Feeling stuck under a mountain of debt? You're not alone, but there's a way out that's faster than you think. In this episode of The Debt Hotline, Hannah sits down with Adam Carroll, founder of The Shred Method, to reveal how everyday people can accelerate their debt payoff and achieve financial freedom in 3-7 years.

Adam brings over 20 years of financial education experience and shares the behavior modification system that's helped countless "shredders" eliminate student loans, credit cards, and even mortgages at lightning speed. He breaks down the shocking reality that most people don't actually own their income—and how to change that.

Sued for debt? Visit https://www.solosuit.com/?utm=podcast to resolve it.

Enter Solo's In-DEBT-ENDence Day Giveaway this July for a chance to win $4,700 to help pay off your debt: www.solosuit.com/giveaway?utm=podcast

In this week's episode of The Debt Hotline, you'll learn:

• How The Shred Method works and why traditional minimum payments keep you trapped
• Real success story: How one couple paid off 25 years of student loan debt in just 8 months
• The difference between "available money" and "accessible money" and why it matters
• Should you pay off debt first or start investing? Adam's controversial take
• How to optimize cash flow using a line of credit as a "behavior modification tool"
• Real listener Q&A covering mortgage strategies, retirement vs. debt payoff, and more

Key insights from Adam Carroll:

• Most people pay 83% interest, 17% principal on long-term loans—The Shred Method flips this
• "If you do for two years what most people won't do, you can do for the rest of your life what most people can't do"
• The goal isn't just paying off debt; it's owning 80-90% of every dollar you make
• Interest expense is typically the second-largest expense in people's lives
• $100K+ earners often wonder "where did the money go?" Shred fixes the leak

Hannah and Adam tackle real listener questions from people dealing with credit card debt, mortgages, student loans, and the classic dilemma of whether to cash out retirement accounts to pay off debt. They also dive into settlement strategies for those already in collections.

The bottom line: Debt doesn't have to be a life sentence. With the right system and mindset, you can break free faster than you ever thought possible and start building real wealth.

Want to learn more about The Shred Method? Visit https://www.theshredmethod.com/ to explore Adam's debt acceleration system. 

Use their free savings calculator at https://www.theshredmethod.com/savingsanalysis to see how quickly you could knock out your debts, and follow them on Instagram @the.shredmethod for ongoing tips and success stories.

To submit a question to The Debt Hotline, you can:

• Call 801-613-8181 and leave a voicemail
• Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/28gd4XFsq6ybN4Qu8
• Send an email to [email protected]

Facing IRS debt can feel overwhelming, but you have options. In this episode of The Debt Hotline, Hannah sits down with Jay Patrick, Director of Client Solutions at Tax Relief Helpers, to break down exactly how to negotiate with the IRS and avoid the worst-case scenarios.

Jay brings 15 years of experience in tax resolution and explains the three main ways to resolve IRS debt: offer in compromise, installment agreements, and currently non-collectible status. He also shares real-world insights on what happens when you ignore tax debt (spoiler: wage garnishments can reach up to 100% of your paycheck).

Sued for debt? Visit https://www.solosuit.com/?utm=podcast to resolve it.

Enter Solo’s In-DEBT-ENDence Day Giveaway this July for a chance to win $4700 to help pay off your debt: www.solosuit.com/giveaway.

In this week's episode of The Debt Hotline, you'll learn:

• What happens if you ignore IRS tax debt (wage garnishments, bank levies, and liens)
• Timeline from first notice to enforcement action (typically 6 months to 1 year)
• Three IRS resolution options: offer in compromise, installment agreements, and currently non-collectible status
• How IRS wage garnishments differ from other debt collectors (they can take much more)
• Real listener questions about reversing wage garnishments, prioritizing tax vss credit card debt, and protecting Social Security benefits

Key takeaways from Jay Patrick:

• The IRS can garnish 25-100% of wages depending on your income source
• Interest and penalties always accrue on tax debt, even with payment plans
• You must be current on all tax filings to negotiate effectively
• Social Security recipients have some protection from garnishment
• Communication is key, so don't ignore IRS notices

Hannah and Jay also tackle real listener questions, including advice for a self-employed person owing $18,000 during COVID, someone disputing unfiled returns from 2018-2019, and a Social Security recipient worried about benefit garnishment.

The bottom line: Tax problems are stressful but solvable. Taking action early gives you the most options for resolution. 

To submit a question to The Debt Hotline, you can:

• Call 801-613-8181 and leave a voicemail
• Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/28gd4XFsq6ybN4Qu8
• Send an email to [email protected]

Wondering if bankruptcy is right for you? Ben Jackson, co-founder of the nonprofit Upsolve, joins this live episode to answer real listener questions about filing bankruptcy, protecting your assets, and getting a fresh financial start. With personal experience eliminating $60,000 in debt through Chapter 7 bankruptcy, Ben shares expert insights on when bankruptcy makes sense and how to navigate the process.

