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The Simple Path to Wealth

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You are here: Home / Random cool things that catch my eye / Reviews of The Simple Path to Wealth; gone for summer

Reviews of The Simple Path to Wealth; gone for summer

by jlcollinsnh 69 Comments

Shamba

The beach just steps out side the Shamba door

Summer is full upon us and so are the jlcollinsnh annual travels. This year, once again, we are headed back to my in-laws beach house on Lake Michigan in Wisconsin. It is a drop dead gorgeous setting with sandy beach stretching for miles in both directions. They call it Shamba, a Swahili word meaning, near as I can figure, a remote rural place. It is one of my favorite spots in the world and we are fortunate that they graciously allow us its use.

It was here, last summer, my editor Tim and I, hammered out the last major edits on the book before he fled screaming into the Monastery, as I describe in the acknowledgments page.

Ordinarily as I disappear from the blog during these travels, I leave you with a post like this one featuring some of the cool things I had stumbled upon.

This time I want to share with you some of the great podcasts, videos and blog posts that have sprung up around The Simple Path to Wealth. I’m thrilled and honored by them and trust you find them of interest too.  The folks that produced, wrote and edited these worked hard on them…

book reviewer

I hope you will find among them some new venues that deserve your attention, you might enjoy and may help expand your horizons. Or maybe just waste your time in a not unpleasant fashion.

In no particular order, here you go:

podcast - internet broadcasting concept - isolated word in grunge vintage metal letterpress printing blocks

So Money with Farnoosh Torabi

The Mad Fientist Podcasts

Afford Anything Podcast with Paula Pant

Videos

video review

The Master Your Money Summit: The Simple Path to Wealth

LIVE Webinar Q&A hosted by Hahna Kane Latonick

Mike & Lauren YouTube: Video Series based on the Book 

(this will be 10-12 parts when done)

The Position of  F-you

(The book and the blog in 96 NSFW seconds)

Blog Post Reviews

Links with brief quotes I pulled

book review open book review

1

The Mr. Money Mustache Forum

“The writing is very clean and straightforward.  He avoids technical jargon and overly complex examples, making it a very quick, easy read. Especially good for beginners or those who typically get overwhelmed by reading financial books.”

2

When the Path Forks – Australia

“The advice provided in the book was originally penned for JL Collins’ then 19 year old daughter…to steer her to her own financial freedom. After all, it is every parent’s goal for their children to be able to pursue their dream in life, which is assisted by the freedom and time that financial independence provides.

“The book is written in simple language with entertaining anecdotes to amuse the reader whilst providing clarity to the investment tools and steps required to acquire and maintain wealth. …distilling the more relevant information from the noise and chatter to a handy reference which can be gifted as a thoughtful present to those who are not yet on the path to wealth or perhaps have meandered off the path and require guidance to refocus on the destination.”

3

Trapped in Work

“The Simple Path to Wealth lays out in clear and compelling detail why that is the case, and in a way that even an Art History major can understand (no offense intended Art-History majors, just saying).  It describes the obvious truth hiding in plain sight—that paying higher fees for complex investment products that under-perform the broad market average is ridiculous.”

4

Rich on Money

“Whenever friends or family ask me for financial advice…I’ll get them this book. I just bought it for my brother and sister. He writes in his folksy, down-to-earth tone that has made him a legend in the FI blogging community.

“Most importantly, what surprised me about this book is how comprehensive it is. It covers almost every aspect of money throughout all stages of life…from high school until the day you die!”

5

The Power of Thrift

“I want to hear this in a pop song because it’s fantastic. First, he gives the best explanation of the 4% rule that I’ve read and then he drops this little gem. Yes, the 4% rule should work and it’s a good guide to ease some of my anxiety, but I still need to pay attention and adapt as necessary.”

6

Kinetic Freedom – New Zealand

“I started off thinking I’d just read a chapter or two to start – I ended up reading 10 and forgetting about lunch.  That’s pretty impressive for a book on money – usually I’m asleep by chapter 2…”

7

Believe FIRE

I can’t remember the last time I wrote a book review, but in short, this is THE book that I will recommend to friends, family, and our readers.

8

Nest Egg Chick

“My biggest mistakes all involved investing, and I’m certain that’s only because I hadn’t yet figured out JL Collins’ approach. To be fair to myself, JL hadn’t started blogging at that point…”

9

FrugalHound_glasses

“Frugal Hound does not watch the stock market”

Frugalwoods

“This is no dry economics text. This is no tortured fiscal advice column thinly disguised as a way to peddle unneeded financial products and services. Nay, my friends. This is some candid, honest, really good (and really well-written) financial truth-telling.”

10

Go Curry Cracker

“I’ve now read The Simple Path to Wealth 4 times and I still lol’d. That JL Collins is a clever chap.

“Who else would compare buying stocks to pouring beer, offer the psychological boost of ‘Toughen up, cupcake’, and prove that his way works by showing you how he did it all wrong?

“Is there a book you would recommend that can help us invest in a way to create a Go Curry Cracker lifestyle?

“If you are asking similar questions, or if you are looking for an elegant guide to investing and wealth building, The Simple Path to Wealth would be a lovely addition to your library. Had this book been available 15 years ago, it would have certainly accelerated our own path to a rich, free life.”

11

gen Y FG Simple-Path

GenY Finance Guy

“This is definitely a book that will enter the very short list of recommended books that everyone should read. No seriously it’s a very short list…of 15 books I currently recommend. Let me put this into perspective. I have read 218 books over the past 5 years, which means that less than 7% have made this list…”

12

Femme Frugality

“The book was amazing. It took all the things I had learned on his blog, and added some value-packed info to boot. It made the entire prospect of investing to build true wealth and financial independence simple. In fact, that’s the title: The Simple Path to Wealth.”

13

Street Smart Finance

“The book covers all aspects of your personal finance and retirement while keeping you engaged as JL Collins can tell stories that we all can relate to.

“I can go on and on as I am somewhat bias…but I believe that if you want peace with your money, you can’t afford not to own this book. I promise.”

14

Eat the Financial Elephant

“I can not recommend this book highly enough for those (who feel investing)…is too complicated, confusing and time consuming. …we…like so many others, had these self destructive thoughts.

“JL Collins’ writing, more than anything that I’ve ever read before or since, destroyed those negative beliefs.”

15

Make Smarter Decisions

“One of the greatest things about The Simple Path to Wealth is that it covers financial decisions from early adulthood into retirement. I will use it as a “go to” financial resource for life. From helping my kids make their first investment decisions to considering our options for taking Social Security – it will be the simple path for us. Jim’s book is different for two reasons:

  1. The information is all in one place,
  2. And it will make you laugh out loud as you take each simple step to financial freedom!”

16

Flipping a Dollar

“Jim calls this kind of money FU money. You can imagine what it stands for. Having money like this lets you make decisions that aren’t based on fear. It lets you say “No, I’m not going to put up with that anymore.” It can even let you say “Maybe I should look for a job now instead of waiting for later.”

“Wealth won’t solve all your problems, but it can make you sleep a lot better.”

17

The 7 Circles – UK

“JL’s book has the potential to be life-changing.

“The book is written in an approachable, folksy style, with lots of anecdotes and personal examples.

“JL also covers the mental and emotional aspects of investing, which are just as important as the basic techniques.

“And he isn’t trying to sell you anything (apart from the book, of course).”

