Long Story $hort

How does debt impact military families differently—and what unique resources are available to help them achieve financial wellness? This episode of Long Story Short explores the mission of the USAA Educational Foundation, unpacking the financial challenges and opportunities that service members and their families face. Mandi Moynihan and Katie Casey Macias, both Certified Financial Planners® and program leaders, share tailored financial education and practical tools designed specifically for the military community.You'll get insider perspective on the challenges military families encounter, such as frequent moves, deployment, and complex federal protections. Discover actionable steps and no-cost resources, including the user-friendly Debt Destroyer program, that empower military households to take control of their finances—without judgment or sales pressure.Listeners will learn:The unique financial pressures faced by military members, including high cost-of-living postings and challenges with spouse employmentThe special laws designed to protect service members from predatory lending and support them through financial difficultiesHow to access the Debt Destroyer program and a wide range of free, self-serve financial education resources from the USAA Educational FoundationKey moments:(04:09) Military Financial Challenges Overview06:16) Debt Challenges for Young Service Members(11:01) Military-Focused Financial Education Tools(12:58) Debt Destroyer: Free Debt Elimination Program

How do you prepare the next generation for financial success? Learn about the world of financial education with the MoneySKILL program, a dynamic initiative from the AFSA Education Foundation designed to empower consumers of all ages with vital money management skills.You'll hear about how this innovative, online, and free resource equips educators, parents, and learners to understand and navigate the complexities of personal finance, ensuring they have the tools they need for financial wellness. Rhonda Ashburn and Olivia DiBiase share how MoneySKILL provides a comprehensive curriculum, spanning from budgeting basics to advanced topics like retirement planning, in a flexible format adaptable for different learning environments and settings. Also, discover the measurable impact MoneySKILL is making, with significant growth in financial literacy and practical financial behaviors among users highlighted by recent studies.Listeners will learn:The wide-ranging topics covered by MoneySKILL, from budgeting to identity theft and moreHow Money Skill offers adaptable tools for educators, parents, and learners to engage with personal finance educationThe positive impact of MoneySKILL, supported by studies indicating increased knowledge and better financial behaviors among participantsResources:MoneySKILLAFSAEF.org

How does your credit score impact your financial journey? Discover the significance of FICO scores in the lending process and learn valuable tips for managing and potentially improving your credit profile. Elaine Cozart from FICO provides insights that are essential for anyone seeking to understand and leverage their credit score effectively.You'll hear practical advice on the key components of a FICO score and the importance of payment history and amounts owed, which comprise a significant 65% of your score. The discussion explores steps you can take to enhance your credit standing, including strategies for effective debt management and the impact of maintaining low balance utilization. Elaine also highlights resources available for accessing your FICO score and understanding how it's used by lenders.You will learn:The five components of a FICO score and how each contributes to your overall credit ratingStrategies for improving your credit score, including effective management of payment history and debtAvailable resources for accessing your official FICO score and the importance of focusing on this particular score for financial planningKey moments:(00:00) Understanding FICO Scores' Importance(04:10) Key Factors Influencing FICO Score(06:48) FICO Score Fluctuations Explained(12:28) Improving Your Credit Score(15:47) Breaking Debt Stigma(17:31) FICO Score Impact and Resources(22:38) MyFICO: Credit Management Tools & Resources

What does it take to eliminate a six-figure debt in just over four years? From substantial sacrifices to strategic financial planning, Ian reveals how he and his family conquered $100,000 of debt and achieved financial freedom through MMI's debt management plan.You'll hear about Ian's journey through financial adversity, including the loss of his job during the Great Recession, and how he and his wife juggled multiple jobs to repay their debt. Ian emphasizes the importance of committing to a lifestyle that prioritizes living within your means and eliminating reliance on credit cards. He also sheds light on the patience and persistence required to see debt relief progress, encouraging others that the process indeed works.You'll be encouraged from: How Ian and his wife managed to pay off a daunting debt while balancing full-time jobs and freelancing Why reducing interest rates played a key role in their financial success Insights into the emotional and practical journey from overwhelming debt to exhilarating financial freedomKey moments:(00:00) Job Loss and Debt Struggles(05:14) Understanding Financial Enrollment Process(07:23) Debt Risks: Interest and Steep Rates(11:31) Financial Success Through Early Action

