid-career PA and NP couple with a strong income and growing portfolio, but with gaps in areas like tax diversification, estate planning, college funding, and insurance. Caleb outlines practical next steps to help them stay on track toward their goal of retiring at 55 while protecting their family along the way.
Disclosures: Information presented in this podcast is believed to be factual and up-to-date, but no guarantee is made to its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. Discussions and answers to questions do not involve the rendering of personalized investment advice, but are limited to the dissemination of general information. A professional advisor should be consulted before implementing any of the subjects presented. Advisory services offered through Advanced Practice Planning, LLC an investment adviser registered with the states of Montana and Pennsylvania. For disclosure information please visit: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/ Tax and Legal Matters The tax and estate planning information offered by the advisor is general in nature. It is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or tax advice. Always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation. General Market Commentary Statements The opinions expressed in any commentary discussed on this episode are solely those of the individual author and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Advanced Practice Planning, LLC. These opinions are based on information available at the time of posting and are subject to change without notice. Advanced Practice Planning, LLC does not commit to updating any posted positions or commentary to reflect subsequent developments. While the information and reasoning used to form these opinions are believed to be from reliable sources, Advanced Practice Planning, LLC does not verify this information, and no guarantee is provided regarding its accuracy, completeness, or validity. Advanced Practice Planning, LLC disclaims any and all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this site. No warranty, express or implied, is given in connection with the content provided.
Learn More or Connect with Caleb:
Links: Website link: https://www.advancedpracticeplanning.com/ Consultation link: https://calendly.com/caleb-pepperday/30min
Freebies: 12 Smart Steps Every PA Wanting to Retire Early Should Know: https://www.advancedpracticeplanning.com/earlyretirement 18 Things You Can Do Today To Level Up Your Finances: https://www.advancedpracticeplanning.com/tipsforphysicianassistants 8 Things PAs Need To Know Before Taking A Sabbatical: https://www.advancedpracticeplanning.com/sabbatical
Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caleb-pepperday/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calebpepperday_cfp/
Connect with Kat, PA-C, with PA the FI Way: Are you just beginning your journey to financial independence and want to learn more? Download your free copy of the PA the FI Way Beginner’s Workbook here!
Website / Blog: pathefiway.com
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Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
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Questions or thoughts about the show? Email pathefiway@gmail.com
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| 054 | Side Hustles and Intro to Real Estate Investing as a PA Striving for Financial Independence: Interview with Alpha Journal, PA-C | 11 Feb 2022 | 00:53:27 | |
Want to be inspired today? Take a listen to hear Alpha share his amazing story of how he and his wife are on the path to financial independence to create freedom for their family. In addition to working as a pediatric physician assistant / physician associate, he has been working on various side hustles to earn extra income and increase monthly cash flow. We discuss owning ATM machines, crowdfunding, medical surveys, and dive into the topic of real estate investing! Resources mentioned: Financial Independence Book Recommendations for PAs
Connect with Alpha: Facebook: Alpha Berger Instagram: @the_fipa Medical Surveys: https://app.zoomrx.com/#/user/signup?code=alphaj
Connect with Kat, PA-C, founder of PA the FI Way: You can now support the show through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
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| 053 | Interview with Prescriptions and Paychecks: A PA-C and a PharmD on the Way to Financial Independence | 04 Feb 2022 | 00:55:21 | |
The creators behind Prescriptions and Paychecks join me on the show for this fun and informative conversation! Stephanie works as a dermatology PA-C, and her husband, Santiago, works as a PharmD. They are pursing FIRE with three young kiddos (raccoons), and they share how using an Au Pair (Bro Pair) has been helpful for childcare. They are currently enjoying their jobs so much that they are not tempted to retire early anytime soon; however, they are still pursing financial independence to allow for freedom and flexibility in their future. They also discuss how they have been working on paying off their large student loan debts while investing for the future, as well as what their plan is to actually be able to access their money to live on in early retirement!
