Explore every episode of The Debt Free Dad Podcast
Dive into the complete episode list for The Debt Free Dad Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
Welcome to episode #113 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we are taking your financial questions, and we've got some good ones. Today we are going to cover sinking funds, irregular income, budgeting, medical bills, fixed incomes, and so much more! We can't wait to dive into these questions and give you our take.
What You'll Learn
When is a good time to start saving for kids, and how much is a good percentage?
Learn what to do if you make an irregular income, or if you have a fixed income.
What steps should you take if you're behind on bills? Should you be worried about an emergency fund?
Is there such a thing as too many savings accounts or sinking funds?
How does medical debt fit into the debt freedom success path?
Welcome to episode #114 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we are going to be revealing the #1 cause of financial failure, and really any type of failure. This is the silent killer for any type of goal you want to reach, especially when it comes to getting out of debt. Find out what it is on today's show.
What You'll Learn
Discover the #1 cause of financial failure. And no, it's not how much you make or how much debt you have.
Learn tips from our own experience on what's helped us overcome this goal crusher.
Find out how to prepare for the journey ahead. It's easy to be excited when you first get started, but if you don't prepare for the long game, you'll quit.
Welcome to episode #115 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we are reacting to Payday Loan Commercials, but more importantly, we want to point out how the financial industry is using some slick marketing messages and touching on pain points most people deal with to sell debt products, and to get us to believe that it's normal.
What You'll Learn
Listen and watch as we react to payday loan commercials.
Get real examples of how these types of advertisements and marketing messages can lead you to believe they are smart tools to help you with your finances.
Debt is normal, right? Hear our take on why most people are trapped in this debt cycle.
Welcome to episode 116 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. There are so many people who settle for average or "we're getting by" when it comes to their finances. But what if things could be so much better with just a little extra effort? A stress free financial life is more obtainable than you think and we are going to talk about it on today's show.
What You'll Learn
Are you ok being average with your finances? Find out why that's a dangerous place to be.
Answer these six questions to determine if your finances are in a good place.
Discover what everyone says knowing what they know now. Not most, not some, but ALL OF THEM say this now.
Welcome to episode #117 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I am welcoming back Sami Schopper. Sami was on our podcast a year ago, where she celebrated saving and paying off over $30,000 in just eight months becoming debt free. I invited Sami back to the show to see where she is at now, and if it was possible for her to stay out of debt, and what challenges and wins she experienced over this last year.
What You'll Learn
Discover how Sami saved and paid off over $30,000 in just 8 months.
Hear how she was able to navigate her first year completely debt free.
If she had to start all over again, hear what she would tell herself knowing what she knows now.
Welcome to episode #118 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. If we were to give our younger selves financial advice based on what we know today, what would it be? We are going to talk about it on today's show!
What You'll Learn
If we had to start over, what financial advice would we give ourselves knowing what we know now?
Hear what we feel would've made the biggest difference in our lives.
Are you doomed to financial failure forever if you messed up? Listen to our take and our advice to you.
Welcome to episode #119 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we are reacting to a credit card offer that came in the mail to Ryan's son Josh as he was preparing to start college. So they don't market to kids and parents about debt, huh? Wanna make a bet? We are going to talk about it on today's show.
What You'll Learn
Listen in as we walk through a credit card offer targeting college students and parents.
Discover our take on the methods they use to make credit cards seem normal and smart to have.
Be aware of the marketing and advertising that is being used to get young adults to use credit cards.
Welcome to episode #120 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Inflation is a hot topic. Prices are rising on a lot of products especially when it comes to filling up your gas tank and buying food for your family. I've been getting questions, "Brad, what are some tips to help me with inflation?" We are going to talk about some strategies on today's show.
What You'll Learn
Is there really a way to inflation-proof your finances?
Learn how we are navigating inflation and higher prices.
Discover some great tips to help you with your finances now and every day in the future.
Welcome to episode #121 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I have an amazing guest joining us, Patrice Johnson. Patrice started listening to the podcast in December of 2021, she joined Roots one month later, and since then has saved and paid off $36,587 in just four months! Today she is joining me to share her journey, and how she's made such amazing progress.
What You'll Learn
Discover how Patrice saved and paid off $36,587 in just four months.
Hear how improving her finances has massively improved other areas of her life.
If she had to start all over again, hear what she would tell herself knowing what she knows now.
Welcome to episode #122 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. As I was prepping for a workshop, I came across an article that featured a recent survey. The survey found that 7 out of 10 people are living paycheck to paycheck, and 63% of people don't feel they will ever live the lifestyle they want to live... Wow... we are going to talk about this and some of the other findings on the show.
What You'll Learn
Whoa! Hear some eye-opening statistics about money, debt, and financial freedom.
What financial comfort looks like for most, and get our take on it.
Find out where most people are seeking out help, but should they?
Welcome to episode #123 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. I get this question a lot, "Brad, I want to get out of debt fast! How can I reach debt freedom the fastest way possible?" Awesome question... we're going to talk about it on today's show!
What You'll Learn
What are the secrets to getting out of debt fast?
Discover what slows a lot of people down, and it's not income or the amount of debt.
Learn the number one proven way to increase your chances of success in getting out of debt.
Welcome to episode #124 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. I came across an article that featured a recent study, the headline read, '45% of millennials have no idea how much money is in their bank account!'... WOW! Even I was shocked by this, we are going to share our reaction and thoughts to this study.
What You'll Learn
Listen to our take on this most recent survey of 2,000 millennials and finances.
Hear what these 2,000 people prioritize over their finances. (This shocked us!)
Discover some quick tips to help you reduce overdraft fees. (This only takes a few minutes per day.)
Welcome to episode #125 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we are talking about a big dream killer, which is doubt. A lot of people doubt they will ever get out of debt for many reasons, but it's the doubt that actually causes them to stay stuck. I believe most people have what it takes to get out of debt, especially if they can get past their own doubts, excuses, and limiting beliefs. We are going to talk about it on today's show.
What You'll Learn
Discover why most people doubt they can have success with money and getting out of debt.
Are you falling for the, 'They must make a lot more money than me' trap?
Learn the one tried and true method to reduce doubt and limiting beliefs, and not just with your finances.
Welcome to episode #126 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Are you looking to start a budget and you're not sure where to start? That's what today's episode is all about. Today we are going to be sharing some tips and some insight into how to budget as a beginner!
What You'll Learn
Discover some great tips on how to get started budgeting.
Learn one little tool that will help you stay on track in just 10-15 minutes per day.
Hear the common misconceptions about budgeting, and why you need to get past this type of thinking.
Welcome to episode #127 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I have an amazing guest joining us, Lisa Stejskal. Lisa joined Roots in October 2021, and in seven months has saved and paid off $40,329! Today she is joining me to share her journey, and how she's made such amazing progress.
What You'll Learn
Discover how Lisa saved and paid off $40,329 in just seven months.
Hear how improving her finances has massively improved other areas of her life.
If she had to start all over again, hear what she would tell herself knowing what she knows now.
Welcome to episode #128 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. I love talking about today's topic... Emergency Funds. After helping thousands of people take control of their finances, emergency funds are one of the keys to being successful. Find out why, and why you should build one on today's show!
What You'll Learn
Emergency funds are one of the keys to success when getting out of debt. Find out why on today's show.
If you're feeling stressed, discover how an emergency fund can reduce a ton of your stress.
Welcome to episode #129 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. When it comes to financial success, your behavior and habits play the most important role. Today we are going to be sharing six ways to improve those habits, and you can get started with these tips today.
What You'll Learn
Habits, choices, and behavior play the most important role in reaching your goals. Discover some great tips to get started!
If you don't stop doing this specific thing, you'll never get out of debt. (Most people miss this!)
Listen in as we talk about the behaviors that kept us stuck, and how we overcame them.
Welcome to episode #130 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I have some amazing guests joining us, Daniel and Lori Elwell. Daniel and Lori started listening to the podcast in January of 2022, so about five months ago They joined Roots in March of 2022, and they have saved and paid off $35,750.88! Today they are joining me to share their journey, and how they've made such amazing progress.