Struggling with debt and worried about housing options? Discover how taking the first step towards financial wellness can change your life, as housing counselor Naomi Peden shares her insights on homeownership.Naomi talks about the impact of unmanageable debt on individuals' lives, emphasizing the emotional toll it can take, and highlights the significant importance of making an initial move, like contacting MMI for guidance. By understanding your own financial comfort zones, especially when aiming for goals such as homeownership, listeners can better navigate their financial journeys with the support of compassionate experts.Listeners will learn:The emotional and financial impact of debt on individuals and familiesThe significance of knowing your own financial bottom line in the pursuit of homeownershipThe supportive and judgment-free assistance MMI offers to clients on their path to financial wellness and debt management

Ali successfully paid off $17,000 in debt in just five years through Money Management International's (MMI) debt management plan. Ali shared how a job loss led him to accumulate debt across nine credit cards, with the highest balance reaching $7,000. Referred to MMI by one of his credit card companies, Barclays, Ali found solace and clarity through MMI's debt counseling services. You will learn about the pivotal role of debt consolidation in Ali's journey, as he described how MMI helped him condense his debt into one manageable payment, thus simplifying his financial obligations and making real progress on his balances. We also highlight the psychological benefits of debt management, as Ali explained how having a structured plan reduced his stress and restored his financial confidence. Additionally, Ali provided valuable advice for those struggling with debt, emphasizing the importance of recognizing when professional help is needed to effectively manage and pay off debts. Key insights: (00:00) Ali's story of consolidating Credit Cards (04:29) Debt consolidation and financial relief (08:40) The liberating feeling of being Debt Free

When the insurance company refused to pay, Rachel was stuck with $35,000 in unsecured debt. Rachel's story is not just one of financial recovery but also of dealing with life's unpredictability. A year after a significant car accident that left her with muscle skeletal issues, Rachel was sideswiped by another car. Thinking the driver's insurance would cover everything, Rachel put all the expenses on credit cards. Rachel to turned to MMI for help, a decision that ultimately alleviated her financial stress by consolidating her payments, reducing her interest rates, and helping her move past this horrible time in her life. Her account highlights the importance of financial counseling, with Rachel praising the simplicity and support offered by MMI. She speaks candidly about the lessons learned through her experience, such as the significance of living within one's means and having a robust financial plan. Key moments: (00:00) The plan to pay off medical debt when the insurance check came in (03:05) But then the insurance company refused to pay, leaving Rachel with over $28,000 in unsecured debt (07:18) Lesson learned: Avoid credit card debt; there's always a way forward despite challenges (10:46) Rachel's recommendation: Strictly managing your finances to address thumb issues and avoid high credit card interest (14:26) Moving forward: Being debt-free means overcoming financial challenges and breaking the stigma associated with debt Rachel was recently married and own their home in Colorado.

In the midst of a pandemic, Steve jumped into homeownership. Then tried to fix it up, and furnish it, then the 30-year old HVAC unit went out. Thinking it would take 20 years to get out of this new consumer debt, he contacted MMI - and it in just over 2 years! Listen to Steve's story about: (00:00) Buying a home during chaotic times and using credit for quick renovations. (03:43) Becoming overwhelmed and exploiting options like debt consolidation, which harms credit but reduces payments (08:41) Budgeting in an ongoing process and adjusting expenses regularly to manage high costs effectively. (10:39) Learning how MMI educates on personal finance to promote debt-free living, improving financial literacy not taught in schools. (13:14) Paying out of pocket for his final semester - and dreaming of better living and freedom

Joni had a six-figure income but was living off her credit cards. With over $62,000 in credit card debt, she was able to pay it off and build savings following MMI's debt management plan. Listen to her story of avoiding bankruptcy the emotional impact she experienced from her financial freedom journey. Key moments: (00:00) Multipreneur Joni shares her Debt Payoff Triumph story (06:29) She paid high-interest debt first and tracked her financial progress (08:46) Budgeting and financial education reduces the "debt stigma" (12:28) How financial changes impressed her partner (15:10) Joni's advice? Share your struggles and seek support

