Hey Nomads,
Most financial advisors will tell you that you need $2 million to even think about retiring.
They want you to stay in that cubicle, grinding out 50-hour weeks, hoping that by age 65 you’ll finally have enough "units" to buy your freedom.
But here’s the secret your boss (and your advisor) won't tell you:
You don't need to be a millionaire to be free. You just need to change the math.
1. The Barbell Strategy
I’ve spent years refining what I call the "Barbell Strategy."
On one side, I have High-Yield Income (like $SPYI, $XDTE,) that generate enough income to pay my bills today.
On the other side, I have Strategic Growth that i’m currently using to make sure my wealth keeps up with the world tomorrow.
This isn't about "getting lucky" on a meme stock. It’s about building a machine that spits out cash while you sleep.
2. The Geographic Arbitrage
Last month, one portfolio generated over $980 in dividends.
In a US city, that barely covers a car payment and insurance. But here in Asia? That $900 is "Freedom Money." It covers my rent, my meals at the local markets, and my gym membership—with money left over.
When you lower your cost of living without lowering your quality of life, your "retirement" date moves up by a decade (or two).
3. Simplicity is the Ultimate Sophistication
You’ll see a lot of "gurus" with 50-stock portfolios and complex charts.
My Roth IRA? It only has 4 assets.
One growth stock, two ETFs, and a treasury bond. That’s it. Why? Because I didn’t escape the 9-5 just to give myself a new 40-hour-a-week job managing a spreadsheet. I want to spend my time at the gym or exploring new cities, not staring at red and green candles all day.
Are you ready to draw your own Exit Map?
If you’re sitting at your desk right now feeling burnt out—knowing you have some savings but no idea how to turn it into a lifestyle—I want to help you bridge that gap.
I’m opening up a few spots for my "Escape Plan" Strategy Calls.
We’ll sit down for 60 minutes or more and:
Audit your "Freedom Number" (It’s likely much lower than you think).
Review your current portfolio to see how we can juice your monthly income.
Map out the logistics of living abroad (Visas, housing, and "Bridge Jobs").
I just had a call with a guy recently who’s been in Aerospace for 16 years. He’s debt-free and ready to go—he just needed the right math to realize he’s actually already free.
If you’re ready to stop guessing and start packing, let's talk.
See you on the outside,
— John
What This Newsletter Is
This isn’t motivation.
It’s not hustle culture.
And it’s definitely not “get rich quick.”
This is a weekly reflection for men who feel like something is off — even if they can’t fully explain why.
John