Gwen (https://www.fierymillennials.com/) and her husband Tim give their hot (FIRE-coded) takes on interesting financial and relationship stories from reddit and the internet .
Tim and Gwen blend humor, personal anecdotes, and practical advice, making complex financial topics accessible and engaging
Find more on https://firetakespod.com
Gwen (https://www.fierymillennials.com/) and her husband Tim give their hot (FIRE-coded) takes on interesting financial and relationship stories from reddit and the internet .
Tim and Gwen blend humor, personal anecdotes, and practical advice, making complex financial topics accessible and engaging
Find more on https://firetakespod.com
When does financial honesty cross the line into exploitation? Tim and Gwen tackle three messy money dramas. First, a single dad is forced to ask his new girlfriend to pay for dates and groceries because his ex-wife refuses to contribute to their kids' expenses. Is he the asshole, or is he just a victim of a bad divorce? Next, a financially organized woman is dating a younger partner who keeps all his savings in one checking account, driving her crazy. Is his disorganization a huge red flag, or is she unfairly parenting him? Finally, a 30-year-old who hit FIRE needs to know: what do you tell your dates you do for work when you don't have a job title?
Gwen mentions <a target="_blank" href="https://retireoften.com/">https://retireoften.com/</a> from Jillian Johnsrud
Tim and Gwen dive into the weird world where money meets relationships. They tackle the petty (but powerful) drama of the "Costco Mooch"—a newly married wife who forces her husband to boot his ex-wife from a membership that was a decade-long logistical link. The conversation quickly escalates to the truly dire: a husband's desperate plea for advice on exposing his wife's out-of-control impulse spending that has landed their family in over $17,000 of high-interest credit card debt. Finally, they discuss why finding a frugal partner is the ultimate cheat code , underscoring the simple truth that financial mindset often outweighs household income.Plus we discuss new Taylor music in our new end of episode bonus banter.
Just popping in for proof of life. Fun new content coming soon! If you haven't followed us on Instagram now is your chance to see our smiling faces! @firetakespod
Tim and Gwen dive into three juicy stories — starting with a debate in the FIRE community about whether financial independence has shifted from resourcefulness to relying on high incomes. Then, they react to a wild family drama where a sister-in-law questions if a wife “deserves” to be on the house deed. Finally, they tackle a student’s shock when wealthy parents reveal they won’t pay for college because “student loans build character.” It’s part money talk, part relationship drama, and fully peak Fire Takes.
Just Tim here popping on the mike for 2 minutes to say what's up and direct you to listen to our interview of Doc G on his Earn and Invest podcast.
https://www.earnandinvest.com/episodes-77/ask-me-anything-criticism
Gwen and Tim are back with hot takes and hotter coffee shop drama. First, they unpack a barista’s $800 tip jar full of romantic delusion and boundary issues—was it generosity or manipulation in disguise? Then it’s onto scratched pans, emotional growth, and a marriage under stress when one partner turns down the “dream job.” Finally, a FIRE couple questions whether they’re saving too much and living too little—plus, what not to do with a million-dollar inheritance that hasn’t landed yet. Come for the takes, stay for the simmering tension.
We have been hit with the dog days of summer so on this episode I've located some stories that a lot of you have missed from our less downloaded episodes I thought were pretty good. We'll be back with all new stuff in 2 weeks!
👫 1. Split Finances with a Lean FIRE Partner
A woman moved in with her long-term partner, who has lean-fired on $35k/year in a high-cost-of-living area. Now earning $80k herself, she struggles with subsidizing his lifestyle while he avoids contributing equitably—financially or with time. The couple grapples with mismatched expectations, household fairness, and a lack of clear financial communication.
💸 2. Bonus Drama: Fiancé vs. Family
A man receives a $50k bonus and plans to put it toward a house. His fiancée demands $25k to pay off her parents’ mortgage, arguing it's his duty now that they’re family. He refuses, sparking manipulation, guilt trips, and icy treatment. Listeners weigh in on red flags, financial boundaries, and whether this engagement should continue.
🏖️ 3. Timeshares from Hell (in a Will)
A couple’s mother-in-law insists on leaving them five timeshares in her will—despite being asked not to. The timeshares cost $9,500 annually in fees, come with a perpetuity clause, and offer no real financial benefit. They seek legal advice and debate whether you can—or should—refuse an inheritance that feels more like a financial trap than a gift.
Welcome back to Fire Takes! In this episode, Gwen and Tim dig into three hot stories that explore the emotional and financial tensions of modern life.
First, we discuss a post from someone who finally hit six figures but feels more broke than ever—why does more money sometimes bring more anxiety? We break down the psychological weight of lifestyle inflation, middle-class expectations, and that constant sense of financial unease, even when you're technically doing great.
Next, we dive into a Reddit relationship standoff: a woman receives a fully paid luxury car from an ex, and her new boyfriend spirals when he finds out. Is it about jealousy, emasculation, or something deeper? And more importantly, should she really sell the car just to keep the peace?
Finally, we head over to the Chubby FIRE subreddit to unpack the dilemma of a man who wants to retire at 60, but his wife flat-out refuses—even though the math checks out. We explore the emotional baggage tied to financial security, the tension between partners with mismatched retirement mindsets, and the real reasons “the numbers” aren’t always enough.
It’s a blend of money talk, relationship drama, and a few laughs along the way.
