In this episode of The Ronin Mindset, I sit down with Marissa Rodriguez, a powerhouse fractional CMO and ecommerce expert who left the fast-paced world of NYC behind for a slower, more fulfilling life in Greece.
After overseeing over $100 million in ecommerce sales and launching countless brands, Marissa built her own course on making money online. But it wasn’t just business success that transformed her life—it was a solo trip to Greece in 2021 that changed everything.
Originally planned as a vacation for a friend’s birthday, Marissa never returned to the U.S. Instead, she embraced a new way of living, learning to enjoy her own company, appreciating life’s slower moments, and setting a goal to visit all 278 inhabited Greek islands.
What We Cover in This Episode:✅ How the pandemic forced her to rethink her life in NYC
✅ Learning to enjoy being alone and discovering deeper self-awareness
✅ The power of slowing down and being present through travel
✅ How working remotely from Greece benefits her business and clients
✅ Why she has zero plans to return to the U.S.
Marissa’s story is proof that success isn’t just about money—it’s about designing a life you love.
Connect with Marissa:📷 Instagram: @throughexperienceofficial | @marissa_throughexperience
📘 Facebook: Through Experience Official
💼 LinkedIn: Through Experience | Marissa Rodriguez
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🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform!
Are you a digital nomad, expat, or traveler looking to legally reduce your tax liability? In this episode of The Ronin Mindset, I sit down with Alex McGowin, an expert CPA specializing in international tax strategies. He helps nomads pay little to NO taxes using the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) and advanced offshore tax strategies.
💰 Learn how to legally pay ZERO taxes on your first $125K in income
💼 Discover offshore corporations & trusts for income over $125K
✈️ Find out why the U.S. Citizen-Based Tax System is broken
📌 Learn practical steps to optimize your tax strategy as an expat
If you're a location-independent entrepreneur, remote worker, or business owner, this episode is a must-listen!
🔗 Connect with Alex McGowin:
mcgowintax.com
https://www.youtube.com/@McGowinTax
https://www.facebook.com/mcgowintax
📢 Join the movement to escape the matrix & live freely!
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In this episode of The Ronin Mindset, I sit down with the incredible Karen Ricks—world traveler, chef, educator, and entrepreneur—who has been PLAYing her way around the world for years. After spending a decade in Japan running an international school, she sold everything to follow a dream: attending culinary school in Italy. Since then, she and her family have been on a global adventure, embracing life with joy and curiosity.
We discuss:
Karen’s energy is contagious, and her insights will inspire you to embrace more play, adventure, and purpose in your life!
For more fun and deliciousness from Karen Ricks & Our Kitchen Classroom, find us all over the web!
Website: https://OurKitchenClassroom.com;
Facebook: https://facebook.com/ourkitchenclassroom;
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenm.ricks/
(#OurKitchenClassroom); YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/ourkitchenclassroom;
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@YogaWKaren
#PLAYwithYourFood Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WePLAYwithOurFood/;
Subscribe to Our Kitchen Playground: https://ourkitchenclassroom.com/subscribe-to-our-kitchen-playground/;
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-m-ricks/
🌍 Follow Steve Didier: https://www.instagram.com/steve_didier/
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https://www.theroninmindset.com/
In this episode of The Ronin Mindset, I sit down with Heather Wyatt, who made a bold decision in September 2023—she sold everything she owned in New Jersey and moved to Costa Rica to embrace a fully nomadic lifestyle. Since then, she has built a career around creating transformational experiences for others, including retreats, wellness events, and mental health-focused gatherings.
We dive into:
Heather’s story is all about embracing change, taking risks, and building a life around freedom and purpose.
👉 Subscribe & Listen!
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In this episode of The Ronin Mindset, we sit down with Asha Farrah, founder of Mexpat Dreamers, a relocation company dedicated to helping aspiring expats navigate the journey of moving to Mexico. Originally from Harlem, NYC, Asha has traveled to nearly 30 countries across 5 continents and now calls Santiago de Querétaro, Mexico, home.
Join us as we dive deep into:
Whether you're dreaming of life in a new country or just curious about the expat experience, this episode is packed with inspiration, insights, and actionable advice!
