Deanna Broaddus is a 46-year-old single woman on the path towards financial independence. She, however, has not always been money savvy, but with a change of mindset, she became serious about striving for financial peace in 2014. By the end of 2017, Deanna has paid off just under $47,000 in debt, and in early 2018, she began her journey as an investor.   She blogs over at msfiology.com inspiring other women to take control of their lives.   Welcome!   [2:43] In addition to getting your finances under control, you had a battle with drug addiction in late 2009, which was really the turning point for you, was there any one thing that caused you to want to get your life back under control? One word to describe is transformed, really hit a heavy bottom Ended up asking for help surrendering and really doing some self reflection and realizing she had a lot of denial and resentments Always a high functioning addict but stuff needed to be dealt with Healed relationships, thought patterns.   [6:21] You really have been through a big journey, what would you say is one of the biggest success factors that has seen you through everything in your journey? Maybe a particular person, or goals you set? Multiple mentors in Deanna’s life Accountability, she felt like she was living a double life Faith has played a massive part of her transformation Getting the right people in her life has helped her get better   [7:41] What does financial independence mean to you and do you think that anyone can achieve it? Having enough money that produces passive income so you don’t need to work in the future. Having a diverse portfolio is very important. Yes, if you are still breathing there is a chance. It could mean different things for different people. 4% rule of thumb is a study that if you can save up 25x your annual expenses you can live off 4% of those investments for the remainder of your days. There are a lot of nuances   [11:49] What are some of the most important things you can do to achieve financial independence? Driving down expenses Housing, automobiles and food   [16:9] Any cool articles you’ve written recently on your blog? Get in the center of the room - Deanna learned how to do a headstand without using a wall. Find the right balance and knowing not to go too far but being uncomfortable enough that you’re pushing yourself. Sponsor: Debt Plan That Works [20:10] Get free access to our upcoming course on debt destruction, check out chainofwealth.com/debtcourse   Value Link Round   [20:45] What is your savings or retirement plan? First get out of debt, the start focus on investing and saving Having an emergency fund Fund for a future car Created a lot of sub savings accounts  by budgeting Max out retirement accounts   [23:1] Do you have a favorite book? Book: Dreamland by Sam Quinones Book: Retire Inspire by Chris Hogan   [25:23] Favorite quote you like to live by? Forgiveness is the fragrance the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.   [25:54] Any other parting piece of guidance? Don’t be afraid to ask for help  Support this podcast at — https://app.redcircle.com/shows/11f32da4-3081-471f-bf51-ea341b89ab1d/tip