Software engineer Mike Gorse shares how early mentorship, Linux accessibility work, and steady investing shaped his career and financial freedom. Hosts Chris Peterson and Liz Bottner explore his journey from Duxbury Systems to SUSE, the lessons he’s learned about networking, relocation, and accessibility in tech, and how a simple, long-term investing approach brought stability and choice. His advice: connect with peers in your field, volunteer to gain traction, stay open to opportunities, and align your work and finances with what matters most. Contact Info Guest — Mike Gorse 📧 mike@straddlethebox.org 🐘 @MikeGorse@mindly.social Penny Forward — pennyforward.com Aftersight — aftersight.org | feedback@aftersight.org | (720) 712-8856 Producer: Jonathan Price, Podcast & Program Producer, Aftersight Show Credits Hosts: Chris Peterson, Liz Bottner Guest: Mike Gorse Producer / Post: Jonathan Price Music: Andre Louis Presented by: Penny Forward in partnership with Aftersight Sponsors: Thrivent and The Nasdaq Foundation Chapter Markers 00:00 — Intro: Building bright futures 00:15 — Meet Mike Gorse 02:10 — Early tech and Braille foundations 04:23 — First job at Duxbury Systems 06:41 — Linux and open-source accessibility 11:05 — Joining Novell and SUSE 13:23 — Handling discouragement and finding mentors 15:28 — Advice for career counselors and seekers 17:48 — Remote work and moving to Austin 19:50 — Context matters in career paths 22:11 — Housing co-ops and community 24:58 — Pros and cons of shared living 26:43 — Investing wisely and the Simple Path to Wealth 28:40 — FIRE and financial independence 30:54 — Networking and creating opportunities 33:19 — How to reach Mike 35:25 — Credits and Aftersight partnership