Blog
Why Traditional Financial Advice Doesn't Work for CRNAs
Generic financial advice ignores your late start, massive debt, and high tax bracket. Here's the playbook built for your actual situation.
The Financial Advice CRNAs Don't Want to Hear
High income doesn't guarantee wealth. Discover the uncomfortable financial truths every CRNA needs to hear — and the steps to get ahead of them.
False Blockades to Wealth Building
Many CRNAs obsess over tax strategy, employment classification, and the perfect investment vehicle — but these are largely false barriers to wealth. This post cuts through the noise on 1099 vs W-2 status, debt payoff vs investing, index fund selection, and budgeting systems, arguing that savings rate and consistent action matter far more than optimization. With a high CRNA income, financial independence is achievable in years — if you stop making excuses and start executing.
Market Correction or Regime Change? 5 Indicators Every Investor Should Watch Right Now
Is the 2026 market pullback a routine dip or the start of something bigger? We break down five key indicators — the 200-day moving average, VIX, Dual Momentum, the Sahm Rule, and credit spreads — to help you read the trend before it reads you.
Troubles with Locum Work
Locum Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists encounter many unnoticed problems. The job is not all about high income, scheduling flexibility, or traveling the country. There are hassles a 1099 independent contractor faces. Everything from scheduling logistics to housing to malpractice coverage. Contractors are responsible for their own benefits and taxes. Read to learn if the cons offset the pros.
Case Study: TFC Moneymoon
FIRE in their 30s. How the TFC family is planning to achieve early financial independence. How they are making the most of the Moneymoon. Options for FIRE, Coast FIRE, and Fat FIRE are all viable here. It’s a matter of divergence between income and cost of living.
FAQs: Locums/1099
I have compiled a list of frequently asked questions regarding locum work and 1099 independent contracting.
My Single Greatest Investment
I have now made many investments throughout my career, but a single investment stands out. One returned far more than the others combined. That’s right…an investment in me. I spend many hours and dollars educating myself. This led to the ability to generate more revenue than I imagined possible just years ago. Now I continue to invest in myself through other means. An investment I don’t regret.
Stepping Over Dollars to Pick Up Pennies
Handle the big ticket items and don’t sweat the small stuff. It’s a matter of making the most of your time and money. Bet the house on the important areas. Learn the high yield areas of your life to dedicate your energy. Minimize the areas of concern because most don’t actually impact your financial outcome.
Side Hustles That Actually Work: How to Increase Your Income
Learn about what makes a side hustle viable and which fit into your life. Is your objective profitability, flexibility, or sustainability. There are amazing opportunities, especially for CRNAs. Read about ways people have grown their side hustle to produce more than their day job.
Debt Payoff Strategies That Actually Work
Learn about three effective debt payoff strategies that are proven to work. One of these strategies is guaranteed to fit your ideal personal finance approach. Go beyond the approach and discover deeper solutions to making your debt vanish. I write specific considerations for different kinds of debt, managing your income, and controlling your expenses.
VTI and VUG: A Two ETF Portfolio for Long-Term Wealth Building
Explore the benefits of a simplified, two ETF portfolio. A total U.S. Stock Market Index fund such as VTI provides great diversification. A growth index fund such as VUG provides an amazing growth tilt. A great combination for those looking to capture market gains, but double down on momentum. A viable, yet simplistic approach to outperforming many financial advisors.
10 Overrated Money Moves
These moves have become a religion of rigid rules in the personal finance community. Supported by armchair experts across the span of social media platforms, here are the 10 most overrated money moves. These may have a place and time, but for the most part, these pseudo recommendations are a slough of complexity manifesting feelings of inadequacy. You need an emergency fund, but not the kind you read about. You need tax-advantaged accounts, but not the way they preach. I’ll set the record straight with what works and where to focus your efforts.
The Power of Long-Term Thinking in Volatile Markets
Market downturns are inevitable, but long-term thinking and patience prevails. Create and implement a data-driven plan to be confident about your investing. Dollar-cost average throughout all markets to maximize compounded returns and to take advantage of market recoveries. Have clear goals and review your progress regularly to ensure you are doing your part, even if the market isn’t agreeing with you this week.
10 Habits for Financial Wellness
10 small, but mighty habits to bolster your financial foundation. It’s essential to build a solid base to optimally grow your wealth. Experience great upsides and minimal downturns.
This post discusses managing finances on the micro and macro levels. Managing your expenses and tracking your net worth to keep track of your hard earned dollars. And optimizing your income to allow your dollars to work extremely hard on your behalf.
TFC Year 3 Update
Discover what the TFC financial situation looks like after 3 years of giving anesthesia. We have made some major life changes including transitioning from DINK status, starting locum work, and investing like mad. This is an update from the July 2024 post where the TFC family first achieved millionaire status. See how much progress we have made in the 12 months following.
Learn the TFC work setup, investment accounts, and investment selections.
Analysis Paralysis: Why Overthinking Is Costing You More Than You Think
Discover how analysis paralysis is holding you back from professional and financial growth and stunting your personal success. In this insightful post, you'll learn how analysis paralysis—being stuck between options and unable to decide—hinders your ability to invest, make career moves, and take control of your future. Learn how embracing imperfection, committing to your plan, and following time-tested principles can help you avoid lost opportunities, boost productivity, and achieve financial independence.
7 Ways to Increase your Income
This week I discuss 7 ways for CRNAs to unlock their full earning potential as a high-income provider. Discover actionable strategies to boost your income, from mastering negotiation tactics and upgrading your job, to maximizing overtime, specialization, and exploring lucrative locum opportunities. Leverage retirement benefits and invest both inside and outside your clinical practice.
Whether you’re seeking financial independence or simply want to make smarter money moves, this post breaks down practical steps to grow your wealth without sweating the small stuff.
Beyond the OR: A CRNA's Guide to Combating Burnout
This week I write about CRNA burnout. It’s a serious issue causing hardships for providers and potentially dangerous outcomes for patients. This entry speaks to understanding and recognizing the many manifestations of burnout. Learns ways to proactively and reactively manage burnout. Treat the symptoms and the root cause. From a financial lens, our job acts as our primary driver of income for the first few decades. Manage burnout to prolong your career, thus safeguarding that wonderful income. Your future self will thank you.
$1M: The New Starting Line
Understand the importance of starting early, maintaining discipline, and leveraging the long-term average returns of the stock market. Whether you’re a young professional just beginning your financial journey or a seasoned investor looking to optimize your strategy, this entry offers practical insights for maximizing your investment potential. Use this data-driven advice on building wealth through the S&P 500, this blog entry provides the clarity and motivation needed to take the next step toward your financial goals.