One of the best things about Forge is the diversity in our community- so many different companies and career paths. Krystal Pino joined the Forge family a few months ago and she has such a unique story! Read more about her company and how it allows her to travel the world!
1. Tell us a little bit about what you do!
I run Nomad Tax, a tax consulting firm for individuals and small businesses with a focus on digital nomads.
2. Tell us about your professional journey and what personal experiences led you to start Nomad Tax.
The first 10 years of my career were pretty vanilla. I went to school, got the internships, took the exams, worked in the firm, etc. A little over two years ago, I was having drinks with a friend and he was telling me about a friend of his that was going on this work/travel program – 12 cities in 12 months, all over the world. I was intrigued, so I applied and got in.
I left my cushy job, sold everything I owned and hit the road. I worked remotely while traveling to 33 countries in 2 years, and I noticed along the way that there were a lot of location independant workers like me that were looking for tax advice. Eventually it became to much to ignore, and I started Nomad Tax to serve the community.
3. You told me that you have worked in coworking spaces all over the world- tell us about one of your favorite cities you’ve lived in and why.
This is such a hard question to answer! There are so many beautiful places in the world, and they all offer something different! I guess I find myself drifting back to Mexico City, Cape Town and Medellin the most. All three are full of friendly people, great food, green spaces, and are cities with easy access to a lot of outdoor activities.
4. Whats your day-to-day like?
Every day is a little different, as I’m sure most of you reading this can attest to. I do like to have a slow start to my day… sleep in a bit, make some breakfast (scrambled eggs with Tabasco), do prelimiary email checks and prepare for my day. After that I’ll hop on my scooter and make my way to the coworking space, where I spend the majority of my day on the phone consulting with clients. Around 1430 I realize I’ve forgotten to eat, but I hit the gym (Wheelhouse Academy) around 1530 most days, so I’ll snack on something instead (or get a burger and tots from The Standard, although I never finish my tots).
After the gym, I circle up on items left from the day and make a list of what needs to be tackled the next day. Once I close my laptop, I like to hop on my scooter for a ride through Railroad Park, a beer at one of the breweries, or take in a Barons game. If I’m feeling particularly introverty, you’ll find me buried in a book, most likey Stephen King or Gillian Flynn.
5. Why did you recently decide to move back to Birmingham?
Moving countries every 3-6 weeks on average can wear on your soul. You’re constantly in the growth zone as you put yourself in new and uncomfortable situations as a way of life. I knew I needed to take a break for my own emotional and mental health, plus slowing down would give me a chance to really focus on building Nomad Tax. I considered Mexico City, Chiang Mai, Lisbon, or maybe Sofia as good spots for this, but when I visited Birmingham for a few weeks while deciding, I realized how much I missed this city and the people in it.
My standards for quality of life are pretty simple: good food, good people, good wifi. Birmingham fits that mold, so here I am! At least for the next few months… then I’ll be off to go around the world and back again.