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In this deeply personal episode of The FIRE Social Worker, Joey Laswell steps away from numbers and net worths to talk about what truly matters: purpose. Broadcasting from his newly rearranged office, Joey opens up about his shifting view of the FIRE movement—moving from “Financial Independence, Retire Early” to a mission that’s all about lighting fires in people.

He explores how small, positive actions compound into massive change, why choosing kindness is a radical act in dark times, and how being a “good person” is the ultimate return on investment. This isn’t a guide to early retirement—it’s a call to wake up, get fired up, and spark something better in yourself and your community.

#FIRESocialWorker #PurposeOverProfit #PositiveChange #FinancialWellness #SocialWork #CommunityImpact #Hope #PersonalGrowth #Inspiration #LightTheFire

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Feeling like you're juggling chainsaws while riding a unicycle? You're not alone.

Ambition is the double-edged sword many of us in helping professions wield daily. We care deeply, we aim high, and we often stretch ourselves beyond reasonable limits trying to meet every expectation. The result? We feel like we're failing everywhere despite our best efforts.

This episode dives into the uncomfortable truth about trying to do it all. As social workers, parents, community members, and financial beings, we're told to excel in every arena simultaneously. Pay off debt, save for retirement, start side hustles, give back, spend quality time with family—the list never ends. But when everything becomes a priority, nothing truly is.

I share my personal journey of reflection and the difficult process of saying no to good things that weren't the right things for me right now. Through practical steps like taking inventory of everything on your plate, sorting by impact versus effort, and learning to say no with love, I outline a path toward meaningful simplification that creates breathing room in both your schedule and your mind.

The same principles apply beautifully to our financial lives. Rather than making minimal payments across multiple debts or chasing several side hustles simultaneously, focusing your energy on one priority creates momentum. And momentum builds hope—something we all need when facing overwhelming challenges.

Ready to protect your energy and reclaim your focus? Join me in this honest conversation about doing less to accomplish more of what truly matters. What's one thing you can say no to this week to make space for your priorities?

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Major updates on this episode. I’m pulling back from hour long episodes to short mini-sodes that are easier to digest, more free flowing and conversational. The journey towards financial independence is a long and winding path, but in the end I think it’s going to be fun and rewarding. What are some things you want me to focus on? Email me at Joseph@firesocialworker.com

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Let’s catch up! I’ve been away from the mic for a while, but I want to get back into the grind! I apologize for the audio quality, but I’m on the road and didn’t have my usual set up. Future episodes will be much better, I promise!

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Rob and Becky are facing the financial realities that many homeowners dread - multiple expensive home repairs colliding with everyday budget challenges. Their journey through pool repair financing and potential HVAC replacement decisions offers a candid look at how couples navigate significant financial choices together.

When they discovered their grocery bill had already hit $400 halfway through the month despite actively trying to reduce spending, it highlighted how even careful budgeters can be surprised by inflation's impact on essentials. Add in an unexpected $500 car repair, and you've got the perfect financial storm that many households recognize all too well.

The heart of their story revolves around securing financing for a $23,000-$25,000 pool repair with monthly payments of approximately $252. After researching options, they found an 8.9% interest rate over 15 years would be more favorable than a 10.9% rate over 20 years. Their approach to fitting this new payment into their budget demonstrates practical financial problem-solving - they plan to redirect funds currently going toward another account that will soon be paid off.

What makes this couple's financial journey particularly relatable is their commitment to weekly "money dates" where they discuss finances together. This structured approach to financial communication has helped bridge their different money personalities - Becky's constant financial awareness versus Rob's preference to compartmentalize money discussions. Their honest exchanges about communication preferences show the human side of financial management that's rarely discussed but critically important.

Looking for practical strategies to manage your own home repair emergencies or improve financial communication with your partner? This episode offers valuable insights on researching financing options, getting multiple quotes for major repairs, tracking spending effectively, and creating dedicated funds for anticipated expenses. These real-world lessons from Rob and Becky's experience might just help you navigate your next financial challenge with more confidence.

Support the show

Please join me on my different platforms and follow along my journey towards FIRE.

https://laswell.veteran.cards/

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Support the show

Please join me on my different platforms and follow along my journey towards FIRE.

https://laswell.veteran.cards/

Send us a text

Support the show

Please join me on my different platforms and follow along my journey towards FIRE.

https://laswell.veteran.cards/

Send us a text

Support the show

Please join me on my different platforms and follow along my journey towards FIRE.

https://laswell.veteran.cards/