Ep 67: How Being a Dad Made Me Rethink Financial Freedom

I used to think financial freedom was a number. Then I became a dad—and everything changed. In this episode, I share my personal journey from the hustle-and-grind definition of success to a more meaningful, family-centered vision of financial freedom. You’ll hear how my daughter Logan’s health challenges made financial freedom not just a goal, but an urgent mission. I dive into the emotional shifts, the mindset changes, and the practical steps that helped my wife and me build a life that gives us the time and presence our family needs—right now.

If you’re a parent who wants more than just a big bank account—and you’re ready to start living life on your own terms today—this episode is for you.

Timeline Summary:

[0:00] - How fatherhood shattered my old definition of financial freedom.

[2:18] - Our path from $304,000 in debt to millionaires by age 30.

[3:19] - The hustle mindset: working nonstop, chasing an arbitrary number.

[5:22] - The moment my daughter Logan was born and how it redefined everything.

[7:02] - Logan’s first seizures and her Dravet syndrome diagnosis; the life-altering shift it caused.

[9:09] - The emotional punch of realizing time is more valuable than money.

[10:55] - How extreme sensitivity to noise and light made caring for Logan a full-time job.

[13:46] - Retiring my wife 363 days after committing to do it—despite the obstacles.

[14:13] - Moving across the country for Logan’s care and redefining priorities.

[18:19] - Why you shouldn’t wait for “someday” to start living your version of financial freedom.

[22:16] - Tactical steps: building emergency funds, investing for time freedom, and recurring revenue.

[24:21] - Redefining “rich” as the ability to live life on your own terms.

3 Key Takeaways:

1. Time over numbers – Financial freedom isn’t about hitting a dollar amount, it’s about having time with those who matter most.

2. Start before you’re ready – You don’t need millions to design a life aligned with your values; you just need a plan.

3. Your “why” matters most – A deep, emotional reason will drive you further than any financial goal alone.

Quotables:

“Financial freedom is the ability to do whatever, whenever, with whoever.”

“Money buys time, and time with your kids is priceless.”

“Stop waiting for someday. Start building your freedom now.”

Links & Resources

• Book a call with my team – Ready to map your path to financial freedom? Let’s build your custom plan: https://www.budgetdog.com/

• Join my free three-day financial freedom event – Learn practical steps to take control of your money now: https://www.budgetdog.com/

• Follow me on social media for daily tips and resources:

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  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/budgetdog

If you found this episode valuable, please rate, follow, and share Money on My Mind. It helps other parents discover the tools they need to create the life they deserve. Stay intentional—and I’ll see you next week!