Shows
The Freedom Chapter#17 From Ancient Wonders to Modern Marvels and a Holiday from our HolidayIn this episode, we share our adventures as we wrap up our time in Europe and explore some of the most iconic destinations in Egypt, the UAE, and Bali. Here’s what we cover:
🌍 Egypt: Bustling Cairo, a private tour of the Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx, and a food-filled night tour. Plus, our thoughts on safety in the city.🌆 Dubai: Marveling at the Burj Khalifa, exploring the Miracle Garden, and indulging in a Michelin Star dining experience.🌴 Bali: A relaxing getaway with fresh coconuts, great coffee, and some unplanned “Bali belly” adventures.
We also share o...2024-12-2639 minThe Freedom Chapter#16 - 8 Essential Insights for House Sitting Success: A Mini Retirement Game-ChangerIn this episode, we dive into our experience with house sitting and pet sitting during our mini retirement. We discuss what house sitting is, how it works, and why it’s an incredible way to travel cost-effectively. We cover:
✨ What is house sitting and how it works.✨ The best platforms for finding house sits, like TrustedHousesitters and KiwiHouseSitters.✨ Tips for standing out in your applications and securing great opportunities.✨ How to leave a lasting impression, from updates to thoughtful gestures.✨ The challenges of living in someone else’s home and how to adapt.✨ Our per...2024-12-1939 min
The Freedom Chapter#15 Scaling Mountains, Houseboats and Autumn in EuropeWe’re now three months into our mini-retirement, and this update is packed with stories from four amazing countries! 🇨🇿🇨🇭🇱🇺🇳🇱
Czech Republic: Catching up with friends in Prague, trying new gyms, and soaking in the stunning autumn vibes.
Switzerland: Outdoor adventures in Flims, from scaling the Pinut to biking to alpine lakes—EPIC is the only way to describe it!
Luxembourg: A new country for us, spent walking, talking, and bumping into interesting travellers.
Netherlands: A laid-back week on a houseboat in Haarlem, with plenty of family time, Dutch treats, and biking adventures.
Plus, we share lessons on embracing comfort, saying ye...2024-12-1245 minThe Freedom Chapter#14 - 15 Years of Mini Retirements: How Mohawk Matt Has Explored 170 Countries and CountingWhat if you could turn your life into one long adventure? 🌍 For 15 years, Matthew Woodworth, aka Mohawk Matt (@mohawkmattitude), has been doing just that—living a life of mini retirements, exploring 170 countries, and working as a tour guide based in Prague.
In this episode, Matt shares the secrets behind his extraordinary journey, from what inspired him to live this way to his top five cities, tips for making mini retirements a reality, and how he plans to visit every country in the world. We also dive into the realities of life on the road and the perks of ha...2024-12-1038 minThe Freedom Chapter#13 Boating to a Bus Crash: Italy, Slovenia & SlovakiaThis episode covers a whirlwind journey through Italy, Slovenia, and Slovakia, packed with highs, surprises, and a few mishaps! 🌍 We kicked off in the beach town of Tropea, where we rented a boat with some unexpected safety quirks, explored Modena’s top car museums, and wrapped up Italy with our first ParkRun in Milan. Then, it was off to Ljubljana’s vibrant markets and a day at Lake Bled before an unforgettable birthday celebration in Bratislava — featuring a bus crash that made it one for the books! Don’t miss this wild update.
Follow along on Instagram: @juliusbloem...2024-11-141h 03The Freedom Chapter#12 How Much Money Do You Need for a Mini-Retirement?Thinking of a Mini-Retirement? Here’s How We Budgeted to Make It Happen!
Taking a mini-retirement sounds dreamy, but making it financially viable takes smart planning. In this episode, we dive into the financial side—how to budget, save, and plan for an extended break from work. We cover everything from daily budgets to practical tips for making your mini-retirement sustainable, whether you’re looking to travel, explore a new skill, or simply recharge.
Got questions about your own mini-retirement? Reach out on Instagram: @juliusbloem & @ashlxgh.2024-10-3024 min
The Freedom Chapter#11 How We Almost Skipped a Bucket List Adventure – Plus, Our Sicily SurpriseWe came close to skipping Mont Saint-Michel, one of the ultimate bucket list spots, but made a last-minute decision to go! From early morning trains to unexpected downtime in Pontorson, hear how we made it happen. Then, follow us to Sicily as we explore Palermo, find our groove in Cefalù, and take in the beauty of Taormina with Mount Etna in view. We’ll share lessons, favourite foods, and our travel highs and lows!
Follow our journey on Instagram: @juliusbloem & @ashlxgh.2024-10-1741 minThe Freedom Chapter#10 Ask Us Anything: Surprises, Culture Shocks, and Our Mini Retirement AdventureIn this special episode, we’re answering your questions about our mini retirement and travels! From the funniest things we’ve been asked, to our favourite countries so far, and how we’ve navigated cultural differences and non-English-speaking places. We’re diving into the quirks, surprises, and highlights of life on the road. Wondering if we’ve missed work or if house-sitting is in the cards? Hit play to find out! Plus, we share our thoughts on vlog-style content, dream cars, and more. Follow along for a candid look at our journey!
Follow us on Instagram: @juliusbloem & @ashlxgh.2024-10-1141 minThe Freedom Chapter#9 Four Countries, Second Chances, and Accommodation with No LightsIn Episode 9 of The Freedom Chapter, we dive into our experience revisiting four incredible countries—Italy and France, with Ashleigh’s parents joining us for a fresh perspective. Returning to Rome, Venice, Florence, and Paris brought new insights as we shared these places with family, proving that giving destinations a second chance can lead to richer, more meaningful experiences.
