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
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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
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35:04
Are We FI Yet?
In this episode, Michael explores whether his family has officially reached financial independence. He breaks down their investment portfolio, rental income, and expected expenses to assess if they can sustain a €40,000 annual budget. He also considers different strategies for managing withdrawals, potential risks, and what financial independence truly means beyond just the numbers. Finally, he reflects on the next steps in his post-FI journey, balancing work, purpose, and leisure.
Show Notes:
Michael on Ireland AM (about halfway through):
https://play.virginmediatelevision.ie/watch/vod/52791801/ireland-am-fri-21-feb
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14:39
Become a Millionaire, with Sjoerd Bak
In this episode, Michael sits down with Sjoerd Bak, founder of BAMillionaire.com. Originally from The Netherlands, Sjoerd moved to Ireland in 2006 and worked in the tech industry before becoming a qualified financial advisor. Today, he provides financial coaching to help professionals in the tech sector build financial literacy and achieve their financial goals.
We dive deep into Sjoerd's own FIRE journey, and he shares valuable insights and advice that he offers to his clients on how to become financially independent.
Show Notes:
Connect with Sjoerd on Linked In:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjoerdbak/
Visit Sjoerd's Website:
https://www.bamillionaire.com/
Get Sjoerd's tracking template by subscribing to his newsletter:
https://bamillionaire.kit.com/template
Subscribe to The Irish FIRE Podcast Newsletter:
https://www.firepodcast.ie/newsletter
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25:50
The Cat is Out of the Bag
In this episode, Michael shares the news that he has been asked to write regularly on personal finance for The Irish Independent and how writing on a main stream newspaper has meant that his near FI status is now being shared on a national scale! He discusses the challenges and joys of transitioning to semi-retirement, from embracing flexibility in his work schedule to tackling more household tasks. Looking ahead, Michael outlines his family’s plans for 2025, including a long-awaited trip to New Zealand and paying off a personal loan for solar panels and vehicle upgrades. He explains the financial balancing act of covering these expenses, working less, and managing higher taxes while letting his FI portfolio coast.
Show Notes
Read The Irish Independent article here:
https://archive.ph/NDQLZ
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, the podcast covers practical strategies for saving, investing, and designing a life of financial freedom. 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.
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