Resources mentioned: StudentLoanAdvice.com as the sponsor The blog post by the Mad Fientist: How to Access Retirement Funds Early
Connect with Stephanie and Santiago! www.prescriptionsandpaychecks.com Prescriptions and Paychecks on Instagram: @prescriptionsandpaychecks Love Mullets and NFTs? Follow Santiago on Twitter: @mulletsandNFTs
Connect with Kat, PA-C, Host of PA the FI Way: You can now support the show through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
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| 052 | Book Recommendations for PAs on the Way to Financial Independence | 28 Jan 2022 | 00:34:45 | |
In this episode, my top 10 financial independence books that I've read over the past few years are reviewed, as well as 3 honorable mentions. Additionally, some other great books that PAs have written for current and future PAs are discussed. Interested in purchasing one of these books? Support the show by ordering through the links below! My Top 10 FI Book Recommendations:
Honorable Mentions:
Books Authored by PAs for Current and Future PAs: - Physician Assistant School Personal Statement Guide ***Use code PAFI to get 10% off your copy!*** - Physician Assistant School Interview Guide ***Use code PAFI to get 10% off your copy!*** You can now support the show through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
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| 051 | An Overview of Bonds and I Bonds | 21 Jan 2022 | 00:18:30 | |
Bonds can help smooth some of the volatility that investing in stocks may provide, and I bonds in particular can serve as a good hedge against inflation.
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| 050 | Negotiation Tips and Contract Items to Review for PAs | 14 Jan 2022 | 00:32:21 | |
Negotiating can seem so intimidating, but it can be a huge tool to help you build wealth over time. In this episode, an overview of various items that you can (and probably should) negotiate are discussed. Hint: it's not just your compensation! Whether you're negotiating for your first PA job out of PA school or you're renegotiating in your current role, it's important to know what your top goals and priorities are. Additionally, it's vital to understand what your contract states as well as what to look for in a contract (if you have one). Finally, some negotiating tips are reviewed to try to help give you the edge in the process. Best of luck in your negotiations throughout your career as a PA!
You can now support the show through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for keeping me caffeinated and for all of your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/pathefiway
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Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
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| 049 | The Benefits of Learning Your Personality Type as a Physician Assistant on the Way to Financial Independence | 07 Jan 2022 | 00:39:27 | |
Have you ever taken a personality test such as Myers-Briggs, Enneagram, etc.? These test results can be so incredibly revealing about how you perceive the world and why you act the way you do. They can also show you your strengths, and equally important, your weaknesses.
My amazing and wonderful sister joins me as a guest to share how we have very opposite personalities, and how that has affected us throughout the years. If you are able to learn about the personality types of the loved ones in your life, your health care professional colleagues, or even your patients, you will be able to communicate better with them because you can see where they are coming from. Great communication is key with your spouse or life partner as you are trying to build wealth together on the way to financial independence!
You can use Google to search for a free personality test to take, and if you decide to take the Myers-Briggs test, you can use your results to search https://www.16personalities.com to read more about how your results affect the various relationships in your life.
Connect with me to share your personality type results as well as how knowing the results have helped you!
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Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
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| 048 | Celebrating Listener Financial Wins of 2021 and Financial Goals of 2022 | 31 Dec 2021 | 00:24:50 | |
What better topic for this episode airing on the last day of the year than to celebrate some financial wins of 2021 and financial goals of 2022 of some of the podcast listeners?!
Thank you to those who shared for contributing, and for those listening as I hope you find these motivating for you to reach your financial goals on your way to financial independence.
In this episode, the following items were discussed the most: - Tracking your net worth (check out this blog post about calculating and tracking your net worth using Personal Capital) - The power of Roth IRAs - Investing while paying off debt including student loans
Sponsor for today's show:
You can now support the show through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support!
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
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| 047 | How We Used Travel Rewards to Earn Free Travel for Our Trip to Costa Rica | 24 Dec 2021 | 00:49:06 | |
My husband and I just returned from our trip to Costa Rica this past weekend, and in this episode, I share how we were able to travel hack the trip by using travel rewards from credit card sign up bonuses to earn free travel!