What You'll Learn
Discover how Daniel and Lori saved and paid off $35,750.88 in just five months.
Hear how improving their finances has massively improved others areas of their lives.
If they had to start all over again, hear what they would tell themselves knowing what they know now.
Listen as they share what has made the biggest difference for them.
Welcome to episode #131 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we are revealing the top three benefits of financial freedom, at least in our opinion. Crazy enough, none of them have to do with money, stuff, interest rates, or investing!
What You'll Learn
Debt is tricky. Hear our take on debt, and how it could be keeping you trapped.
Discover our top three benefits of financial freedom.
Learn how taking control of your finances gives you 100% control of your time.
Welcome to episode #132 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. We talk about financial stress a lot on this podcast, but right now, financial stress is an all-time high with inflation and rising prices. Today we want to share some tips to help you reduce your financial stress now, and hopefully encourage you to take action so financial stress can be a thing of the past.
What You'll Learn
Money is the number one thing most people stress about, but it doesn't have to be that way by practicing some simple daily practices.
Learn the one thing that will make a huge difference in reducing your financial stress.
Discover what could be adding on more stress, and what to do to fix it.
Welcome to episode #133 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I have an amazing guest joining us, Kellie Tyson. Kellie joined Roots in January of 2022, and she has saved and paid off $15,299.53! Today Kellie is joining me to share her journey, and how she's made such amazing progress.
What You'll Learn
Discover how Kellie saved and paid off $15,299.53 in just six months.
Hear how improving her finances has massively improved others areas of their lives.
Hear how Kellie was extremely afraid of going to the mailbox to discover bills that were due, but today, things are incredibly different.
Listen as Kellie shares what has made the biggest difference for her.
Welcome to episode #134 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Do you have hard time leaving your savings alone? Like you get some money put away, let's say you build your ER fund or maybe you're saving for a purchase, and you find that it's burning a hole in your pocket and you end up spending some or maybe all of that money? We are going to share some tips that have helped us leave our savings alone so we aren't sabotaging our savings efforts.
What You'll Learn
Discover some great tips that have helped us save money and not touch it!
Learn some way to set yourself up for success.
If you're feeling bad about your savings habits, this is for you! (You're not alone!)
Welcome to episode #135 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I am excited to welcome Yvette Fraizer to the podcast. Yvette joined Roots in early April of 2022, and in three months she has saved and paid off $6,076. Today Yvette is joining me to share her journey, what changes she's made, and how she has massively improved her financial mindset in just a short period of time.
What You'll Learn
Discover what made the biggest difference to help her save and pay off over $6,000 in just 90 days.
Hear how she went from stressed, depressed, and full of anxiety, to feeling very hopeful and confident in her finances.
Listen as Yvette shares her biggest takeaways, and what advice she would give to anyone who felt like her before she started.
Welcome to episode #136 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we are revealing 6 big misconceptions about debt freedom! Things like 'do you still have to budget,' 'we must've made a lot of money to get out of debt,' or my favorite... 'you just got lucky!' We are going to tackle these misconceptions on today's show.
What You'll Learn
Discover the biggest misconceptions people make about debt freedom. (Some of these are why people will remain stuck in debt.)
Learn the reality of becoming debt-free and remaining debt-free.
Did luck play a role? Do we make tons of money to support our debt-free life? Do we still live on a budget?
Welcome to episode #137 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I am excited to welcome Kati Hatfield to the podcast. Kati joined Roots in July of 2018, and in four years she has paid off $86,564 on a single income. Today Kati returns to the Debt Free Dad Podcast to get an update on her journey and to give us an update on what she's been able to achieve over this past year.
What You'll Learn
Hear how Kati paid off $85,564 on a single income.
Discover what made the biggest difference for her.
Hear how she was making $35,000, but made huge progress in her first year in Roots.
What's her advice to singles who want to get out of debt.
Listen to what she would tell herself now, knowing what she knows now.
Welcome to episode #138 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we wanted to have a little fun and we are going to answer some great 'would you rather' money questions... these are going to be good. Enjoy!
Hear us answer some pretty awesome 'would you rather' questions...
Would you rather make $250,000/year doing a job you hate, or $40,000/year doing a job you love?
Would you rather eat four times a week at fast food restaurants or once a month at a nice restaurant (spending the same amount)?
Would you rather have a dream vacation for two weeks or spend time with anyone in the world for 5 days but you must do it in your hometown?
Welcome to episode #139 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Money fights and arguments are one of the number one causes of divorce in the US. Today we are sharing some ideas that have helped us have better compromise and communication in our relationships with money.
What You'll Learn
Discover some simple tips that have helped us have better communication and compromise in our personal relationships.
Learn some of the first steps that will greatly reduce miscommunication and arguments about money.
Listen as we share a secret to better compromise and spending habits that will help you as a couple reach your goals faster.
Welcome to episode #140 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. It’s getting close to the end of summer, and our family has enjoyed some family activities. However, while doing these things, I was shocked at the prices, and I'm curious, is it just me? Am I just a cheap skate or are others feeling the same way when it comes to affording good old family fun.
What You'll Learn
Has the cost of good family fun priced a lot of families out of certain events?
$5.39 for a water? How do you have fun knowing you're getting gouged so badly?
Hear our take on the current prices and cost of events from this past summer.
Welcome to episode #141 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we are going to talk about the power of tracking. This is one area I think too many people miss, or don't do a good enough job on when getting out of debt, and for many, I think it causes them to quit. Find out how tracking can ensure your success in getting out of debt.
What You'll Learn
Listen in as we share the power of tracking. (If you want to get out of debt and save more money, this can be a big difference maker.)
Tracking and hitting your goals go hand in hand. Find out how tracking can help you reach your goals even faster.
When getting out of debt, you'll have some bad days. Find out how tracking can keep you from drifting and falling off the wagon.
Welcome to episode #142 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I am excited to welcome Jenny Foster to the podcast. Jenny joined Roots in early October of 2022, and in ten months she has saved and paid off over $12,035.76. Today Jenny is joining me to share her journey, what changes she's made, and how she has massively improved her financial life in less than a year.
What You'll Learn
Discover what made the biggest difference to help her save and pay off over $10,000 in just ten months.
Hear how she went from stressed, depressed, and full of anxiety, to feeling very hopeful and confident in her finances.
Listen as Jenny shares her biggest takeaways, and what advice she would give to anyone who felt like her before she started.
Welcome to episode #143 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we are reacting to a PYMNTS and Lending Club survey that breaks down the amount of people living paycheck to paycheck based on their income... and even more eye-opening, the amount of people living paycheck to paycheck with higher incomes.
What You'll Learn
Listen as we react to the most recent paycheck to paycheck statistics.
Discover what percentages of income limits are living paycheck to paycheck. You'll be shocked at how much money some of them make.
Does income make a difference? It can! But there are some other super important tools that can have a great impact on your financial stress and success. Find out what they are on the show!
Welcome to episode #144 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. One of the number one goals I often hear is I want to buy my first home, or I want to move and buy my ideal home, how do I know I am ready or how do I budget for a home purchase? We are going to talk about it on today's show.
What You'll Learn
What does it mean to be financially ready to buy a home? Hear our take and experience, and what things we'd do differently.
We feel there are some important things you should do before you even look at your first home. There's one that most people miss that can make homeownership so much less stressful.
Most people miss a crucial line item in their home budget, and it typically puts people in more debt. We will share what this is, and why you need to plan for it.
Welcome to episode #145 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. The holiday season is right around the corner, and the holidays typically add on financial stress, especially this year with prices being higher. Today we are sharing our tips to budget for the holidays so you can enjoy them more and stress way less.
What You'll Learn
Discover why it's so important to have a plan for the holidays, and it's not just to stay out of debt.
Listen as we share tips to help you plan and prepare for a stress-free holiday.
What if you could take all the stress out of November and December? We will share how!
