Leif Dahleen
Michigan
As seen in:
MSN Canada,
Wealth of Geeks,
Bluefield Daily Telegraph,
MediaFeed.org,
KDOW-AM (Palo Alto, CA),
Radical FIRE,
Decatur Daily,
TimesDaily,
Wealthy Nickel,
Seattle Daily Journal of Commerce
and
Covers:
financial independence
early retirement
investing
taxes
charitable giving
travel
parenting
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Articles by Leif Dahleen
The Sunday Best (08/17/2025)
The Department of Education has released proposed rules that could bar certain nonprofits and public employers from PSLF eligibility starting in 2026. The rules give the Secretary of Education wide discretion to determine which employers are excluded based on a “substantial illegal purpose.” When it comes to developing good financial habits — budgeting, saving, investing, etc. — it takes time and you have to work at it. The same thing applies to splurging and enjoying your money.
The Sunday Best (07/06/2025)
Private Equity has outperformed global stock markets over the past 25 years, although that’s not a guide to the future. However, until recently, it was strictly off-limits to private investors unless you had tens of millions to spare. Fortunately, that’s changing. Everyone wants to be Warren Buffett. Or at least, own Berkshire Hathaway and sit back while it compounds quietly into retirement. But here’s the trillion-dollar question: can you engineer Buffett-like returns without the Buffett brain?
The Sunday Best 03/30/2025
Not everyone ties their identity to being a physician. Some people pick a lane, and stick in it forever, and build a career and stay there forever. That works for them. Others evolve. They let curiosity lead. They step into new spaces even when they don’t have the credentials. Its not flakiness. Its expansion. Side gigs have always been part of physician culture through “moonlighting.” Beyond extra income, these pursuits can help us test alternative careers.
The Current State of Public Health
In the weeks following the Presidential inauguration, the administration’s approach to public health has begun to take shape through a series of rapid policy shifts and executive actions. These early moves, from the withdrawal from international health partnerships to domestic regulatory changes, highlight a deliberate recalibration of the federal government’s role in healthcare and disease prevention.
What Comes After Money? The Art of Finding Happiness
We talk a lot about capital in this era. Money is important, and that’s more significant now than ever. From big banks making big money to every financial guru on TikTok promising increased assets, if you just follow his 10-plan scam, we’re all obsessed with it. But what does all the money in the world matter if you meet your end in a hospital room, with no cure to an ailment in sight? Does that wealth matter if everyone you loved is gone? What comes after money?
What’s the Best Way to Book Travel and Find Cheap Flights?
I’ve done my fair share of traveling over the years, mostly while I was young and living on a tight budget (counterintuitive, I know). As well as collecting an unnecessary amount of magnets, I also gained a few tips for booking cheap flights. If you’re willing to put in the legwork, you could save a decent chunk on flights and accommodation by combining money-saving methods and strategies.
20 Best Books for Doctors: Personal Finance & Inspiring Stories
Do you want to level up your financial game while finding inspiration in the stories of your fellow physicians? From mastering money management to igniting your passion for medicine, these reads offer valuable insights and fresh outlooks to elevate both your wallet and spirit. This article will include: Personal finance books for healthcare workers. Best books for doctors to read to inspire and educate.
What Is a PLLC and How Is It Different From an LLC?
Starting your own medical practice or business is an exciting time, but navigating the legal intricacies – not so much. Amidst the sea of acronyms like LLCs, S Corps, and C Corps, one stands out for licensed professionals: the PLLC. Tailored exclusively for doctors, lawyers, accountants, and other service providers, it offers coveted liability protection and flexible taxation options. So, let’s dive deeper into the world of PLLCs and see if it’s the right fit for your business.
Green Investing: The Reality of ESG
Whether you love or hate him – it’s hard to argue against Elon Musk’s criticism of the controversial ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) framework. In 2023, the tech mogul branded ESG “the devil” while sharing a post about how tobacco companies like Philip Morris outperformed Tesla in the ESG ratings. While Tesla isn’t squeaky clean, the company has revolutionized the electric vehicle industry. On the flip side, Philip Morris is the top cigarette manufacturer in the US.