Upsolve is America's largest bankruptcy nonprofit, having helped over 13,000 people eliminate more than $700 million in debt—completely free. Ben breaks down the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy, explains how to protect your home and assets, and addresses specific situations from medical debt to foreclosure prevention.

Sued for debt? Visit https://www.solosuit.com/?utm=podcast to resolve it.

In this week's episode of The Debt Hotline, you'll learn:

• How bankruptcy can protect your home through state exemption laws
• Why medical debt often leads to bankruptcy and how Chapter 7 eliminates it completely
• The automatic stay that stops foreclosure, wage garnishment, and collection calls immediately
• When Chapter 13 payment plans work better than a Chapter 7 fresh start
• How to handle complex inheritance and probate issues during debt collection
• Whether manufactured home loans and VA mortgages can be discharged
• Why $50 monthly investments after bankruptcy can create generational weath

Ben also tackles real listener questions:

• Filing bankruptcy while protecting home equity and assets
• Stopping foreclosure through both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy
• Dealing with payday loans, medical bills, and personal loans in bankruptcy
• Converting Chapter 13 to Chapter 7 after job loss
• Using statute of limitations as a defense in debt collection lawsuits
• Vacating default judgments and understanding dismissal vs winning at trial

Key insight: As Ben explains, the decision to file bankruptcy depends less on your total debt and more on whether that debt is holdin you back from financial progress. Once debt is eliminated, people typically see their credit scores and overall financial health improve because they're no longer stressed and can focus on building their future.

About Upsolve: The nonprofit organization helps people file Chapter 7 bankruptcy for free at upsolve.org, with a simple screening tool to determine eligibility. They've helped thousands of Americans eliminate overwhelming debt and get back on their feet financially.

Statute of Limitations Calculator: Solo offers a free tool to help determine if debt collectors can still legally sue you for old debts. The calculator at https://www.solosuit.com/posts/can-statute-of-limitations-be-extended helps you find out if the statute of limitations has expired on your debt based on your last payment date and state laws.

To submit a question to The Debt Hotline, you can:

• Call 801-613-8181 and leave a voicemail
• Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/28gd4XFsq6ybN4Qu8
• Send an email to [email protected]

Can you build wealth while dealing with debt? Former financial services lawyer turned FinTech innovator Feli Oikonomopoulou joins this week's The Debt Hotline episode to prove the answer is year. As founder and CEO of WealthMeUp, a gamified financial wellness platform, Feli shares practical strategies for integrating investing into your everyday life, even when you're managing existing debt.

With over 30 years of experience at institutions like Bank of America Merrill Lynch and the European Investment Fund, Feli brings a unique global perspective on debt and investing. She reveals how the US credit culture differs dramatically from Europe and shares five actionable tips for building wealth without waiting until you're completely debt-free:

1. Start investing small amounts immediately - even $10 per week while managing existing debt.
2. Prioritize high-interest debt while saving small - tackle credit cards first but still set aside money for investing.
3. Know the differences between good debt and bad debt - mortgages and student loans versus credit cards.
4. Automate your payments and savings - remove willpower from the equation.
5. Use technology tools - leverage apps and platforms to simplify both debt management and wealth building.

Sued for debt? Visit https://www.solosuit.com/?utm=podcast to resolve it.

In this week's episode of The Debt Hotline, you'll learn:

• Why you should start investing with just $10 per week even while paying off debt
• How to prioritize high-interest debt while still setting aside money for wealth building
• The difference between good debt (mortgages and student loans) and bad debt (credit cards)
• How to automate paymets and savings to remove willpower from the equation
• Why 80% of women drive consumer spending but only 36% use major investment platforms
• How WealthMeUp turns everyday purchases into automatic investments
• The European versus American approach to credit and borrowing.

Feli also answers real listener questions about:

• Starting investments while debt is still in collections
• Whether to pay off 20% iterest credit card debt before investing
• Learning investing basics without getting scammed by get-rich-quick schemes
• Finding investment apps that align with your personal values and goals

Key insight: Don't wait until you're debt-free to start building wealth. The key is making investing a habit and integrating it into your everyday life, which is exactly what WealthMeUp helps accomplish by automatically investing your cashback and rewards from purchases you're already making.

About WeathMeUp: The app partners with lifestyle brands to automatically invest your cashback and rewards instead of letting you spend them. Users complete a questionnaire about their values and financial goals, then receive curated investment portfolios that reflect both their risk tolerance and personal beliefs—whether that's supporting women-led companies, environmental initiatives, or specific industries.

