In a compelling episode of "The Customer Freedom," Marvin Tchio sits down with John Shoemaker, whose life journey has taken him from serving as a nuclear operator in the military to embracing the lifestyle of a digital nomad with a keen focus on online lending platforms. John, whose academic background in accounting was driven more by a desire to see things through than passion for the field, found the work to be monotonous. However, he attributes his success as a digital nomad to his savvy in real estate investing, a skill that he believes was enhanced by the discipline and resilience instilled in him by the military. He extols the military not only for its role in his personal development but also as a promising career path for youth, noting the substantial benefits and retirement plans it offers. Throughout the conversation, John delves into various insights and experiences. He clarifies a common misconception about vacation time, suggesting that what is often referred to as 30 days off is more accurately three weeks per year. His yearning to explore beyond the United States motivated him to travel, and he contrasts his intense military experience with the relative ease he found in the accounting field, where a nuanced understanding of tax policy proved to be essential. John shares a pivotal moment in his life, turning to real estate investment following a difficult breakup. He stresses the importance of grasping expected returns, property valuation, and leveraging tax policies to one's advantage in real estate. The discussion broadens to encompass the finer points of real estate, such as the value of knowing how to handle accounting and repairs, the advantageous effects of depreciation on taxable income, and the substantial profit potential inherent in astute property investment. They also explore the themes of financial independence and retirement, underscoring the importance of finding one's passion and purpose. Shifting to broader life advice, John reflects on a unique company culture where employment is a choice rather than a necessity, resulting in a distinctive management approach and improved outcomes. He differentiates between types of travelers, advocating for the approach of self-actualized travelers who journey with purpose and focus, as this leads to deeper learning and experiences. John advises listeners to chart their own course in life, challenging the conventional wisdom of society or parental expectations. He emphasizes the significance of early focus on achieving life goals, whether it’s through saving diligently or investing shrewdly, to attain retirement or other life milestones ahead of time. This episode presents a wealth of perspectives on navigating life, the value of travel, and making informed career decisions.