The entrepreneur was concerned that their marital relationship could be at risk after they discovered during a tax consultation that her earnings significantly surpassed her husband’s.
Recently, she talked about her marriage to her husband Hobie, and how being the breadwinner didn’t spoil their relationship, but did require some adjustments for both of them.
The individual is a writer, online marketing expert, and founder of Amy Porterfield, Inc. who relocated to Nashville with her husband approximately three years ago
After they relocated, Amy and her husband, whom she described as a ‘true alpha male’, agreed that it would be in his best interest to retire.
Hobie’s early retirement created challenges, but the businesswoman stated to Business Insider that it ultimately led to a strengthening of, and even the preservation of, their marriage.
Prior to his professional career switch, Hobie was employed as a general contractor with the intention of transitioning into a role as a firefighter in California.
Amy held a managerial position as the director of content development for Anthony Robbins Companies in San Diego, a role she maintained for approximately seven years.
I was inspired to call my own shots after OFI simply asked entrepreneurs to recruit business partners.
She observed the entrepreneurs at the meeting defining their work schedules and having a flexible work environment, which was exactly what she desired.
She developed a business strategy, and in 2009, Amy Porterfield established Amy Porterfield, Inc., a social media consulting company for which she operates as the chief executive officer and hosts the podcast, Online Marketing Made Easy with Amy Porterfield.
She informed Business Insider that she had started earning more than she had anticipated roughly two years after establishing the consultancy.
Amy’s goal in establishing the firm was to earn income independently and not be the sole provider for Hobie and her stepson.
She realized her business’s growth success during its third year in operation and eventually surpassed Hobie’s earnings.
Amy found out that she earned more than Hobie during a tax meeting with their accountant.
According to a report by Business Insider, the online marketing specialist mentioned that her accountant revealed her yearly salary and that of her husband’s, stating that she out earns him.
As a firefighter, Hobie brought home $100,000 annually, whereas Amy generated a revenue of $1 million during her business’s third operational year.
Hobie assured Amy that he was proud of her high earnings, but felt strange to be aware that she was making more money than him.
Amy’s income consistently exceeded Hobie’s as the years went by, and he consistently offered his support and congratulations on her accomplishments without ever hesitating.
After they relocated to Nashville, the couple undertook a serious discussion regarding Hobie’s impending retirement.
Amy told Business Insider that with the job, she was able to relocate anywhere as desired, but Hobie’s career was not as transferable.
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Amy mentioned that even if [the rule] hadn’t existed, Hobie would still have had to climb the ranks again at a different firehouse.
The pair eventually decided it would be best for him to retire early, and Amy shared with Business Insider that she was initially in favor of the decision more than Hobie.
Hobie found it difficult to adapt to retirement, struggling with the concept of being without a steady income to support their family financially.
He also struggled with the concept of not having a job that would give him a sense of purpose, which made Amy worry that her husband would feel bitter towards her for making the decision.
Amy openly shared her concerns with Hobie, prompting them to jointly establish a set of guidelines for his post-work plan.
The entrepreneur is the primary income earner, whereas Hobie is responsible for overseeing the household and handling their personal affairs.
Hobie typically takes care of tasks such as running errands, mowing the lawn, doing the laundry, and scheduling appointments.
He is also responsible for vehicle upkeep and overseeing contractors and renovation projects.
He and Amy continue managing their investments and retirement portfolios jointly, while he is responsible for paying the household expenses. Recently, she earned a significant $20 million for their family and authored a self-help book for aspiring business owners.
Amy admitted to Business Insider that there were times when she felt envious of Hobie’s flexibility with his schedule during a busy workday.
She greatly appreciated that whenever she was feeling stressed or overwhelmed, he would ask, ‘How can I make this easier for you? What do you need from me?’
Amy’s business currently has 23 full-time staff members, a number of whom are women.
The entrepreneur, who also penned the book “Two Weeks Notice: Find the Courage to Quit Your Job, Make More Money, Work Where You Want, and Change the World,” said she is an example of a lifestyle many women might not think is attainable for themselves.
When it comes to her relationship with her husband, she emphasizes the importance of communication in maintaining a strong connection as their household roles change over time.
