Subscribe to The Next-Level Income Show
In this episode of the Next Level Income Podcast, host Chris Larsen dives into Chapter 2 of the journey toward financial independence by forty, focusing on a concept that often feels intimidating at first glance: saving 50% of your income—without feeling deprived. While the idea may initially sound extreme, Chris reframes it as a powerful and achievable strategy rooted in intentional living, not sacrifice.
Chris Larsen, founder of Next-Level Income and a seasoned real estate investor with over two decades of experience, brings a practical and experience-driven perspective to this discussion. Having been involved in over $1.5 billion in real estate acquisitions since 2016, Chris understands firsthand how disciplined financial habits can accelerate wealth building and create long-term freedom.
The core message of this episode is simple yet transformative: saving more doesn’t have to mean living less. Instead of focusing on restriction, Chris emphasizes optimization—aligning your spending with what truly brings value and joy to your life. By cutting out unnecessary expenses and redirecting that money toward investments and savings, individuals can significantly increase their financial runway without compromising their lifestyle.
Chris introduces the concept of “conscious spending,” where every dollar has a purpose. Rather than mindlessly following societal norms of consumption, listeners are encouraged to evaluate their habits and identify areas where money is being spent without meaningful return. This shift in mindset allows individuals to reclaim control over their finances and make decisions that support their long-term goals.
One of the key takeaways from the episode is that increasing your savings rate is one of the most effective levers for achieving financial independence quickly. While many people focus solely on earning more, Chris highlights that managing expenses and maximizing savings can often have a more immediate and controllable impact. By aiming for a 50% savings rate, individuals can dramatically shorten the time required to reach financial freedom.
Importantly, Chris addresses the psychological barriers associated with high savings rates. He acknowledges that the fear of deprivation is real but often unfounded. Through intentional lifestyle design—such as prioritizing experiences over material possessions, leveraging cost-effective alternatives, and building habits that support financial discipline—listeners can create a fulfilling life while saving aggressively.
Chris also shares practical strategies, including automating savings, investing in income-generating assets like real estate, and surrounding yourself with a community that supports your financial goals. These actionable steps make the concept of saving 50% not just theoretical, but achievable.
Ultimately, this episode serves as both a mindset shift and a tactical guide. It challenges listeners to rethink their relationship with money and demonstrates that financial freedom is less about how much you earn and more about how effectively you manage and grow what you keep. By embracing intentionality and discipline, the path to financial independence by forty becomes not only possible, but practical.
Resources & Links
To schedule your complimentary Strategy call,
https://calendly.com/taxessaved/taxanalysis
Webinar Replay: https://youtu.be/fkJD6e8fIzo?si=i9VjBMPkEYb23w2t
Listen To The Podcast Here:
I hope you found this episode valuable. Check out https://chris-larsen.mykajabi.com/coachingprogram to learn more about our coaching program and read some testimonials from our previous students. You can also book a call with us to learn more and find out if this program is good fit for you.
I have one more thing to give you. Visit our website to get a free copy of my book, audiobook, and much more. I’ll send you a copy of my book and cover all the shipping costs as a thank you for listening to the show. Also, please like, share, and take 90 seconds to give us a rating on Apple Podcasts.
Important Links:
Christopher Larsen is the founder and Managing Partner of Next-Level Income. Since “retiring” after 18 years in the medical device industry he dedicates his time to helping others become financially independent through education and investment opportunities. Chris has been investing in and managing real estate for over 20 years.
While completing his degree in Biomechanical Engineering and M.B.A. in Finance at Virginia Tech, he bought his first single-family rental at age 21. Chris expanded into development, private-lending, buying distressed debt as well as commercial office, and ultimately syndicating multifamily properties. He began syndicating deals in 2016 and has been actively involved in over $500M of real estate acquisitions.
In addition to real estate, Chris has invested in equities, oil & gas, and small business lending, as well as being active in Venture South, one of the nation’s Top 10 Angel Investing groups. Chris lives with his wife and two boys (and Viszla, Lucy!) in Asheville, NC where he loves spending time with them in the outdoors and enjoying the food and culture that the region has to offer.
Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
Join the Next- Level Income Show Community today:
Follow Us On Social Media:
Tagged: Group 4
Subscribe to The Next-Level Income Show