Access Granted: Tech, Tenacity, and Financial Independence with Mike Gorse

Software engineer Mike Gorse shares how early mentorship, Linux accessibility work, and steady investing shaped his career and financial freedom. Hosts Chris Peterson and Liz Bottner explore his journey from Duxbury Systems to SUSE, the lessons he’s learned about networking, relocation, and accessibility in tech, and how a simple, long-term investing approach brought stability and choice. His advice: connect with peers in your field, volunteer to gain traction, stay open to opportunities, and align your work and finances with what matters most.

Contact Info
Guest — Mike Gorse
📧 [e-mail]
🐘 @[e-mail]
Penny Forward — pennyforward.com
Aftersight — aftersight.org | [e-mail] | [phone]
Producer: Jonathan Price, Podcast & Program Producer, Aftersight

Show Credits
Hosts: Chris Peterson, Liz Bottner
Guest: Mike Gorse
Producer / Post: Jonathan Price
Music: Andre Louis
Presented by: Penny Forward in partnership with Aftersight
Sponsors: Thrivent and The Nasdaq Foundation

Chapter Markers
00:00 — Intro: Building bright futures
00:15 — Meet Mike Gorse
02:10 — Early tech and Braille foundations
04:23 — First job at Duxbury Systems
06:41 — Linux and open-source accessibility
11:05 — Joining Novell and SUSE
13:23 — Handling discouragement and finding mentors
15:28 — Advice for career counselors and seekers
17:48 — Remote work and moving to Austin
19:50 — Context matters in career paths
22:11 — Housing co-ops and community
24:58 — Pros and cons of shared living
26:43 — Investing wisely and the Simple Path to Wealth
28:40 — FIRE and financial independence
30:54 — Networking and creating opportunities
33:19 — How to reach Mike
35:25 — Credits and Aftersight partnership