In this episode, Michael shares what life really looks like after reaching Financial Independence. Spoiler: it's not all hammocks and golf rounds.
From repainting rental properties and managing guilt over working less, to the emotional weight of holding a full time job post-FI, this episode explores the unexpected complexities that come once you hit your FI number - and why "freedom" sometimes brings more questions than answers.
Michael unpacks:
The emotional cost of being a “nice guy” landlord
Delegating property tasks and embracing manual labour
Feeling out of sync with the 9-5 life (even when it’s “flexible”)
The surprise guilt of working less - and still feeling overcommitted
The temptation and reality of buying a holiday home
Lessons learned from an entrepreneurial brother-in-law
Why retirement isn't the answer - and FIRE is more about framework than finality
Show Notes
Subscribe the the monthly newsletter
--------
18:20
--------
18:20
6 Year Anniversary Special - The Community Strikes Back
In this anniversary episode, Michael invites you into the heart of the Limerick FI community, sharing real stories from local members on their own FIRE journeys. You’ll hear how the Limerick WhatsApp and Meetup groups have helped people from all walks of life openly talk about money, investing, and intentional living - free from judgment or taboos.
Show Notes
Join the Limerick FI Meet Up Group:
https://www.meetup.com/financial-independence-limerick
Subscribe to the monthly newsletter:
https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter
--------
17:22
--------
17:22
What FIRE is Really About
In this episode, Michael shares what a typical Tuesday looks like in his life now - not filled with long workdays or dramatic financial spreadsheets, but with meaningful work, family time, fitness, golf, and sunshine. He reflects on what FIRE really means to him: not quitting work, but having the freedom to design an extraordinary life on his own terms. Michael also responds to some recent criticism of their FIRE journey and offers his honest thoughts on what FIRE is really about.
Show Notes:
Join the newsletter at:
https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter
--------
19:49
--------
19:49
The €9 Cup Cakes that changed how we think about money
In this episode, Michael shares how a disagreement with his wife over a €9 cupcake sparked a deeper conversation about budgeting and money spending. He reflects on his evolving perspective on FIRE now that he’s technically financial independence, and how his life is gradually transitioning into semi-retirement.
He also discusses insights from a recent financial review with Ronan from Metis Ireland and answers a question he received in a WhatsApp group about being financially independent as a landlord.
Show Notes:
Follow Alan & Katie's Youtube Chanel:
https://www.youtube.com/@rebeldonegans
Become a newsletter subscriber:
https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter
--------
14:51
--------
14:51
From Bucket List to Best Self with Shane O'Brien
In this episode, Michael talks with Shane O'Brien, author of From Bucket List to Best Self.
Shane, originally from Clare and now living in Castleconnell, Co. Limerick, recently wrote a book about the power of using a bucket list as a template for personal development. In the episode, he shares how FIRE and personal development go hand in hand and explains how developing a bucket list can support your journey to financial independence.
He also opens up about overcoming a childhood tragedy and how his bucket list played a key role in helping him learn to swim”
Show Notes
Buy the book here:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bucket-List-Best-Self/dp/B0DVS1L6WK
Subscribe to the newsletter:
https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter
The Irish FIRE Podcast explores the journey to financial independence and early retirement from an Irish perspective. Hosted by Michael Houghton, the podcast covers practical strategies for saving, investing, and working towards financial independence. Each episode dives into topics like tax efficiency, property investment, pensions, and lifestyle optimization, all tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities in Ireland. Whether you’re just starting out or well on your FIRE journey, The Irish FIRE Podcast offers actionable insights to help you achieve your financial goals.
Listen to The Irish FIRE Podcast, The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström®: Expert Mode Marketing Technology, AI, & CX and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app
Ireland