What should you do first when a paycheck suddenly stops?

Losing a job can feel like a financial and emotional gut punch, but it doesn’t have to define your future. This episode breaks down exactly what to do when income stops, from stabilizing your finances to rebuilding momentum without panic. It’s a realistic, no-fluff survival plan for turning a layoff into the first chapter of a comeback.

Topics Ben Matthews explores in this episode:

(01:38) How to mentally reset after a layoff and avoid panic-driven money decisions.
(02:30) Why freezing spending and filing for unemployment immediately protects your financial runway.
(03:32) How saving even small amounts restores control during financial uncertainty.
(04:25) Why using credit to survive a layoff often creates deeper financial damage.
(06:11) How to prioritize housing, food, and transportation over unsecured debt payments.
(07:03) Ways AI tools can help update resumes, prepare interviews, and uncover new career paths.
(10:43) How to approach side hustles safely without borrowing or burning out.
(14:25) Why small, intentional steps are the foundation of a real financial comeback.

Learn more: https://debtsucks.info
Talk with Ben Matthews: 803-799-1700

Subscribe to the Debt Sucks Podcast!

Apple: https://apple.co/3Fz2vXE
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vTVtMFd6BlbeA5gqTQW9i
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DebtSucksPod?sub_confirmation=1
Facebook: https://facebook.com/debtsuxspod
Instagram: https://instagram.com/debtsuckspod
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@debtsuckspod
X: https://x.com/debtsuckspod

The Debt Sucks Podcast is your fun, no-BS approach to debt relief. Say goodbye to stress, shame, and debt. Hosted by consumer bankruptcy attorney Ben Matthews, this is your weekly dose of real, relatable advice on crushing debt. If you’re dealing with mounting bills or sick of living paycheck to paycheck, we’re here to help you take control of your finances and find your way out.

This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

What habits from No Spend January are worth keeping all year long?

This episode will challenge you to move beyond short-term money challenges and build systems that last. It reframes No Spend January as practice, not punishment, and shows how intentional decisions now can change your entire year ahead. With practical steps for spending, saving, and using a tax refund wisely, this conversation focuses on creating calm, control, and momentum.

Be sure to download the Debt Sucks Starter Kit (Refund Edition) at https://debtsucks.info
Talk with Ben Matthews: 803-799-1700

Subscribe to the Debt Sucks Podcast!

Apple: https://apple.co/3Fz2vXE
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vTVtMFd6BlbeA5gqTQW9i
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DebtSucksPod?sub_confirmation=1

Facebook: https://facebook.com/debtsuxspod
Instagram: https://instagram.com/debtsuckspod
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The Debt Sucks Podcast is your fun, no-BS approach to debt relief. Say goodbye to stress, shame, and debt. Hosted by consumer bankruptcy attorney Ben Matthews, this is your weekly dose of real, relatable advice on crushing debt. If you’re dealing with mounting bills or sick of living paycheck to paycheck, we’re here to help you take control of your finances and find your way out.
This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

Have you ever done a no-spend challenge? How might doing a no-spend challenge reduce your financial stress?

This episode introduces No Spend January as a flexible, judgment-free way to reset spending habits without traditional budgeting pressure. You’ll hear about how to choose a challenge level, interrupt impulse spending, and redirect saved money toward stability and confidence.

Get your free No Spend January tracker: https://debtsucks.info
Talk with Ben Matthews: 803-799-1700

Subscribe to the Debt Sucks Podcast!

Apple: https://apple.co/3Fz2vXE
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vTVtMFd6BlbeA5gqTQW9i
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DebtSucksPod?sub_confirmation=1

Facebook: https://facebook.com/debtsuxspod
Instagram: https://instagram.com/debtsuckspod
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@debtsuckspod
X: https://x.com/debtsuckspod

The Debt Sucks Podcast is your fun, no-BS approach to debt relief. Say goodbye to stress, shame, and debt. Hosted by consumer bankruptcy attorney Ben Matthews, this is your weekly dose of real, relatable advice on crushing debt. If you’re dealing with mounting bills or sick of living paycheck to paycheck, we’re here to help you take control of your finances and find your way out.