Welcome to episode #146 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Does the financial industry and companies offering debt products really have your back? Do they have your best interest in mind? We're going to talk about this on today's show.
What You'll Learn
Is the financial industry really trying to help you when offering... we mean... selling you debt?
Are banks, lenders, and credit card companies looking out for your best interests?
Hear our take and experience over the years and why we now advocate for ourselves.
Welcome to episode #147 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I am excited to welcome Gina Christie to the podcast. Gina joined Roots in early January of 2022, and in nine months she has saved and paid off over $20,421.10! Today Gina is joining me to share her journey, what changes she's made, and how she has massively improved her financial life in nine months.
What You'll Learn
Discover what made the biggest difference to help her save and pay off over $20,000 in just nine months.
Hear how she went from stressed, depressed, and full of anxiety, to feeling very hopeful and confident in her finances.
Listen as Gina shares her biggest takeaways, and what advice she would give to anyone who felt like her before she started.
Welcome to episode #148 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. In this episode we are previewing the 2023 Debt Freedom Planner. This planner has helped thousands of people save money and pay off tons of debt. How? We are going to share the amazing tools inside.
What You'll Learn
Listen in as we preview the 2023 Debt Freedom Planner!
Discover all the amazing tools we've included to keep you on track!
Thousands of people have saved a ton of money and paid off a lot of debt using this planner. We will share how!
Welcome to episode #149 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Is anyone else confused at when and what you should tip for, let alone how much? It seems there are tip lines on more and more receipts, and some I would never consider giving a tip. So what the heck do you do when you're confused? Do you tip or don't tip? We're going to talk about it on today's show.
What You'll Learn
Are you just as frustrated about when and how to tip? (What the heck do you do?)
Do you struggle with tip guilt? Meaning, you tip even when you don't feel you should?
Listen in as we discuss this hot topic of unconventional tipping.
Welcome to episode #150 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Lately there has been a lot of conversation and push to get financial literacy and education into schools. With the majority of people living paycheck to paycheck, and many pointing at a lack of education as the reason, many feel that financial literacy classes would help a lot of people avoid the financial hardships. But is teaching personal finance in schools the ultimate answer? Would that fix the majority of the problems? Is it even a good idea? We are going to talk about it on today's show!
What You'll Learn
Should personal finance be taught in schools? That's an easy YES, however when you dig a little deeper it gets a bit murky. Find out why in this episode!
Hear our thoughts on the pros and cons to financial education in schools.
My guest, Chris, has taught financial education in schools for years. What are his thoughts? This might surprise you!
Welcome to episode #151 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. It's Thanksgiving week in the US, and it's a time to reflect and be grateful for all that we have. Now here on the Debt Free Dad Podcast we talk a lot about financial health and stress free living. Many people feel if they could just make more money that would make them happy. That would fix all their problems, so today we want to tackle the question... does money buy more happiness in life? We will talk about it on today's episode.
What You'll Learn
On today's show we discuss the popular question, does money buy happiness? (Our answer might surprise you!)
Money may not always buy happiness, but having this will provide you a ton of life satisfaction!
You can improve your feelings and stress levels around money faster than you think. We will explain how.
Welcome to episode #152 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I am excited to welcome Sonya Koons to the podcast. Sonya joined Roots in July of 2022, and in three months she has saved and paid off $13,375.38. Today Sonya is joining me to share her journey, what changes she's made, and how she has massively improved her financial life over the last three months.
What You'll Learn
Discover what made the biggest difference to help her save and pay off $13,375.38 in just three months.
Hear how she went from stressed, depressed, and full of anxiety, to feeling very hopeful and confident in her finances.
Listen as Sonya shares her biggest takeaways, and what advice she would give to anyone who felt like her before she started.
Welcome to episode #153 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I am excited to welcome Lauren Jackson to the podcast. Lauren joined Roots in April of 2019, and in three and a half years, she has saved and paid off $57,000. She is also celebrating an amazing milestone with us today which I'll let Lauren share. Today she is joining me to share her journey, what changes she's made, and how she has massively improved her financial life over the last three and half years.
What You'll Learn
Discover what made the biggest difference to help her save and pay off $57,000 in three and a half years.
Learn the steps she took. Guess what? You can do this too!
Listen as Lauren shares her biggest takeaways, and what advice she would give to anyone who felt like her before she started.
Welcome to episode #154 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast.
Hey guys, first, I want to thank you for being a valued listener of the Debt Free Dad Podcast and for making it an incredible third year of doing this podcast for you!
We are passionate about sharing what has helped us reduce financial stress, get out of debt and what has allowed us to live a happier and more fulfilled life by having control of our finances.
We've received so many messages this year on how this podcast has helped you get started. And for some, this podcast has radically improved your life. The work you're doing is inspiring, and your messages continue to motivate us to keep releasing new episodes.
With that said, with the holiday season, we will be on break until mid-January to enjoy this time with our families, as I am sure you are. We also have some big plans we are working on for 2023, including adding two new personalities, which will provide more insight and perspective on how to keep improving your financial life, which is really exciting.
We wish you all a very happy holiday season, and we will see you in mid-January 2023. Take care!
Welcome to episode #155 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Happy New Year, we are back for our fourth season of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Now being it's the New Year, that means New Year Resolutions. Improving finances is the more popular resolutions for many people, but why don't most people stick with it? And honestly, it's January 10th, most have given up already. We are going to share and talk about why that is. And exciting news, today we are welcoming two brand new cohosts to the Debt Free Dad Podcast for 2023.
What You'll Learn
Discover why financial resolutions, and any resolution is hard to reach.
Learn what most people don't consider when wanting to reach a new goal or resolution.
Listen as we share the real secret to long-term success. (Most people don't expect this to happen.)
Welcome to episode #156 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. The holidays are officially over, but the financial setbacks for many are just beginning. Today we are going to be sharing some tips to help you make the holidays a breeze this year by creating a plan for holiday expenses this coming year.
What You'll Learn
If the holidays are stressful on your finances, listen to this episode for great tips to start planning now.
Learn how to save even more money on holiday expenses. (This will take so much stress out of your holiday season.)
The average person goes into debt over $1,000 for holiday purchases. Learn how to avoid adding debt and stress to your life.
Welcome to episode #157 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we are discussing pets, and the costs that go with them! It's easy to fall in love with those cute and furry friends, and completely disregard the financial implications of owning a pet. Today we are revealing some of the true costs and how they play a role in your financial life.
What You'll Learn
Listen in as we discuss some of the hidden costs of owning a pet.
Is pet insurance worth it? Listen in as we discuss some of the details.
If you own a pet, make sure you have the talk. We will share what the talk is in this episode.
Welcome to episode #158 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. I've helped thousands of people improve their finances, and the biggest excuse that keeps people stuck is, "I don't have time to work on my finances." That's right. It's not income, it's not the amount of debt, it's a lack of time that keeps them stuck. Today we are going to share how to make more time, and believe it or not, you don't need to spend hours and hours a day on this stuff to have success. We are going to share why.
What You'll Learn
No time to work on your finances? Find out how to overcome this popular excuse.
Learn tips and tricks to better manage your time.
If you think you need to spend hours a day on managing your finances, think again.
Welcome to episode #159 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I am excited to welcome Patrice Johnson to the podcast. Patrice joined Roots in January of 2022, so just one year ago, and she has saved and paid off over 70,000, and she is also celebrating an amazing milestone with us today which I'll let Patrice share, but today she is joining me to share her journey, what changes she's made, and how she has massively improved her financial life over the last year.
What You'll Learn
Discover what made the biggest difference to help her save and pay off $70,000 in one year.
Learn the steps she took. Guess what? You can do this too!
Listen as Patrice shares her biggest takeaways, and what advice she would give to anyone who felt like her before she started.
Welcome to episode #160 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. According to a recent pole, 73% of Americans say finances are their #1 source of stress, and 68% of people admitted their finances didn't improve, or stayed the same in 2022. So how can you fix this? Today we are going to be sharing some of our best financial stress reducing tips!