18

JD and me

JD and me at Shamba last summer

Money Boss

“During four years together, I couldn’t persuade Kim to manage her own retirement savings. Collins convinced her in two weeks. His advice is that good.

“This week, Collins published the book he was working on when we saw him last July. The Simple Path to Wealth presents the advice from his blog in a coherent, unified package. It’s an easy-to-understand primer on stock-market investing — and financial independence.”

19

Scavenger Life

“He actually just published a book called The Simple Path To Wealth where he clearly lays out all his years of experience and wisdom into an easy to read ‘investment instruction manual’ with some fun stories thrown in.

“Our blog is about how to own your time. To do this, you need money so we looked around and saw that scavenging was a fun way to earn a living. What Jim provides is the next step. What happens when you actually have more money than you spend each month?”

20

Dough Roller

“The beauty of Collins’ writing is that he stresses the importance of money in our society, while writing a book that people who do not really care about money will actually find interesting and actionable.

“The book is filled… with parables and personal experiences. Collins does not try to use complicated statistics and sophisticated concepts to convince his readers how smart he is. Instead, he translates complicated concepts into layman’s terms that can be incorporated into a simple wealth building and investing strategy.”

21

Straight Financial

“By the end of the book you find yourself wondering why it took someone so long to put these thoughts to paper and bundle it all into one package. For someone just starting out on this journey, congratulations, you just won the lottery after having read this book. For someone a few years into their working career, you still have plenty of time. And lastly, for someone over half way through their working career, tomorrow is never too late to start.”

22

One Sick Vet

“He ‘shows his work.’ He doesn’t ask his readers to take his word for it. He explains how he reached his conclusions, and he welcomes challenges because he knows he’s not infallible and he just might learn something. He’s not the Oracle; he’s just a smart guy with a knack for explaining personal finance in a very accessible way, and he’s interested in having conversations with like-minded folks so that everyone can learn from each other and get smarter about our money.”

23

Keep Thrifty

“With The Simple Path to Wealth, JL Collins gives an approachable, well-structured guide to understanding what money is (and is not), how to protect it, how to make it work for you, and ultimately how to make sure that you master money so it doesn’t master you.

“Despite all the references to wealth and money, this isn’t really a book about money. It’s a book about freedom – the freedom to be your own master by escaping the traps of debt and wasteful spending and letting your money work for you.”

24

Sustainable Themes

“I had the distinct pleasure of sitting down to read…The Simple Path to Wealth and it’s a page-turner, especially helpful for those in the wealth-accumulation phase of their lives. It’s a great example of how to share financial wisdom with the next generation in your family, to try to provide a good ‘Road Map to Financial Independence and a Rich, Free Life.'”

25

Saving the Crumbs

“Imagine a book that can teach you everything you need to know about investing in one afternoon. Now suppose that the book is insightful, well researched, filled with wit and humor, and can help you achieve better investing results than over 80% of professional investors. You’d think that it’s either too good to be true or I was trying to con you, right?

“I’m not pulling your leg and I’m not getting paid to say this, but The Simple Path to Wealth is that book.”

26

Plan Invest Escape

“If debt avoidance and savings are the soup and salad beginnings, then the third main section of the book, investing, is the grass-fed dry aged rib-eye steak and fingerling potatoes. The entrée that will fuel your journey toward greatness. It is this part of the book that truly excels. Jim takes us through his own investing experience, sprinkled throughout with tales of mistakes and triumphs as he built his own wealth. Jim reminds us that there is no such thing as the perfect investor and is humble enough to offer sage advice that will prevent you from falling into the same traps.”

27

turtle sea

Frugal Turtle

“… (I was) deeply in debt.  It took many years to dig myself out… If I had a guide like The Simple Path to Wealth, I might not have been in that hole for as long.

“This is a book that I will read again and again.  It’s funny, honest, and really easy to read!  JL Collins makes personal finance easy to understand.  This book is now on my list of personal finance books that I would suggest to anyone just starting out, or wanting to understand and get control of their money.

28

Mom and Dad Money

“The goal isn’t retirement. It’s not about one day in the distant future when you can hang it up, stop doing work you hate, and finally start to enjoy yourself.

“It’s about creating the freedom to do the things you love NOW. Work, play, and relaxation are all enjoyable in balance when you get to decide when and how you do them.”

29

Free to Pursue – Canada

“That’s why books such as The Simple Path to Wealth are so important, despite representing a tiny fraction of all money & investing books published every year. They remind us of why saving is such a powerful tool not only for the future but for how we choose to live our lives in the present.

“JL Collins, the book’s author…, has been a saver/investor for decades. He’s kept his saving and investing formula simple and, as a result, he’s been able to live life on his terms for decades.”

30

DIY Money Guy

“…reading the book…felt like…eavesdropping on a conversation of friends with some personal finance lessons mixed in on along the way. It doesn’t hurt that he adds a fair amount of humor and wit. He even uses beer as an analogy in the book! This would be a great book for so many audiences. A teenager wanting to learn more about personal finance, a retiree wanting to learn more about social security and retirement account withdrawal rates, a group of friends sharing investing ideas at a book club, or even just someone searching for a good read.”

31

mountain bike
Can I Retire Yet

“Jim advises new investors to ‘Stop thinking about what your money can buy.’ and ‘Start thinking about what your money can earn.’ This is an essential mindset that helped me on my own journey to financial independence. Money is much more than the things it can buy. In truth in represents the energy of our lives. Do you want to exhaust that on stuff and clutter, or use it to buy freedom for your most important pursuits? Jim does a great job of building motivation for the latter, and explaining how it’s done.

“A key component is keeping your investing life cheap and simple. This is absolutely essential to the investing strategy outlined in the book. I thought my portfolio was simple at 7 positions, but Jim argues forcefully for extreme simplicity.”

32

The Retirement Manifesto

“(Believe it or not, I read THE ENTIRE BOOK on my iPhone during heavy business travel this month.  Yes, the entire book.  On A Phone!)  I recommend this book via my actions alone – it’s the only book I’ve ever read it’s in entirety on a phone!

“Have a look, it will start many folks (Perhaps your children, or grandchildren? Perhaps, You?) on the roadmap that both JL and I agree are sound financial planning principles from which to begin trek your path toward financial independence.   That, in my mind, is the most important thing you need to know about this book.”

33

Mortimer’s MoneyMachines

“By adjusting the balance of these two funds (VTSAX and VBTLX) throughout your investing life, it’s possible to get the market return, beating something like 99% of mutual funds over a time span longer than just a few years, with the minimum possible effort. Simple.

“But not easy. He’s going to ask you to toughen up a bit, and take the long view of the markets. To quote one of his readers, to “stay the course with a side dish of a panic.” By getting your mind right about the market, you can stay in it and reap the stunning returns that the market provides…

“Buy this book. Heck, let me buy it for you. Share this post and leave a comment below, and I’ll give away a copy to one lucky reader at the end of the month. We’ve got to spread the word about this incredible book.”

34

Finding the New American Dream

“The Simple Path to Wealth is the long form letter to his of age daughter. A path that she and her friends can take to insure she has a life that is full of happiness no stress and all the f-u money she could ever want.

“Likewise if you or I were to walk on this simple path we could also end up well off.

“Does it accomplish what it sets out to accomplish? And then some.”

35

Shift Upwards

“I wish I had read Jim (JL) Collins’ The Simple Path to Wealth before graduating college, or before turning twenty-five, or before turning thirty.

