In this episode, I talk with Cody Berman and Sean Mullaney about what it really takes to reach early financial independence. Cody shares how he built a $4.8 million net worth by 29 through frugal living, intentional spending, and creating multiple income streams, while Sean breaks down the smartest tax strategies early retirees use to access money sooner and keep more of what they earn.
We cover how to effectively use 401(k)s, Roth IRAs, HSAs, and taxable accounts together, plus key tactics like the Rule of 55, Roth conversions, and tax arbitrage that can dramatically lower your lifetime tax rate. Sean makes complex tax planning simple and actionable for anyone pursuing FIRE.
Whether you’re just starting your wealth-building journey or planning an early retirement, this episode delivers practical strategies to grow wealth faster and design a flexible, purpose-driven financial future.
CHAPTERS 🎧
00:00 – Welcome & Episode Overview
01:10 – Best Accounts for Early Retirement
02:45 – Why Traditional 401(k)s Still Matter
04:55 – Accessing Retirement Money Before 59½
07:10 – Roth IRAs for Early Retirement Flexibility
11:45 – Using Taxable Accounts to Retire Early
14:10 – Tax Rate Arbitrage & Keeping Taxes Low
18:45 – HSAs, ACA Planning, and Early Retirement
23:10 – Financial Independence with Purpose
26:00 – Net Worth Win: $4.8M by Age 29
27:45 – Cody Berman’s FIRE Origin Story
32:00 – Quitting Corporate & Scaling Income Fast
37:00 – Building Multiple Income Streams
41:45 – Net Worth & Asset Breakdown
46:25 – Debt, Risk, and Long-Term Wealth Strategy
50:55 – Spending, Lifestyle, and Life After FI
52:55 – Advice for Your 20s & Getting Started
55:00 – Final Thoughts & Where to Connect
Resources and Links 📚
My new book, "Own Your Time" - https://marriagekidsandmoney.com/book
Sponsors and Additional Resources
https://marriagekidsandmoney.com/resources
FI Tax Guy (Sean’s blog & tax planning resources): https://fitaxguy.com/
Cody Berman’s official site (passive income guides & resources): https://codydberman.com/
The Financial Independence Show (podcast by Cody Berman & Justin Taylor): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-financial-independence-show/id1434155196
Gold City Ventures (Cody’s company focused on passive income and online business): https://goldcityventures.com/
Gold City Ventures on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/goldcityventures
Credits
Editor: Johnny Sohl
Podcast Artwork: Kayli Johnson
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