Most people chasing financial independence think hitting their number will finally bring peace—but what if the chase itself is another form of avoidance? Corey Mascara, former monk and host of the Practicing Human podcast, returns to challenge the FI community's blind spots. He introduces the concept of spiritual bypassing: using financial goals as a distraction from deeper emotional work. Rather than waiting for FI to solve everything, Corey demonstrates how mindfulness can transform the journey itself—by teaching us to lean into discomfort instead of running from it, and to find fulfillment in the present rather than postponing it indefinitely.
Key Topics & Timestamps
Introduction to Corey Mascara
Corey's background as a former monk and meditation teacher, and the intersection of mindfulness and financial independence.
The Intersection of FI and Mindfulness
How mindfulness can enhance the journey toward financial independence and lead to a more fulfilling life.
Understanding Spiritual Bypassing
Definition of spiritual bypassing and how it manifests in the FI community—using financial goals as a distraction from deeper emotional issues.
Practical Steps to Mindfulness
Initial recommendations for incorporating mindfulness into daily life, including accessing free resources for learning meditation.
The Role of Curiosity in Personal Growth
The importance of cultivating curiosity about feelings of discomfort and how it can lead to greater understanding and personal growth.
How Close Are You to Financial Independence?
Free calculators, a personalized FI roadmap, and a community of 25K+ on the same journey.
The Body Keeps the Score
How the body retains emotional pain and experiences, emphasizing the significance of embodying practices.
Finding Fulfillment Beyond Money
Reflecting on how true fulfillment may not stem from financial success alone but from deeper emotional and psychological well-being.
Ready to take the next step?
Put what you heard into action with these tools and community.
Conclusion
Corey encourages listeners to pay attention to the whispers of their inner desires and reflect on their motivations.
Key Quotes
"Don't miss the richness of life by fixating solely on goals."
"Use curiosity to ease fear and enhance understanding."
"Lean into discomfort to foster growth and understanding."
Action Items
- Spend a few minutes each day reflecting on your emotional responses to financial decisions.
- Explore guided meditations to enhance mindfulness practice.
- Identify triggers for avoidance behavior and journal about them.
Related Resources
Top Travel Card
Ready to unlock a world of free travel? Start with the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
$95 annual fee | Earn 75,000 bonus points
Best Card for Side Hustlers and Business Owners
Side hustlers! With the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card you can earn free travel from your business expenses.
$95 annual fee | Earn 100,000 bonus points
Most Flexible Travel Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card can be used to offset almost any travel expense.
$95 annual fee | Earn more than $1,000 in Travel Bonuses with a limited-time $300 Capital One Travel stays credit, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening—that's more than $1,000 in travel value
ChooseFI has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. ChooseFI and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.
Practicing Human Podcast - Ongoing insights into mindfulness and personal growth.