“….personal finance and investing…aren’t the most exciting of subjects. Try to bring it up in a social setting and you will likely send people running way. They are the people who will benefit the most from reading this book.”

36

Money Metagame

“The book is the stock series cleaned up, better organized, and with a few new tidbits thrown in…is probably going to be my go-to recommendation from now on because it’s a much smoother read that presents the information in a friendlier manner.  Not to mention that a lot of people might be intimidated by a ~30 part blog series as opposed to a couple hundred pages that can be much easier to process and reference later.”

37

Fiery Millennials 

“…your savings account isn’t the absolute worst thing you could do with your money (like, say, giving it all to your neighbor’s creepy uncle to help expand his plumbing business), it’s also not the optimal path if you would like your money to work for you.

“The best path, in my opinion, is the simple path…and let me tell you, you need this book. I wish I’d had this book when I started figuring out how to invest my money a couple of years ago as it would have saved me more than a few mistakes. It’s everything we should’ve learned about in high school instead of learning about how the mitochondria is the power house of the cell.”

38

Even Steven Money

“Over time I have come across a few books that I read every detail, I grab excerpts and share with colleagues and friends, I read every last page.  The Simple Path to Wealth was one of these books.

“There is a great flow to the book with different stories about his life and what he does in real life with his own money along the way.

“Jack Bogle and Warren Buffett undoubtedly would give JL Collins a thumbs up, who knows maybe even buy him a Coke and some peanut brittle.”

39

המתורגמן הפיננסי

And for those who don’t happen to read Hebrew, Yaacov kindly provided this English translation

“The book…is a summary of the Stock Series and of other choice blog posts, but the order is a little different, to create readability, continuity and clarity…you will feel that Jim is your mentor, your favorite high-school teacher, your dad and grandfather all wrapped into one.

“…the author challenges common beliefs such as that you need a professional advisor to invest, and that you need to adjust the investments to the investors character. Instead he says, learn to invest on your own, and buck up and deal with the roller coaster stock market.”

40

SPW read by little girls

A select few will discover it can be read just as well upside down

Mr. 1500 Days

“Sometime in the middle of reading it, I looked out the window and noticed a triple rainbow and unicorns. Even more amazing, my children stopped fighting for 5 minutes.

“At FinCon, Mrs. 1500 and I will be performing Me and Jimmy C* (sung to the tune of Janis Joplin’s, Me and Bobby McGee)…here is a sneak peak of the chorus (sing along!):

Stock pickin’s just another word for money you’re gonna lose,

And life, don’t mean nothin’ if you ain’t free, no no,

Feelin’ good was easy, when my stocks went to new highs,

You know, that feelin’ wasn’t good enough for me,

So I learned index investing from Jimmy C.

“*(Mrs. 1500 note: Obviously a big fat lie if you’ve heard that recording…)”

41

 Reaching Our Balance

“The truth is that there is no get rich quick scheme. The true path to wealth is over time. Slow and steady.

“Along that path everyone needs guidance and I have found a book that I think offers simple, but brilliant advice…a book everyone should read.

“…I think it is an EXCELLENT book. Spend the $15. And if you don’t want to do that…start with his stock series and go from there.”

42

The Happy Philosopher

“The more complicated part (the behavioral psychology) is where people get tripped up. I think Jim does a great job of explaining the benefits of simplicity, efficiency and focus while addressing the psychological issues one will inevitably face while investing.

“The meat of the book is in providing a framework for investing in broadly diversified index funds and the distractions and pitfalls you will experience on the way. There is plenty of specific, actionable tactical information as well, specifically with regards to different retirement account options, taxes and distribution strategies.

“…the thing that I like most about this book; the focus on freedom. F-You money (maybe the F stands for freedom) gives you the freedom to live life on your terms. Money is only a tool to achieve freedom and Jim understands this deeply.

“…and plus the cover is pretty cool.”

43

Cash Cow Couple

“The Simple Path to Wealth is very much a book worth reading. It’s full of relevant stories and simplified financial advice.

“But more than that, it’s written by an individual who has walked the walk. Jim has followed his own advice for many years. The result is a life of abundance and freedom.

“If you get the chance, grab a copy and read it. Then pass it along to someone else who might benefit.”

44

Dancing with Frogs

“The thing I appreciated most about it is that the author didn’t loftily ignore the rest of the world as he was explaining things, as so many American authors seem to do. When, towards the end of the book, he comes to topics that are peculiar to the US, he states this and offers alternative sources for international readers. A nice courtesy and it saves people from learning things that aren’t applicable to their situation.”

45

Millennial Revolution

“And let me tell you, it is worth every penny.

“Why?

“IT’S HONEST AND AUTHENTIC:

“Jim wrote the book as a way to teach his daughter, Jessica, about investing. So you know there’s no hidden agenda there, as all the advice in the book is something he wants his own daughter to follow.

“IT’S SELF DEPRECATING

“Jim talks about all the investing mistakes (choosing individual stocks, selling at the bottom in 1980s) he made during the last 20 years. This takes a tremendous amount of self-awareness and courage. Admitting you were wrong is NOT easy, but Jim does it effortlessly. All in the name of teaching you what he learned from his mistakes so you won’t make the same ones.

“IT’S FUN TO READ…”

46

Retirement Living

“The Simple Path to Wealth seeks to dispel the myth that retirement plans have to be complicated in order to be successful. Rejecting flashy and trendy investment strategies in favor of time-tested principles…

“The book is a quick and easy read and provides the confidence necessary to conceive and implement a solid retirement plan.”

47

Accidental FIRE

“It’s a unique skill to be able to take a complex subject and communicate it in an easily understood way.  It’s an especially unique skill to do this with the subject of money and investing, and to be able to interject some humor on top of that is a double-secret unique skill.

“JL Collins has this double-secret unique skill.”

48

Get Rich Slowly

“…Collins believes the investment industry has a vested interest in making the process seem complex. Investment pros want you to believe that saving for retirement is complicated, and that you need help to be successful in the stock market.”

“Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate Collins as a story-teller. The Simple Path to Wealth contains fun anecdotes from his own life, but it also incudes some colorful metaphors and parables.”

“Collins would argue that the opposite is true: A high saving rate grants you freedom. As counter-intuitive as it seems, learning to live on less allows you to get more out of life.”

49

Done by Forty

“I’ll spare you another positive review trying to convince you of its merits, or why you should buy it. Not my job, pal.

“If you’re too cheap to spend eleven bucks on the one book that will finally make you rich and happy, then don’t come crying to me in six months when you find yourself destitute, friendless, eating cold pork-n-beans out of a can at the public library, and creeping everyone out.

“These are your choices, Bean Can McGee. You just have to live with the consequences.”

SPW - thumbs up

Enjoy reading, viewing and listening; and have a wonderful summer!

 Addendum:

If you have done a review post I’ve missed, or elect to do one going forward, please let me know in the comments and include a link.

