The Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement has been growing in popularity as more people are looking to take control of their finances and retire before the traditional age of 65. If you’re interested in achieving financial independence and retiring early, there’s no better way to stay informed and motivated than by listening to FIRE-focused podcasts. These podcasts feature experts and everyday people who share strategies, tips, and success stories that can help you on your journey to financial independence.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best FIRE podcasts you should follow to get inspired and stay on track with your financial goals.
What is FIRE?
Before diving into the best podcasts, let’s quickly define the FIRE movement. FIRE stands for Financial Independence, Retire Early. The goal of the movement is to save and invest enough money so you can retire much earlier than traditional retirement age. People who pursue FIRE typically do the following:
- Save aggressively: Many aim to save 50% or more of their income.
- Invest smartly: Most focus on low-cost index funds, real estate, or other investments that offer long-term growth.
- Live frugally: Reducing expenses to save more money is a cornerstone of the FIRE lifestyle.
By following these strategies, people can reach financial independence sooner and have the freedom to retire early or pursue passion projects. Now, let’s dive into the best podcasts to follow for FIRE insights.
1. ChooseFI
The ChooseFI podcast is one of the most popular and well-respected FIRE podcasts. Hosted by Brad Barrett and Jonathan Mendonsa, this podcast features interviews with people who have achieved financial independence, as well as deep dives into strategies that help listeners save more, invest smarter, and live more intentionally.
- What You’ll Learn: How to optimize your finances, reduce taxes, invest wisely, and accelerate your path to FIRE.
- Why Listen: Brad and Jonathan break down complex financial concepts into simple, actionable steps. Their approachable style makes it easy for beginners to follow, while still offering valuable insights for those already familiar with FIRE.
Podcast link: ChooseFI Podcast
2. The Mad Fientist
The Mad Fientist, also known as Brandon, has been a major influence in the FIRE community. His podcast focuses on advanced strategies for achieving financial independence, such as tax efficiency, investing, and safe withdrawal rates. Brandon has interviewed some of the biggest names in the FIRE movement, including Mr. Money Mustache and JL Collins.
- What You’ll Learn: Tax hacks, investment strategies, and how to optimize your finances to reach FIRE faster.
- Why Listen: If you want to dive deep into financial strategies and learn the technical aspects of FIRE, The Mad Fientist podcast is perfect. Brandon explains complicated topics in a way that’s easy to understand.
Podcast link: The Mad Fientist Podcast
3. Afford Anything
Hosted by Paula Pant, the Afford Anything podcast explores the idea that you can “afford anything, but not everything.” This podcast is a mix of personal finance, life optimization, and interviews with experts on money and success. Paula herself achieved financial independence through real estate investing, and her podcast covers a wide range of topics, including FIRE strategies, real estate, and living a purposeful life.
- What You’ll Learn: How to make better financial decisions, invest in real estate, and create a life that aligns with your values.
- Why Listen: Paula’s down-to-earth approach and interviews with a wide variety of guests make this podcast a great resource for anyone interested in FIRE, whether you’re just starting or already on the path.
Podcast link: Afford Anything Podcast
4. BiggerPockets Money
While BiggerPockets is primarily known for its real estate investing focus, the BiggerPockets Money Podcast goes beyond real estate to discuss all aspects of personal finance and FIRE. Hosted by Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench, this podcast features interviews with experts and individuals who have achieved financial independence through a variety of means, including investing, entrepreneurship, and frugality.
- What You’ll Learn: How to manage your money, invest in real estate, and build wealth for early retirement.
- Why Listen: If you’re interested in real estate as part of your FIRE strategy, this podcast is a must-listen. Even if real estate isn’t your main focus, the podcast offers valuable insights on saving, investing, and living frugally.
Podcast link: BiggerPockets Money Podcast
5. The FI Show
The FI Show is hosted by Cody Berman and Justin Taylor, two millennials who are passionate about achieving financial independence at a young age. This podcast is perfect for younger people who are just starting on their FIRE journey. Cody and Justin interview guests who have reached FIRE and offer tips on saving, investing, and building wealth through side hustles, real estate, and more.
- What You’ll Learn: Side hustle strategies, frugal living tips, and how to optimize your finances for FIRE.
- Why Listen: The hosts bring a fresh perspective to the FIRE movement, focusing on younger individuals and offering relatable advice for millennials and Gen Z.
Podcast link: The FI Show
6. Financial Independence Europe
For those living in Europe or interested in a global perspective on FIRE, the Financial Independence Europe podcast offers a unique take on achieving financial independence outside of the U.S. Hosted by Alvar, Matthias, and Araminta, this podcast covers topics such as investing in European markets, tax efficiency, and frugal living in different countries.
- What You’ll Learn: How to achieve financial independence in Europe, differences in tax laws, and investment strategies for European markets.
- Why Listen: If you’re living in Europe or want to understand how the FIRE movement works internationally, this podcast provides valuable insights tailored to European listeners.
Podcast link: Financial Independence Europe
7. Playing with FIRE
Playing with FIRE is a podcast that complements the documentary of the same name. The podcast follows real-life stories of people on their FIRE journey, including the challenges they face and the strategies they use to achieve financial independence. Hosted by Scott Rieckens, the podcast covers everything from budgeting and saving to investing and early retirement.
- What You’ll Learn: How real people are applying FIRE principles to their lives and overcoming obstacles along the way.
- Why Listen: The podcast’s focus on real-life stories makes it highly relatable and motivating, especially for those just starting out.
Podcast link: Playing with FIRE
8. Journey to Launch
Journey to Launch, hosted by Jamila Souffrant, is all about helping listeners navigate their way to financial freedom. Jamila shares her own story of paying off debt and working toward early retirement, while also interviewing guests who provide actionable tips on saving, investing, and living a more intentional life.
- What You’ll Learn: Debt reduction, investing, and how to achieve financial independence while managing a busy life.
- Why Listen: Jamila’s relatable story and practical advice make this podcast perfect for those juggling family, work, and financial goals.
Podcast link: Journey to Launch
Final Thoughts
The FIRE movement is all about taking control of your financial future and designing the life you want. Podcasts are a great way to learn from experts and hear real-life success stories that can inspire you on your journey to financial independence. Whether you’re just starting out or already on your way to FIRE, these podcasts offer valuable insights, motivation, and practical advice to help you reach your goals.
By regularly tuning in to these podcasts, you’ll stay informed about the latest FIRE strategies and hear tips from people who have already achieved financial independence. So, pick your favorites, hit play, and get ready to take your FIRE journey to the next level!