What does paying off $25,000 in debt look like? Jason from Redding, California, outlines his journey from financial strain to achieving significant financial milestones by paying off $25k in debt! He and his wife initially accumulated debt due to living expenses and attempts to enjoy life, which led him to seek assistance via his union's website. There, he discovered MMI, and with guidance from a representative named Crystal, he learned about their nonprofit service, which helps reduce interest rates on debt rather than providing loans. Jason explains how MMI's program consolidated their various debts into a manageable monthly payment, making it easier to pay off credit card and medical bills. The reduced interest rates and structured payment plan allowed Jason and his wife to save money and make significant progress on their debt. Jason emphasizes the importance of not living beyond one's means and the role of financial organizations like MMI in providing confidence and understanding to break the stigma associated with debt. Looking ahead, Jason shares that being nearly debt-free has given them peace of mind and financial flexibility, allowing them to enjoy date nights and purchase a better vehicle. He recommends MMI to anyone struggling with debt, crediting the program for his improved financial situation and the new opportunities it has afforded him and his wife. Tara closes the session by congratulating Jason on his achievements. Key moments: (02:27) Seeking Help for Debt Consolidation (03:07) Finding MMI through Union Resources (04:57) Discussing Options with Wife (05:50) How MMI Helped with Payments (06:54) The Importance of Lower Interest Rates (07:44) Including Different Types of Debt (08:21) Managing Hospital Bills with MMI (09:37) Avoiding Excessive Debt (10:36) Breaking the Stigma of Debt (12:02) Understanding Payment Plans (13:09) Freedom and Future Plans

Jessica shares her inspiring journey of raising her credit score to over 800 and paying off $32,000 in debt! Jessica recounts her initial struggle with debt and the shame associated with it. She found MMI after a friend suggested seeking help, and her first call with a debt counselor named Sandra was pivotal in setting a clear, manageable plan. The structured payment plan helped Jessica see an end to her financial troubles, allowing her to become debt-free a few months earlier than expected. Throughout the process, Jessica gained valuable financial literacy, learned to manage credit effectively, and utilized tools provided by MMI to better understand debt and credit management. She now aims to invest and continues to use credit responsibly, including leveraging points for travel. Jessica emphasizes the importance of such financial education for young adults and breaks down the stigma around debt by encouraging others to seek help. She highlights how MMI's support radically changed her financial life, enabling her to save money and look forward to future financial goals such as investing and potentially buying a home. Jessica ends by expressing immense gratitude to MMI for their life-changing assistance and shares her story in the hopes of encouraging others struggling with debt to seek similar help. Key moments: (01:50) Jesica's Moment of Realization About Debt (03:37) Her First Call with MMI Debt Counselors (04:17) Setting Up the Debt Payoff Plan (04:50) Significant Learning During Credit Counseling (05:50 Journey of Paying Off $32,000 (06:15) Monitoring Credit Score Progress (07:06) Using Credit Wisely for Future Purchases (08:45) The Importance of Acknowledging Debt (09:55) Embracing a Debt-Free Lifestyle and Future Goals (10:28) Refinancing and Other Financial Milestones (11:05) Understanding Credit and Its Benefits (12:07) Saving Money and Building Wealth After Debt

Nick, an IT manager from Long Island, shares his experience of paying off over $24,000 in debt through Money Management International (MMI). He highlights the importance of acknowledging the debt problem, cutting credit cards to control spending, and the relief that comes from having a clear end date for becoming debt-free. Tara and Nick discuss the benefits of lowered interest rates, streamlined payments, and the supportive relationship with MMI's counselors. Plus, Nick emphasizes the improved quality of life and family relationships that came with paying off his debt, as well as the newfound ability to enjoy vacations. He advises others in similar situations to take action and seek help from organizations like MMI. Key moments: (02:00) Turning Point in Nick's Financial Life (02:56) The Burden of $24.000 of Debt (03:02) Finding Motivation to Change (03:39) The Benefits of One Monthly Payment (04:11) Achieving Lower Interest Rates (05:05) Key Lessons from Debt Counseling (06:13) Feeling Supported in the Process (07:08) Importance of Budgeting Skills (08:17) Gaining Control Over Spending (09:04) Taking the First Step to Recovery (10:47) Overcoming the Debt Stigma (11:23) What it Means to be Debt Free

