Irish Financial Independence Podcast
Welcome! I’m Michael Houghton, and I write and podcast about our family’s FIRE journey.
In 2018, I began my journey toward financial independence. I was tired of trading time for money and inspired by the idea that, through intentional living and the power of compounding, I could build a different kind of life - one where work became optional and I could live on my own terms.
For me, the most important thing my money can buy is freedom for myself and my family.
I record podcast episodes and provide monthly updates on my FI progress. Join me as I discuss my journey towards financial independence and hear about the challenges and successes I have along the way.
You can also sign up to my monthly newsletter and receive regular updates from me to your inbox!
Latest Podcast Episodes
What Are You Grinding For?
Tuesday, 23rd September 2025
In this episode,Michael shares the story of Anne, a woman working 65-hour weeks with a two-hour commute who came to a FIRE meet-up looking for reassurance that her grind was worth it. Instead, she walked away with a new perspective and within weeks, she handed in her notice. Anne has since transitioned into a lower-stress, family-friendly job that gave her back her time and quality of life.
Listen NowThe Freedom Before FI Interview
Thursday, 28th August 2025
In this episode, Michael republishes his interview on the Freedom Before FI podcast which covers his journey to financial independence and what life looks like along the way. He shares his story of moving from New Zealand to Limerick, raising a family of five, and how he’s built up a €700k+ investment portfolio split between property and stocks. Michael also talks about lifestyle design, seasonal and part-time work, and how keeping a 75% savings rate was possible while still enjoying life.
Listen NowLife Options in a Post-FI World
Friday, 25th July 2025
In this episode, Michael shares what life really looks like after reaching Financial Independence. Spoiler: it's not all hammocks and golf rounds.
Listen NowLatest Progress Updates
September 2025 Portfolio Update
Saturday, 4th October 2025
Since hitting our “enough” at the end of 2024, I have been finding my focus shift away from money towards other pursuits. Health has become a big goal of mine - it can be funny how as human’s, we tend to work better when we have a goal.
Read MoreAugust 2025 Portfolio Update
Friday, 5th September 2025
I recently went back to work after a five week break. It has been interesting. Work definitely doesn’t feel so bad after giving yourself the flexibility of time off, and a five week break was the longest break I have had from work since I started my career 20 years ago.
Read MoreJuly 2025 Portfolio Update
Monday, 4th August 2025
What happens if you decide not to leave your 9-5? We hit a technical FI state at the end of 2024, yet I have continued to work full time. I am working a lot less, and as at the time of writing, this is my fourth week without working, but I am still technically working full time. And here is the thing - as much as I have been preparing to give up my full time job, I am starting to see so many positive benefits by continuing to work full time.
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