What You'll Learn
Learn tips to help you reduce financial stress. (They are easier than you think!)
Discover one of the best ways you can reduce most of your day to day stress (Over half of the population doesn't do this.)
If you want to stop financial misery, stop doing this one thing!
Welcome to episode #161 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Do you feel dumb when it comes to money? Are you embarrassed of your situation or past mistakes? Do you have big regrets? This is something many of us struggle with, so how do you get past these feelings and build more confidence? Let's talk about it!
What You'll Learn
Learn the secret to building financial confidence even as a beginner.
Listen as we share a simple formula to build confidence.
Discover what helped us build confidence as we worked our way out of debt towards financial freedom.
Welcome to episode #162 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. If you're like everyone else, sticking to your plan is tough. It's easy to fall off the wagon once in a while when you're getting out of debt. Today we are going to share tips to help you LIMIT falling off the financial wagon so you can reach your goals faster.
What You'll Learn
Discover what stopped us from falling off the wagon in getting out of debt.
Learn tips and tricks to help you stay more consistent.
Hear how failure is actually a good thing. And the more you fail, the better things will get. WHAT?
Welcome to episode #163 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. It's not uncommon for me to do coaching calls with individuals who are struggling because of their inability to tell their kids no. And we're not just talking about little kids, we're talking about college kids and even adult kids. So how do you say no to your little kids and your adult kids and protect your finances and your financial goals?
What You'll Learn
Who is saying no harder for? Hear some of our experiences.
Learn tips and tricks to help you say no to your children.
Hear how we include our children in on making financial decisions.
(Replay) Welcome to episode #84 of the Debt Free Dad podcast. Have you ever justified a purchase by saying, "It's only a few dollars!" I think we all have. But how much does a few dollars add up, especially when you think about all those small purchases we make. Today we are going to reveal the most common small purchases we are making, and just how much we are spending... it's pretty eye-opening.
What You'll Learn
Discover the eye-opening statistics of small purchases and how they add up.
Learn one tip that can potentially save you thousands of dollars over time.
Discover the flaws of mental math, and not having a solid budget.
(Replay) Welcome to episode #125 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we are talking about a big dream killer, which is doubt. A lot of people doubt they will ever get out of debt for many reasons, but it's the doubt that actually causes them to stay stuck. I believe most people have what it takes to get out of debt, especially if they can get past their own doubts, excuses, and limiting beliefs. We are going to talk about it on today's show.
What You'll Learn
Discover why most people doubt they can have success with money and getting out of debt.
Are you falling for the, 'They must make a lot more money than me' trap?
Learn the one tried and true method to reduce doubt and limiting beliefs, and not just with your finances.
(Replay) Welcome to episode #132 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. We talk about financial stress a lot on this podcast, but right now, financial stress is an all-time high with inflation and rising prices. Today we want to share some tips to help you reduce your financial stress now, and hopefully encourage you to take action so financial stress can be a thing of the past.
What You'll Learn
Money is the number one thing most people stress about, but it doesn't have to be that way by practicing some simple daily practices.
Learn the one thing that will make a huge difference in reducing your financial stress.
Discover what could be adding on more stress, and what to do to fix it.
Welcome to episode #164 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. As you all know we took a break this past month. Sadly my wife, Sarah, tragically passed away. This episode is going to be very difficult for me as I am sure you'll expect, but as I navigate this and grieve for my wife, and all of the things that come with such a tragic loss, I want to share what I am experiencing because finances come into play. A lot of what we talk about on this show comes into play, and I'm hoping by sharing I'll be able to help others start to think about some things because this stuff is easy to ignore and say ahhh I'll worry about that later until something tragic happens.
What You'll Learn
Learn what things you should have in place, even though most people don't want to think, or talk about it.
Listen in as we discuss how finances play a role during tragedies.
Discover the items you should have in place to have less financial stress during tragedies.
Welcome to episode #165 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we are taking listener financial questions LIVE. We will be discussing how to stay motivated, where's the best way to keep your ER fund, how to get a spouse on board, and so much more.
What You'll Learn
How do you stay motivated when getting out of debt? (Great tips shared on this!)
How much money do you keep in an emergency fund, and where do you put it?
How do you get your spouse on board with your finances?
Welcome to episode #166 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today, we're going to dive into the world of "Buy Now, Pay Later," a payment option that has exploded in popularity in recent years.
Have you ever been tempted to make a big purchase but hesitated because you didn't want to pay the full amount upfront? Or maybe you've been strapped for cash and wished there was a way to spread out payments over time? Well, "Buy Now, Pay Later" is a payment method that allows you to do just that. Just this past week Apple is the most recent big-name company to offer buy now, pay later options.
In this episode, we'll explore how "Buy Now, Pay Later" works, how it's changing the way we shop and who using this feature the most. We'll discuss how it affects our finances and what you should consider before using this payment option.
What You'll Learn
Buy now pay later is exploding in popularity, but is it a good choice for your finances?
Discover the facts about people who have used BNPL, and what they say now after using it.
Hear the alarming statistics about BNPL, what people are buying, and are people paying it back on time?
Welcome to episode #167 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Do you catch yourself buying stuff you don't need? Do you struggle with impulsive and wasteful spending habits? If so, you're not alone. Today we are going to talk about why we buy stuff we don't need, and share some tips on how to prevent and stop it.
What You'll Learn
Learn why people waste money and buy stuff they don't need.
Discover what influences peoples' purchases the most.
Learn tips to help you fight against impulsive and wasteful spending.
Welcome to episode #168 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we are reacting to a recent Yahoo! finance article that reports how many adults in the U.S. function with a poor understanding of financial topics, and nearly a quarter of adults bombed the 2022 Personal Finance Index Quiz all together... we are going to talk about it on today's show.
What You'll Learn
Listen as we react to recent data that shows Americans lack knowledge on financial topics.
Can you answer the three test questions correctly? We will share them on the show!
Which financial topics do Americans struggle with the most? The answer may surprise you!
Welcome to episode #169 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. When you are struggling to meet your monthly bills, it can be very difficult if not impossible to think about how to pay down your debts. We know the struggle all too well and we are here to tell you that it can be done! After helping thousands of people, we have found that the majority of people have more money than they realize, they are just not managing it very well. In this episode, we’ll share some tips and personal stories about how we overcame this obstacle during our debt journey.
What You'll Learn
Listen as we share our experience in getting started with getting out of debt.
Discover some simple steps that will free up cash flow to help you save and pay off debt.
Hear what cuts and changes we made that made the biggest difference.
Welcome to episode #170 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we'll be discussing the various benefits and drawbacks of using credit card points to earn rewards, and whether it's a viable strategy. Credit card points can be an enticing offer for those who want to earn rewards for their everyday purchases. With points programs offered by credit card companies, you can earn rewards like cash back, travel miles, and other perks just by using your credit card for purchases. However, it's important to understand the costs and benefits of these programs before signing up. Are the rewards worth the annual fees or high interest rates associated with some credit cards?
What You'll Learn
Listen as we discuss the pros and cons of credit card points and rewards.
When it comes to rewards, most people don't understand this one thing. (And it's likely costing you a lot more than you think!)
Can you get wealthy by using credit card points and rewards. Find out on this episode!
Welcome to episode #171 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Over this past month we've received some great questions from our listeners. When should you start investing if you're still getting out of debt? If you get paid bi-weekly, what are some budgeting tips to help? What are our feelings on combining finances if you're in a relationship. How to plan for holidays and celebrations, and how is what we do any different than any other debt pay off program? We are going to talk about it all on today's show.
What You'll Learn
Listen as we share our thoughts on whether or not you should be investing if you're in debt.
Discover our thoughts on shared bank accounts.
What's a good balance between living life and paying off debt?
Welcome to episode #172 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Money, as we know, is one of the leading causes of stress, fights, and arguments in relationships. It's a topic that can stir up emotions and create tension between partners. As a financial coach, I've had the privilege of helping thousands of individuals navigate their way out of debt and gain control of their finances. Through my work, I've witnessed firsthand how money stress can significantly impact relationships, often taking a toll on both emotional and financial well-being.