Related

Important Resources

  • Talent Stacker is a resource that I learned about through my work with Jonathan and Brad at ChooseFI, and first heard about Salesforce as a career option in an episode where we featured Bradley Rice on the Podcast. In that episode, Bradley shared how he reached FI quickly thanks to his huge paychecks and discipline in keeping his expenses low. Jonathan teamed up with Bradley to build Talent Stacker, and they have helped more than 1,000 students from all walks of life complete the program and land jobs like clockwork, earning double or even triple their old salaries using a Salesforce certification to break into a no-code tech career.
  • Credit Cards are like chain saws. Incredibly useful. Incredibly dangerous. Resolve to pay in full each month and never carry a balance. Do that and they can be great tools. Here are some of the very best for travel hacking, cash back and small business rewards.
  • Personal Capital is a free tool to manage and evaluate your investments. With great visuals you can track your net worth, asset allocation, and portfolio performance, including costs. At a glance you'll see what's working and what you might want to change. Here's my full review.
  • Betterment is my recommendation for hands-off investors who prefer a DIFM (Do It For Me) approach. It is also a great tool for reaching short-term savings goals. Here is my Betterment Review
  • NewRetirement offers cool tools to help guide you in answering the question: Do I have enough money to retire? And getting started is free. Sign up and you will be offered two paths into their retirement planner. I was also on their podcast and you can check that out here:Video version, Podcast version.
  • Tuft & Needle (T&N) helps me sleep at night. They are a very cool company with a great product. Here’s my review of what we are currently sleeping on: Our Walnut Frame and Mint Mattress.
  • Vanguard.com

Filed Under: Random cool things that catch my eye, The Book: The Simple Path to Wealth

« The Simple Path to Wealth is now Published!
What the naysayers are missing »

Comments

  1. Vicki@Make Smarter Decisions says

    July 7, 2016 at 10:20 pm

    Safe travels Jim! You definitely deserve some down time after the last few weeks… Appreciate the “shout out” too – it was a pleasure to review your book! Enjoy!

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 9, 2016 at 4:08 pm

      Thanks Vicki!

      Maybe I’ll start on the next book…

      Or maybe just the next non-book-related post. 😉

      Reply
      • Dividend Growth Investor says

        July 30, 2016 at 12:26 pm

        Oh man that’s a lot of reviews. I checked the preview on AMZN, and the book is written really well. I am behind on everything ( living, working, reading, ) so unfortunately I may not write a review for months 🙁

        While we have some disagreements on a few points, you do have a clarity of writing that I will try to emulate 😉 I have been told that my writing makes me sound like a degenerate, so perhaps I do need to work on it.

        Reply
        • jlcollinsnh says

          July 30, 2016 at 4:00 pm

          Thanks DGI…

          …please let me know if/when you get to it.

          Just curious, why did you post your comment as a reply to my response to Vicki? Seems unrelated…

          Reply
          • Dividend Growth Investor says

            August 1, 2016 at 5:30 pm

            Jim,

            I don’t have a good answer for that last piece 😉 Please feel free to move the comment below. Enjoy your vacation!

            DGI

  2. Noah says

    July 8, 2016 at 2:30 am

    Hey JL!

    I put together a review of your book over in my corner of the internet at Money Metagame that you might not have seen yet:
    http://moneymetagame.com/fi/the-simple-path-to-wealth-by-jl-collins-a-review/

    Can’t wait to start gifting your book to curious friends and enjoy your summer travels!

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 9, 2016 at 4:10 pm

      Thanks Noah…

      I just added your review to the post.

      BTW, I thought you nailed the relationship between the Stock Series and the book perfectly.

      Hope your friends enjoy and benefit from reading it!

      Reply
      • Noah says

        July 11, 2016 at 11:33 pm

        Thanks for the link!

        Reply
  3. Johnny johnson says

    July 8, 2016 at 3:33 am

    Well deserved vacation after a rocking book launch.

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 9, 2016 at 4:11 pm

      Thanks Johnny…

      ..and thanks for helping to rock it!

      Reply
  4. Gwen @ Fiery Millennials says

    July 8, 2016 at 7:47 am

    Feel free to include my review as well. Enjoy your summer in Wisconsin! I’ll be close by in Chicago with a few of the gang from the Chautauqua in August 🙂

    http://www.fierymillennials.com/the-simple-path-to-wealth/

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 9, 2016 at 4:14 pm

      Gwen!

      How could I have missed including your review? Yikes!

      It’s up there now, thanks for pinging me on it. 🙂

      Unfortunately, we’ll be gone from Shamba 🙁
      …and visiting friends in Cleveland by August.

      Too bad, it would have been great to have you up for a visit!

      Reply
  5. Steven says

    July 8, 2016 at 9:14 am

    Enjoy the summer!

    http://www.evenstevenmoney.com/the-simple-path-to-wealth-by-jl-collins/

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 9, 2016 at 4:19 pm

      Now you’ve got me waiting for my peanut brittle… 😉

      Your review is up in the post, thanks for writing it!

      Regarding investment RE, I not against it at all. In fact, my brother-in-law who owns Shamba, the beach house where we are staying, made his fortune in RE.

      But I do see it as a hybrid of investment and job, as it was/is for him. Too much like work for my tastes, but certainly a potentially powerful way to build wealth if you are careful and put in the effort.

      Reply
  6. Done by Forty says

    July 8, 2016 at 12:06 pm

    Typically, you want to save the best review for last. 🙂

    Enjoy the summer.

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 9, 2016 at 4:22 pm

      Well I just added three more and somehow yours is still last.

      You will always be last to me, DbyF.

      No quote from any other review could wrap it up so perfectly! 🙂

      Enjoy yours as well!

      Reply
  7. Fervent Finance says

    July 8, 2016 at 1:24 pm

    My girlfriend and I are currently reading it together!

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 9, 2016 at 4:24 pm

      And what better thing could you possibly do with your girlfriend?

      You romantic devil, you. 🙂

      Reply
  8. Mr. PIE says

    July 8, 2016 at 5:11 pm

    Pleasure reading the book and reviewing it. Enjoy your summer “vacation”

    Thamks for the links to a few new blogs we had not seen before. More good reading for us.

    Mr. and Mrs. PIE

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 9, 2016 at 4:29 pm

      Thanks for your review, Mr. Pie…

      In addition to you finding more good reading, I trust others will find their way to you for more of the same for themselves.

      As for me, I now have an inexplicable craving for pie…

      …ala mode might be nice… 😉

      Reply
  9. Linda@Frugal Turtle says

    July 8, 2016 at 9:45 pm

    Thanks for the shout out!

    I hope you have an amazing summer. You’ve earned it!

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 9, 2016 at 4:30 pm

      Thanks, Linda…

      …not sure I earned it, but I’m taking it anyway! 🙂

      You do the same!

      Reply
  10. Tracy says

    July 9, 2016 at 8:04 am

    I’m so excited! Three copies of your book were bought by my library system… and there are already eight requests on them!

    I had submitted a recommendation for the library to buy a copy, but in the meantime bought one myself and have now read it three times. 🙂 I keep books in my personal library that I expect to go back to over and over and yours definitely fits the bill! Now I’m working on getting my friends and family to read it, starting with my boyfriend!

    Great work, and have a wonderful and well deserved relaxing summer!!

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 9, 2016 at 4:33 pm

      So, let’s see…

      …that means I have a net loss of five sales…
      … 🙂 🙂

      Actually, I love the idea of my book being in libraries. The more widely the message spreads, the better.

      I’m also honored it made it into your personal collection.

      You have a wonderful summer as well!

      Reply
  11. Julie at Nest Egg Chick says

    July 9, 2016 at 1:07 pm

    That beach looks fabulous! What a great place to celebrate a successful book launch. Congratulations again! And thanks for linking to my review – it was a great pleasure to read your insightful book 🙂

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 9, 2016 at 4:37 pm

      It is!

