April 2, 2025

FIRE at 50 by Creating “FI Paychecks” That Fund My Early Retirement! | Life After FIRE

Show Notes

Would you delay your early retirement for years to feel safer and secure once you FIRE? That’s what Mark Trautman did, FIRE-ing before discovering the FIRE movement was even a thing. While he could have retired in his 40s, Mark pushed his retirement date to 50, retiring with a conservative withdrawal schedule that even beats the 4% rule. But, thanks to being invested throughout his retirement, Mark has blown past even his Fat FIRE dreams, spending what he wants, when he wants, without a worry!

But it wasn’t the money that made Mark thankful for FIRE. Mark was able to be right next to his wife and even his father during their last days, being fully dedicated to them and not worrying about a job or paycheck he had to go after. This is the TRUE point of FIRE, and living like Mark could have the same powerful impact on you.

Speaking of paychecks, Mark’s “FI paychecks” are fueling his retirement, so much so that he barely (if ever) needs to withdraw from his retirement portfolio. How is this completely passive cash flow funding his life? Copy Mark’s strategy, and you could be Fat FIRE by 50, too!

In This Episode We Cover

The “FI paychecks” you should set up once you’re near early retirement

Why FIRE is about MORE than money; it’s about time with the ones you love

Mark’s “Fun Bucket” for worry-free spending on life-changing experiences

Why delaying your early retirement could help you FIRE without money anxiety

The one inflation/market downturn hedge Mark uses that provides him with passive income

Early retirement healthcare and how Mark pays for health insurance without employment

And So Much More!

Links from the Show

Mindy on BiggerPockets

Scott on BiggerPockets

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