In this episode of Fire Takes, Tim and Gwen dive into a trio of Reddit stories that are as bizarre as they are juicy. First up, a man pays his girlfriend 56% of his salary to be a live-in “employee” — and now that they’ve broken up, he wonders if he still owes her severance. Next, a delayed inheritance sparks a family feud over inflation, fairness, and entitlement. Finally, a woman selling her home wonders if she owes her boyfriend a cut — even though he was just paying rent. It’s a whole lotta weirdness, and your favorite co-hosts have a whole lotta opinions.
Separate bank accounts in marriage: dealbreaker or smart strategy? What happens when a million-dollar FIRE plan goes up in smoke? And how do you shake the financial anxieties of a tough childhood? Tim and Gwen dissect these burning internet finance questions with their unfiltered opinions.
Also, since we couldn't stop talking about Monarch and they didn't pay us at least use this link if you are going to use it https://firetakespod.com/monarch
Ghosting, foodie calls, and financial incompatibility—this week we unpack a petty opera ticket saga, a FIRE-fueled career move, skewed middle-class perceptions, and a breakup over instant gratification. Real talk on dating, money, and adulting with your favorite FIRE couple.🔥
Episode Summary:
http://firetakespod.com/ep16-ghosted-after-dinner-and-the-opera/
As we said, during the episode a link to the Charlotte Dobre youtube channel since we got a story from her subreddit.
This week on Fire Takes, Tim and Gwen dive into a jam-packed episode full of FIRE insights, relationship dynamics, and real-world financial dilemmas straight from Reddit.
🧠 ChooseFI Reflection (2:00–9:30) We unpack the “Middle Class Trap” from ChooseFI’s episode with Mindy and Scott—how high fixed costs and low liquidity can keep even high earners feeling stuck. Plus, our own take on what it really means to feel “wealthy” on the FIRE journey.
💬 Reddit Relationship Talk (9:30–21:00) A woman wonders if she’s financially abusing her husband by reminding him they’re a single-income household. We explore the fine line between boundaries and control—and Gwen shares a practical sinking fund tip you can start using today.
💍 Who You Marry & FIRE Success (21:00–28:00) A post from r/Fire sparks a deeper look at how your partner can shape your financial future. We break down values alignment, money mindsets, and why your relationship might be your most important financial decision.
🛠️ Frugal Fatigue & Renovation Regrets (28:00–End) A couple saved $30K for home upgrades—but now they’re too guilty to spend it. We dig into why financial guilt hits hard, even when you're “doing it right,” and how to strike a balance between saving and living.
🎧 Hit play for honest takes, personal stories, and practical money wisdom from your favorite FIRE couple 🔥
Episode summary:
https://firetakespod.com/ep-15-the-middle-class-trap-financial-boundaries-and-spending-guilt/
In this fiery episode, we dissect the internet’s most relatable money dramas:
Plus, Gwen and Tim riff on millennial resilience ("another ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ crisis, huh?") and why financial independence isn’t just about numbers—it’s about reclaiming your life.
🏡 Post-Econome Reflections + Financial Red Flags You CAN'T Ignore | Fire Takes Podcast Ep. 13
Tim and Gwen are back from Econome with spicy takes, marital wisdom, and financial horror stories! In this episode:
🔥 Our Econome Takeaways
🚩 Financial Infidelity Nightmare A bride-to-be discovers her fiancé’s $40k secret debt (AGAIN). We debate:
🍽️ Making Friends Without Going Broke HCOL area survival tips:
Resources Mentioned:
Connect With Us: 📸 Instagram: @FireTakesPod 💻 Website: https://firetakespod.com
#FireTakes #FinancialInfidelity #Econome #FICommunity #ChooseFI
Episode Summary and comments:
https://firetakespod.com/episode-13-econome-i-wanna-be-where-the-people-are/
In this episode of Fire Takes Podcast, Gwen and Tim dive into the emotional rollercoaster of financial independence, from navigating tricky relationship dynamics to overcoming the fear of spending. They explore stories like the woman footing the bill for her boyfriend, the investor who feels his market gains could vanish overnight, and the high-net-worth individual struggling to splurge on a business class ticket. Along the way, they share their own experiences with intentional spending, the joy of spa days, and the dangers of comparison. Plus, they discuss the emotional impact of market volatility—and how to celebrate milestones (like sushi dinners) without letting the ups and downs of the market ruin your appetite. Tune in for a mix of humor, insight, and practical advice on finding balance in your financial journey.
Episode Summary:
https://firetakespod.com/ep-12-volatility-and-the-effects-on-the-sushi-market/
We do some takes on our own situation and ask for listener feedback in addition to some stories of bad girlfriends with financial twists, Episode summary linked below.
In this episode, Tim and Gwen dive into the world of "Bum FI"—what happens when people achieve financial independence and retire early, only to embrace a life of leisure (or laziness, depending on who you ask). From video games and THC edibles to societal judgment and spousal tension, this episode explores the challenges and controversies of living the "bum" lifestyle post-FIRE.
Episode Summary:
https://firetakespod.com/ep10-pillow-fighting-championships-and-thc-edibles-we-explore-bum-fi/
From budgeting with ADHD to sweating small expenses, Gwen and Tim tackle Reddit stories about money struggles, FIRE misalignment in relationships, and dating as a financially independent woman. They share laughs, personal insights, and FIRE takes on life’s financial quirks.
Episode notes:
We discover the audacity people can have demanding money from the people in their lives. Come join us in our trip through the wardrobe.
Find us at https://firetakespod.com
Instagram: @firetakespod
More about this Episode:
https://firetakespod.com/episode-8-the-lion-the-witch-and-the-audacity/