Podcasts are great because we can have deep conversations with meaningful impact as we share stories that are common to so many of us. This show from us here at MMI is so important because it's critical that we reduce the stigma around debt. Debt is something that's so very common and so many of us deal with it and yet we don't talk about it, but we really should. And so on this show, that's what we do. I'm Tara Alderete, MMI Director of Enterprise Learning. We'll talk about debt and more importantly, we'll normalize it so it can help folks understand how they can overcome debt and take steps to get out of the hole that they might find themselves in. We'd love for you to join us on this journey. Find out more at https://moneymanagement.org/podcast

Join us as we wrap up season three of the podcast with MMI staff Maura Attardi, the Director of Financial Wellness; Tara Alderete, the Director of Enterprise Learning; and Amy Lins, the Vice President of Customer Success. Adam and the team from MMI discuss the broad range of MMI clients, the services MMI offers, budgeting trends made popular by social media, and common scams with the financial industry.

Today on the show, three professionals join Adam to discuss all things student loans. Amy Lins is a Financial Educator at MMI, Adam Minsky is a Student Loan Attorney, and Zina Kumok is a Personal Finance Writer that specializes in student loans. Our three guests discuss loan repayment and forgiveness, how to apply for repayment initiatives, and the mental impact that student loans can have on the borrower.

Melissa John is an attorney from Salisbury, Massachusetts. In her twenties, she didn't have a strong grasp on how to responsibly use credit cards. This, mixed with some medical costs and law school tuition left Melissa entering her thirties with $70,000 of debt. When she reached out to a financial advisor, he recommended MMI. Now, in just three years, Melissa has paid off the debt and says that she's living in peace.

When Sarah found herself in $70,000 of credit card debt, she reached out to Money Management International for assistance in paying it all off. She first got into debt when she was in college and didn't have a strong understanding of how credit cards work. Now debt-free, Sarah is more intentional with her spending and advises people in similar situations to take action as soon as possible when paying off their debt.

Michael McKeaney is no stranger to debt, having gone into it multiple times in his life. However, during his second round of attempting to pay it off, Michael reached out to MMI in hopes of finding an easier way to reach his goal. With the help of MMI, Michael was able to pay off around $40,000 in just under five years and increase his credit score by 120 points. Now, Michael is able to regularly contribute to his savings while living debt-free.

Kristin Pierre is a freelance singer and model, as well as executive assistant from Weehawken, New Jersey. As a freelancer, Kristin found her income to be unpredictable and she quickly found herself racking up credit card debt from shopping. When she reached her breaking point, Kristin reached out to MMI and was immediately comforted by a MMI counselor. Now, Kristin has paid off $20,000 in five years and increased her credit score by 120 points.

Sami Johnson is a realtor and hairstylist from Athens, Georgia. After starting a retail job in her early 20's, Sami, a self-proclaimed “Shopaholic,” started accruing credit card debt from in-store credit cards. When she reached out to MMI, Sami had roughly 15 credit cards and $25,000 of debt. Now, five years later and with the help of MMI, Sami has paid off the debt and raised her credit score by 70.

Everett Lacey is a Poet and Photographer living in Columbia, Maryland. After a series of unexpected costs, Everett found himself in $26,000 of debt. With all of this debt quickly piling up, he had no idea what to do to ensure he could still pay his bills. It was at this point that he reached out to MMI. With the help of MMI, Everett was able to pay off the $26,000 and raise his credit score substantially.