Mastercard Gold Card Review 2024
Advertiser disclosure Terms and Restrictions Apply Physician on FIRE has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Physician on FIRE and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. Some or all of the card offers that appear on the website are from advertisers. Compensation may impact on how and where card products appear on the site. POF does not include all card companies or all available card offers.
Recent Alaska Airlines 737 MAX Incident Raises New Flight Safety Concerns
On January 6th, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an order instructing all United States airlines to temporarily ground all Boeing 737 MAX 9 jetliners until they are thoroughly inspected. The development came less than a day after a Boeing 737 MAX 9 plane suffered a blowout, leaving a gaping hole in the side of the aircraft's fuselage. Unfortunately, it also left some 26,000 Alaskan Airlines passengers stranded.
Hilton Honors American Express Business Card Review 2024
Terms and Restrictions Apply Physician on FIRE has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Physician on FIRE and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. Some or all of the card offers that appear on the website are from advertisers. Compensation may impact on how and where card products appear on the site. POF does not include all card companies or all available card offers.
More Than 50% Of American Households Trust Mutual Funds for Retirement Savings
According to the Investment Company Institute (ICI) research findings, almost 69 million American households owned mutual funds. Interestingly, this figure represented more than 52% of households nationwide and 115.3 million individual investors. Households owning mutual funds belong to all income and age groups. Results of the Study The ICI study also reveals that almost all households owning mutual funds were focused on retirement savings.
U.S. Money Market Funds Bolstered by the SEC Reforms: Things Investors Should Know | Wealth of Geeks
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) amended its rule governing money market funds on July 12, 2023. These new amendments will significantly impact the $5.8 trillion money market fund (MMF) industry. Experts believe the institutional tax-exempt and institutional prime market money market funds will be mostly affected by these reforms by the SEC, with specific liquidity fee requirements.
Warren Buffet Invested in VOO: Should Retail Investors Follow Suit?
Warren Buffet historically recommends stock market indexes and exchange traded funds, but he only uses two in the managed fund that made him famous, Berkshire Hathaway. In 2018, he proved his theory, with returns of nearly 126% over 10 years, while his competitors managing hedge funds only averaged 36% returns. The fund in question? Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO). While the stock market can be intimidating during volatile market conditions, its money-making potential can't be minimized.
SpaceX’s Starlink Broadband Internet Goes Global, Now Worth 40 Billion?
As of September 23, Starlink has officially achieved the milestone of 2 million subscribers. This Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation provides broadband internet service to over 60 countries across all seven continents. That’s an addition of 500,000 subscribers since May 2023. Starlink was established in 2015 as a subsidiary of prominent aerospace manufacturer and space transportation enterprise SpaceX.
Disney Cruise 2024: Itinerary, Dates & Destinations
“The Disney Fantasy welcomes the Sanchez Family on board,” the overhead announcement caught our attention as we crossed the gangplank onto the Disney Dream. “Wow!” I thought, as we entered the expansive atrium, the ship’s crew, in formal white, applauding in the background. And thus began our three-day cruise in the Caribbean with my wife and nine-year-old daughter.
Wealth of Geeks Original
Ray Dalio, the legendary macro investor and founder of Bridgewater Associates, caught headlines in early 2020 when he exclaimed that “cash is trash!” Three years later, the veteran investor has changed his mind and now proclaims that “cash is good.” This abrupt change in his philosophy has left many of his followers, as well as investors, perplexed. Following Dalio’s recent turnaround, they want to know which factors can help determine when it is good to hold on to cash and when it is not.
Baby Boomers Move To Unexpected Places in 2023
AARP reports about 10,000 baby boomers retire each day across the United States. According to the 2020 Census, one in six Americans is 65 years old, and many want to move somewhere new. Interestingly enough, Iowa is now considered the most favorable state for retirees. A study conducted by BankRate suggests the Hawkeye State is the best state for those nearing retirement.
Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Bets on Real Estate, Stock Buybacks
For more than 50 years, Warren Buffett has achieved the rare feat of generating a 20% average annual return on all assets he has managed. So it’s no surprise that the world pays attention to his investment moves. And while there are over 200 publicly-traded real estate investment trusts (REITs) in the United States right now, Berkshire Hathaway fund founder Warren Buffett was attracted to only a handful of them. Buffett has not shown much interest in real estate investing in the past.
Are Declining Rental Prices Bad News for Real Estate? Original
That’s excellent news for prospective renters. However, this downward movement of the home rental market may cause concern for property owners. Landlords as well as renters need to understand the market trends and potential fluctuations in rent prices in this rapidly evolving market. Inflation, rent prices, and interest rates are critical to the stability and affordability of housing for tenants. But these market parameters can also pose challenges for property owners.
Where Young and Rich Americans Are Moving 2023
All American cities have experienced a significant rise in living costs after the Covid-19 pandemic. Making things worse, with a potential recession on the horizon, many Americans are currently highly apprehensive about their financial security. Surprisingly, along with people with limited income, many young and wealthy Americans also suffer from this insecurity. The rising costs have made them more cautious about their expenses.
Six Best 401(k) Alternatives: Save For Retirement Without a 401(k)
A 401(k) is a popular retirement savings plan that allows you to set aside a portion of your salary, often with matched contributions from your employer, for long-term investment and tax-deferred growth. However, not everyone can take advantage of a 401(k), like those who are self-employed. There are also some individuals who may want to diversify their retirement investments beyond their 401(k) plan.
Higher Bank Fees Strain American Wallets Original
According to a survey by Money Rates, Americans are paying 10.4% more in ATM fees and 9.4% more in overdraft fees to their banks. These fees charged by the banking sector have increased faster than inflation. Rising checking account fees and ATM usage charges are two of the most critical concerns for everyday Americans.
Rising Hidden Costs of Housing and Expert Tips to Mitigate Inflation Original
A recent study on housing cost by Zillow for the quarter of 2023 reveals that in 39 large U.S. metro areas, the median of these auxiliary expenses was $14,155 a year. According to this study, the primary drivers of the increasing hidden cost of homeownership were insurance, maintenance, taxes, and utility costs. Over the last few years, the American housing sector has slowed considerably, in part caused by apprehension of potential inflation.
New Data Suggests SpaceX Stock Is A Great Investment
SpaceX Stock is trading for $150 billion as it steadily gains momentum while the American economy continues to struggle under the apprehension of a potential recession. The company, founded and managed by Elon Musk, is the most sought-after privately held stock in private markets like Forge and Equity Zen. However, the current economic environment demands proper due diligence before investing.
Travel Worry-Free Amidst a Potential Recession Original
Nearly half of all Americans plan to travel more this year than they did last year. After a few tough years because of the pandemic, the United States travel sector is back with a bang in 2023. Despite unfavorable factors such as mass layoffs, continuing inflation, and a potential recession, more and more Americans are looking to make up for their canceled travel plans over the last few years. With budgets tightening for most households, travel is generally considered non-essential.
Is a Recession Coming? Real Estate Will Outperform Other Assets
Americans are apprehensive about the last quarter of 2023, 68% of them fearing a recession is on the rise. According to a survey conducted by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, 80% of the respondents feel if we see a recession, it will be severe. About 62% of those surveyed believe a recession could be worse than the Great Recession that shook the economy in 2007-2009. If these forecasts materialize, there are challenging times ahead for ordinary people in the United States.
Is a Housing Market Recession Upon Us in 2023? | Wealth of Geeks
At the end of 2022, the falling housing prices and low activity indicated a sharp decline in home prices. But the housing market has been resilient throughout this year, and the warnings of a housing recession have not materialized. The current housing market may be experiencing low activity and decreasing prices compared to the peak in 2021 and 2022, and many have warned of a housing recession. However, with new evidence, a housing recession seems debatable.