🔗 Connect with Asha Farrah:
Website: Mexpat Dreamers
Instagram: @mexpatdreamers
Connect with Steve:
In this unforgettable episode of The Ronin Mindset, I’m joined by none other than Big Sexy—a man whose name is as big as his personality! Born in California and starting his global adventures in Las Vegas, Big Sexy has worn many hats: podcaster, improviser, actor, playwright, poet, DJ, emcee, Mahjong enthusiast, and even a professional cuddler. Currently soaking up the sun in Mexico, he shares his fascinating journey of ticking off destinations and collecting incredible stories from the nomads and travelers he encounters.
Together, we dive into:
🎙️ How Big Sexy and his wife embraced the nomadic lifestyle
🎙️ Misadventures in Malaga—what went wrong (and right)
🎙️ Exploring the beauty and quirks of Romania
🎙️ The unexpected journey that landed him in Playa del Carmen
🎙️ Insights from his own podcast, Big Sexy Digital Nomad
🎙️ Tips, laughs, and lessons from life on the road
This is a fun, inspiring, and wildly entertaining conversation you don’t want to miss! Whether you’re a seasoned nomad, dreaming of freedom, or just here for the stories, Big Sexy’s charm and wisdom will keep you hooked.
Connect with Big Sexy
🎧
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Tune in now and start your 2025 with some laughter and inspiration!
In this transformative episode of The Ronin Mindset, I sit down with Jeff Kolez, a man who turned his life upside down—and for the better. After going through a life-altering divorce, Jeff embarked on a slow-travel journey, diving into different cultures and scuba diving adventures across the globe.
Jeff is now building a conscious business dedicated to helping men recover from divorce and create extraordinary lives for themselves. Together, we explore:
If you've ever faced a major life reset or felt stuck in a rut, this episode will inspire you to take charge, embrace change, and design a life of freedom and fulfillment.
Key Takeaways:
Connect with Jeff:
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🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories about creating freedom through entrepreneurship, travel, and self-discovery. #DigitalNomad #PodcastingTips #Entrepreneurship
Crystal Adair-Benning is a master storyteller and world traveler who has spent more than 20 years merging her love of writing with her passion for adventure. As a digital nomad, she has created a life filled with purpose, freedom, and incredible stories from her travels. From the Maldives to Croatia to Bali, Crystal’s experiences inspire not only her clients’ books but also her own captivating journey.
Topics Covered:
Key Takeaways:
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If you’ve ever dreamed of living a life of freedom, adventure, and creativity, this episode with Crystal Adair-Benning is for you. Tune in and get inspired!
Episode Summary:
In this inspiring episode, I sit down with digital nomad Joel Oliver, founder of East Coast Studio and host of Profits Through Podcasting. Joel’s journey from a freelance podcast producer to running a thriving podcast production company for health-focused entrepreneurs is nothing short of remarkable.
We discuss:
Whether you're dreaming of leaving the corporate grind, starting your own podcast, or simply curious about the realities of being a digital nomad, Joel's story offers valuable insights and actionable advice.
Connect with Joel Oliver:
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Episode Title: From a White Picket Fence to Global Freedom w/ Veronica Hanson
Guest: Veronica Hanson, Minimalist, House Hacker, and Founder of Messy to Minimalist
Overview:
In this episode of The Ronin Mindset, Veronica Hanson shares how she transitioned from living the conventional suburban “American Dream” to embracing a minimalist, nomadic lifestyle with her husband and two kids. Calling herself an “ex-American dream addict,” Veronica reveals how house hacking, credit card points, and intentional minimalism enabled her to leave the corporate world and explore Central America, Asia, and Europe.
Her journey is a masterclass in simplifying your life, redefining success, and creating the freedom to live life on your terms.
Key Topics Covered:
Connect with Veronica Hanson:
Website: https://veronicahanson.com
E-Courses: https://nomadfamily.teachable.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nomadveronica
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomadveronica/
Join the Conversation:
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📢 Subscribe for more inspiring stories and actionable advice to design a life of freedom and adventure!