Additionally, take a listen to hear about the beautiful Hyatt hotel that we stayed at (Andaz Costa Rica Resort At Peninsula Papagayo) for free using points, as well as the fun activities and adventures that we did such as ziplining, fishing, taking a side-by-side tour, etc.
The Southwest Companion pass is discussed as one of the best flight values out there for point redemption. Overviews of some solid travel rewards credit cards are also provided for the Chase Sapphire Preferred, Chase Business Ink, Southwest business and personal cards, and the World of Hyatt card.
If you're interested in reading more about travel rewards, check out this blog post.
Check out these cards that were mentioned to learn more: Southwest Cards (personal and business) World of Hyatt (no referral link currently available)
Are you just beginning your journey to financial independence and don't know where to start? Download your FREE copy of the PA the FI Way Beginner’s Workbook here! I want to celebrate your 2021 financial wins and your 2022 financial goals during next week's episode! Send them to me through Instagram or Facebook, or send me an email at pathefiway@gmail.com !
You can now support the show through Buy Me a Coffee! Thank you for all of your support!
Take a look at the Great Holiday Gift Guide that was curated for current and future PAs to see if there are any wants or needs for you!
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| 046 | Should a PA Use a "Physician Loan" for Their Mortgage? | 17 Dec 2021 | 00:14:52 | |
This episode was prompted by a question asked in the PA the FI Way Facebook group that was created for current and future PAs interested in financial independence. If you haven't already, feel free to join! Interestingly enough, several high-income professionals besides physicians may qualify for "physician loans", including PAs, depending on the lender. However, would pursuing a physician loan be wise for a new grad PA? As with many topics in personal finance, there are several pros and cons to consider, and the decision really is a personal one. Physician loans may seem more appealing on the surface than what the details actually show once you dig deeper.
Sponsor for today's show: StudentLoanAdvice.com can help you assess your specific student loan situation as a new grad PA to help you formulate a plan to pay back your student loans in the most cost-effective, and efficient way!
It's almost time for Christmas! Use this holiday gift guide created just for current and future PAs for gift ideas!
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
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Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
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| 045 | How to Budget for PA School with PA Money Sense | 10 Dec 2021 | 00:28:11 | |
Evan and Ginger with PA Money Sense share some guidance for budgeting while in PA school. It can be so tempting to take out the max of student loans that you can get, as well as spend every dollar of it! However, keep in mind that you will have to pay interest for each dollar that you spend.
Evan and Ginger also tell us about their budgeting tool that they created to help you track your budget during PA school. You can use code PAFI30 to receive 30% off the PA School Budget Tracker!
Follow them on Instagram: @pamoneysense
Follow PA the FI Way along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
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Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
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| 161 | Refuel, Redesign, Reclaim: 20 Tips for a Sustainable Career In Medicine | 08 Aug 2025 | 00:21:59 | |
Whether you’re a brand-new grad just stepping into the world of medicine, a mid-career clinician who still loves the work but feels the wear and tear, or someone laser-focused on retiring early to reclaim your time—this episode is for you. No matter your path, one thing is true: medicine is demanding. And if you want to make it sustainable—whether for 5 more years or 45 more years—you need a strategy to protect your energy, your well-being, and your freedom. Today, we’re diving into 20 practical ways to extend your career longevity using a simple but powerful framework: Refuel, Redesign, and Reclaim. These aren't just burnout band-aids. They're long-term strategies that can help you thrive in medicine while building a life outside of it. So whether you’re here to stay for the long haul, pivot within the profession, or build your exit ramp—this episode will help you stay grounded, intentional, and in control.
Grab your free copy of the 20 Tips for a Sustainable Career in Medicine Worksheet here
Are you just beginning your journey to financial independence and want to learn more? Download your free copy of the PA the FI Way Beginner’s Workbook here!