Edidiong Obot is a graduate student living in Washington, D.C. During her undergrad, Edidiong first went into debt after buying a laptop with an Apple Credit Card. A few credit cards later, Edidiong found herself $30,000 in debt. After being recommended MMI, Edidiong connected with friendly and helpful counselors who helped her pay off that $30,000 in just over three years, while increasing her credit score by 60 points.

Gabriel Grant is a military veteran from Connecticut. After finding MMI online, Gabriel enrolled in a Debt Management Plan to help pay off the debt he incurred from building a home, all while going back to school and welcoming a child. Now, just three years later, Gabriel has paid off $25,000 and raised his credit score 50 points. Now, Gabriel can enjoy financial freedom in the comfort of his own home with his wife and daughter.

When Katie Sanders first graduated from college, she unknowingly lacked the financial education needed to make wise credit card decisions. After going to the doctor and charging it to her credit card, Katie was only able to make the minimum payments causing the interest to pile up. After connecting with MMI, Katie was able to pay off $30,000 in just three years. Now, Katie enjoys giving her daughter the life she deserves.

Ryan Revell is a mom of three, who after getting married, quickly spiralled into credit card debt. When her and her husband sat down and calculated just how much debt they had, they totalled up $28,000. Wanting to avoid filing for bankruptcy, Ryann and her husband decided to call Money Management International. In just five years, Ryann and her husband paid off their debt in full and now live a happier, less stressful life.

The goal of this episode is to provide an overview of what a Debt Management Plan is, who qualifies for one, and how to break down the stigma that often surrounds debt. Utilizing interviews with four subject matter experts, we will weave together a narrative that answers the following questions: What is a Debt Management Plan? How is a DMP different from other types of debt repayment programs? What are the best kinds of debt for a DMP? Why is debt so hard for Americans to talk about? How can individuals and families take control of their debt using an DMP? This episode will be the last episode of Season 2 of Long Story $hort. Episodes 1-12 focused on the real MMI clients who used a Debt Management Plan to pay off their debt in full and improve their credit scores.

Ericka L. Rutledge first ran into debt issues when she enrolled in grad school on the path to becoming a psychologist. Between the cost of living in New York City and the cost of tuition, practicum, and internship, her debt was building quickly, not to mention additional medical and childcare expenses. After she got in touch with Money Management International, she was able to pay off $33,000 in just four and a half years.

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with Leigh Phillips, where she challenges conventional perspectives on saving and debt reduction. Discover how Saverlife, a nonprofit financial tech company, leverages behavioral science to empower individuals in achieving financial goals. Learn about their innovative app that tracks expenses, builds better habits, and provides valuable resources for any types of workers. Explore strategies to maximize income, reduce expenses, and access government programs and utility discounts. Don't miss this episode that unveils the power of behavior in building wealth.

Marla Puckett has seen it all. Having recently celebrated 20 years as a Credit Counselor, Marla is an expert on helping consumers reach their financial goals. She is dedicated to providing personalized guidance to each client she encounters. Marla and Adam discuss the her experience in the last 20 years, stigma around debt, and “Spending Plans”. Stay tuned to the end because little does she know, Adam and MMI have a surprise for her.

Ilia Mack thought her finances were under control. She purchased a home and still had savings left over, until it came to fixing up the house. Underestimating the cost of repairs, along with exterminating a squatter raccoon left Ilia with $20,000 worth of debt. Ilia was put in touch with Money Management International to help pay off her growing debt. Three years after meeting with MMI, Ilia has paid off her debt and is now free to enjoy her life the way she wants to.

For Mike Clement, a septic tank was his ‘tipping point.' After he and his family moved to a larger house on four acres, unexpected repairs started piling up. Mike and his wife used store-sponsored credit cards to cover the costs. When their septic tank needed to be replaced, they took out a home equity loan. Mike knew he needed help. While working with the debt relief counselors at Money Management International, Mike paid off $72,000 of debt in 4.5 years and learned how to use credit responsibly.

When Paige Demontigny helped a family member pay for necessary but expensive name-brand prescriptions, she amassed unmanageable credit card debt. Paige's bank suggested contacting MMI for help. The debt relief counselors at Money Management International advocated on Paige's behalf by contacting her creditors and negotiating interest rates. With discipline and MMI's advocacy, Paige paid off $24,000 of credit card debt in just over 4.5 years.