      Although the lake is very high this year, within two feet of the all time record they tell me, so there is a bit less of it than when that shot was taken.

      Still, an awesome place to hang my hat for a few weeks. 🙂

      Reply
  12. Yaacov Rothman says

    July 10, 2016 at 3:23 am

    I know it was in hebrew but:
    https://fintranslator.com/2016/06/19/simple-path-to-wealth-review/

    Congrats on the book!!!

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 10, 2016 at 3:39 pm

      D’oh!

      I love the fact my book is getting international reviews and absolutely planned to include yours. Chalk it up to my post-book fried brain. 😉

      Thanks for reminding me. It is in there now!

      Reply
  13. Mr. 1500 says

    July 11, 2016 at 5:21 pm

    Thanks for including me Jimmy C!

    Also, congratulations on finally getting this sucker out the door. I know that you put loads of time into it.

    Anyway, the delivery driver’s arms are going to be sore on Wednesday when the box of books arrives. I look forward to bringing them on our cross-country trip to meet their maker. Maybe you can do something profound for the event? There is not a mountain to come down from and you don’t have stone tablets, but maybe you can emerge from the water and say something really deep in the loudest voice you can muster?

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 11, 2016 at 5:36 pm

      Wait. You bought so few copies of my book a single driver can carry the box?!

      Loved you post anyway: http://www.1500days.com/me-and-jimmy-c-and-a-contest/

      Plus it includes the best song ever recorded.

      “I give you the 15…”

      Slip. Crash.

      “Ah, the ten, the Ten Commandments!”

      Reply
  14. Jaosn says

    July 12, 2016 at 6:49 am

    Here is my review. Love the book. I should’ve picked it up in digital form though (of course that would require me to get a smart phone).

    http://www.reachingourbalance.com/book-review-the-simple-path-to-wealth/

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 12, 2016 at 11:35 pm

      Ha!

      I applaud anyone without a smartphone!

      Thanks for the review, I just added it to the post.

      I liked your take on reading the Stock Series if you don’t want to pay for the book. 🙂

      Reply
  15. ExploreMountainsOnSkiFoot&Bike says

    July 23, 2016 at 10:44 am

    Jim,
    Thank you for what you do. Thank you for taking the time to organize your thoughts, research personal finance topics, write and manage a blog, and for writing a book. I am very appreciative of your efforts. I have read your blog for about 6 months now, after discovering you from MMM. I have been an above average saver, below average spender (by USA standards), and a uninformed investor.

    The concepts I have learned from you and the other FIRE gospels have challenged my assumptions and thinking, which was enlightening. I have made several improves to my life. The largest is how I see money and what it means to me. I track my spending, save about 50% of my earnings, and invest the savings in index funds. I am really pleased with the progress I have made in the past 6 months. The control I have over my finances has been empowering.

    I have purchased your book twice and sharing it with many friends and family. I left a 5 star review on Amazon under the headline – If you work and do not want to work for ever, read this book. My review is included below.

    Enjoy your time at the beach and in the wind.

    I highly recommend this book. And his blog. I was first introduced to JL Collins through his blog (www.jlcollinsnh.com). On this blog, the Letter to his daughter, the legendary Stock Series, and his opinion about shelter ownership are major contributions to the FIRE and personal finance knowledge base.

    His mantra of live below your means, invest the remaining and avoiding debt is refreshingly simple and powerful. It is amazing how much life is better when you are in control of your finances. Having F-you money enabled me to quit a stressful job and take some time (>1 yr) to focus on me and my goals (though I did know it had a name then). Being financially solid enabled me to pursue a more meaningful career, and work and live overseas though at a significant pay cut.

    His insight into the power of money, the fact it can buy personal freedom, is profound. Profound is not an understatement, because it totally changes how you see money and time, which changes your relationship to your employer, things, and folks who sell things and services. I have found this revelation as very empowering. Once you have figured out how you really want to spend your time, then you can begin eliminating the waste and focusing on just that. Happiness soon follows.

    I really like how he leads the reader to investing in the stock market. He uses common language to explain what investing is and why it is a powerful way to build wealth. Then he introduces the terms (i.e. 401k), after having a solid understanding. I think it is effective. This is opposite how most other personal finance preachers construct their presentations. His ability to explain in common language how to think about and use the Stock Market is amazing and so helpful. As others have said the emotional side of investing is addressed well.

    I personally follow his lead and recommendations for living off ~50% of income, investing the difference in low cost index funds (VTSAX) with Vanguard, and avoiding debt. I did not just take his word for it, I did my own research and many others support and practice the same tenets. I look forward to applying his recommendations on withdrawing and living off the accrued wealth.

    This book is great for those who want to get their personal finances in order, who want to have their money work for them and begin or be better at investing in the stock market, or to streamline your investments. To prevent the “I wish someone would have told me this 10, 20, or 40 years ago.” problem, it makes a great gift for high school graduates, college graduates, newly married, and those early in their careers. Yes, even those who have a large student (and / or consumer) debt can become masters of their financial matters and reach financial independence at a relatively young age.

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 23, 2016 at 8:11 pm

      Thank you, EMOSF&B…

      I very much appreciate your kind words, the book sales and, especially, your 5-Star review!

      Very nice, and very nicely done!

      Reply
  16. Bonnie says

    July 24, 2016 at 3:43 pm

    I read a few reviews and scanned the list. It seems that one of the factors that make for financial success is having a partner/spouse. I didn’t find a person who was single in my quick review of the posts. I see the same thing in many of Mr Mustaches followers. I share both of your advices with my single relatives and they pointed out to me that having someone to share with is a big leg up. Do you know of any financial management bloggers who are succeeding solo?

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 25, 2016 at 12:07 am

      Hi Bonnie…

      While I don’t know all the bloggers in the post above, if you check some out, you’ll find several who are single.

      The Power of Thrift and Fiery Millennials are both written by single women for instance.

      And many attendees I meet at Chautauqua are single.

      For what it is worth, I think it might actually be easier to reach FI as a single person. After all, you can make all the needed choices without having to consider the needs and desires of a partner.

      In fact, the biggest obstacle I hear about is spouses not on board. And the biggest question is how to deal with that drag on the effort.

      I’m pretty sure my daughter will reach FI on her own. The only real obstacle I see is her marrying someone not on the same page.

      Sounds like your single relatives might just be looking for excuses not to do it.

      Being single is no excuse.

      Reply
  17. Kean-Fei says

    July 25, 2016 at 10:47 pm

    Hi Mr Collins, I’m a Malaysian reader and like your blog very much. I’ve just ordered your book from bookdespository.

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 26, 2016 at 8:16 am

      Hi KF…

      I’m not sure how many Malaysian readers I have, but you are the first to comment. 🙂

      Welcome!

      And thanks for picking up the book. Hope you enjoy it!

      As it happens, we might be stopping in Malaysia around January of next year, our first visit. Any suggestions?

      Reply
  18. Eric M says

    July 27, 2016 at 7:38 am

    Thanks for your book! In the interest of frugality, I am ordering a copy to read, then pass to my daughter(s). Any chance of an audio book version of this coming? That seems to be the main way I can get my wife to “read”.

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 27, 2016 at 10:06 pm

      Thanks Eric, and good plan.

      As I suggested in my announcement post, personally I would get it from my local library. 🙂

      I do hope to get an audio book done and figuring out how is on my to do list. Stay tuned!