In today's episode, we'll explore the important question: When is it a good idea to start talking about money in a relationship? Whether you're just beginning a new partnership or already in a committed one, we'll provide insights and practical advice on how to approach money talks with a proactive mindset.
It's time to open up the lines of communication, foster understanding, and strengthen your financial foundation as a couple. So, let's dive in and discover the keys to building a more harmonious relationship when it comes to money matters.
What You'll Learn
Listen as we discuss when it's a good time to talk about money in your relationship.
Discover some things that have helped us reduce money fights in our relationships.
Welcome to episode #173 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Are you pressured to spend money and buy things because of what you see on social media? Do you feel bad about yourself or your finances because of what you see your friends and family doing on social media? If so, you're not alone, and if you said no, maybe you're lying to yourself because the affects of social media and FOMO can be subtle. Today we are going to breakdown how social media encourages bad spending habits, and give you some tips to help you fight against the peer pressure.
What You'll Learn
How does social media and fear of missing out affect your spending habits?
Discover some strategies that have helped us limit emotional and impulsive spending.
Hear the eye-opening statistics on FOMO. (This one shocked us!)
Welcome to episode #174 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Life is full of twists and turns, and along the way, we encounter significant milestones and unexpected shifts that require us to adapt and adjust our finances. Whether it's something as simple as your student loans starting back up later this fall, or getting married, starting a family, changing careers, sickness, or even death, these changes can have a profound impact on our finances. In this episode, we'll share some of the life changes we've encountered, what's helping us navigate them, and how you can use the same methods to prepare for any of life's surprises.
What You'll Learn
Listen in as we share our experience navigating life changes while getting out of debt and even while we were debt free.
Hear practical advice from normal people to reduce financial stress during hard times. (You can do this too!)
Discover some simple things you can do to be better prepared for life's surprises.
Welcome to episode #175 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today we are going to dive into a common financial dilemma that many of us face: the cycle of being broke while continuing to spend money. Inspired by a common topic in my coaching conversations, we are going to explore the underlying reasons behind this behavior and challenge the attitudes that keep you stuck. Join us as we examine the impact of emotional spending and the potential for positive change.
What You'll Learn
Listen as we discuss the challenge of shifting your mindset to create less financial stress.
Discover some of the reasons you may give in to spending even when your financial life is really stressful.
Hear what helped us overcome this, and how even still struggle with it today.
Welcome to episode #176 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Buying a home is a significant milestone and a thrilling adventure.
Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, the process of finding and purchasing a property can be both exciting and overwhelming. From establishing your budget to searching for the perfect neighborhood and navigating the details of financing, there are numerous factors to consider along the way, especially in the current housing market.
Today I am excited to invite my good friend and realtor, Tara Meinholz, to the podcast. Tara has been in real estate for 17 years and owned her own real estate brokerage for the last seven years. Based on the current housing market, I wanted to bring her on to share her expertise, offer practical tips, and provide valuable insights to help you navigate the home buying and selling process with confidence!
What You'll Learn
Discover what's challenging buyers and sellers in the current market.
Hear tips for buyers and sellers based on the current market.
If you're getting ready to buy a home, hear what you should do first. The answer may surprise you.
Welcome to episode #177 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. When we think about wealth, our minds often jump to stacks of cash, luxury cars, and fancy vacations. But here's the thing, wealth is about so much more than just dollar signs. It's about living a life that's full of abundance, joy, and freedom. On today's show, we're going to shake up the perceptions of wealth. Together, we'll dig into the details of what it means to be truly wealthy.
What You'll Learn
Listen in as we discuss the meaning of being wealthy.
Hear our perspective after years of being debt free, and how that perspective has changed since we started our journeys.
Is wealth measured by a simple dollar amount? (This might surprise you!)
Welcome to episode #178 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. I recently asked this question on our Facebook page... "What is concerning you most about your finances right now?" Now, we got a lot of different responses. Everything from cost of living going up, emergency funds, having to start over, having patience during the process of getting out of debt, and supporting your adult kids and their needs. We are going to go through these challenges on today's show and share our perspective...
What You'll Learn
Listen in as we share our perspective on what's concerning our audience the most.
Debt freedom doesn't always mean life is easy. Hear what's concerning the team at the Debt Free Dad Podcast.
Listen as we share our thoughts on patience, ER funds, cost of living, and so much more!
Welcome to episode #179 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. We're diving into the fascinating world of human cognition and exploring a concept that profoundly influences our decision-making processes: anchoring bias. Have you ever wondered why our judgments and choices can sometimes seem irrational or skewed? Or why it might be so hard to break free from what you always do? Anchoring bias provides us with a compelling explanation. It's a cognitive bias that affects our perception of information and influences the judgments we make based on that information... and today we are going to share how anchoring bias is affecting your finances, and how it could be keeping you stuck.
What You'll Learn
Learn how this cognitive bias is possibly keeping you stuck in your current financial mindset.
Learn how anchoring affects our purchasing decisions and is likely costing you a bunch of money you never realized.
Discover how anchoring has shaped your current mindset, and why it's so hard to break away from your habits, choices, and money beliefs.
Welcome to episode #180 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Get ready to uncover a captivating phenomenon that's taking Generation Z and others by storm: cash stuffing. In a world dominated by credit cards, debit cards, and various cashless payment options like PayPal, Venmo, and CashApp, the power of physical cash and its remarkable accountability often go unnoticed. But guess what? Cash is making a grand comeback, and in today's episode, we're revealing the reasons why. Join us as we unravel the hidden potential of cash and its unique ability to help you save more money and stay true to your financial goals.
What You'll Learn
Discover the power of cash and its amazing ability to hold you accountable to your financial goals.
Learn an easy system to have better control of your budget, and to reduce overspending.
Hear how to save up for big purchases, which will reduce or eliminate the amount of debt you'll take on.
Welcome to episode #181 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. There are so many people out there looking for the SECRET to getting out of debt. I hate to burst the bubble, but there is no secret to getting out of debt. The information is out there. But I will say, there is one thing that creates an amazing amount of magic that most people forget about. It makes all the difference in successfully getting out of debt and really achieving any goal you have in your life. We are going to reveal this magic on today's episode.
What You'll Learn
Discover the REAL secret to getting out of debt.
Learn what most people forget about as it relates to getting out of debt and reaching your financial goals.
Hear as we discuss the hardest part of reaching debt freedom. (If you can get this right, you'll experience far less frustration.)
Welcome to episode #182 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. As parents of high school seniors, we know that this stage is filled with anticipation, dreams, and a whirlwind of emotions. But amidst all the excitement, there are expenses that can catch us off guard. From pictures to parties and college application costs, we'll be exploring the surprising expenses that may come your way and share some strategies that helped us plan for these expenses in our own lives.
What You'll Learn
Senior year comes with some hefty costs! Listen now as we share some of the common ones that catch people off guard.
Discover tips to help you ease the financial stress of senior year.
Learn how to reduce the pressure of social influence and emotional purchases for your child.
Welcome to episode #183 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I am excited to welcome Jenny Foster to the podcast. Jenny joined Roots in early October of 2021, and in less than two years she has paid off a significant amount of debt. Today Jenny is joining me to share her journey, what changes she's made, and to celebrate an amazing accomplishment she recently reached.
What You'll Learn
Discover what made the biggest difference to help her save and pay off over $70,000 in less than two years.
Hear how she went from stressed, depressed, and full of anxiety, to feeling very hopeful and confident in her finances (and other areas of life too).
Listen as Jenny shares her biggest takeaways, and what advice she would give to anyone who felt like her before she started.
Welcome to episode #184 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Did you know there are 300,000 items in the average American home (LA Times), and according to NPR the average home size has nearly tripled in the last 50 years. We recently completed a declutter challenge with our Roots of Personal Finance membership group. Our members have embraced the challenge and are having tremendous success. Their success is not only helping tidy up some of their spaces, but it's also helping their finances. We will share how on today's episode.
