How To Build Your Own Paycheck: From Saver to Spender | Fritz Gilbert & Dana Anspach | 171
Episode 171
Sunday, October 5, 2025 • Duration 01:21:42
If you're within ten years of retirement (early or traditional age) or just want to get a head start on going from being a saver to a spender, this episode is for you. Decumulation without drama—that's the mission as retirement pros Dana Anspach (Sensible Money) and Fritz Gilbert (The Retirement Manifesto) join the show to turn "build-your-own paycheck" into a repeatable process. Dana lays out why drawdown is a hundred small decisions, not one big leap; and Fritz brings in the field notes. Together they demystify:
Tax Pitfalls
Timing Social Security
Asset Allocation and Location
Why Most Retirees Underspend
The big takeaway: document the plan, automate the paycheck, and give yourself permission to enjoy the "go-go" years—because money's job is to fund a life, not gather dust.
📈 Boldin (formerly NewRetirement): Retirement planning software that's like having a financial advisor at your fingertips. You can get started with the free version or choose the premium option (PlannerPlus) and get a 14-day free trial. 👉🏼 Be sure to use this link to get started: Go.boldin.com/catchingup
For a full list of current deals and discounts from our partners, sponsors and affiliates, click here: catchinguptofi.com/our-partners
RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the show on your podcast player and leave us a rating or review. If you want to watch, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel. This helps others find the show and keeps us creating great content for you!
⚠️Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.
What Would 'Your Money' Look Like In a Simple Sketch? | Carl Richards | 170
Episode 170
Sunday, September 28, 2025 • Duration 46:45
Carl Richards is one of the leading voices when it comes to money and emotions. For over a decade, he was the creator of the Sketch Guy column in The New York Times, where his hand-drawn sketches made financial complexity surprisingly simple—and deeply emotional. He joins us to ask the question that instantly ties our brain in knots: 'What is money, really?' From there, he discusses:
Why we unknowingly organize life around money and work
Why 'enough' is a way of being (not a number)
How we keep handing money jobs it can't do—like self-worth, love, and happiness
Come for the doodles; leave with a gentler, saner way to align your calendar, your checkbook, and your life.
🆕Big changes with student loans in the new budget bill that just passed. Get help from the experts at Student Loan Planner, all CFP®, CFA and CSLP® professionals. They charge a one-time fee for their thorough review. Our listeners receive $100 off a 1:1 consult using the link below. Flat fee is normally $595, but after your $100 off 'Catching Up to FI' discount, it's $495.
Case Study: The Real Numbers That Told Her She Could Quit her Job, Now! | Lisa B | 161
Episode 161
Sunday, August 10, 2025 • Duration 01:29:39
We ❤️ Case Studies! Nurse practitioner and mom of three, Lisa, opens up and shares what's in her wallet, and her heart. In this episode we dive into her fascinating late-starter story and financials. She was also this year's brave Case Study at the EconoMe conference and revealed all her numbers in front of a live audience to get crowd-sourced feedback in real time. What transpired afterwards was powerful- she quit her day job and handed in her clinical badge to enjoy a sabbatical she had been longing for! With a little help from some Boldin financial modeling and a Nectarine hourly planner, she made the leap and takes us through exactly how she did it.
=== VOTE FOR US: PLUTUS AWARDS ===
We need your vote for the 2025 Plutus Awards! You can now vote for your hosts behind "Catching Up to FI" - Bill Yount & Jackie Cummings Koski.
✅ WHAT IS THE PLUTUS AWARDS?
The Plutus Awards recognize excellence in independent financial content. That's the best podcasts, books, video channels, blogs, and more.
✅ VOTE
If you've gotten value from our content and think we are worthy of recognition, please support by casting your votes here > >> https://plutus.awardsplatform.com/. There's a short registration needed to vote and you'll be in and out in just a few minutes.
✅ DEADLINE
The deadline to vote is August 30th, 2025. Winners will be announced in October.
✅ CATEGORIES
Below are the categories we have been nominated for and we'd love your vote in each of them.
Catching Up to FI
From Tech Stocks to Toilet Brushes: The Jensens' FI Journey | Mindy and Carl Jensen | 071
Episode 71
Sunday, April 21, 2024 • Duration 01:06:46
Although you've probably heard of this powerful pair, Mindy and Carl Jensen hop onto our show to share their personal journeys to financial independence and beyond. The Jensens discuss their experiences with podcasting, real estate investing, individual stock investments, and the lifestyle adjustments they've made after achieving financial independence. From buying a Tesla to planning for their children's futures, Mindy and Carl offer a transparent look at their lives post-FI, imparting valuable lessons along the way.