Website / Blog: pathefiway.com
Follow PA the FI Way on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Connect with Kat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katarina-kat-astrup-mspas-pa-c-175848255/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
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Questions or thoughts about the show? Email pathefiway@gmail.com
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| 044 | Save Money and Reduce Headaches While Applying to PA School with My PA Box | 03 Dec 2021 | 00:44:43 | |
Jacob, Cofounder of My PA Box, joins us on the show today to share the benefits of this incredibly helpful resource for those applying to PA school. My PA Box can help you narrow down which PA programs would be the best fit for you to apply to, ultimately cutting costs as well as headaches from your life! Jacob also shares how My PA Box was started with his business partner, as well as the inspirational stories of both himself and his family. Use code PAFI (in all caps) at mypabox.com for 15% off your My PA Box subscription! Find @mypabox on Instagram
Follow PA the FI Way along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
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Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
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| 043 | The 2021 Great Holiday Gift Guide for Current and Future Physician Assistants | 26 Nov 2021 | 00:13:45 | |
The most wonderful time of year is just around the corner! If you're a pre-PA, a PA student, or a practicing PA-C, this holiday gift guide was curated just for you to give you some ideas for your wishlist. Otherwise, if instead you're the significant other or family member of a current or future PA, but have no clue what to get them, then you're also in the right place! Check out the holiday gift guide by clicking here! Have a wonderful and blessed Christmas and holiday season!
Sponsor for today's show: StudentLoanAdvice.com
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| 042 | How to Develop a Plan to Pay Back Your PA Student Loans | 19 Nov 2021 | 00:43:05 | |
Most PAs graduate from PA school with over six figures of student loan debt! There are so many options to pay back your debt, some of which can include trading your service as a PA to have your student loans forgiven such as PSLF. Another plan may include refinancing with a private lender for a lower interest rate, but in some cases, it may make sense to actually keep federal student loans. For some, an IDR plan may be a better fit. How in the world do you decide which option for loan repayment is best for you? Andrew Paulson, CSLP, co-founded StudentLoanAdvice.com, which is a trusted White Coat Investor company, and advises PAs and other health care providers on formulating a plan to help manage and pay back their student loan debt. He is incredibly knowledgeable in regards to all of the repayment options so you can feel comfortable knowing that you made the best decision to save on costs when tackling all of your debt! Connect with Andrew: Facebook - @studentloanadvicedotcom Instagram - @studentloanadvice LinkedIn - Andrew Paulson, CSLP Connect with Kat, PA-C, of PA the FI Way:Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
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Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
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| 041 | Interview with The Student Loan Podcast and Start Noo | 12 Nov 2021 | 01:05:33 | |
Daphné Vanessa, Esq. and Shamil Rodriguez, co-hosts of The Student Loan Podcast and Founders of Start Noo share why they started these projects. They are an incredibly fun couple who are very passionate about how problematic the student loan system is, and they created Start Noo as a potential solution for you to help pay back your student loan debt from undergrad and PA school.