What You'll Learn
Is clutter wreaking havoc and stress on your life? Check out this episode to get some motivation to get that stuff cleaned out and money in your bank!
Discover some great tips that have helped our Roots members save thousands of dollars!
Learn the benefits of decluttering, and it's not just money related!
Welcome to episode #185 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. If you're in a relationship or married, and you share your personal finances with your significant other, it's critical neither of you is left in the dark about your financial lives. Sadly, relationships don't last, partners can pass away or get sick and become incapacitated. Both of you should be able to pick up the pieces and move forward without the other, but that's not the case in many situations. In today's episode, we will discuss the dynamics of finances in your relationship and what we feel are good practices for every couple.
What You'll Learn
Are you or your spouse in a position to take over the finances if something happens to the other?
Discover what you should both know about your financial life. (Many couples miss this!)
Learn what things you should have in place for all of life's unexpected events.
Welcome to episode #186 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I am excited to have Merry Juerling on the show. Merry is here to share her story and talk about a topic that hits very close to home for me, caring for special needs kids and the challenges that families face not only financially, but also in advocating and getting these special kids the help they need to succeed in life.
What You'll Learn
Listen as Merry shares her challenges and struggles in caring for a child with disabilities.
Discover that even with the incredible challenges that Merry faced, she was able to turn her finances around with the help of Roots.
Hear how Merry, partnered with Debt Free Dad, is taking her journey and experience and helping others.
Welcome to episode #187 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I am excited to welcome Kim Schmidt to the podcast. Kim invested in our Debt Freedom Planner and soon after joined us in Roots. In just 42 days, she has saved and paid off over $5,600. Today Kim is joining me to share her journey so far, and what changes she has made to get these results, and to hopefully encourage and motivate you so that you can make some great progress in a short period of time.
What You'll Learn
Discover what made the biggest difference to help her save and pay off over $5,600 in just 42 days.
Hear how she went from stressed, to feeling very hopeful and confident in her finances.
Listen as Kim shares her biggest takeaways, and what advice she would give to anyone who felt like her before she started.
Welcome to episode #188 of the Debt-Free Dad Podcast. Let's talk about the big question – how do you manage to afford this crazy thing called life nowadays? The cost of living is up on everything from bills and groceries to fun stuff like travel and hobbies, How do you make it all work, or can you even make it all work? We're going to talk about it on today's show!
What You'll Learn
As life has gotten more expensive, is it even possible to keep up? Listen to our take.
Listen as we react to social media posts describing how impossible it is to live beyond just the basics.
Can the typical American live a stress-free financial life? Can they get what they want and still be able to save? Listen to our thoughts as we all live debt-free and have helped thousands of others do it.
Welcome to episode #189 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. We all know that food prices have been on the rise, although this past year they have slowed down a bit from the previous year. But groceries are BIG expenses in our budgets. Today we are sharing some ideas, tips, and reminders to help you save money and reduce your grocery bill.
What You'll Learn
With food prices on the rise, hear the latest tips that help us stick to our budget.
This one change can make a huge difference in how much you spend. (Most people miss this!)
Having trouble sticking to your list and your budget? Use this one tool that will keep your grocery spending under control!
Welcome to episode #190 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I am excited to welcome Hilary Morse to the podcast. Hilary joined Roots in early June of 2023, and in just the last 90 days, she has made some incredible progress, saving and paying off nearly $8,000 in just the last 90 days. Hilary is here to share her journey early on and what changes she's made to get these results.
What You'll Learn
Discover what made the biggest difference to help her save and pay off over $8,000 in just 90 days.
Hear how she went from stressed, to feeling very hopeful and confident in her finances.
Listen as Hilary shares her biggest takeaways, and what advice she would give to anyone who felt like her before she started.
Welcome to episode #191 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. A recent survey conducted by SecureSave from August of 2023 shows that 63% of workers are unable to pay a $500 emergency expense with cash. The people surveyed said they would turn to friends, family, credit cards or their employer for help. Even 64% of those making $100,000 indicate they are dealing with financial stress. An article from CNBC that featured this survey, indicates that inflation and the fact that covid money is running out may be to blame for these numbers, but is that really the problem? We are going to get into all of this on today's show.
What You'll Learn
Many people don't save for emergencies because they fail to create a financial plan that includes an emergency fund. Without a clear plan, it's easy to overlook the importance of saving for unexpected expenses.
Many prioritize short-term spending and immediate gratification over long-term financial security. Discover some strategies to prevent this to start building your ER fund!
For some, income, inflation, and debt levels could be to blame. Listen to get motivated to tackle your debt and financial stress once and for all.
Welcome to episode #192 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Beyond the dollars and cents and calculations that make up our financial lives, lies a profound truth – the cornerstone of financial success lies in our habits! Yes, it's in our daily behaviors, choices, and mindset that we discover the keys to unlocking the greatest financial transformations. Today, we're diving into the incredible impact of shifting our habits and how these changes have transformed our finances and lives.
What You'll Learn
Good money habits, such as budgeting, saving, and investing wisely, provide a strong foundation for financial security. Listen in as we share how these tasks have improved our finances.
Your money habits directly impact your overall quality of life. Responsible spending and saving allow you to enjoy experiences, travel, and pursue hobbies without the burden of constant financial stress. Discover as we share our experiences and how our quality of life has drastically improved.
Your financial habits play a pivotal role in shaping your future. Good habits enable you to plan for retirement, invest in education, and secure your family's well-being. Poor money habits, on the other hand, can jeopardize your financial future, making it challenging to achieve your dreams and maintain a comfortable lifestyle in the long run. Listen to this episode to get some motivation from normal people who have taken control of their finances.
Welcome to episode #193 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. So what do you do when your bills are more than your income? How can you build an emergency fund and get out of debt when you can't get caught up? We are going to offer some motivation and tips on today's show.
What You'll Learn
We understand the stress of bills exceeding income, but we're here to provide you with practical tips and motivation to break free from this cycle.
Join us for empowering insights and actionable strategies that can turn your financial situation around.
Be inspired by real stories of individuals who have faced similar financial struggles and successfully emerged debt-free. Our show is not just about motivation; it's a practical guide to transforming your financial reality.
Welcome to episode #194 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. So, what exactly is herd mentality? Well, to put it simply, it's the phenomenon where people tend to follow the crowd or conform to the behavior and opinions of the majority, often without critically evaluating their choices. Perhaps it's that instinct to buy that car or product just because "everyone else is doing it." Or do you find yourself saying things like "There is no way to get a college education without student loans" or "Used cars are a bad idea due to repairs" or "credit cards are for emergencies, you'll always have one!" In this episode, we'll examine real-world examples of herd behaviors when it comes to your personal finances, both positive and negative and offer suggestions on how you can overcome this in your life.
What You'll Learn
Are you tired of making financial decisions based on what everyone else is doing? Learn to break free from the cycle of blindly following the crowd.
Explore the episode where we challenge conventional wisdom and question common financial norms.
Dive into real-world examples of both positive and negative herd behavior in personal finance. Hear stories of individuals who successfully resisted the temptation to conform and those who faced challenges due to following the crowd.
Welcome to episode #195 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I am excited to welcome Samantha Hubbs to the podcast. Samantha joined Roots in March of 2023, and in just the last seven months has made some amazing progress saving and paying off $35,790. Samantha is here to share her journey and what changes she's made to get these results.
What You'll Learn
Discover what made the biggest difference to help her save and pay off over $35,000 in just seven months.
Hear how she went from stressed, to feeling very hopeful and confident in her finances.
Listen as Samantha shares her biggest takeaways, and what advice she would give to anyone who felt like her before she started.
Welcome to episode #196 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Tis the season to be jolly, but for many, it's also the season to be financially frazzled! The holiday spirit can bring not only cheer, but also a sleigh-load of financial stress and pressure. Fear not, though, as we're about to embark on a merry journey to discover some fantastic ways to keep your holiday budget in check, all while ensuring your celebrations are full of joy, not debt. So, grab a cup of cocoa, cozy up by the fire, and let's unwrap the secrets to battling holiday financial stress with a dash of festive fun!