Catching Up to FI will be compensated by Nectarine if you use our affiliate link, which creates an incentive and conflict of interest. We are not current clients or employees of Nectarine.
Resources mentioned on the show: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Pathfinders: Triumphs and Trials on the Road to Financial Independence | JL Collins | 070
Episode 70
Sunday, April 14, 2024 • Duration 54:19
In Part 2 of Bill and Jackie's conversation with JL Collins, the three explore his latest book "Pathfinders" and unravel the powerful narratives that underscore the ethos of financial independence. The trio discuss various topics such as the significance of starting early in investments, the pivotal moments which define one's financial path, and the universal applicability of Collins' financial principles across different life situations. Sharing touching and motivational stories from "Pathfinders", they emphasize the book's role as a beacon for those striving for financial independence, regardless of their starting point.
Catching Up to FI will be compensated by Nectarine if you use our affiliate link, which creates an incentive and conflict of interest. We are not current clients or employees of Nectarine.
Resources mentioned on the show: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Pathfinders: Stories of Success and Financial Independence | JL Collins | 069
Episode 69
Sunday, April 7, 2024 • Duration 55:32
Welcome back, JL Collins! Affectionately known as the Godfather of FI, Collins returns to discuss his latest book, "Pathfinders: Extraordinary Stories of People Like You on the Quest for Financial Independence" which explores real-life stories of individuals from diverse backgrounds navigating the journey toward financial freedom. Bill and official new co-host, Jackie Koski, chat with JL about the transformative power of simple yet strategic financial decisions, the significance of community, and the universal applicability of the principles of financial independence. Prepare to be inspired by tales of resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of a life rich not just in wealth, but in fulfillment and joy. Stay tuned for part 2!
Catching Up to FI will be compensated by Nectarine if you use our affiliate link, which creates an incentive and conflict of interest. We are not current clients or employees of Nectarine.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Don't Miss Out On Today | Mark Ross | 068
Episode 68
Sunday, March 31, 2024 • Duration 01:11:16
Mark Ross is a retired executive and a rewired encorepreneur. Mark shares his journey from a traditional career into retirement and how he shaped a fulfilling post-retirement life through diversifying his interests, categorizing his work into things he does for a fee, for free, and just for himself. Through his personal story, he highlights the importance of a growth mindset, staying curious, and building relationships.
This episode also marks a bittersweet moment as Becky says her final goodbye as co-host, but we will see her around the community. Thank you for everything, Becky!
Catching Up to FI will be compensated by Nectarine if you use our affiliate link, which creates an incentive and conflict of interest. We are not current clients or employees of Nectarine.
Resources mentioned on the show: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Catching the Wave to FI | Doug Nordman & Carol Pittner | 067
Episode 67
Sunday, March 24, 2024 • Duration 01:31:37
Doug Nordman and Carol Pittner are a financially-savvy father-daughter duo who take us on their money journey as a family. From learning about money management through unique family practices like the "Bank of Carol," to achieving financial independence, Doug and Carol share the milestones, strategies, and setbacks of their financial journeys. They discuss the importance of saving, investing, and making prudent life choices, all set against the backdrop of their unique military lifestyle. Moreover, they discuss the profound impact of teaching financial literacy from a young age. Whether you're a late starter to financial independence or seeking to pave a smoother path for the next generation, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and inspiring stories to guide you on your journey to FI.
Catching Up to FI will be compensated by Nectarine if you use our affiliate link, which creates an incentive and conflict of interest. We are not current clients or employees of Nectarine.
Scamalot! | Paula Pant | 066
Episode 66
Sunday, March 17, 2024 • Duration 01:10:08
Paula Pant is the creator and host of the Afford Anything podcast. She is also a writer, speaker, and media commentator on financial independence, real estate investing, money management, and financial literacy. Today Paula joins us to dive deep into the world of scams, particularly focusing on the elderly. We explore why scams are so convincing, and Paula offers practical advice for protection against scams, advocating the use of credit over debit cards for enhanced federal protection, and emphasizes the importance of vigilance in the digital age. She gives us a comprehensive guide to understanding and combating scams, highlighting the significance of cybersecurity alongside financial independence.