This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

How can the financial wreckage of December be transformed into a win?

This episode breaks down seven practical money moves to help you recover from holiday spending and build momentum heading into the new year. It focuses on awareness, simplicity, and systems that make smart decisions easier without relying on motivation. The goal isn’t perfection, but steady progress built on clarity, forgiveness, and focus.

Learn more: https://debtsucks.info
Talk with Ben Matthews: 803-799-1700

Subscribe to the Debt Sucks Podcast!

Apple: https://apple.co/3Fz2vXE
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vTVtMFd6BlbeA5gqTQW9i
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DebtSucksPod?sub_confirmation=1

Facebook: https://facebook.com/debtsuxspod
Instagram: https://instagram.com/debtsuckspod
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@debtsuckspod
X: https://x.com/debtsuckspod

The Debt Sucks Podcast is your fun, no-BS approach to debt relief. Say goodbye to stress, shame, and debt. Hosted by consumer bankruptcy attorney Ben Matthews, this is your weekly dose of real, relatable advice on crushing debt. If you’re dealing with mounting bills or sick of living paycheck to paycheck, we’re here to help you take control of your finances and find your way out.

This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

How can holiday pressure push spending habits off track? Also, what are some options for giving meaningful gifts that weren’t purchased with credit cards?

This episode delivers a practical last-minute gift guide designed to help you survive Christmas Eve shopping without creating new financial stress. Ben and guest co-host Dorothy explore thoughtful, budget-friendly ideas that prioritize time, creativity, and experience over expensive purchases.

Topics that Ben Matthews and Dorothy Selmon explore in this episode:

(01:16) Creative non-material gift ideas are introduced as a way to show care without spending money.
(03:12) How simple DIY gifts that look expensive can be made quickly and affordably.
(04:57) Why subscription services are an easy, last-minute gift that continue providing value.
(08:33) Experience-based gifts are framed as long-term investments rather than short-term purchases.
(09:21) A listener question highlights the risks of using consolidation loans after holiday overspending.
(10:00) A step-by-step method is outlined for stopping new debt and systematically paying down balances.
(13:00) A holiday challenge encourages thoughtful giving without credit card regret.

Learn more: https://debtsucks.info

Talk with Ben Matthews: 803-799-1700

Subscribe to the Debt Sucks Podcast!

Apple: https://apple.co/3Fz2vXE
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vTVtMFd6BlbeA5gqTQW9i
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DebtSucksPod?sub_confirmation=1

Facebook: https://facebook.com/debtsuxspod
Instagram: https://instagram.com/debtsuckspod
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@debtsuckspod
X: https://x.com/debtsuckspod

The Debt Sucks Podcast is your fun, no-BS approach to debt relief. Say goodbye to stress, shame, and debt. Hosted by consumer bankruptcy attorney Ben Matthews, this is your weekly dose of real, relatable advice on crushing debt. If you’re dealing with mounting bills or sick of living paycheck to paycheck, we’re here to help you take control of your finances and find your way out.

This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

Why is right now possibly the worst time in decades to borrow money? Also, what can you do instead of borrowing money?

This episode explores why borrowing money in the current climate may be one of the most expensive financial decisions you make. High interest rates, risky loan structures, and aggressive lender tactics combine to trap borrowers into long-term stress and difficult repayments. Instead of borrowing, could you pause, protect your cash flow, and position yourself for better opportunities in the future?

Topics Ben Matthews explores in this episode:

(00:29) Why current interest rates make borrowing more expensive than in recent years.
(01:53) How variable, adjustable, balloon loans, and promotional credit cards quietly shift risk onto borrowers.
(04:05) Why lenders aggressively push easy approvals when people are financially stressed.
(05:27) How borrowing today directly limits future freedom and cash flow.
(06:41) When debt can be used responsibly.
(08:03) How a borrower’s mindset can become a reflex that keeps you financially stuck.
(09:22) A practical plan for freezing new debt and regaining control over your finances.
(11:00) When bankruptcy and a financial reset may be a smarter option than struggling alone.