We kicked off in Rome, showing Ashleigh’s dad the Colosseum, before walking 25 km through the city's beautiful streets. Florence brought us to an 800-year-old building, while Venice reawakened our engagement memories. In Paris, we soaked up the charm...2024-10-0340 min
The Freedom Chapter#8 Getting Left Behind while Sailing Through Croatia on a Luxury YachtIn Episode 8 of The Freedom Chapter, we recount our unforgettable week sailing through Croatia’s breathtaking coastline. From running into Monika in Zagreb to meeting Ashleigh’s parents in Split, the adventure kicked off with incredible food—including the must-try Misto Street Food burger—before setting sail on the Adriatic.
We share the ups and downs of our journey, like almost getting left behind in Makarska and battling a fierce lightning storm. The sea brought its challenges, including some sea sickness, but also unforgettable moments like buggy driving in Korčula, drinks at the turret-top Massimo bar, and Hvar’...2024-09-2847 minThe Freedom Chapter#7 From Cyprus to Istanbul – Health Hiccups and Turkish DelightsTwo weeks into our journey, and it’s been quite the adventure! In Episode 7 of The Freedom Chapter, we recap our whirlwind experiences in Cyprus and Istanbul, with some unexpected challenges and unforgettable highlights.
Our 3-night stay in Cyprus started with a few hiccups—like getting lost on the bus and Julius battling gastro, which led to a doctor’s visit. Meanwhile, Ashleigh made the most of the time, handling travel bookings, beach visits, and exploring local shops. We share our thoughts on Cyprus, including a visit to an impressive castle, and the lessons learned about health and tr...2024-09-2054 min
The Freedom Chapter#6 Sailing the Greek Islands – Adventure on the Aegean SeaIn Episode 6 of The Freedom Chapter, we continue our Greek adventure as we set sail on an unforgettable journey through the Cyclades. We kick off by meeting our sailing crew at a café near the port, where we got to know everyone’s backgrounds—our story was definitely unique! Boarding the ferry to Ios was an intense experience, with crowds and sweltering heat, but it was all worth it once we reached our 56ft monohull yacht.
For the next 8 days and 7 nights, we sailed across seven stunning Greek islands, with 10 crew members to start—though we eventually lost one...2024-09-1225 min
The Freedom Chapter#5 Our Greek Adventure Begins – Athens and SantoriniA week into our journey, and we’re already immersed in the wonders of Greece! In Episode 5 of The Freedom Chapter, we take you through our first days in Athens and Santorini, filled with unexpected adventures and incredible experiences.
We arrived in Athens after a six-hour flight and spent 24 hours exploring the city. Navigating the Greek train system to reach our Airbnb in Plaka was a challenge, especially with the language barrier, but we made it! Our stay at a new, unrated Airbnb was a gamble, but it turned out great—especially with the bonus of a lift...2024-09-0525 minThe Freedom Chapter#4 The Journey Begins – Leaving It All BehindThe day has finally arrived! In Episode 4 of The Freedom Chapter, we dive into the whirlwind of emotions and events leading up to our departure. We share how we’re feeling as we embark on this adventure, reflecting on our final week—saying goodbye to work, packing up our lives, moving out, and bidding farewell to friends.
We also discuss the excitement of launching our podcast and the incredible support we’ve received from the people we’ve intentionally surrounded ourselves with. You’ll hear about our differing levels of letting go of work and how we’re embracing...2024-08-2936 minThe Freedom Chapter#3 Preparing for Departure – Our Mini Retirement BlueprintReady to dive into the nuts and bolts of planning a mini retirement? In Episode 3 of The Freedom Chapter, we lay out the structure of our upcoming adventure and share our detailed preparation process.
Follow our Mini Retirement on Instagram:
@juliusbloem
@ashlxgh
Discover how we've structured our mini retirement, from daily routines including one hour of exercise, dedicated reading time, and reflection through self-authoring and introspective practices. We also discuss our podcasting plans to document and share our journey.
We’ll take you through the practical steps we've taken: giving n...2024-08-2232 minThe Freedom Chapter#2 From 9-to-5 to World Explorers: Our First Mini Retirement AdventureEver wondered what it takes to turn a regular trip into a life-changing mini retirement? In Episode 2 of The Freedom Chapter, we share how a sudden decision to travel transformed our lives. Initially focused on careers and mortgages, we decided to see the world, starting with a family event in Bali.
Follow our Mini Retirement on Instagram:
@juliusbloem
@ashlxgh
Learn how we rented out our house, arranged pet care, sold our cars, and adjusted our work situations—Ashleigh quit her job, while Julius continued working remotely part-time. Follow our journey through Bali, Southeas...2024-08-1542 min
The Freedom Chapter#1 We're Retiring at 31 to Travel – Here's How You Can TooReady to break free from the daily grind and live life on your terms? In our debut episode of The Freedom Chapter, we dive into the concept of mini retirements.
Follow our Mini Retirement on Instagram:
@juliusbloem
@ashlxgh
Discover what triggered our decision to step away from the 40-hour work week and embrace a life of adventure and fulfilment at just 31. We’ll explore the lack of time, the feeling that there’s more to life and how time seems to slip away so quickly.
Learn about Tim Ferriss’ concep...2024-08-0817 min