What You'll Learn
Learn some tips to help you breeze through the holiday season without breaking the bank. Discover some helpful tips to create a realistic budget, stick to it, and enjoy the festivities stress-free.
Discover tips to make your celebrations more affordable, ensuring your wallet stays happy while you enjoy the holiday spirit.
Give yourself the gift of financial peace this season. Say goodbye to the stress and hello to the joy of the holidays.
Welcome to episode #197 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. A recent article written by Jeannine Mancini on Benzinga says $150,000 salaries aren't enough anymore and high earners are still TRAPPED living paycheck to paycheck and CAN'T get ahead. Seriously?We are going to get into this on today's show.
What You'll Learn
Recent data shows that people making over six figures are living paycheck-to-paycheck. Hear our take!
Discover the reasons high-income earners are struggling. Are they really struggling, or is there another reason?
The majority of us are debt-free... hear our take on articles like these.
Welcome to episode #198 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. Today I have some amazing guests joining us, Daniel and Lori Elwell. Daniel and Lori started listening to the podcast in January of 2022, and soon after joined Roots. Today they are here to celebrate an amazing milestone, which they have had us on the edge of our seats for months now... If you're looking for some inspiration and motivation... this is going to be for you.
What You'll Learn
Discover how Daniel and Lori saved and paid off $134,718.32 in a year and a half.
Hear how improving their finances has massively improved other areas of their lives.
If they had to start all over again, hear what they would tell themselves knowing what they know now.
Listen as they share what has made the biggest difference for them.
Welcome to episode #199 of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. You've probably heard the term "SMART goals" before, but what exactly does it mean? Well, SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. These five elements work together to create a framework that turns your dreams into actionable and achievable objectives. In today's episode, we'll break down each component of SMART goals, exploring why they're crucial for success and how you can apply them to help get you out of debt.
What You'll Learn
Discover how SMART goals bring precision to your aspirations by emphasizing specificity. Instead of vague objectives, these goals compel you to define your targets clearly, ensuring a focused and effective approach to turning your dreams into reality.
Learn how the Measurable aspect of SMART goals transforms abstract ambitions into quantifiable milestones. By incorporating measurable criteria, you gain the ability to track progress objectively, providing a sense of accomplishment and allowing for adjustments to stay on the path to success.
Hear how The Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound elements of SMART goals collectively create a realistic roadmap. This framework ensures that your objectives are not only attainable but also aligned with your overall vision. Setting a timeframe adds a sense of urgency, motivating you to take consistent actions toward financial freedom.
Welcome to episode #200 of the Debt-Free Dad Podcast. Can you believe it? Two hundred episodes of real life, laughter, insights, and navigating the journey to financial freedom. Today, we're taking a stroll down memory lane, reflecting on the incredible four-year adventure of the Debt Free Dad Podcast. The evolution of this podcast mirrors the path of escaping debt. Get ready for some golden nuggets of wisdom as we share how our experiences can light the way for your own financial journey. Plus, stick around as we delve into the treasure trove of feedback from our fantastic listeners. It's not just a celebration; it's a gratitude-filled, knowledge packed extravaganza! Thank you for being a part of this incredible ride with us, and stay tuned for episode 200!
What You'll Learn
Celebrating Success: Join us in celebrating a remarkable milestone – 200 episodes of the Debt Free Dad Podcast! This journey has been filled with real-life stories, laughter, and invaluable insights into achieving financial freedom. Each episode has been a stepping stone on the path to success, and we're excited to share the wealth of knowledge we've gained along the way.
Lessons from the Journey: Our podcast's evolution mirrors the transformative journey of escaping debt, and in this special episode, we're sharing the golden nuggets of wisdom we've unearthed. These lessons aren't just for reflection; they're a guide to illuminate your own financial journey. Learn from our experiences as we delve into the ups and downs, offering insights that can inspire and empower you on your path to financial well-being.
Gratitude and Engagement: This isn't just a celebration; it's a gratitude-filled, knowledge-packed extravaganza! We extend our heartfelt thanks to you for being a part of this incredible ride. Stick around for episode 200 as we dive into the treasure trove of feedback from our fantastic listeners. Your engagement has been our driving force, and we're excited to continue sharing valuable insights as we navigate the road to financial freedom together.
Are you tired of trying different debt repayment strategies and not seeing results? Many people struggle to find a method that works for them, often feeling frustrated and defeated. In this blog post, we'll explore a different approach to paying off debt—one that focuses on finding a strategy that aligns with your values and goals. Say goodbye to one-size-fits-all methods and hello to a personalized path to debt freedom.
The Dave Ramsey Method and the Search for an Alternative:
If you've ever delved into the world of personal finance, you've likely come across the name Dave Ramsey. Ramsey's approach to debt repayment has helped countless individuals tackle their financial challenges. However, not everyone finds success with his specific strategies. Many people, struggle to stick to Ramsey's plan and feel confined by its restrictions.
Realizing That One Size Doesn't Fit All:
During our debt journey we came to a crucial realization that someone else's way of doing something isn't necessarily the only way to achieve success. Just as there are multiple diet and exercise approaches, there are numerous paths to debt freedom. We all have different priorities, values, and financial situations, which means there isn't a universal solution.
The Importance of Self-Reflection:
Embarking on your journey to debt freedom starts with self-reflection. Take a moment to sit down with a pen and paper and identify what you are willing to give up or cut back on. This exercise is not about sacrificing everything but rather finding a balance that works for you.
Identifying Your Priorities:
Consider what truly matters to you. Are there certain expenses or activities that you are unwilling to compromise on? Maybe you value family vacations, but you're open to scaling back on the extravagance. Or perhaps you're not ready to give up your daily latte, but you're willing to reduce dining out. By understanding your priorities, you can create a customized budgeting plan that aligns with your values.
Finding What Works for You:
The key to long-term debt repayment success is finding a strategy that you can sustain and that the best approach is the one you will stick to for the duration of your journey. It's about striking a balance between financial discipline and maintaining a fulfilling life.
Supporting Your Personal Journey:
Debt Free Dad podcast and our website is a valuable resource for individuals seeking their own path to debt freedom. Our free "Life Without Payments" workshop is a great starting point for those ready to take the next step toward financial independence.
Conclusion:
The journey to debt freedom is unique for each person. It's time to break free from the notion that there is only one way to achieve financial success. By reflecting on your priorities, making intentional choices, and finding a strategy that resonates with your values, you can pave your own path to a debt-free future. Remember, it's not about how quickly you reach your goals, but rather finding a sustainable approach that works for you. So go ahead, take control of your finances, and create a life that is not only debt-free but also aligned with what truly matters to you.
Maybe you've tried everything to improve your finances and nothing seems to work. Or maybe your finances stress you out so much you're just not sure how to get started, or maybe you're struggling with what you should focus on first. We've all been there. Today we are sharing a variety of tips that will give you a clear direction to help you reduce stress and crush your finances over the next year, so you can start to save more and pay off more debt.
What You'll Learn
Discover tips to help you reduce financial stress and improve your finances in 2024.
We did it! And so can you. All five of the cohosts on the podcast have navigated their way out of debt. Hear our take and what helped us most.
If you're overwhelmed on how to get started, get a step by step plan so you know exactly what to do to make better progress in 2024.
In today's fast-paced and consumer-driven world, it's easy to fall into the trap of always wanting more. We constantly compare ourselves to others and think that the key to happiness is acquiring the next big thing. But what if I told you that true contentment and peace can be found by understanding what "enough" means to you? In this blog post, we will explore the concept of enough and provide some practical suggestions to help you find financial freedom and live a happier, less stressful life.
Understanding the Meaning of Enough:
One of the key steps in achieving financial peace is gaining a clear understanding of what enough means to you. This step is not only crucial for reducing financial stress but also for setting meaningful and achievable goals for your future. When you know what truly brings you joy and fulfillment, you can create a roadmap that aligns with your values and aspirations.