      Reply
  19. Paul says

    July 27, 2016 at 12:47 pm

    Hi Jim,

    Greetings from central Wisconsin!

    Congrats on a great book. I’ve read thru the Kindle version and bought a paper copy to share with friends & their kids, as well as my own.

    So far response has been very good and they’ve commented on how easy it is to understand. 🙂

    Thanks for writing something so helpful. Keep up the great work!

    Cheers,

    Paul

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 27, 2016 at 10:10 pm

      Hi Paul…

      We just took the ferry from WI to MI today after our stay at Shamba.

      Thanks for passing it on. If they feel it is worthy, please ask them to post a 5-star review on Amazon. 😉

      Reply
  20. Woodstock says

    July 28, 2016 at 3:27 pm

    Howdy,

    Your book is truly a delight. Bought a hard copy of the book, but have already “loaned” it out (which means I don’t expect to see that copy ever again). Any chance this will be coming to Google Play Books for purchase there?

    Thanks,
    –woodstock

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 28, 2016 at 7:03 pm

      Thanks, Woodstock!

      I love to hear the message is being passed around.

      Unfortunately, no plans for a Google Play version…

      Reply
  21. john says

    July 30, 2016 at 8:50 am

    Hi Jim,

    Since I enjoy her blog so much and I didn’t see it on your list, thriftygal (www.thepowerofthrift.com) also has a review of your book.

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      July 30, 2016 at 3:56 pm

      thanks for the heads up John…

      Her review (and blog) is one of my favorites and if you look more closely you’ll find it is there.

      Reply
  22. Fritz@TheRetirementManifesto says

    August 3, 2016 at 3:12 pm

    Jim – congrats on a very well played “launch”, and thanks for including me in your list of reviews (#32!? I thought reading your entire book on my phone would get me either first, or last….no offense to DoneByForty).

    Enjoy your well deserved break. Also, love your humor in the comments above!

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      August 3, 2016 at 10:06 pm

      Thanks Fritz…

      I appreciate the kind words and your review.

      Glad you noticed your slot as #32. It is my favorite number and the highest honor I am able to bestow! 😉

      Reply
      • Fritz@TheRetitement Manifesto says

        August 3, 2016 at 10:58 pm

        Magic Johnson would certainly agree.

        Reply
  23. Frogdancer says

    August 31, 2016 at 9:18 pm

    Well, even though I’ve missed out on the magical #32 slot, I’ve finally penned my review here:
    https://dancingwithfrogs.wordpress.com/2016/09/01/book-review-the-simple-path-to-wealth/
    It was either do this or start marking my year 12 Theatre Studies kids’ exams…
    🙂

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      September 1, 2016 at 10:24 pm

      No worries, mate.

      I slipped yours into the coveted #44 slot instead. 😉

      Reply
  24. Perry says

    October 12, 2016 at 6:58 pm

    Jim,
    I wanted to let you know I bought your book and read it twice. Not only that, but I followed your advice. 86% of my NW is now in a total market fund. Most of the rest is home equity in my 2 rental properties. I’m a 33yo male with a wife and new son. My goal is to retire by 40. I really dislike full time office work, but I’m toughing out to get the NW up and finish earlier than most people do. Unless there’s some kind of terrible market crash around age 40, I’m confident I’ll be a place I can make early retirement work. Thanks for writing the book. I will keep it on my shelf and refer to it often! My copy is all highlighted up.

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      October 13, 2016 at 9:01 am

      Hi Perry…

      Sounds like you are well positioned.

      Thanks for picking up the book.

      Now I’m wondering, which parts got highlighted! 😉

      Reply
      • Perry says

        October 18, 2016 at 10:41 pm

        Well if you come out to Honolulu on vacation, hit me up and I’ll show you my copy over a cold Kona Brew.

        Reply
        • jlcollinsnh says

          October 19, 2016 at 8:50 am

          As it happens, we should be in Honolulu for a couple of days in January. 😉

          Reply
          • Perry says

            October 19, 2016 at 11:51 pm

            ahh! Very nice. Can you see my e-mail address which I enter when I make a comment? Perhaps we could meet up when you are here. BTW, even if I select “Notify me of follow-up comments by email” it doesn’t send an e-mail. I checked my spam folder too.

  25. Gerry de Guzman says

    October 22, 2016 at 11:06 pm

    Hi Jim,
    I wanted to share with you that I gave your book “The Simple Path To Wealth” as a summer reading to my eldest son Lorenzo who is a high school senior and currently in the midst of his college and scholarship applications. In his Flinn Scholarship application essay, (I think the Flinn Scholarship is the best in Arizona, our state, and one of the best in the nation) he wrote about your book (see below).

    Your book must have had a great impact on him and I am glad that you were able to connect and articulate to him what I wanted him to learn regarding personal finance. He also realized that the subject of personal finance should be a mandatory course in high school and your book a required reading!!!!

    Thanks again!
    Gerry

    What book should all high school students be required to read and why?
    200-word maximum

    According to The Economist, student loan debt currently amounts to 1.2 trillion dollars, three times its total merely 10 years ago. The cause traces back to the lack of personal finance education for young people. All high school students must read The Simple Path to Wealth by J.L. Collins.

    Collins’s simple and humorous style makes his wisdom easy to comprehend. He gives a parable of a minister and a monk. The minister advises the monk, “If you could learn to cater to the king, you wouldn’t have to live on rice and beans” to which the monk replies, “If you could learn to live on rice and beans, you wouldn’t have to cater to the king.” Through this example, he establishes that the end result of smart finance is freedom.

    Then, he introduces “F*** You Money,” money that “buys you that freedom, resources, and time to enjoy life on your own terms.” By using that idiom, high school students can easily relate to the importance of controlling your financial destiny.

    In conclusion, by discussing frugality, debt, and investment in a fun, simple manner, this book is the most effective solution to increasing awareness on avoiding student debt and gaining freedom.

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      October 23, 2016 at 11:53 am

      Thanks Gerry…

      That is a wonderful story and I am honored you gave him my book and that he chose it to recommend.

      Please give him my regards and best of luck on securing the scholarship and for his college career!

      Reply
  26. dave says

    April 14, 2017 at 7:27 am

    This book is a new classic.
    I read it last fall, but find myself referring back to it often.
    The whole book is good, but chapter 29 is my favorite.
    It is a useful guide to estimate a safe withdraw rate based on asset allocation.

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      April 14, 2017 at 9:02 am

      Thanks Dave!

      BTW, your comment would make a wonderful 5-star review on Amazon…

      ..just sayin’ 😉

      Reply
  27. Tommy Sullivan says

    November 16, 2017 at 11:08 am

    The Retirement Living Information Center is a big fan of your book. I wanted to send you our review on it: https://www.retirementliving.com/retirement-planning-books

    We are happy to recommend it to our readers. All the best, JL.

    -Tom

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      November 16, 2017 at 5:40 pm

      Thanks for letting me know, Tom…

      …very cool!

      And much appreciated.

      Great site you have there, too. Just spent some time poking around and having fun.

      Reply
      • Tommy Sullivan says

        November 28, 2017 at 12:40 pm

        Dang, I did not get the email alert for your reply. Thank you for the kind words. I’ll pass your reply along to our team! We would be thrilled if you shared our review with your readers.

        -Tom

        Reply
        • jlcollinsnh says

          November 30, 2017 at 8:54 pm

          Good idea, Tom…

          …just added it to the post!