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
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Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
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| 040 | Sabbaticals During Your Career as a PA: Enjoy the Journey to Financial Independence and Return to Work Rejuvenated! Ft. Shayne Foley, PA-C | 05 Nov 2021 | 00:57:42 | |
Have you considered taking a sabbatical at some point during your career as a PA (physician assistant / physician associate)? Or maybe you thought sabbaticals were only for professors and that you couldn't take one as a PA? This episode with Shayne Foley, PA-C, reviews how you can take a sabbatical (or a few!) during your career as a PA, as well as what some of the benefits of sabbaticals are. Shayne also shares all the details of the logistics of planning and executing sabbaticals! A sabbatical could be used as a tool to fight burnout, but more importantly, can help you enjoy the journey to FI (financial independence) instead of postponing enjoyment and travel until you reach FI. Resources mentioned: Book: The RV Entrepreneur podcast
Connect with Shayne: www.efficientclinician.com www.ThePABlueprint.com @ThePABlueprint ThePABlueprint@gmail.comFollow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
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Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
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| 039 | The Advantages and Disadvantages of Having a 4 Day Workweek as a PA | 29 Oct 2021 | 00:19:57 | |
Working 4 days per week instead of 5 days as a PA has many advantages, but there are a few disadvantages as well. However, the benefits seem to fit with many financial independence ideals, so it is something worth considering and exploring as an option for your career! Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/ Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway
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| 038 | Pre-PA Clinic: Interview with Founders Katie Bean, DMS, PA-C and Beth Macintire, DMS, PA-C | 22 Oct 2021 | 00:40:45 | |
Are you a Pre-PA student looking for guidance as how you can stand out as an applicant while applying to PA school? Or are you a PA student that is looking for extra support while in PA school? Take a listen to meet Katie and Beth, who are two incredibly fun and motivating mentors for Pre-PAs and PA students. They offer several types of services to help you out throughout your journey as you become a PA. We also discuss our passions for travel, mission trips, and of course, financial independence! Find Katie and Beth here: Instagram: @prepaclinic - instagram.com/prepaclinic/ Facebook: Pre-PA Clinic - https://www.facebook.com/PrePAClinic Podcast: Where the White Coats Come Off - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/where-the-white-coats-come-off/id1568900250
If you haven't already, take a listen to PA the FI Way podcast episode 22 to learn more about travel rewards and how to travel the world for free, or read the blog post here.
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
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| 037 | The PA Blueprint: Interview with Authors Shayne Foley, PA-C and Jordan Fisher, PA-C | 15 Oct 2021 | 00:44:04 | |
Have you felt as though you need some career guidance as a PA, or need help fighting burnout? Shayne and Jordan join us in this really fun interview to discuss The PA Blueprint: Your guide to career advancement, getting rich, avoiding burnout, and finding your dream job. Visit the website to get your copy of The PA Blueprint, and use special code pathefiway25 for 25% off your purchase! https://www.thepablueprint.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepablueprint/ Other Resources Mentioned: Blogs: http://theefficientclinician.com http://www.mrmoneymustache.com Books: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. PA the FI Way LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, which is an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Podcasts: Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/ Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway | |||
| 036 | FIlightER's Triple 7: Financial Wins, Financial Mistakes, and Pieces of Advice for Millennials from an Early Retiree, Part 2 | 08 Oct 2021 | 01:06:29 | |
Paul "Lambo" the FIlightER, Creator of the FIlightER Podcast and Blog, joins us as the first guest who is an early retiree that has achieved FIRE! He used to work as a CPA, so he provides excellent insight from that background throughout the episode. He shares his Triple 7: 7 financial wins, 7 financial mistakes, and 7 pieces of advice for millennials. However, since he is so full of wisdom and stories, this episode is Part 2 of 2, and it covers the 7 financial mistakes and 7 pieces of advice for millennials! If you haven't already, take a listen to episode 35 to hear about his 7 financial wins on his way to financial independence. Check out the FIlightER podcast: https://filighter.libsyn.com Visit the FIlightER blog: https://filighter.com Books mentioned: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. PA the FI Way LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, which is an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway | |||
| 035 | FIlightER's Triple 7: Financial Wins, Financial Mistakes, and Pieces of Advice for Millennials from an Early Retiree, Part 1 | 01 Oct 2021 | 00:55:21 | |
Paul "Lambo" the FIlightER, Creator of the FIlightER Podcast and Blog, joins us as the first guest who is an early retiree that has achieved FIRE! He used to work as a CPA, so he provides excellent insight from that background throughout the episode. He shares his Triple 7: 7 financial wins, 7 financial mistakes, and 7 pieces of advice for millennials. However, since he is so full of wisdom and stories, this episode is Part 1 of 2, and it covers the 7 financial wins that he would like to share. Stay tuned for next week's episode of the 7 financial mistakes and 7 pieces of advice for millennials! Check out the FIlightER podcast: https://filighter.libsyn.com Visit the FIlightER blog: https://filighter.com Books mentioned: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. PA the FI Way LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, which is an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway
Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway | |||
| 160 | Under-Celebrated Financial Milestones That Matter More Than You Think | 25 Jul 2025 | 00:26:48 | |
What if the most important steps on your financial journey aren’t the big flashy ones—but the small, quiet wins you hardly notice? In this episode, we’re shining a light on the under-celebrated financial milestones that deserve just as much recognition as paying off your student loan debt or hitting six figures in your retirement account. From paying off your first credit card to setting up automatic savings, these small victories build confidence, create momentum, and transform your mindset over time. We’ll walk through dozens of often-overlooked wins across spending, debt, saving, investing, mindset, and life alignment—and why they matter way more than you think. You'll also get tips on how to track and celebrate these wins in a way that reinforces your progress and prevents burnout along the path to financial independence. Whether you’re just getting started or deep into your journey, this episode is your reminder that progress beats perfection—and small wins lead to big freedom. Grab your free Small Wins Financial Milestone Tracker to start celebrating your own journey!
