In this episode: “one more year” syndrome, defining enough, optimizing for pain vs pleasure, journaling + self-compassion, Rebel Finance School with Alan & Katie Donegan

Episode Summary

Alan and Katie Donegan unpack why people keep working “one more year” even when the math says they have enough—often because fear and identity (not logic) are driving the decision. They share simple mindfulness tools (journaling, compassionate awareness, and focusing on what you want) and explain Rebel Finance School, their free 10‑week course that helps beginners take control of spending, debt, investing, and retirement planning.

Guest Bio

Alan and Katie Donegan created Rebel Finance School, a free annual personal finance course designed to make FI fundamentals approachable for beginners.

Resources & Books Mentioned

• Rebel Finance School
• The Simple Path to Wealth (JL Collins)
• Mr. Money Mustache

Guest Contact Information

• Rebel Finance School
• https://rebeldonegans.com/

Key Takeaways

• Ask “What am I optimizing for?” to catch when fear is quietly steering a “one more year” choice.
• Mapping pain vs pleasure associations around retirement reveals the real blocker beneath the surface excuse.
• Journaling “freezes” swirling thoughts so you can evaluate them instead of obeying them.
• Self-compassion turns awareness into change: notice the story, question it, and choose what to water instead.

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