Finding FI(RE)

So, I went down the YouTube rabbit hole after watching Brad Finn's video and reading up on Grumpus' sites about pensions.  I learned that there's a movement called FI(RE) - Financial Independence, Retire Early.  The main idea is that many people (most younger than myself) have been saving/investing HUGE amounts of their income and living frugally with the goal of being completely independent.  They can quit their formal work and live frugally on their savings.  This challenges so many of our societal norms.  But, I'm intrigued.

I've been reading on the topic. A LOT.  (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you were going to buy any of these anyways, I appreciate you using my links!) My favorite book on the topic so far was "Quit Like a Millionaire: No Gimmicks, Luck, or Trust Fund Required" by Kristy Shen and Bryce Leung*.   Second to that, "Playing with FIRE" by Scott Rieckens. I watched his documentary on FIRE after reading his book.  (As usual - I prefer the book!)   Another I've enjoyed is "The Simple Path to Wealth" by JL Collins.   Currently, I'm reading  "YOUR MONEY OR YOUR LIFE" by JL Collins.

However, a lot of my reading has not been in books alone, but in popular blogs in the FIRE community.  Mr. Money Mustache, JL Collins, the Millionaire Educator**, and *the Millennial Revolution (authors of "Quit Like a Millionaire").

I've also been listening to as many podcasts as possible.  I found **The Millionaire Educator on ChooseFI.  My mindset has been forever altered.  This man has brought the teaching and financial independence game to level 100. I then searched for all podcasts he's been featured on (further down this rabbit hole...) and found my new favorite - "Teach and Retire Rich" by Teacher Dan Otter, Ph.D. and Certified Financial Planner Scott Dauenhauer. These two also have a website and a very helpful Facebook community.   

Through their podcasts, website, and Facebook group, my next goal emerged.  I need to understand what the heck "457b" and "403b" mean.