Click Here for Financial Independence Book Recommendations
Are you just beginning your journey to financial independence and want to learn more? Download your free copy of the PA the FI Way Beginner’s Workbook here!
Website / Blog: pathefiway.com
Follow PA the FI Way on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Connect with Kat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katarina-kat-astrup-mspas-pa-c-175848255/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
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Questions or thoughts about the show? Email pathefiway@gmail.com
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| 034 | Interview with Savanna Perry, PA-C, Founder of The PA Platform and Host of The Pre-PA Club Podcast | 24 Sep 2021 | 00:36:10 | |
Have you considered starting a business or authoring a book as a side hustle on your way to financial independence? Or are you a pre-PA student looking for tips to get into PA school and succeeding once you do? Our guest, Savanna Perry, PA-C, is not only an awesome dermatology physician assistant, but she is also a business owner of The PA Platform, podcast host of The Pre-PA Club, and author of Physician Assistant School Personal Statement Guide and Physician Assistant School Interview Guide. Check out The PA Platform, which is packed full of information and resources to help pre-PAs get into PA school, and succeed as a PA student as well as a practicing PA. Savanna also shares her experience and insight of being a business owner and author in addition to practicing medicine as a PA. You can get 10% off of her books, course, or any services offered through The PA Platform, such as essay reviews, mock interview, or coaching, by using code PAFI at checkout at thePAplatform.com! The PA Platform - thePAplatform.com Instagram - instagram.com/thePAplatform TikTok - @physicianassistant - https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMRCBGYUS/ Facebook - facebook.com/thePAplatformEnjoying the podcast? Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/ Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway Like the Facebook page to follow along for updates: https://www.facebook.com/pathefiway Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com | |||
| 033 | How Pursuing Financial Independence Can Help Fight Physician Assistant Burnout | 17 Sep 2021 | 00:27:18 | |
Burnout is a syndrome that many healthcare workers have experienced, especially during the COVID pandemic. PAs are no exception, and around 50% of PAs will experience burnout at some point during their working careers. This episode reviews what burnout is, the costs and risks of burnout, the contributing factors, burnout symptoms, and what you can do to try to fight burnout as a PA. Additionally, we will review how being a physician assistant on the way to financial independence can help you fight burnout. Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
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Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
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| 032 | Mega Backdoor Roth | 10 Sep 2021 | 00:17:25 | |
The Mega Backdoor Roth is a strategy that may allow you to save more money into your Roth account for the year after maxing out your 401K, allowing for tax-free growth and tax-free future withdrawals. However, it is somewhat rare that employers and 401K administrators allow this strategy. Learn the questions to ask to find out if you're eligible, and the process of utilizing the Mega Backdoor Roth strategy as a physician assistant.
Follow along on Instagram: @pathefiway https://www.instagram.com/pathefiway/
Join the private Facebook group created for current and future PAs on their journey to financial independence: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pathefiway
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Website to read blog posts: pathefiway.com
Prefer to pin the posts that you found informative? Follow along on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pathefiway | |||