Jonathan Mendonsa has appeared on several ChooseFI episodes over the past few years, but 2026 marks a major evolution of the show. ChooseFI is being reimagined as a more interactive, more collaborative, and more deeply community-driven experience. As part of this next chapter, Jonathan officially returns to the show as Brad's frequent co-host, helping lead a truly crowdsourced platform where the community plays an active role in shaping the conversation around financial independence. Together, Brad, Jonathan, and the ChooseFI community are building a space focused on shared discovery — the first critical step on the path to financial independence. <a href= "https://local.choosefi.com/member/login" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">Join The Community</a> This episode highlights how listeners can define their personal FI number, learn from real experiences within the community, and turn insight into meaningful action. ChooseFI's community-driven approach continues to empower individuals to learn from one another, explore what financial independence means for them, and move forward with confidence. Key Topics & Timestamps: <ul class="list-disc pl-3"> <li class="leading-snug"> Introduction (00:00:00) <ul class="list-disc pl-3"> <li class="leading-snug">Welcome to a transformative year for ChooseFI.</li> </ul> </li> <li class="leading-snug"> 2026 Goals (00:00:51) <ul class="list-disc pl-3"> <li class="leading-snug">Brad and Jonathan reflect on the changes occurring in their lives and the FI community.</li> </ul> </li> <li class="leading-snug"> Frugal Wins of The Week (00:20:31) <ul class="list-disc pl-3"> <li class="leading-snug">Tips for celebrating small financial victories.</li> </ul> </li> <li class="leading-snug"> Understanding Your Financial Independence Number (00:25:38) <ul class="list-disc pl-3"> <li class="leading-snug">Explanation of how to calculate your FI number based on annual expenses.</li> </ul> </li> <li class="leading-snug"> Community Engagement and Tools (00:30:12) <ul class="list-disc pl-3"> <li class="leading-snug">Introduction of the new community app and its features for supporting members on their FI journey.</li> </ul> </li> <li class="leading-snug"> Closing Remarks (00:58:17) <ul class="list-disc pl-3"> <li class="leading-snug">A call to action for listeners to get involved in the community and share their journeys.</li> </ul> </li> </ul> Actionable Takeaways: <ul class="list-disc pl-3"> <li class="leading-snug">Conduct a net worth statement for 2025 (00:36:54).</li> <li class="leading-snug">Join the community app to connect with fellow FI enthusiasts (00:49:35).</li> <li class="leading-snug">Participate in an expense audit to gain insights into your spending habits (00:56:20).</li> </ul> Key Insights: <ul class="list-disc pl-3"> <li class="leading-snug">Community Development: Building a supportive network is essential for financial growth (00:08:06).</li> <li class="leading-snug">Frugality Defined: Frugality is about valuing what truly matters in life, not deprivation (00:40:47).</li> <li class="leading-snug">Impact of Budgeting: Cutting just $100 from your budget can reduce your FI target by $30,000 (00:42:10).</li> </ul> Quotes: <ul class="list-disc pl-3"> <li class="leading-snug">"While everything changes, some truths remain constant." (00:12:16)</li> <li class="leading-snug">"Building a thriving ecosystem for financial independence together." (00:14:13)</li> <li class="leading-snug">"Your frugal wins can inspire others. Share your journey!" (00:20:31)</li> </ul> FAQs: <ul class="list-disc pl-3"> <li class="leading-snug"> What is financial independence? Financial independence (FI) refers to having sufficient wealth to live without actively working for basic needs (00:25:54). </li> <li class="leading-snug"> How can I reduce my budget effectively? Conduct an expense audit to identify unnecessary costs and focus on essential spending (00:56:20). </li> <li class="leading-snug"> What are frugal wins? Small victories in saving money that inspire and motivate others within the community (00:20:31). </li> </ul> Related Resources: <ul class="list-disc pl-3"> <li class="leading-snug"><a class= "text-blue-600 no-underline dark:text-blue-300 mb-[4px] font-semibold leading-7" href= "https://science.drinklmnt.com/electrolytes/best-homemade-electrolyte-drink-for-dehydration" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">How to make LMNT's electrolyte drink mix at home</a> (00:21:26)</li> </ul> Discussion Questions: <ol> <li class="leading-snug">What actions can you take in 2026 to enhance your financial independence journey? (00:12:20)</li> <li class="leading-snug">How do you define frugality and its importance in your life? (00:40:47)</li> <li class="leading-snug">Discuss the role of community in achieving financial goals. Why is it beneficial? (00:08:06)</li> </ol>

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