Doctors Use Artificial Intelligence Software To Plan for The Future
About 30% of U.S. doctors are approaching retirement age, but only 12% are choosing to retire. Why? In a financial environment struggling with inflation, advance preparation for retirement is necessary for all physicians seeking more comfortable golden years. Physician income has not caught up with inflation. Current inflation levels go against the concept of the 4% rule that helps people decide how much they need to save for retirement.
The Credit Card Competition Act Could Harm Young Physicians With Debt
The Credit Card Competition Act was proposed in 2022 by Sens. Richard Durbin (D.-Ill.) and Roger Marshall (R.-Kan.). Though the legislation failed to make any headway last year, it’s back again with new supporters in both houses of Congress. The proposal has been attached to the annual defense authorization of Congress, causing widespread apprehension nationwide.
The Supreme Court Decision to Strike Down Biden’s Loan Forgiveness Creates Credit Card Challenges for Young Doctors
According to Federal Student Aid 2023 statistics, more than $500 billion in federal student loans is carried by borrowers between the ages of 25 and 34. President Biden’s Student Loan Forgiveness Program, announced in August 2022, was set to wipe out nearly $430 billion in debt. Student loan debt in the United States is currently held by individuals of all ages, ranging from younger people to retirees. Despite improving inflation rates, Americans are finding it difficult to their households.
Layoffs and Salary Cuts in Healthcare: Physicians Turning to Side Gigs, Alternative Revenue Streams
The Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform reports that as many as 631 rural hospitals currently face the risk of closure out of 5,000 in the country. In six American states, more than 50% of rural hospitals are likely to close in the near future. The US healthcare system is currently going through a severe crisis and the magnitude of the problem is intensifying by the day.
I Bond Rates in 2023 and How Good Are They Really?
The housing market has long been one of the better investments to combat inflation. But with mortgage interest rates rising, many are looking for alternative ways to protect their hard-earned money. What other ways can you protect your money from losing its value? Short answer: I Bonds. I Bonds were introduced to help investors combat high inflation rates using a composite interest rate that considers inflation. Another great thing about I Bonds?
SpaceX Stock - Is it a Good Investment?
SpaceX, Elon Musk’s brainchild and private aerospace company, has recently seen making waves. It’s currently trading at a roughly $150 billion valuation on the private markets, making it one of the most valuable private companies in the world. Since its founding in 2002, SpaceX has inspired many of us. The company has contributed significantly to the sector, creating technology that NASA and other space agencies use. It even launched its spacecraft with reusable vehicles.
The Sunday Best (07/02/2023)
The Sunday Best is a collection of articles I’ve curated from the furthest reaches of the internet for your reading pleasure. Every week, I scan hundreds of headlines, read dozens of posts, and bring you the best of the best to save you time and mental energy. Financial Independence (FI) is a primary focus, but it’s an awfully broad topic.
Finding Purpose in Retirement
After spending decades in the workforce and working forty or more hours a week, retirees may find it difficult to find purpose in daily life. This transition can be challenging, as individuals often define themselves by their careers, and suddenly they are faced with an abundance of free time and no clear direction. However, there is plenty of life to enjoy after your career is over.
The Sunday Best (06/11/2023)
The Sunday Best is a collection of articles I’ve curated from the furthest reaches of the internet for your reading pleasure. Every week, I scan hundreds of headlines, read dozens of posts, and bring you the best of the best to save you time and mental energy. Financial Independence (FI) is a primary focus, but it’s an awfully broad topic.
Dying With Millions
“You can’t take it with you” – a popular refrain. A refrain meant to help you not die with millions in the bank or your brokerage account. But a lifetime of savings and spending discipline may be tough to unwind. The Best Interest takes a look at this phenomenon in this post. Lawrence recently wrote in: Ask any retiree or any financial planner who works with retirees. Most retirees struggle to change from “saver” to “spender.” They’ve built decades of strong saving habits.