Previous episodes mentioned in this episode:

The Money Mind Reset: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uH7yJyak8No
Silent But Wealthy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjiqehJ5J7c

Learn more: https://debtsucks.info
Talk with Ben Matthews: 803-799-1700

Subscribe to the Debt Sucks Podcast!

Apple: https://apple.co/3Fz2vXE
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vTVtMFd6BlbeA5gqTQW9i
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DebtSucksPod?sub_confirmation=1

Facebook: https://facebook.com/debtsuxspod
Instagram: https://instagram.com/debtsuckspod
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@debtsuckspod
X: https://x.com/debtsuckspod

The Debt Sucks Podcast is your fun, no-BS approach to debt relief. Say goodbye to stress, shame, and debt. Hosted by consumer bankruptcy attorney Ben Matthews, this is your weekly dose of real, relatable advice on crushing debt. If you’re dealing with mounting bills or sick of living paycheck to paycheck, we’re here to help you take control of your finances and find your way out.

This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

What risks are you taking when you use home equity to pay off unsecured debt?

This episode breaks down why borrowing against your home—through a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or a home equity sharing program like HomeTap—often creates more danger than relief. It highlights the long-term financial consequences of turning unsecured debt into debt tied to your house. Listeners learn smarter, safer strategies to tackle debt without risking their biggest asset.

Topics Ben Matthews explores in this episode: 

(00:39) Why using new loans to pay off debt often resets the problem instead of solving it.

(01:48) How HELOCs work.

(02:53) Why HELOCs may not be cheaper long-term, even with lower interest rates on paper.

(03:47) What home equity sharing programs like HomeTap really mean for your ability to sell or refinance.

(06:05) The legal differences between unsecured credit card debt and debt tied to your home. 

(07:20) A safer alternative to refinancing: how the piledriver method builds savings and reduces debt strategically.

(12:52) Why bankruptcy can be a tool for protection—not punishment—and how it may preserve your home better than refinancing ever will.

Learn more: https://debtsucks.info

Talk with Ben Matthews: 803-799-1700

Subscribe to the Debt Sucks Podcast! 

Apple: https://apple.co/3Fz2vXE 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vTVtMFd6BlbeA5gqTQW9i 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DebtSucksPod?sub_confirmation=1 

Facebook: https://facebook.com/debtsuxspod 

Instagram: https://instagram.com/debtsuckspod 

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@debtsuckspod 

X: https://x.com/debtsuckspod 

The Debt Sucks Podcast is your fun, no-BS approach to debt relief. Say goodbye to stress, shame, and debt. Hosted by consumer bankruptcy attorney Ben Matthews, this is your weekly dose of real, relatable advice on crushing debt. If you’re dealing with mounting bills or sick of living paycheck to paycheck, we’re here to help you take control of your finances and find your way out.

This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/ 

How confident are you that the debt you carry actually serves your future instead of sabotaging it?

This episode breaks down the real question behind debt: not whether it’s good or bad, but whether it’s being used with intention or out of impulse. Ben explains how mortgages, car loans, and certain types of educational or business debt can be tools when used wisely—but dangerous when driven by emotion, lifestyle pressure, or poor planning.

Topics Ben Matthews explores in this episode:

(0:55) Debt is defined as rented money and becomes dangerous when it shifts from tool to habit.
(3:02) The real question becomes what you are using debt for and whether you have a plan to exit it.
(4:40) Small, consistent extra mortgage payments can save years and tens of thousands in interest.
(6:09) Auto loans can be practical, but only when buying smart, avoiding identity-driven purchases.
(7:41) Student and business loans sit in the gray zone because their payoff isn’t guaranteed and can shift with the market.
(9:07) Being debt-free is framed as a direction rather than a mandatory destination.

Learn more: https://debtsucks.info
Talk with Ben Matthews: 803-799-1700

Subscribe to the Debt Sucks Podcast!

