Got debt to pay off? You might relate to Leo, a personal finance journalist who’s focused on financial stability over FIRE—at least for now. With six figures in student loans and credit card debt, Leo found themselves in a tough spot after being laid off with no safety net. Determined never to end up in that position again, they began chipping away at their debt, working toward financial peace of mind instead of a relentless grind to early retirement.

Leo shares why their approach to financial freedom is different. While they don’t want to wait until sixty-five to retire, they’ve crafted a “wealth plan” that balances paying off debt, building a safety net, and creating a better life today. 

In this episode, Leo dives deep into budgeting tips, debt repayment strategies, and the unique financial challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Tired of the all-out grind to FIRE and want “financial stability” instead? Leo has just what you need! 

In This Episode We Cover

Why financial stability can be just as important as the FIRE grind

Leo’s practical strategies for budgeting and paying off six-figure debt

How to create a wealth plan that supports your life—even while tackling debt

The sacrifices worth making (and the ones that aren’t!) in your financial journey

Why an “accountability buddy” is a cheat code for achieving your financial goals 

And So Much More!

Links from the Show

Mindy on BiggerPockets

Scott on BiggerPockets

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How to Pay Off Credit Card Debt FAST

00:00 Intro

03:41 Serious Credit Card Debt

06:26 Feeling Financial Shame?

08:40 Paying Down Six-Figure

10:33 Wealth "Planning"

13:37 Budgeting Their Debt Payoff

15:52 Financial Stability > Independence

20:06 Does FIRE Change You?

22:10 Best FIRE Advice?

26:23 Connect with Leo!

Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/money-593

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