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Tanja Hester

We believe in using our financial independence as a force for good, and that the entire community of people working toward financial independence can change the world for everyone else.

Tanja Hester and Mark Bunge retired early at the end of 2017, at the ages of 38 and 41! Tanja explores both the financial and emotional issues around financial independence (FIRE) and support others on their journeys on their blog, Our Next Life.

Tanja (pronounced like “Tonya”) is the author of the blog, a longtime communications strategist, an insatiable reader and audiophile, an obsessive searcher for the best gluten-free beers and baked goods, a one-time mathlete, a former yoga and spinning teacher, and a still-certified health coach.

She is the author of Work Optional: The Non-Pennypinching Guide to Early Retirement (Hachette Books, 2019). Tanja is also half of the podcast The Fairer Cents.

Follow ONL on Twitter at @our_nextlife.
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watch playing with fire

A documentary about the FIRE movement and one families quest to achieve financial independence and retire early. Available on the following:

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Get your copy of the

book

A perfect follow up on the film to dive deeper into the philosophies and "how-tos of the FIRE movement"

Playing the FIRE book image

Reading material

We have assembled the foundational information to get your start on the right foot down the FIRE path to financial independence.

The Importance of Savings Rate in FIRE

Explore the essential role of savings rate in the FIRE movement for achieving financial independence and early retirement. Learn how to balance frugality, investment strategies, and lifestyle to accelerate your journey towards financial freedom.

Trust vs. Living Will: Setting Up Your Estate Plan

Estate Planning is an often overlooked, yet incredibly important step in your path to Financial Independence. Let's dive into the world of Trusts and Wills, and why you need to create one as soon as you can.

Achieving Financial Independence: A Step-by-Step Guide

Explore a step-by-step guide to achieving financial independence. Understand the core principles of the FIRE movement and strategies for early retirement.

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