Hey there!

Growing up in a small town instilled in me a strong work ethic from a young age, with my first job at just 14. Graduating high school with honors was a proud achievement, but there was a looming challenge: college funds were nowhere in sight. The thought of drowning in student loans, especially when I saw so many around me weighed down by debt, was a nightmare I didn’t want. My choice was clear: the Air Force. It felt right, especially as my dad had earned his degree there. Sadly, I lost him in a tragic motorcycle accident when I was only 9. His memory fueled my determination not to let financial barriers define my future.

I devoted six fulfilling years, which allowed me to earn three degrees without the burden of loans.

My adventure began with a long stretch of 18 years in the aerospace field, where I met my husband. From there, I transitioned to a top telecommunications company. But the daily grind and a taxing 1.5-hour commute each way began to wear on me. I wanted more time with my son. In 2005, an unsettling incident at his daycare was the wake-up call I needed, leading me to embrace life as a stay-at-home mom. Meanwhile, to ensure the security of our family, my husband, having always been a reservist, made the decision to recommit and went back into the military full-time.

With some smart financial planning, I found our sweet spot: living comfortably on a single income. Two years later, we joyfully welcomed our second son.  Homeschooling became our chosen path, giving us the freedom to indulge in memorable experiences, be it at Legoland, Disneyland, or various aquariums, museums, and waterparks across the U.S.

Fast-forward to my husband’s retirement, and our adventurous chapter of our two-year full-time travel in our motorhome began. And guess what? On just that single income, we’ve made countless memories, from visiting over 30 states to enjoying National Parks, Disneyworld, SeaWorld, the Grand Canyon, and much more.

Many friends, even those out-earning us, constantly asked us, “How on earth do you guys pull it off?” . That curiosity is exactly what fuels Wallet Hackers. I can’t wait to pass on our neat tricks and smart hacks for enjoying a full life without having to make more money.

Come join the ride, and let’s explore together!

Phyllis Bush