          Reply
          • Tommy Sullivan says

            December 1, 2017 at 8:57 am

            Great! Thank you for letting me know.

            Best,
            Tom

  28. David Rudge says

    February 27, 2018 at 11:31 am

    I’m rereading the book and now find myself wondering about the distinction between the wealth accumulation and wealth preservation stages. Shifting into bonds seems like a very reasonable strategy for someone who pursues a traditional career path (work for decades, then retires once). But it is less clear to me how this strategy would work for someone who goes in and out of employment, even if one stipulates that the person is FI . Is it a strategy you’d recommend for someone who knows he or she will be unemployed for one year, but not for someone who plans on being unemployed for a shorter period of time? What about individuals who simply don’t know how long the period of unemployment will last?

    Reply
    • jlcollinsnh says

      February 27, 2018 at 12:45 pm

      Mostly it is personal preference based on the individual’s tolerance for volatility, both psychologically and financially.

      Personally, I wouldn’t bother for periods of less than a year. If it becomes part way along that it might stretch out longer, I’d go to bonds then.

      Reply
      • David Rudge says

        February 27, 2018 at 1:02 pm

        Thanks!

        Reply
  29. Linda Chavez says

    January 5, 2019 at 11:03 am

    I’m trying to understand the distinction between the wealth accumulation and wealth preservation stages. But, staying unemployed for few months is quite hard.