After a difficult divorce and subsequent relocation, Annette Spychalla accumulated consumer debt that was too big to overcome alone. In this episode, Annette shares how she found the courage to face her problems and get help. With MMI's help, Annette paid off $20,000 of credit card debt in four years. Now working as a Jay Shetty certified life coach, Annette advises that anyone struggling with their relationship with money should get quiet and be radically honest with their beliefs and current situation.

After leaving an unhealthy relationship, Lauren Lazarus wanted a fresh start and rented a new apartment. As Lauren settled into the next chapter of her life, the temptation of furnishing her home with new items resulted in maxed-out credit cards. When Lauren didn't qualify for a much-needed education loan, she knew she needed help. Her mom suggested that she contact Money Management International. While working with the debt relief counselors at MMI, Lauren paid off $25,000 of debt in about 4.5 years. She also increased her credit score by 113 points along the way. Lauren describes the counselors at MMI as her guiding light; she worked hard while they cheered her on and kept her focused on the mission.

When Brittney Roberson's evening side hustles weren't tackling her credit card debt effectively, her mom suggested she contact Money Management International. Working with the credit counselors at MMI, Brittney made a big sacrifice — moving back home to live with her mom — to decrease her monthly expenses. Those sacrifices paid off, as Brittney was able to eliminate $57,000 of credit card debt in just over 2.5 years. Now living in her “promised land” in Charlotte, North Carolina, Brittney is free of debt and free to travel the world and give to her chosen causes.

Jared Walker believes that a medical emergency shouldn't be followed by a financial emergency. After watching his family go through a medical crisis, Jared founded Dollar For, a national nonprofit that crushes medical bills by empowering patients and advocating on their behalf. In this episode, Jared will share more about Dollar For and explain Charity Care, medical debt, and how you can overcome expensive hospital bills.

Jarred Butler's finances were stretched thin when unexpected medical expenses started piling up. As a busy dad of four kids, all under the age of 10, Jarred needed help. When he contacted MMI, he was pleasantly surprised by their expertise and encouragement. Since working with the debt relief counselors at Money Management International, Jarred paid off $30,000 in just over one and a half years, increasing his credit score by 100 points.

When we started working on this podcast back in April, our team wanted to accomplish a few things. One, we wanted to share the stories of MMI clients who conquered their debt and achieved financial freedom. Two, we hoped to inspire listeners that yes… they can do this too. And third… and this is kind of the “big one”… we wanted to peel back the layers of stigma, shame, and secrecy when it comes to talking about a thing that most Americans have… debt. So on every episode, we asked our guests this question: How do you think debt stigma impacts a person's willingness to seek help? As you can imagine, we got a bunch of different answers. Enough answers for us to think to ourselves… okay, we're on to something here. Let's dive deeper. So as we close Season 1, we want to dig into this issue and ultimately answer the question… why is money… taboo? Why does no one want to talk about money? How did we all, collectively, get the attitude that if we don't talk about our finances, we'll all master it on our own? We called in a few partners to bring expertise and perspective on the phenomenon we're calling: “The Money Taboo.”

Johnika Dreher lives in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, which is about 45 minutes east of Washington DC. While working with the debt relief counselors at MMI, she paid off $70,000 in debt. Johnika was recently awarded the Brighter Financial Future Award from the NFCC, or the National Foundation for Credit Counseling. On this episode, Johnika shares her story of finding guidance, getting on the right track, and celebrating success.

Demetrius Thrasher deployed with the Navy in Spain. While stationed in Europe, he became captivated by the luxury brands available at every corner. Thrasher opened several lines of credit, began accumulating debt, and ultimately faced the potential of losing his security clearance. After connecting with MMI, he paid off $90,000 in debt through years of hard work and dedication. Demetrius shares his debt payoff story in the company of Tara Alderete, the Director of Enterprise Learning at MMI, who works with MMI's Military Reconnect Outreach program.

