11 | From Million-Dollar Hustler to Kyiv Minimalist: Why Johnny FD Gave It All Up

In this special in-person episode recorded beneath the Motherland Monument in Kyiv, we sit down with Johnny FD – the original founder of the Nomad Summit. Johnny has lived the full digital nomad dream: 50+ countries, financial freedom, multiple successful businesses. But now, he’s chosen a very different life.

Why would someone who can live anywhere choose to stay in a war zone? What does real happiness look like after success? And what can you learn from a man who’s gone from luxury to simplicity – and says he’s never been happier?

This episode dives deep into freedom, fulfillment, and the power of choosing a life that makes sense to you – not your Instagram feed.

Key Takeaways:

• Why Johnny FD stayed in Ukraine despite having total location freedom
• The surprising lessons about happiness and regret from a successful digital nomad
• How minimalism, slowing down, and giving back redefined his sense of purpose
• Advice for aspiring nomads on finding freedom, not just income
• How Johnny built (and let go of) multiple income streams
• Reflections on identity, community, and rebuilding from the inside out

Relevant Links:

• Help99 Ukraine Convoy https://www.help99.co
• Johnny FD on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@johnnyfd
• Invest Like a Boss Podcast https://www.investlikeaboss.com
• Nomad Summit https://nomadsummit.com
• The Radio Vagabond (Palle Bo) https://theradiovagabond.com/link-tree
• Episode produced by RadioGuru https://radioguru.co.uk