Credit Default Swaps - What Are They and What Do They Teach Us About the Risk of the U.S. Dollar?
Last week, I got a phone call from a finance person telling me to consider moving treasuries that were coming due to the sidelines temporarily given the debt ceiling debate. This week we will discuss why I got the phone call and what you should consider doing. – Dr. Nirav H. Shah Overview Credit Default Swaps are rising quickly, implying that the risk of United States Government default is rising.
The Sunday Best (05/21/2023)
Physician on FIRE has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Physician on FIRE and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any of these entities. The Sunday Best is a collection of articles I’ve curated from the furthest reaches of the internet for your reading pleasure.
10 Things We Let Go of As We Age
Have you found as you get older, you get crankier? Wait, that’s just me? Never mind. Forget I said anything. I’m as cheery as I have always been. But it does stand to reason that as we age, there are certain things that may have been important to us in our younger years that no longer seem so as much. In this post, Partner in Fire takes us through a crowdsourced version of a list of these things we let go of as we head into our elder years. Which ones resonate with you?
The Sunday Best (04/30/2023)
The Sunday Best is a collection of articles I’ve curated from the furthest reaches of the internet for your reading pleasure. Every week, I scan hundreds of headlines, read dozens of posts, and bring you the best of the best to save you time and mental energy. Financial Independence (FI) is a primary focus, but it’s an awfully broad topic.
Umbrella Insurance 101: Understanding Your Coverage Options
Umbrellas are not just for rainy days. Umbrella insurance can help fill in some of the more unprotected areas not necessarily covered, in part or in full, by your other insurance coverage. While everyone can probably derive some advantage from having umbrella insurance coverage, high-income professionals like physicians can especially benefit as you have more at stake and presumably more to lose.
The Sunday Best (04/09/2023)
The Sunday Best is a collection of articles I’ve curated from the furthest reaches of the internet for your reading pleasure. Every week, I scan hundreds of headlines, read dozens of posts, and bring you the best of the best to save you time and mental energy. Financial Independence (FI) is a primary focus, but it’s an awfully broad topic.
The Sunday Best (04/02/2023)
The Sunday Best is a collection of articles I’ve curated from the furthest reaches of the internet for your reading pleasure. Every week, I scan hundreds of headlines, read dozens of posts, and bring you the best of the best to save you time and mental energy. Financial Independence (FI) is a primary focus, but it’s an awfully broad topic.
The Secrets of Stealth Wealth
Have you ever been around someone who seems like an ordinary, everyday Joe or June? And then somehow you found out they are super wealthy? Maybe that person passed away and left a huge amount to a charity or a local community institution. This kind of person has stealth wealth. In this post, Financial Imagineer explores the concept of stealth wealth and discusses why it is something that everyone should be interested in. How many people do you know who have stealth wealth? Chances are, not many.
The Sunday Best (03/26/2023)
The Sunday Best is a collection of articles I’ve curated from the furthest reaches of the internet for your reading pleasure. Every week, I scan hundreds of headlines, read dozens of posts, and bring you the best of the best to save you time and mental energy. Financial Independence (FI) is a primary focus, but it’s an awfully broad topic.
The Sunday Best (03/19/2023)
The Sunday Best is a collection of articles I’ve curated from the furthest reaches of the internet for your reading pleasure. Every week, I scan hundreds of headlines, read dozens of posts, and bring you the best of the best to save you time and mental energy. Financial Independence (FI) is a primary focus, but it’s an awfully broad topic.
An Extra Dollar a Day For the Rest of Your Life
A simple question popped into my head at the 2022 version of The White Coat Investor Conference. How much more would I need to have saved up and invested to spend an extra dollar a day indefinitely? What spurred this question? A packet of Planters Spicy Nuts and Cajun Sticks. The meeting had a generous food budget, and in addition to hearty breakfasts and delicious lunches, we also had snack breaks, and this snack mix was some of the best I’d ever had. That got me thinking.
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