Why We're Considering Scaling Back 401k Contributions (Ep 199)
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Show notes
This week, we dove headfirst into a controversial financial topic: are we really going to stop investing for retirement?
As seasoned planners who reached Coast FIRE, we opened up about rethinking our strategies for the next phase of life and what it means to balance living for today with preparing for tomorrow.
This episode is a real-time look at how our priorities are shifting and the emotional, practical, and tactical choices behind it.
Key MomentsWe break down what Coast FIRE really means and why hitting that number has us questioning our old expectations at 03:35.The discussion explored how to calculate your FIRE number and how it guides withdrawal strategies at 03:49.Why we’re considering scaling back 401k contributions to free up cash for things like a “bridge account” and a dream vacation home at 10:05.We are open about the tax implications of changing our contribution strategy, using specific numbers to illustrate the dilemma at 13:12.The conversation focused on how shifting life stages as empty nesters and new inspirations are pushing us to explore living life differently at 19:08.Considering the value of alternating retirement and brokerage contributions based on annual tax strategies at 16:09.We stress the importance of personalized financial planning and doing what's best for us, not just following generic advice at 32:18.
Why You Should Tune InIf you’ve ever wondered whether it’s okay to challenge financial “best practices” or if your own dreams conflict with what the experts say, this episode is for you. We keep it honest about the uncertainty and excitement of pivoting plans, providing real numbers, strategy talk, and candid relationship dialogue you don’t hear elsewhere. You’ll leave feeling empowered to ask your own questions and define what’s truly worth it for your future.
This Episode Is ForPeople nearing retirement or in Coast FIRE territoryPlanners questioning “set it and forget it” retirement strategiesCouples navigating financial decisions and life transitions togetherAnyone curious about balancing responsible savings with joyful, intentional living
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