U.S. household debt has surpassed $18 trillion, and higher interest rates have changed how many people experience borrowing. This episode of Clear Money Talk takes an educational look at how rising debt fits into today's financial landscape and why it has become a more important topic in recent years. The discussion explores how different types of debt such as student loans, mortgages, credit cards, and auto loans can affect cash flow and long-term planning decisions. Tim and Tyler also unpack the often-overlooked "hidden cost" of debt, including how ongoing interest payments can influence financial flexibility over time. Topics covered include:

• Why debt feels different in a higher-interest-rate environment
• Which groups may feel the impact of rising debt more directly and which may not
• General frameworks commonly used to prioritize debt repayment
• An overview of snowball vs. avalanche payoff approaches
• High-level considerations around refinancing and consolidation
• The importance of balancing debt management with long-term saving habits