You don’t need a million dollars to reach financial freedom.

In this episode of Making Cents, we’re breaking down how Germano Gomes built lifestyle freedom on an average income. No lottery win. No six-figure job. Just smart money moves.

He paid off his mortgage in five years, lived simply, and built up enough FU money to say no to the traditional 9–5. All while still enjoying the things that matter most.

Now? He works part of the year, travels the world, and funds it with casual jobs on his terms.

This approach is sometimes called Barista FIRE. It’s a version of early retirement where you save and invest just enough to cover the basics, and use flexible work to fund the fun.

It means more freedom, sooner.

We talk:

- How he hit financial independence without a high income

- The exact strategy he used to pay off his house fast

- Why he walked away from property investing

- How much he actually spends now

- And the mindset shift that made it all possible

“Enough is not a number — it’s a decision.”

Hit play to find out how he made his.

Making Cents is supported by our friends at Kiwibank.

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