    Reply

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      • Stocks -- Part XXXII: Why you should not be in the stock market
    • ► February (1)
      • Chautauqua 2018: Mt. Olympus, Greece
    • ► January (1)
      • An International Portfolio from The Escape Artist
  • ► 2017 (15)
    • ► December (2)
      • The Bond Experiment: Return to VBTLX
      • How to Invest in Bitcoin like Benjamin Graham
    • ► October (1)
      • Kibanda Part 3: Running the numbers
    • ► September (1)
      • Sleeping soundly thru a market crash: The Wasting Asset Retirement Model
    • ► August (2)
      • Stocks -- Part XXXI: Too hot. Too cold. Not pure enough.
      • Kibanda, Part 2: Negotiating the deal
    • ► July (2)
      • Time Machine and the future returns for stocks
      • Kibanda: Mr. Anti-house buys his dream house
    • ► June (2)
      • Is there an interior designer in the house?
      • The Simple Path to Wealth goes Audio!
    • ► May (1)
      • Life on the Beach
    • ► April (1)
      • Sell! Sell!! Sell!!! Sell?
    • ► March (1)
      • Vicki comes to Chautauqua: United Kingdom
    • ► January (2)
      • Chautauqua - Ecuador 2017 open for reservations
      • Chautauqua - United Kingdom: August 2017
  • ► 2016 (22)
    • ► December (3)
      • Season's Greetings and other cool stuff
      • Angel Investing, or Angel Philanthropy?
      • Mr. Bogle and me
    • ► November (1)
      • Where did you learn about money?
    • ► October (2)
      • Buy Your Freedom; Rent the Rest
      • So, what do you drive?
    • ► September (2)
      • Stocks -- Part XXX: jlcollinsnh vs. Vanguard
      • A visit to the Frugalwoods
    • ► August (1)
      • What the naysayers are missing
    • ► July (1)
      • Reviews of The Simple Path to Wealth; gone for summer
    • ► June (2)
      • The Simple Path to Wealth is now Published!
      • A peek into The Simple Path to Wealth
    • ► May (1)
      • It's better in the wind. Still.
    • ► April (3)
      • Cool things to check out while I'm gone
      • Stocks — Part XXIX: How to save money for college. Or not.
      • Help Wanted: The Book
    • ► March (1)
      • F-You Money: John Goodman v. jlcollinsnh
    • ► February (2)
      • Q&A - V: The Women of Amphissa
      • jlcollinsnh gets a new suit
    • ► January (3)
      • Chautauqua 2015 Reviews, 2016 registration open
      • Case Study #15: The Scavenger Life -- Freedom first, then Financial Independence
      • 3rd Annual (2015) Louis Rukeyser Memorial Market Prediction Contest results, and my forecast for 2016
  • ► 2015 (18)
    • ► December (2)
      • Q&A - IV: Strawberry Patch
      • Seasons Greetings! and other cool stuff
    • ► October (2)
      • Personal Capital; and how to unload your unwanted stocks and funds
      • Stockchoker: A look back at what your investment might have been
    • ► September (2)
      • Case Study #14: To Dream the Impossible Dream (and then realize it)
      • Hotel Living
    • ► August (1)
      • Mr. Market's Wild Ride
    • ► June (4)
      • Gone for Summer, an important note on comments and random cool stuff that caught my eye
      • Around the world with an Aussie Biker
      • Case Study #13: The Power of Flexibility
      • Stocks — Part VIII: The 401(k), 403(b), TSP, IRA & Roth Buckets
    • ► March (2)
      • Stocks -- Part XXVIII: Debt - The Unacceptable Burden
      • Chautauqua October 2015: Times Two!
    • ► February (2)
      • YNAB: Best Place to Work Ever?
      • Case Study #12: Escaping a soul-crushing job before you're 70
    • ► January (3)
      • Case Study #11: John, a small business owner in transition
      • Trish and Stan take an Intrepid Sailing Voyage
      • 2014 Annual Louis Rukeyser Memorial Market Prediction Contest results, and my forecast for 2015
  • ► 2014 (29)
    • ► December (2)
      • Diamonds and Happy Holidays!
      • Micro-Lending with Kiva
    • ► November (3)
      • Chautauqua February 7-14, 2015: Escape from Winter
      • Stocks -- Part XXVII: Why I Don’t Like Dollar Cost Averaging
      • Jack Bogle and the Presidential Medal of Freedom
    • ► October (3)
      • Tuft & Needle: A better path to sleep
      • Nightmare on Wall Street: Will the Blood Bath Continue?
      • Help Wanted
    • ► September (1)
      • Chautauqua 2014: Lightning strikes again!
    • ► August (2)
      • Stocks -- Part XXVI: Pulling the 4%
      • Stocks -- Part XXV: HSAs, more than just a way to pay your medical bills.
    • ► July (3)
      • Stocks -- Part XXIV: RMDs, the ugly surprise at the end of the tax-deferred rainbow
      • Summer travels, writing, reading and other amusements
      • Moto X, my new Republic Wireless Phone
    • ► June (1)
      • Stocks -- Part XXIII: Selecting your asset allocation
    • ► May (1)
      • Stocks -- Part XXII: Stepping away from REITs
    • ► April (3)
      • Q&A III: Vamos
      • Q&A II: Salamat
      • Q&A I: Gaijin Shogun
    • ► March (2)
      • Top 10 posts
      • Cafe No Se
    • ► February (4)
      • Chautauqua 2014 preview, closing up for travel and other random cool things that caught my eye of late.
      • Case Study #10: Should Josiah buy his parents a house?
      • Case Study #9: Lars -- maximizing some good fortune and considering "dollar cost averaging"
      • Case Study #8: Ron's mother - she's doin' all right!
    • ► January (4)
      • roundup: Some random cool things
      • Stocks — Part XXI: Investing with Vanguard for Europeans
      • Case Study #7: What it looks like when everything financial goes wrong
      • 1st Annual Louis Rukeyser Memorial Market Prediction Contest 2013 results, and my forecast for 2014
  • ► 2013 (41)
    • ► December (4)
      • Closing up for the Holidays, see you in 2014
      • Betterment: a simpler path to wealth
      • Case Study 6: Helping an ill and elderly parent
      • Stocks -- Part XX: Early Retirement Withdrawal Strategies and Roth Conversion Ladders from a Mad Fientist
    • ► November (3)
      • Death, Taxes, Estate Plans, Probate and Prob8
      • Case Study #5: Zero to 2.6 million in 25 years
      • Case Study #4: Using the 4% rule and asset allocations.
    • ► October (3)
      • Republic Wireless and my $19 per month phone plan
      • Case Study #3: Let's get Tom to Latin America!
      • The Stock Series gets its own page
    • ► September (2)
      • Case Study #2: Joe -- off to a fast start!
      • Chautauqua 2013: A Week of Dreams
    • ► August (1)
      • Closing up shop plus an opening at Chautauqua, my new podcast, phone, book and other random cool stuff
    • ► July (1)
      • They Will Kill You For Your Shoes!
    • ► June (4)
      • Stocks -- Part VIII-b: Should you avoid your company's 401k?
      • Shilpan's Seven Habits to Live More with Less
      • Stocks -- Part XIX: How to think about money
      • My path for my kid -- the first 10 years
    • ► May (5)
      • Why your house is a terrible investment
      • Stocks — Part XVIII: Investing in a raging bull
      • Dining with the Ghosts of Sarah Bernhardt and Alfons Mucha
      • How we finally got the house sold
      • Stocks — Part XVII: What if you can't buy VTSAX? Or even Vanguard?
    • ► April (4)
      • Greetings from Prague & a computer question
      • Swimming with Tigers, a 2nd chance on the Chautauqua, a financial article gets it wrong and I'm off to Prague
      • Storage, Moving and Movers
      • Homeless, and a bit on the strategy of dollar cost averaging
    • ► March (4)
      • Wild Turkeys, Motorcycles, Dining Room Sets & Greed
      • Roots v. Wings: considering home ownership
      • How about that stock market?!
      • The Blog has New Clothes
    • ► February (5)
      • Meet Mr. Money Mustache, JD Roth, Cheryl Reed & me for a Chautauqua in Ecuador
      • High School Poetry, Carnival, cool ads and random pictures that caught my eye
      • Consignment Shops: Best business model ever?
      • Cafes
      • Stocks -- Part XVI: Index Funds are really just for lazy people, right?
    • ► January (5)
      • Social Security: How secure and when to take it
      • Fighting giraffes, surreal landscapes, dancing with unicorns and restoring a Vanagon
      • My plan for 2013
      • VITA, income taxes and the IRS
      • How to be a stock market guru and get on MSNBC
  • ► 2012 (53)
    • ► December (6)
      • See you next year....until then: The Origin of Life, Life on Other Worlds, Mechanical Graveyards, Great Art, Alternative Lifestyles and Finding Freedom
      • Stocks -- Part XV: Target Retirement Funds, the simplest path to wealth of all
      • Stocks -- Part XIV: Deflation, the ugly escort of Depressions.
      • Stocks Part XIV: Deflation, the ugly escort of Depressions.
      • Stocks -- Part XIII: The 4% rule, withdrawal rates and how much can I spend anyway?
      • How I learned to stop worrying about the Fiscal Cliff and you can too.
    • ► November (2)
      • Rent v. owning: A couple of case studies in Ecuador
      • So, what does a month in Ecuador cost anyway?
    • ► October (4)
      • See you in December....
      • Meet me in Ecuador?
      • The Podcast: You can hear me now.
      • Stocks -- Part XII: Bonds
    • ► September (6)
      • Stocks -- Part XI: International Funds
      • The Smoother Path to Wealth
      • Case Study #I: Putting the Simple Path to Wealth into Action
      • Tales of Bolivia: Calle de las Brujas
      • Stocks -- Part X: What if Vanguard gets Nuked?
      • Travels in South America: It was the best of times....
    • ► August (1)
      • Home again
    • ► June (4)
      • Yellow Fever, closing up shop for the summer and heading to Peru y Bolivia
      • I could not have said it better myself...
      • Stocks -- Part IX: Why I don't like investment advisors
      • Happy Birthday, jlcollinsnh; and thanks for the gift Mr. MM!
    • ► May (6)
      • Stocks -- Part VIII: The 401K, 403b, TSP, IRA & Roth Buckets
      • Mr. Money Mustache
      • The College Conundrum
      • Stocks -- Part VII: Can everyone really retire a millionaire?
      • Stocks -- Part VI: Portfolio ideas to build and keep your wealth
      • Stocks -- Part V: Keeping it simple, considerations and tools
    • ► April (6)
      • Stocks -- Part IV: The Big Ugly Event, Deflation and a bit on Inflation
      • Stocks -- Part III: Most people lose money in the market.
      • Stocks -- Part II: The Market Always Goes Up
      • Stocks -- Part 1: There's a major market crash coming!!!! and Dr. Lo can't save you.
      • You can eat my Vindaloo, mega lottery, Blondie, Noa, Israel Kamakawiwo 'Ole, art, film and a ride on the Space Shuttle
      • Where in the world are you?
    • ► March (7)
      • How I lost money in real estate before it was fashionable, Part V: Sold! and the taxman cometh.
      • How I lost money in real estate before it was fashionable, Part IV: I become a Landlord.
      • How I lost money in real estate before it was fashionable, Part III: The Battle is Joined.
      • How I lost money in real estate before it was fashionable, Part II: The Limits of the Law.
      • How I lost money in real estate before it was fashionable, Part I: Impossibly Naive.
      • You, too, can be conned
      • Armageddon and the value of practical skills
    • ► February (6)
      • Rent v. Owning Your Home, opportunity cost and running some numbers
      • The Casanova Kid, a Shit Knife, a Good Book, Having No Regrets, Dark Matter and a bit of Magic
      • What Poker, Basketball and Mike Whitaker taught me about Luck
      • How to Give like a Billionaire
      • Go ahead, make my day
      • Muk Finds Success in Tahiti
    • ► January (5)
      • Travels with "Esperando un Camino"
      • Beanie Babies, Naked Barbie, American Pickers and Old Coots
      • Selling the House and Adventures in Staging
      • The bashing of Index Funds, Jack Bogle and a Jedi dog trick
      • Magic Beans
  • ► 2011 (22)
    • ► December (1)
      • Dividend Growth Investing
    • ► November (2)
      • The Mummy's head, Particle Physics and "Knocking on Heaven's Door"
      • "It's Better in the Wind" or why I ride a motorcycle
    • ► October (1)
      • Lazy Days and School Days
    • ► July (2)
      • The road to Zanzibar sometimes goes thru Ecuador...
      • Johnny wins the lotto and heads to Paris
    • ► June (16)
      • Chainsaws, Elm Trees and paying for College
      • Stuff I’ve failed at: the early years
      • Snatching Victory from the Jaws of Defeat
      • The. Worst. Used. Car. Ever.
      • Top Ten reasons your future is so bright it hurts my eyes to look at it
      • The Most Dangerous Words Your Customer Can Say
      • How not to drown in The Sea of Assholes
      • What we own and why we own it
      • The Ten Sales Commandments
      • My ever so formal and oh so dry CV
      • How I failed my daughter and a simple path to wealth
      • The Myth of Motivation
      • Why you need F-you money
      • My short attention span
      • Why I can’t pick winning stocks, and you can’t either
      • The Monk and the Minister

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