Episode Title: World Schooling as a Single Mom - Lainie Liberti’s Nomadic Journey
Guest: Lainie Liberti, Co-founder of Project World School
Overview:
In this enlightening episode of The Ronin Mindset, we explore the life and philosophy of Lainie Liberti, a leader in world schooling, youth empowerment, and mental health advocacy. As a single mother, Lainie embraced a nomadic lifestyle, co-founded Project World School, and developed transformative programs to support teens and parents. Her journey is a testament to the power of intentional travel, alternative education, and empathetic parenting.
Key Topics Covered:
Resources Mentioned:
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📢 Subscribe for more inspiring stories and practical tips to design your life of freedom and exploration!
Episode Title: How I Escaped The Corporate Grind with Geleen Antonio
Guest: Geleen Antonio, Founder of Travel Not to Escape
Overview:
In this transformative episode of The Ronin Mindset, we’re joined by Geleen Antonio, a digital nomad, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. Geleen is the founder of Travel Not to Escape, a platform designed to help people transform their lives through intentional travel. Formerly a neuroscience and healthcare professional, Geleen shares her journey of breaking free from the corporate grind and embracing a life of freedom and purpose.
Key Topics Covered:
Connect with Geleen Antonio:
Listen to her Travel Not To Escape Podcast https://www.travelnottoescape.com/podcasts/travel-not-to-escape
What's your play personality? Take her free quiz - https://www.travelnottoescape.com/play
Want to make meaningful friendships around the world? Join Passport to Connection - https://www.passporttoconnection.com
Join her free Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelnottoescape/
Website - https://travelnottoescape.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/geleenonthego/
www.instagram.com/travelnottoescape
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/geleenantonio
Join the Conversation:
Connect with Steve:
📢 Subscribe for more inspirational stories and practical tips to design your dream life!
Episode Title: Digital Nomad Dad: Raising Kids While Roaming the World w/ Harley Green
Guest: Harley Green, Founder of Workergenix
Overview:
In this inspiring episode of The Ronin Mindset, we chat with Harley Green, a real estate investor, entrepreneur, and digital nomad traveling the world full-time with his wife and three children. Harley shares his story of transitioning from a successful software architect and defense industry career to managing remote businesses and building scalable systems that enable his family’s adventurous lifestyle.
Key Topics Covered:
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Join the Conversation:
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📢 Subscribe for more amazing stories, inspiration, and practical tips to create a life of freedom!
Episode Title: Turn Your Knowledge Into Passive Income with James Allen
Guest: James Allen, Founder of Profit Your Knowledge
Overview:
In this enlightening episode of The Ronin Mindset, we explore the power of monetizing knowledge with James Allen. As the mastermind behind Profit Your Knowledge, James specializes in helping people transform their skills and experience into profitable digital products. This episode dives deep into his proven process, offering aspiring digital nomads and global citizens the tools they need to fund their freedom lifestyle.
Key Topics Covered:
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📢 Don't forget to subscribe for more inspiring stories and actionable tips to help you escape the Matrix and live life on your terms!
Episode Title: Global Tax Strategies for Privacy and Freedom with Sally Pederson
Guest:
Sally Pederson – Founder of Global Citizen Life, luxury travel writer, and international living expert. Sally has lived in 5 countries, traveled to over 50, and specializes in helping people diversify their lives and assets globally for ultimate freedom and protection.
Episode Highlights:
Zero- and Low-Tax Corporate Structures:
Residency Options:
Trusts and Multi-Layered Strategies:
Global Diversification:
Key Takeaways:
Connect with Sally Pederson:
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🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!
🚨 Disclaimer:
This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. Always seek guidance from licensed professionals for your unique situation.
Guest: Darren Lee – Podcast Growth Expert, Business Builder, Digital Nomad
Episode: Living the Bali Dream: Darren Lee on Freedom, Business, and Podcast Success
Introduction:
Darren Lee is a leading figure in the podcasting industry, known for helping creators grow and monetize their shows. Based in Bali, Darren has built a thriving business from his home studio, combining his passion for podcasting with a deep commitment to living a life of freedom. In this episode, he shares his journey from starting out to creating a business that supports his dream lifestyle.
