Brenda Olmos: Building Security, Community, and Confidence Through Retirement Planning

About Brenda Olmos: Brenda Olmos is a nurse practitioner, educator, and lifelong learner based in Austin, Texas. With a decade-long journey toward financial independence, Brenda brings a thoughtful and intentional approach to retirement planning. From house hacking and real estate investments to advanced medical degrees funded through scholarships and stipends, Brenda has carved out a future rooted in balance, preparation, and joy. As a Latina woman in finance and healthcare, she also advocates for women to take charge of their money and build lives of security and freedom.

In this episode, Shawn and Brenda discuss:

• The early lessons Brenda learned as a nurse and how they shaped her retirement mindset
• Real estate, investing, and the moment she realized she was “Coast FIRE”
• Navigating financial planning as a woman and Latina
• The emotional and practical reasons to prepare early for healthcare and long-term care
• Why involvement in community, not just work, is essential to a meaningful retirement

Key Takeaways:

• Many older adults live on limited income and struggle to afford basic care. Brenda saw this firsthand in her medical practice.
• “Coast FIRE” means having invested enough that you could coast to retirement, even without additional contributions.
• Financial independence isn’t just about early retirement—it’s about choice, flexibility, and peace of mind.
• Community engagement can give life meaning after leaving the workforce and help prevent isolation.
• Women should feel empowered to understand and lead their financial futures, no matter their relationship status.

"My life is not centered around my work. I really try to make a point to be embedded in my community so that when I leave my work, I'm not isolated… that when the job that pays is not necessary anymore, my life is not empty." - Brenda Olmos

Connect with Brenda Olmos: 

Email: [e-mail] 

Social Media Links

Website: https://www.bswhealth.com/nurse-practitioner/brenda-olmos