The Journey to Enough:
As I embarked on my own journey to financial freedom, I realized that the concept of enough was a significant mindset shift for me. Like many others, I used to believe that nothing was ever enough. I constantly consumed more and more, thinking that the next purchase would bring me happiness. But it was a never-ending cycle of mindless spending and accumulating debt.
Paying Off Debt and Changing My Mindset:
When I decided to tackle my debt, I discovered the power of setting a clear purpose or "why" for getting out of debt. Surprisingly, my initial goal wasn't to stop spending altogether, but rather to transition from using debt to using cash. However, as I progressed on my debt-free journey, I experienced a profound shift in mindset. I began to realize that the less I consumed, the better I felt. I found more freedom and peace as I let go of the constant need for more stuff.
The Road to Financial Peace:
Cutting back on spending was a necessary step on my journey to financial freedom. I had to make sacrifices and reevaluate my priorities. As I began to eliminate unnecessary expenses, I discovered that I didn't miss those things as much as I thought I would. It was eye-opening to realize how much of my financial stress and emotional burden was caused by the constant pursuit of more.
The Role of Perspective:
A significant turning point in my journey came when I had to go through my late wife's belongings after her passing. It made me realize that material possessions hold little importance in the grand scheme of life. Many of her things were either donated or discarded because they no longer served a purpose. It made me question why I had been chasing after stuff that ultimately didn't bring me true fulfillment.
Creating Your Personal Definition of Enough:
To determine what enough means to you, it's essential to reflect on what brings you joy and fulfillment. Ask yourself what things truly make you happy. Is it your work, hobbies, relationships, or activities? Identify the essentials that you cannot go without, as well as the things you could happily live without. Consider the areas where you may be wastefully spending your money and evaluate if that spending aligns with your definition of enough.
Disconnecting from External Influences:
One of the crucial steps in finding your own sense of enough is disconnecting from external influences. Society bombards us with advertisements and social media posts, making us believe that we need more to be happy. By setting clear boundaries and not letting other people's opinions or actions dictate our own, we can focus on what truly brings us cont
Do you feel like you're constantly struggling with your finances? Do you have a hard time keeping up with bills, paying down debt, or building an emergency fund savings? If so, you're not alone! That's exactly how Micheale felt about four years ago before joining Roots. But today, things are much different for Micheale, and she is my guest today and she is here to share what's helped her pay off over $150,000 of debt in the last four years.
What You'll Learn
Discover how Micheale paid off over $150,000 in four years.
Hear how improving her finances has massively improved other areas of their lives.
If she had to start all over again, hear what she would tell herself knowing what she knows now.
Listen as she shares what has made the biggest difference for them.
Creating a budget that truly works can be a stressful task, especially for beginners navigating the maze of personal finance. Many of us have never been shown how to budget, leaving us with questions like: How do you plan for groceries, irregular expenses, and unpredictable monthly costs? Is it necessary to make drastic cuts so you can save and pay off more debt? Should saving take precedence over debt repayment in your budget?
If you find yourself confused and stressed about budgeting, rest assured, you're not alone. Each of us on the Debt Free Dad podcast has faced the same challenges. Today, we aim to demystify the process and answer the burning question: How can you create a budget that not only works but empowers you to alleviate financial stress and make significant strides in your financial journey? Join us as we share insights and practical tips, drawing from our experiences to guide you towards a stress-free financial life.
What You'll Learn
Take control of your financial destiny by creating a budget tailored to your goals. A well-crafted budget empowers you to allocate resources strategically, ensuring your money works for you, not against you.
Forget the misconception that budgeting means sacrificing everything you love. A smart budget is about prioritization, not deprivation. Discover how to enjoy your favorite things while still making significant strides toward saving and debt reduction.
Unlock the door to financial freedom with a budget that aligns with your aspirations. Learn the art of balancing spending, saving, and debt repayment, paving the way for a future filled with financial stability, opportunities, and peace of mind.
When my surprise vet bill hit, I was awash with gratitude for my emergency fund—my financial life raft. This episode is about transforming clutter into cash, and I, Amber, am here to guide you through it. Imagine liberating your living space while lining your pockets in preparation for those unexpected blows life sometimes delivers. We'll explore how the average household is sitting on a small fortune in unneeded items and how selling these can be your first step towards a robust emergency fund. I'll share how our community members have turned their decluttering efforts into powerful personal finance success stories and offer you practical advice on identifying items ripe for sale.
Then, let's get real about what it means to have an emergency fund, and why it's an absolute must-have. I'll talk about setting up smart boundaries to ensure you only dip into it for true emergencies—forget those concert tickets! With personal anecdotes and hard-earned wisdom, we'll discuss the discipline required to save and how the act of selling belongings can jump-start your safety net. This isn't just about money; it's about peace of mind. So let's buckle down and celebrate each other's milestones as we build that financial buffer together.
Do you feel like your finances are a rollercoaster? Do you have a hard time with credit card debt or building an emergency fund? If so, you're not alone! That's exactly how Hope felt a little over 90 days ago. But today, things are much different for Hope, and she is my guest today and she is here to share what's helped her go from a financial rollercoaster to financial hope in just three months.
What You'll Learn
Discover how Hope paid off over $5,000 in four years.
Hear how improving her finances has massively improved other areas of her life.
If she had to start all over again, hear what she would tell herself knowing what she knows now.
Listen as she shares what has made the biggest difference for her.
Ever find yourself shocked at the cashier when you see your grocery bill? You're not alone, and on today's Debt-Free Dad podcast, I, Katie Hatfield, invite you to come along on my personal journey which led me to conquer a mountain of debt. I'll be spilling the beans on how I slashed my food expenses without compromising on quality or quantity. From the shockingly simple act of reviewing receipts to the clever use of digital coupons and rewards programs, you're about to uncover a treasure trove of strategies that will not only trim your food budget but also enrich your culinary experiences at home.
In our exploration, we'll navigate the ins and outs of efficient grocery shopping without falling into the traps of overspending. I'll equip you with a virtual toolkit, including the secret to never getting lured into impulse purchases and a method to ensure you're only restocking what's necessary – spoiler alert, it involves your smartphone's camera! Join me as we transform the way you think about food shopping, meal planning, and the art of making your leftovers feel like a gourmet encore. After tuning in, you'll walk away with a bounty of practical tips that will leave both your pantry and your wallet satisfyingly full.
Ever find yourself getting all tangled up in comparing your life to everyone else's? Or trying to keep up with others financially? The struggle is real, right? FOMO, stress, anxiety – it's a whole package deal. But what if there was a way to shake off that vibe? Get ready, because today we've got the awesome Laura Eiman on the podcast. Laura is an Olympic gold medal weightlifter and certified confidence coach. Laura's gone from ordinary to extraordinary with her "Oh Yes I Can!" mindset, and she's here to spill the beans on kicking that fear of judgment, ditching the comparison game, and boosting confidence in your money matters.
What You'll Learn
Break Free from Comparison: Are you tired of constantly comparing your life to others and feeling the weight of FOMO, stress, and anxiety? Join us on the podcast with Laura Eiman, an Olympic gold medal weightlifter and certified confidence coach. She'll share powerful insights on how to break free from the comparison game, helping you embrace your unique journey and live life on your terms.
Transform Your Mindset: Laura's "Oh Yes I Can!" mindset is a game-changer. Discover how this Olympic champion turned her ordinary life into something extraordinary. Gain practical tips and strategies to kick the fear of judgment, paving the way for a more confident and empowered you. It's time to shift your mindset and unlock your full potential.
Master Your Money Matters: Financial comparison can be a major source of stress. Laura Eiman will dive into actionable steps to boost your confidence in handling money matters. Whether you're navigating financial challenges or aspiring to level up your financial game, this episode will equip you with the tools and mindset to take control of your financial well-being. Don't miss out on this opportunity to transform your relationship with money and live a more fulfilling life.
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