Coast FIRE vs. Traditional Retirement: Which Path is Right for YOU?

Update: 2025-06-17

Description

Coast FIRE is when you've saved enough for retirement that you no longer need to contribute—just cover your current expenses and coast. But how does it really compare to traditional retirement? We'll break down the pros and cons of both so you can decide which path fits your family's lifestyle and financial goals best.

Next, we’re back with our Coast FIRE Family segment. This month, we’re featuring Jason Edwards from Rhode Island. Jason and his wife Amber reached Coast FIRE with $1.2 million invested. He shares how they did it, the role adoption played in their journey, and how they're now focusing on building generational wealth.

Lastly, my son Calvin joins me for another “Good Word” segment. With school wrapping up, we're talking about generosity, favorite teachers, and celebrating the good in the world—because sometimes, you just need a little positivity.

Resources Mentioned:

Coast FIRE Calculator

Crunch your numbers and find out how close you are to achieving Coast FIRE:

👉 marriagekidsandmoney.com/calculators/coast-fire

Empower

Track your net worth and financial progress for free:

👉 marriagekidsandmoney.com/empower

Monarch Money

Budget and plan your financial goals as a couple:

👉 marriagekidsandmoney.com/monarchmoney

Nectarine Financial

Get fee-only, fiduciary advice with no product pitches:

👉 marriagekidsandmoney.com/nectarine (or include affiliate link if available)

Podcast Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction: What Retirement Means to You

01:00 – Segment 1: Coast FIRE vs. Traditional Retirement

09:00 – Planning Your Retirement: Tools and Tips

12:50 – Segment 2: Jason Edwards' Coast FIRE Journey

13:45 – Jason’s Investment Strategy & Net Worth Breakdown

20:25 – Work, Income, and Family Expenses

24:00 – Adoption and Raising a Child

25:50 – Experiences Over Excess: Jason’s Retirement Philosophy

27:30 – Generational Wealth and Legacy Goals

29:45 – Advice for Future Coast FIRE Achievers

30:59 – Segment 3: A Good Word with Calvin Hill

33:00 – A Story of Student Generosity and Apple’s Support

34:15 – Celebrating Great Teachers

35:45 – Final Thoughts and Quote of the Day

HOW WE MAKE MONEY + DISCLAIMER:

This show may contain affiliate links or links from our advertisers where we earn a commission, direct payment or products.

Opinions are the creators alone.

Information shared on this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice.

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CREDITS: