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What would life look life if you had figured out your finances at age 19?
Cody from Fly to FI doesn’t have to wonder. His mom introduced him to the concept of financial independence at the tender age of 19 and he took off from there. He managed to graduate from college with minimal debt and tons of ideas. Now, at age 22, he’s the co-founder of a frisbee golf disc company. When we spoke to him, he was on the trip of a lifetime in Australia before he starts his corporate career.
You’ll be inspired by his story!
We also chat about…
- how to score scholarships and internships for college
- what it takes to start a business from scratch
- the importance of networking
- how to stand out in interviews
He was an absolute delight to speak with! Enjoy this chat with Cody, and please subscribe to us in iTunes if you enjoyed it!
Show notes and links from today’s episode
- Fly to Fi <– Cody’s FI Blog
- Arsenal Discs (Cody’s side hustle!)
- Gwen recommends The Gifted Adult
- Etsy digital download shops <–Excellently written by J!
- AirBnb with Kristie Wolfe Episode
- Scholly
- internships.com
Key takeaways from our chat with Cody:
1 – Internships are Critical
Cody was able to put himself through college partly thanks to his well-paying internship. Not only did he finance his education, he learned a ton and made connections. After working his butt off in the internship, he was invited back for a full-time position upon graduation.
Gwen also did this in college! Internships are key to networking, gaining experience, and putting a little money in your pocket.
2 – Work/Life Balance is Huge
Heads up to all those hiring managers out there! The number one criteria Cody used when looking for a job was work life balance.
He turned down higher paying jobs for a lower paying (but still good salary) position. Contrary to popular belief, money isn’t everything and Cody is the embodiment of that. The firm he went with offers OVERTIME PAY for anything over 40 hours, a relative rarity in the finance world. He is wise enough to turn down more money for a better quality life in the future.
3 – Is Disc Golf the ultimate FI activity?
Cody and Gwen think Disc Golf is the ultimate FI activity. J didn’t share their thoughts.
Disc golf is played like regular golf, with tees and pars and holes. Instead of hitting a tiny ball with a club, disc golfers throw specialized frisbees.
There are no greens fees. Disc golf courses ranging from a few holes to 18 holes can be found in parks and universities all over. A one time of $12 for one disc (roughly) and you can play for years. Of course (ha!) you can scale up and get putters and long distance drivers and a bag and all sorts of other fancy accessories, but they aren’t needed. Unless you happen to throw your disc in a water feature. That’s unfortunate and going to set you back!
4 – Thinking about starting a business?
Cody says “Just start it!” J and Gwen think this is the perfect sentiment….
…As long as you make sure the consequences of failing aren’t going to be too painful. We’re definitely not suggesting taking a second mortgage out on your primary residence and throwing it into a business. Do your due diligence and market research first!
The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now. <– that quote applies to starting a side hustle/business venture too 🙂
Questions? Like or dislike? Leave us a comment!
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Rachel says
This guy drives me crazy. Can’t help his age, but the way he talks about how he knows everything shows his inexperience and age. Love most of your podcasts, but I could not listen to this guy.