Apple: https://apple.co/3Fz2vXE
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vTVtMFd6BlbeA5gqTQW9i
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DebtSucksPod?sub_confirmation=1

Facebook: https://facebook.com/debtsuxspod
Instagram: https://instagram.com/debtsuckspod
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@debtsuckspod
X: https://x.com/debtsuckspod

The Debt Sucks Podcast is your fun, no-BS approach to debt relief. Say goodbye to stress, shame, and debt. Hosted by consumer bankruptcy attorney Ben Matthews, this is your weekly dose of real, relatable advice on crushing debt. If you’re dealing with mounting bills or sick of living paycheck to paycheck, we’re here to help you take control of your finances and find your way out.

This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

How can you enjoy the holidays without setting your bank account on fire?

This episode explores practical strategies to help you survive the Thanksgiving holiday season without wrecking your finances. From gratitude resets to Black Friday traps to the emotional pressure of family expectations, the message is simple: protect your wallet and your peace.

Topics Ben Matthews explores in this episode:

(1:24) Gratitude can be used to help you make smarter financial decisions.
(2:49) The link between social media highlight reels and overspending.
(3:07) Black Friday marketing tactics.
(4:18) How a “No Credit Christmas Tracker” can help you prevent holiday overspending and January regret.
(4:37) Family financial pressure during the holidays.
(6:13) The true purpose of a “sh!t happens fund” is explained through a real-life Thanksgiving emergency.
(7:49) The Thanksgiving “gratitude rock pile” challenge.

Download the No Credit Christmas Tracker at https://debtsucks.info
Talk with Ben Matthews: 803-799-1700

Subscribe to the Debt Sucks Podcast!

Apple: https://apple.co/3Fz2vXE
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vTVtMFd6BlbeA5gqTQW9i
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DebtSucksPod?sub_confirmation=1

Facebook: https://facebook.com/debtsuxspod
Instagram: https://instagram.com/debtsuckspod
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@debtsuckspod
X: https://x.com/debtsuckspod

The Debt Sucks Podcast is your fun, no-BS approach to debt relief. Say goodbye to stress, shame, and debt. Hosted by consumer bankruptcy attorney Ben Matthews, this is your weekly dose of real, relatable advice on crushing debt. If you’re dealing with mounting bills or sick of living paycheck to paycheck, we’re here to help you take control of your finances and find your way out.

This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

Are you making “normal” financial choices that secretly keep you broke?

This episode dives into the ten dumbest money mistakes people make—often thinking they’re smart financial moves. From credit card traps to social media spending and endless refinancing cycles, you’ll learn how small choices can snowball into lifelong debt.

Topics Ben Matthews explores in this episode:

(1:29) Why using credit like cash is a financial trap disguised as convenience.

(2:36) How failing to read the fine print leads to hidden costs.

(3:42) Why turning unsecured debt into secured debt puts your home and future at risk.

(4:22) How making minimum payments forever benefits banks, not you, and how to escape that cycle.

(5:24) How chasing appearances on social media leads to real-world financial pain.

(6:04) Why co-signing for family or friends often ends with your credit in ruins.

(7:08) The dangers of taking financial advice from influencers who value likes over logic.

(9:08) How refinancing without behavior change keeps you in a never-ending debt loop.

Learn more: https://debtsucks.info

Talk with Ben Matthews: 803-799-1700

Subscribe to the Debt Sucks Podcast!

Apple: https://apple.co/3Fz2vXE

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vTVtMFd6BlbeA5gqTQW9i

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DebtSucksPod?sub_confirmation=1

Facebook: https://facebook.com/debtsuxspod

Instagram: https://instagram.com/debtsuckspod

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@debtsuckspod

X: https://x.com/debtsuckspod

The Debt Sucks Podcast is your fun, no-BS approach to debt relief. Say goodbye to stress, shame, and debt. Hosted by consumer bankruptcy attorney Ben Matthews, this is your weekly dose of real, relatable advice on crushing debt. If you’re dealing with mounting bills or sick of living paycheck to paycheck, we’re here to help you take control of your finances and find your way out.

This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/