As 2025 draws to a close, I reflect on a year defined by meaningful connections and growth. While it may be cliché to acknowledge, the most valuable moments this year emerged from relationships, including my ongoing conversations with many of you.
Highlights
Several highlights stand out as I look back on 2025.
I began publishing this newsletter on LinkedIn, in addition to my email list, and have grown to over 300 subscribers on that platform. This reflects a community that finds value in alternative approaches to financial independence. Each new subscriber reinforces my commitment to providing practical, actionable insights for breaking paycheck dependency.
I launched a website design side business after an unexpected response at the Summit at Sea, hosted by The Real Estate Guys. During their barter-based auction, I offered website design services and was surprised by the enthusiastic reception. This experience reminded me that opportunities often emerge when we share our skills with our communities. I am pursuing this work as a way to help small business owners establish a professional web presence without incurring large ongoing fees.
I started hosting a book club within the Money Mental mastermind. Reading has always been central to my continued education, and book clubs amplify that learning through diverse perspectives and shared discussion. Our next selection is “The Science of Scaling” for those interested in reading along.
I began playing duplicate bridge again and discovered a wonderful community of players on the island. This rekindled interest has led me to reconnect with my original partner from college, and we plan to play online together in the coming year.
Looking Towards 2026
As discussed in the previous newsletter, living your best life requires attention and planning.
As I go through the process of setting my goals for 2026, I am excited by the promise of the new year.
An Invitation to Adventure
Given the profound impact that in-person connections have had on my investment journey and personal growth, I am hosting a truly unique event in February 2027. I am bringing together a small group of adventurous investors for an expedition cruise to Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands.
This three-week journey offers the rare opportunity to experience the untamed wilderness of the frozen continent, observe thousands of penguins in their natural habitat, and stand where some of the last century’s greatest explorers made history. More importantly, you will spend this time building relationships with other successful investors who share your commitment to financial independence and living an abundant life.
The expedition is intentionally sized to foster meaningful connections. This ensures the group remains intimate enough for genuine conversations while providing diverse perspectives and experiences.
We have structured the trip to include additional benefits beyond the standard expedition experience: an additional private guide, a hotel the night before departure, a welcome dinner, and private receptions for our group. Remarkably, we have arranged these enhancements while maintaining the same cost the cruise line charges for the voyage itself.
This represents a genuine once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Reservations are open now. For complete details and to reserve your cabin, visit https://www.mbc-rei.com/2027. Questions about the expedition can be directed to events@mbc-rei.com.
Travel for 2026
The coming year will include significant travel and continued investment in my own education. I plan to attend three events that align with my focus on strategic growth and community building:
- The Goals Retreat in Colorado Springs in Jan
- The Secrets of Successful Syndication in March
- Limitless Expo in August
Maybe I will see you at one of them?
Growing This Community
Finally, I remain committed to expanding this community in ways that serve your interests and needs. If you have questions you would like addressed in future newsletters or topics you believe would benefit this audience, please share them with me. While I enjoy the writing process, my primary goal centers on providing tangible value to you as readers. Constructive feedback helps ensure this newsletter remains relevant and useful.
Thank you for being part of this community. I look forward to continuing these conversations throughout 2026.
The complete set of newsletter archives are available at:
https://www.mbc-rei.com/mbc-thoughts-on-passive-investing/
This article is my opinion only, it is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Always do your own research and due diligence. Always consult your lawyer for legal advice, CPA for tax advice, and financial advisor for financial advice.