Get Out of Debt Guy

Steve Rhode

Credit, debt, and money answers from the Get Out of Debt Guy, Steve Rhode. If you want to know the latest news from inside the debt relief industry or have a question about getting out of debt, this is the show for you. read less
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Episodes

These Emotions Stop You From Getting Out of Debt
Jan 11 2024
These Emotions Stop You From Getting Out of Debt
In this episode, we explore the emotional impact of debt and how it affects individuals on a personal level. As hosts, we have witnessed firsthand the range of emotions that arise when people face financial struggles. One prevalent feeling is embarrassment, as clients often feel like failures when they openly confess their debt. We have also observed that some individuals, particularly women, have contemplated drastic measures like becoming escorts or prostitutes to pay off their debt. However, it's crucial to emphasize that alternative solutions are available.Embarrassment is a common emotion associated with debt, and many people want to keep their financial struggles a secret from loved ones. However, we highlight the fact that people are often too preoccupied with their own lives to be overly concerned about our debt. We encourage seeking support from someone outside our normal circle who won't judge us. While feeling embarrassed about debt is normal, we should not let shame consume us. Unexpected events such as accidents or health problems can throw our financial stability off balance, and it's essential to prioritize what truly matters.Depression is another significant emotion that often accompanies financial struggles. We stress the importance of addressing mental health and seeking professional help to gain clarity and make better decisions. Controlling emotions is not as simple as telling someone not to be depressed, and jumping at quick-fix solutions or becoming paralyzed with analysis can worsen the situation. We caution against scams that prey on people's vulnerability and offer false promises of immediate relief. Making informed decisions and seeking guidance is crucial.In this episode, we also discuss the cynical perspective that banks and corporations profit off people's emotional attachment to debt. We delve into the predatory practices of credit card companies and debt collection agencies, who often see borrowers as numbers and show little regard for their individual situations. Seeking support from hotlines or financial experts can help individuals understand the reality of dealing with debt and find effective solutions. We emphasize that banks and corporations should never be the top priority in anyone's life.Financial post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common outcome for individuals who have lived through debt. We stress the importance of recognizing the symptoms, seeking support, and taking a break from overwhelming responsibilities to aid in recovery. Facing the truth of one's financial situation is vital and can lead to smarter decision-making in the future. Technology has made tracking spending easier, eliminating the need for meticulous record-keeping of every small expense. It's essential to understand that everyone's financial situation is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution to debt.We also share personal experiences in this episode. The main speaker discusses embracing their bankruptcy experience and being open about it, which helped gain trust from others. They also mention their friend Damon's bankruptcy and how they saw it as a smart move rather than a judgment. The perception of bankruptcy has evolved over time, and now more people are open about their financial struggles.The main speaker expresses frustration with the flawed student loan system, which has caused significant harm, especially to the middle class. They highlight the alarming ease with which people can obtain loans without fully considering the consequences. They urge listeners who are experiencing any of these negative emotions to seek help and support from resources like the DamonDay or getoutofdebt.org websites, as well as previous podcasts.To conclude, the main speaker reminds listeners that emotions may not always accurately reflect reality. It's important to take care of oneself and have a great day. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/get-out-of-debt-guy/message
16 Most Misunderstood Myths About Getting Out of Debt
Jan 9 2024
16 Most Misunderstood Myths About Getting Out of Debt
In this podcast, Steve Rhode and Damon Day address various misconceptions about debt and financial decisions. We emphasize that having debt does not make someone a loser or a failure; it is a common occurrence that does not define one's worth. We discuss how social media can distort perceptions of others' lives, as they often showcase only the positives and not the struggles. We debunk the myth that bankruptcy ruins one's credit for 10 years and share a personal experience of receiving a credit card offer shortly after obtaining discharge papers. We highlight that banks are willing to lend money and do not view individuals as failures for having debt. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of not making decisions solely based on credit scores and not relying on social media for financial comparisons.We then share a story about a client who had a negative experience with a Burger King drive-thru, where they were charged $2,000 instead of $20 due to a transactional mistake. We highlight the risks associated with using a debit card, which essentially gives someone a blank check. We explain that banks often push debit cards for their own profit through transaction fees, but using a credit card is a safer option in case of any disputes with merchants.Moving on, we dispel the myth that payday loans are a good option, even when struggling to pay bills. Instead, we encourage reaching out to banks or lenders for payment forbearance or a payment holiday, as many institutions are willing to work with individuals and provide some leeway. Taking a payday loan only perpetuates a cycle of debt that is difficult to escape.We also address the misconception that only making minimum payments on debt is sufficient. While it may be challenging to get ahead with minimum payments alone, we discuss alternative options such as seeking additional income or considering more aggressive strategies like bankruptcy, debt settlement, or credit counseling. We emphasize the importance of being proactive in addressing debt rather than relying solely on minimum payments.Next, we draw a parallel between ineffective past strategies and soldiers storming a line in war. We encourage adopting smarter approaches and critical thinking to achieve financial success. We address the misconception that people cannot save for the future or retirement while paying off old debts, emphasizing the importance of improving financial habits moving forward rather than solely focusing on past debt.We then discuss the question of whether taxes are owed on forgiven debt. We explain that if debt is forgiven in bankruptcy, no taxes are owed; however, if it is forgiven through a settlement, taxes may be owed depending on the individual's situation. We highlight that debt settlement companies often fail to make this fact apparent, potentially to present a positive image and avoid an in-depth assessment of the customer's financial situation. We share our encounters with debt relief salespeople who claim we don't know what we're talking about, often providing clients with IRS forms and advising them to consult competent tax professionals.Understanding the tax implications of forgiven debt is vital for making informed financial decisions. We emphasize the importance of accurately completing IRS Form 982 and providing a snapshot of one's financial life at the time of debt forgiveness, including house value, outstanding loans, assets, and 401k balance. Filing this form with the 1099 can result in a waiver of taxes owed on forgiven debt. We stress the importance of consulting with a competent CPA to ensure the accuracy of the form and avoid potential trouble in case of an audit.To learn more about preconceptions and myths, we encourage listeners to visit damonday.com or search "Damon" on Google. We conclude by thanking the audience for joining us and invite them to subscribe for future podcasts. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/get-out-of-debt-guy/message
Easy Ways to Make Your Money Grow When You Are Just Getting By
Jan 2 2024
Easy Ways to Make Your Money Grow When You Are Just Getting By
In this episode of the Get Out of Debt Guy show, Steve Rhode, the old Get Out of Debt Guy, and Damon Day, the new Get Out of Debt Guy, take a break from discussing debt and focus on saving and making money. They highlight the importance of having savings for emergencies, as relying on credit cards may not always be a viable option. They acknowledge that saving money may not seem glamorous due to low interest rates and expenses matching income. However, they suggest cutting back on expenses or finding side hustles like driving for ride-sharing or delivery apps to create a separate fund for savings. Starting small with a few hundred dollars a month can make a big difference in the long run.Damon shares his experience of making over $900 on New Year's Eve. Steve suggests saving at least $500 of it while still enjoying some rewards. He recommends investing in treasury bonds, specifically the I-series savings bonds, which offer a 5% interest rate and are considered a safe form of investing. Another option discussed is Betterment, a self-directed investment platform that offers a savings account with a 4.75% return and allows customization of investment portfolios.They discuss the benefits of investing in higher-yield options like CDs over keeping money in an emergency fund and provide insights on saving money while paying off debt. They advise finding a balance between saving and debt repayment based on individual money personalities. Steve and Damon express their dislike for budgets, viewing them as restrictive and impractical for long-term financial success. They talk about the limitations and potential inaccuracies of budgets, highlighting the need for drastic lifestyle changes or additional income sources to get out of debt.Towards the end, they acknowledge the surprise realization that the episode is video-recorded and humorously mention including elements like phone calls and ringtones in the video. They wrap up by promoting their other channel, Penny Stupid, and reminding listeners to subscribe to their audio podcast, the Get Out of Debt Guy podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/get-out-of-debt-guy/message
First Night Driving for Lyft. A Side Hustle Initial Impressions. Cops Involved.