Dumpster FIRE and the FIRE Brigade | Lauren Beltz | 065
Episode 65
Sunday, March 10, 2024 • Duration 01:20:00
Lauren Beltz is an engineer turned personal finance enthusiast who shares her insights on budgeting and financial independence with Bill and Becky. The three discuss topics such as the role of contentment in personal finance, necessity of an emergency fund and insurance, and tips for successful budgeting. They also touch on the concept of zero-based budgeting and the importance of a finance community for guidance and support. Overall, Lauren's personal journey and professionally garnered insights provide listeners with a practical and strategic understanding of managing finances for future security.
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the show on your podcast player and leave us a rating or review. If you want to watch, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel. This helps others find the show and keeps us creating great content for you!
⚠️Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.
Best New Personal Finance Content Creator - Audio
Content Creator of the Year: Audio
People's Choice: Audio
Best Financial Advisor Content/Jackie Cummings Koski, CFP
Plutus Storyteller Award
Best Traditional Retirement Content
Best Personal Finance Content for Underserved Communities
Best Personal Finance Content for Women
Other categories
Best New Personal Finance Content Creator - Written (F.I.R.E. for Dummies)
Best New Personal Finance Book (F.I.R.E. for Dummies)
Plutus Resilience Award (Jackie Cummings Koski)
Best Financial Independence or Retire Early Content (F.I.R.E. for Dummies)
📈 Boldin (formerly NewRetirement): Retirement planning software that's like having a financial advisor at your fingertips. You can get started with the free version or choose the premium option (PlannerPlus) and get a 14-day free trial. 👉🏼 Be sure to use this link to get started: Go.boldin.com/catchingup
Nectarine: Advice-Only and Flat-Fee Hourly Fiduciary Financial Advisors (Catching Up to FI will be compensated by Nectarine if you use our affiliate link, which creates an incentive and conflict of interest. We are not current clients or employees of Nectarine.)
For a full list of current deals and discounts from our partners, sponsors and affiliates, click here: catchinguptofi.com/our-partners
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the show on your podcast player and leave us a rating or review. If you want to watch, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel. This helps others find the show and keeps us creating great content for you!
⚠️Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.
Disclaimer: We are not lawyers, financial advisors, accountants or tax experts. Please consult your own professional advisors before making any important decisions. Our content is for entertainment and education purposes only.
"Money is more open-minded than language, state laws, cultural codes, religious beliefs and social habits. Money is the only trust system created by humans that can bridge almost any cultural gap, and that does not discriminate on the basis of religion, gender, race, age or sexual orientation." -Yuval Noah Harari
Disclaimer: We are not lawyers, financial advisors, accountants or tax experts. Please consult your own professional advisors before making any important decisions. Our content is for entertainment and education purposes only.
Resources mentioned on the show:
The Simple Path to Wealth: Your Road Map to Financial Independence and a Rich, Free Life by JL Collins
Disclaimer: We are not lawyers, financial advisors, accountants or tax experts. Please consult your own professional advisors before making any important decisions. Our content is for entertainment and education purposes only.
Disclaimer: We are not lawyers, financial advisors, accountants or tax experts. Please consult your own professional advisors before making any important decisions. Our content is for entertainment and education purposes only.
Resources mentioned on the show: (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
Look for their books at your local library in order to "try before you buy."
Doug's recommendations for military-friendly charities:
- Fisher House Foundation: either the national foundation (with Brian Gawne, one of my college classmates and a military retiree) or your local Fisher House at a hospital.
- Local chapters of the Wounded Warrior Program and their services for your local military veterans.
Their favorite surfing beaches:
- White Plains Beach at Kalaeloa near Kapolei (Oahu)
- Pua 'Ena Point at Haleiwa Beach Park (north side) on Oahu
...but Mission Bay and South Ponto Beach in San Diego are also pretty good, as well as Shifting Sands Beach Club at Dam Neck in Virginia Beach.
Disclaimer: We are not lawyers, financial advisors, accountants or tax experts. Please consult your own professional advisors before making any important decisions. Our content is for entertainment and education purposes only.
Disclaimer: We are not lawyers, financial advisors, accountants or tax experts. Please consult your own professional advisors before making any important decisions. Our content is for entertainment and education purposes only.
Disclaimer: We are not lawyers, financial advisors, accountants or tax experts. Please consult your own professional advisors before making any important decisions. Our content is for entertainment and education purposes only.
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