Marlon Ibarra started using credit cards as a young college student with a newborn on the way. His relationship with credit has been tenuous, opening new lines of credit to accommodate his growing family and at one point navigating a scammy debt consolidation program. Once Marlon found MMI and began working with the debt relief counselors at Money Management International, he paid off $98,000 in just over four years, increasing his credit score 217 points along the way, and learned valuable lessons about understanding needs versus wants.

When Jackie Upshaw moved from Philadelphia to Las Vegas to help take care of her mom, she brought some credit card debt with her across the country. When Jackie realized she was just making it with her finances, she knew she needed help. After thorough research, Jackie decided to own her debt and started working with the credit counselors at MMI. Since starting her debt payoff journey, she paid off $36,000 and increased her credit score over 100 points… all in in just over four years!

Juan Pinon learned about MMI through his sister, who had her own debt payoff journey. Though Juan is highly educated, has a great job, and is viewed as the stable and successful one in his family, his spending was getting out of control. Through his hard work with the debt counselors at MMI, Juan paid off $47,000 and has increased his credit score by 129 points. He believes in the work that MMI is doing so much so that he now serves as a Peer Advocate, helping to educate and encourage new MMI clients in their financial journey and reminding them that they're not alone.

Deborah Wang was living life as she thought most people did. As a mom raising four kids in Anthem, Arizona, many of her family's expenses went on a credit card. When that credit card bill snowballed into an unmanageable amount, Deborah turned to MMI for help. Since working with the debt counselors at MMI, she paid off a staggering $30,000 in three years and increased her credit score by 144 points along the way. Having removed the burden of debt and its associated stress from her life, she now budgets and pays for things in cash, and most importantly… sleeps easy at night.

As the daughter of immigrants from South Korea, Joanne Lee was not taught about personal finance at home and talking about debt was taboo. When Joanne was overloaded with credit card debt, a Google search for help led her to MMI. While working with the debt relief counselors at MMI, she paid off $25,000 in three years and increased her credit score by 111 points. Now she serves as a Peer Advocate for MMI and shares her story to decrease the stigma around debt. Now free from debt, Joanne is excited to think and dream about her future.

Melissa Mehaffey is the first to admit that she needs two tries to learn her lesson. She worked with Money Management International twice after she was overwhelmed with credit card payments. Since working with the debt relief counselors at MMI, she has paid off $27,000 in five years, increasing her credit score by 85 points along the way. After her second debt payoff journey, she shares the lessons she's learned along the way: recognizing the difference between a want and a need and remembering what matters.

Jim Kline funded a lot of his 20s - both college and his early years as a teacher - through credit cards. When he entered his 30s, the combination of credit card payments and student loans overwhelmed him and he knew he needed to make a change. With the help of his partner, family, friends, and the counselors at MMI, Jim worked diligently to create a budget that worked for his lifestyle and educated himself on how to overcome his debt. Today Jim advocates for being active, not passive, with your personal finance.

Dr. Megan McCoy is a professor of practice in financial planning at Kansas State University and is also a licensed financial therapist, researcher, writer, and speaker. She is fascinated by the intersection of emotional well-being and financial health. Through her work as a professor and therapist, Dr. McCoy works to reduce debt stigma and start conversations about pursuing financial freedom and creating a game plan with your money that reflects your long-term goals.

Jordan Zangara's debt journey started when he was laid off from his job in New York City. When he later moved to Atlanta for a new career opportunity, Jordan began accumulating credit card debt while funding his arrival in a new city. When the pandemic hit, Jordan realized he needed to make a change in his financial future and contacted Money Management International for help. Since working with the debt relief counselors at MMI, he paid off $35,000 in 18 months.

Coming soon from Money Management International (MMI) - a podcast about debt that will make you feel a little less alone. We're stripping away the shame and guilt around the debt conversation and replacing it with unique, personal, and inspiring stories from real people. We know the journey out of debt is individual and deeply personal. On each episode, we'll attempt to make each guest's financial history and future a Long Story… Short. To make sure you never miss an episode, be sure to subscribe to this show wherever you get your podcasts. To find out more about Money Management International please visit: https://www.moneymanagement.org/