Oct 4 2022
First Night Driving for Lyft. A Side Hustle Initial Impressions. Cops Involved.
Damon shares his first night stories and impressions about the realities of driving for Lyft as a totally new driver learning the way. Each night is a new lesson learned. Towards the end of the video, Damon gives us his side hustle thumbs-up review regarding making decent quick money.   Becoming a rideshare driver can be intimidating. Who will get in your car? Will you be safe? What might I expect?   As part of our Penny Stupid Project, Damon is taking one for the team and actually getting in the seat to give you an inside look at what he experienced. Follow along https://pennystupid.com/subscribe-to-penny-stupid/  Are there good things and bad things? Of course, there are, but that's the same with any side hustle opportunity. Your decision should be how much money you can expect to make in your extra hours and what the side hustle is like.   If you live out in a rural area, you will probably not have the same results as Damon in Phoenix. However, I've met rideshare drivers who drive towards a busier area, spend the night doing rides, and then go home with heavier pockets.   The flip side is if you are in a less busy area, there will be fewer drivers to compete against.   Enjoy Damon's experience. He is a great storyteller.   Important Penny Stupid Project Links  Website - https://PennyStupid.com Facebook - https://facebook.com/PennyStupid All Our Lyft Details - https://pennystupid.com/dive-for-lyft-and-all-the-other-scoop/ Subscribe to Free Email Updates: https://pennystupid.com/subscribe-to-penny-stupid/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/get-out-of-debt-guy/message
Debt Free Dudes - Inflation, Recession, Saving Money, Side Hustle Update
Sep 13 2022
Debt Free Dudes - Inflation, Recession, Saving Money, Side Hustle Update
In this Debt Free Dudes podcast, Damon Day and Steve Rhode talk about preparing for a recession, inflation, worsening economic chances, saving money, and an update on the side hustle project. Additional information for the facts behind this podcast is below. There is a 50-50 chance of a mild recession late in 2022 or 2023. The U.S. is not in a recession yet. However, we find that most indicators—particularly those measuring labor markets—provide strong evidence that the U.S. economy did not fall into a recession in the first quarter. The U.S. economy continues to face economic risks. Labor markets remain tight, which is fueling wage growth and in turn inflation. This raises concerns that interest rates will have to rise to the point of increasing unemployment to bring inflation back down. Rising interest rates can also strengthen the dollar, making American agricultural exports less competitive in foreign markets. The Conference Board said - "Notwithstanding two consecutive quarters of negative GDP growth, we do not believe the US economy is currently in a recession given strength across several sectors and the extremely tight labor market." Bank of America has just released information estimating the unemployment rate will rise to 5% by the end of 2023 because of increased interest rates to curb inflation. An average score of 716 by FICO measurements means most lenders will consider your creditworthiness "good" and are more likely to extend lower rates. Average nationwide credit scores bottomed out at 686 during the housing crisis more than a decade ago, when foreclosures sharply increased. They steadily ticked higher until the pandemic, when government stimulus programs and a spike in household savings helped scores jump to a historical high of 713. British households borrowed on their credit cards last month at the fastest annual rate in over 17 years, a potential reflection of consumers struggling to make ends meet as the cost of living crisis intensifies. The inflation rate in the UK is predicted to be 22% in January, primarily due to energy prices. According to data from the Bank of England, the annual rate of credit card borrowing in July was 13% higher than a year earlier, the biggest annual increase since 2005. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/get-out-of-debt-guy/message