I was talking with a friend today and realized it’s been a while since I updated my list of resources for teachers who want to learn more about personal finance and financial independence. Interestingly, when I looked at it, the list hasn’t changed much. That’s because the foundational ideas in FI are timeless. Most of the newer content I’ve been exploring is either relatively niche (like All The Hacks) or so new that, while exciting, I’m not ready to recommend it yet (like Sean Mullaney and Cody Garrett’s new book on Tax Planning for early retirement).
Luckily, for beginners, many of the best ideas are still right where they’ve always been—in a few classic blogs, podcasts, and books.
The Shockingly Simple Math of Early Retirement
If you read only one article on financial independence, make it The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early Retirement by Mr. Money Mustache. It’s a short but powerful read that shows how your retirement age depends almost entirely on two variables: how much you spend and how much you save. It’s a true “light bulb” piece for many people who suddenly realize how much control they have over their financial future.
The ChooseFI Podcast and Book
The ChooseFI podcast was my personal gateway into financial independence. Brad Barrett and Jonathan Mendonsa built an incredible archive of episodes on saving, investing, travel hacking, and designing a life you don’t need to retire from. If you’re new to the show, start at Episode 100 for a great introduction.
Not a podcast listener? They also wrote a book, ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence, which distills years of content into a structured, easy-to-follow guide.
The Dave Ramsey Approach
If you want something more traditional, Dave Ramsey’s system has helped millions of people pay off debt and build a financial foundation. His “Baby Steps” and “Debt Snowball” approach are simple, actionable, and great for people who need structure or motivation in the early stages of getting organized. I don’t agree with everything Ramsey teaches (his investment advice is a bit outdated and his politics are suspect), but his behavioral approach to debt payoff is effective for a lot of people.
The Simple Path to Wealth
Once you’re out of debt and ready to invest, JL Collins’ The Simple Path to Wealth is the best next step. It’s widely considered the “go-to” investing book in the FI community. Collins’ message is refreshingly simple: live below your means, invest in low-cost index funds, and stay the course. I used to keep extra copies of this book in my office to give to colleagues and to give to new graduates, because it really is that good.
Some Educator Specific Resources
Teachers have some unique financial advantages (and challenges) like pensions, 403(b)s, and the occasional “free lunch” salesman in the faculty lounge. These next few resources focus on that side of the journey:
TL;DR Financial Literacy Series
Educator Karl Fisch and a series of co-authors created short, accessible books tailored to teachers in different states. Each version explains how pensions and retirement systems work locally, and how educators can make the most of them. Obviously I haven’t read all of them, but my friend Ryan Cruz wrote the Texas edition, and I can highly recommend it.
403bwise.org
Retirement planning for teachers can be a minefield. The 403bwise.org site was founded to help educators make sense of their retirement options and avoid predatory products. It’s packed with articles, calculators, and an active forum where teachers can ask questions. Their “Teach and Retire Rich” podcast is also excellent.
Financially Independent Teachers Podcast
Recently, I’ve been enjoying the Financially Independent Teachers podcast. It’s hosted by two North Carolina teachers who interview educators and personal finance experts about real-life challenges. They’ve also written a book that’s helpful for teachers trying to balance the realities of the classroom with long-term financial goals.
Final Thoughts
The financial independence movement has evolved a lot since I first discovered it, but the core ideas haven’t changed: spend less than you earn, invest wisely, avoid debt, and keep learning. The beauty of these resources is that they meet you wherever you are, whether you’re just getting started or refining your path toward early retirement.
I’d love to hear from you about what resources have shaped your own journey toward financial independence. What should I add to my list?