Topics Covered:
Key Takeaways:
Connect with Darren Lee:
Connect with Steve:
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@SteveDidier
https://www.instagram.com/steve_didier/
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https://www.theroninmindset.com/
Listen & Subscribe:
Don’t miss this episode of The Ronin Mindset, where we explore the intersection of freedom, business, and living life on your terms in paradise.
Guest: Natalia Zacharin – Accountant, Fractional CFO, Founder of Zacharin Consulting
Episode: Building a Profitable Remote Business with Natalia Zacharin
Introduction:
Natalia Zacharin is a financial strategist and founder of Zacharin Consulting, a firm dedicated to helping business owners create profitable enterprises by providing clarity and control over their finances. In 2019, after years of working for other firms, she launched her own practice, specializing in remote CFO services, strategic bookkeeping, tax planning, and financial intelligence programs. Passionate about travel, Natalia spends much of her time exploring Europe, with favorites like Croatia and Portugal, and visits Mexico annually.
Topics Covered:
Key Takeaways:
Connect with Natalia Zacharin:
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/zacharinconsulting
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/growyourbottomline
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/growyourbottomline
Website:
https://zacharinconsulting.com
Connect with Steve:
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In this episode of The Ronin Mindset, I chat with Monique Toonen and take a deep dive into her transformative journey. After facing cancer, Monique made the brave decision to step away from a conventional lifestyle, choosing to embrace her true passion—travel. Now a full-time traveler and digital nomad, Monique has turned her experience into a business, coaching clients to break free from limiting beliefs and create lives they love. Through her life coaching, Monique empowers others to find financial freedom, align with their purpose, and live each day to the fullest.
Topics Covered:
Connect with Monique Toonen:
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In this episode of The Ronin Mindset, I am joined by Sally Pederson, a #1 International Bestselling Author, award-winning luxury travel writer, and founder of Global Citizen Life. Sally’s life is an inspiring blueprint for those seeking freedom beyond borders. Having lived in five countries and traveled extensively to over fifty, she embodies the concept of global citizenship. Sally believes in the power of global diversification as the key to both freedom and asset protection.
In this conversation, we dive into unique travel strategies, like pet sitting, to unlock affordable adventures around the world. Sally shares insights on the financial advantages of living abroad, breaks down the pros and cons of different countries, and offers advice for handling medical emergencies on the road. Whether you're an aspiring digital nomad or simply curious about a life untethered to a single government, Sally’s wisdom on global living is both enlightening and practical.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Connect with Steve:
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevedidier/
TikTok: @Ronin.Mindset.Podcast https://www.theroninmindset.com/
Connect with Sally:
https://www.globalcitizenlife.org https://www.linkedin.com/in/sallypederson1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-citizen-life https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7YC6lQJBwl2BifcJ9W662A?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.instagram.com/theglobalcitizenlifeconsultant https://www.facebook.com/TheGlobalCitizenLifeConsultant https://twitter.com/4GlobalCitizen https://www.tiktok.com/@globalcitizenlife
In this episode of The Ronin Mindset, we sit down with Cassa Grant, a remarkable business coach and world traveler who has lived an extraordinary life, from her humble beginnings in rural Montana to exploring the far reaches of Antarctica. Cassa helps people break free from societal norms and detach from the “Matrix” to live a life full of purpose and freedom.
We dive deep into her personal journey of transformation, the experiences that shaped her magnetic mindset, and how she now coaches others to escape mediocrity and embrace a life that truly excites them. Tune in to hear Cassa’s incredible stories from her time in Antarctica, what it means to go from "meh" to magnetic, and how you can design a life of freedom, passion, and global exploration.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Connect with Steve Didier:
Instagram: @Steve_Didier
https://www.facebook.com/SteveDidierTheRoninMindsetPodcast/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevedidier/
TikTok: @Ronin.Mindset.Podcast
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@SteveDidier
Connect with Cassa Grant:
Https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassagrant
Https://www.instagram.com/cassagrant