Scott Rieckens (Playing with FIRE): Finding Financial Education, Perspective, and Freedom (EP.95)

The recent film, Playing with FIRE details the particulars of the FIRE Movement in a way that is accessible, informative, and impactful. Both Cameron and Ben were hugely impressed with the film and the argument it makes for the framework of FIRE. Today we are joined by the producer and star of the film, Scott Rieckens, to discuss the movie and his own journey to reach financial independence. In much the same way that the film does, Scott makes a compelling and inspiring argument for the central philosophy of the movement, emphasizing what many of us will agree are the most important part of our lives and the way we can think about these to maximize our health and happiness. We discuss values and decision making, and how the FIRE perspective accounts for psychological and emotional changes to what is meaningful in your life. Scott explains the reframing that occurs with the system and the important aspects of it, especially those that matter in an introductory setting. We talk about communication and upkeep, the 4% rule, and the individual nature of your own financial strategy. Ultimately the ideas of FIRE are just ways to think about what is really important to you and your family and they provide a way to focus and enhance these. For this truly inspiring and potentially life-changing discussion, be sure to listen in with on the Rational Reminder!

Key Points From This Episode:

Scott's own understanding of FIRE and what it comes to mean in his life. [0:04:25.4] The initial connection that Scott had with the FIRE movement before making the film. [0:05:23.2] Shared values and finding common financial ground in a life-partnership. [0:08:50.8] Mental changes that Scott and his wife, Taylor, made in response to the ideas of FIRE. [0:11:57.5] Reframing your decisions and the necessary information to do this. [0:18:01.9] Social changes and the impacts of the philosophical alterations Scott made. [0:22:48.1] How Scott has communicated these ideas to his daughter as she has grown older. [0:29:51.4] Scott's complete gratefulness for his new relationship with money. [0:33:23.8] First steps to take in the process toward financial independence. [0:37:27.4] Getting a grip on the '4% Rule and how it can guide your decisions. [0:41:39.6] Increasing income versus decreasing spending and adjusting accordingly. [0:46:41.2] Applying these ideas to something beyond our selfish needs. [0:51:05.4] The multitude of things we can all do with more time in retirement! [0:56:05.4] Comparing the changing definition of success for Scott. [0:58:11.4] The information that is now available for a framework for happiness. [1:01:55.4]