Connect With Feli and WealthMeUp:

• Website: wealthmeup.ai
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wealthmeup/
• Instagram and Tiktok: @wealthmeup.ai
• Email: [email protected]
• Feli's personal email: [email protected]

To submit a question to The Debt Hotline, you can:

• Call 801-613-8181 and leave a voicemail
• Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/28gd4XFsq6ybN4Qu8
• Send an email to [email protected]

Getting sued for debt doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Joining The Debt Hotline today, attorney John Skiba explains exact steps to take when you’re served with a debt collection lawsuit:

1. Don’t Ignore It. The clock starts ticking the moment you’re served. That means you need to get an Answer filed and communicate with the attorney right away.
2. Leverage the Discloser Phase. Once your Answer is filed, the creditor is usually required to provide documentation, such as account records or proof they own the debt. This gives you valuable leverage in negotiations, so go through everything with a fine tooth comb.
3. Evaluate Expenses. Put together what John calls a Settlement Budget to help you assess what you can realistically afford.
4. Expect Pushback and Plan For It. Give yourself a little bit of wiggle room when you’re submitting a proposal.
5. Stay Consistent and Proactive. Remember, the main thing is action. You don’t want to let it default because that’s when things get really bad.

Sued for debt? Visit https://www.solosuit.com/?utm=podcast to resolve it.In this week's episode of The Debt Hotline, you'll learn:

• Why filing an Answer prevents default judgments and strengthens your negotiating position
• How initial disclosure documents give you leverage in settlement negotiations
• Why settlement offers aren't admissible in court (so you can negotiate freely)
• How to handle automatic withdrawals and potential FDCPA violations
• Why statute of limitations creates massive leverage for consumers
• The difference between secured debt (mortgages) and unsecured debt (credit cards)
• How to object when debt collectors fail to provide required disclosure

John also answers real listener questions about:

• What to do when collectors counter with the full debt amount
• Handling unexpected money withdrawals from payment plans
• Settlement strategies for post-statute of limitations debts
• Dealing with foreclosure threats and secured debt issues
• Using lack of disclosure as a defense in court
• Negotiating with Jefferson Capital and other debt buyers

Key takeaway: Communication and action are essential. Whether you're negotiating a settlement or preparing for court, taking proactive steps—like filing an Answer and requesting proper documentation—puts you in control of the outcome rather than letting collectors dictate terms.Special moment: Congratulations to Bianca Paez, winner of Solo's $4,700 debt payoff giveaway! Bianca plans to use the money to pay off two of her open collections accounts and try to settle her $11,000 lawsuit. Check it out the announcement here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5gZpdrDm7MTo submit a question to The Debt Hotline, you can:

• Call 801-613-8181 and leave a voicemail
• Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/28gd4XFsq6ybN4Qu8
• Send an email to [email protected]

Think debt disqualifies you from homeownership? Think again. Scott Griffin, a nationally recognized mortgage expert with over 25 years of experience, joins this week's episode to shatter myths about buying a home while managing debt.

Scott is the founder of Scott Griffin Financial, a licensed real estate broker who has advised Congress on housing reform and appears regularly on CNBC. In this eye-opening conversation, he reveals why 2025 is the "year of solution-based lending" and how programs like FHA 100 can get you into a home for under $1,000 out of pocket.

Sued for debt? Visit https://www.solosuit.com/?utm=podcast to resolve it and get on the path towards home ownership.

In this week's episode of The Debt Hotline, you'll learn:

• Why VA loans have NO minimum credit score requirement for veterans
• How the FHA 100 program covers your down payment AND closing costs
• Why paying off all your debt might actually hurt your credit score
• How to qualify for investment properties even with $30,000 in credit card debt
• How to take over someone's existing low-interest mortgage
• Why medical debt often doesn't count against mortgage applications
• The difference between mortgage brokers vs. banks (and why brokers win)

Scott also tackles real listener questions about:

• Whether to pay down revolving debt or charged-off accounts first
• Qualifying for second homes and investment properties with existing debt
• Getting approved with medical debt and credit scores around 620
• Understanding PMI removal and property tax strategies

Scott's contact information:

• Phone: 818-20-SCOTT (818-207-2688)
• Website: scottgriffin.com
• Serves California borrowers

Bottom line: Don't let debt derail your homeownership dreams. As Scott says, "If you pay rent, you can pay a house payment." The key is working with a knowledgeable mortgage broker who understands the full range of available programs.

To submit a question to The Debt Hotline, you can:

• Call 801-613-8181 and leave a voicemail
• Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/28gd4XFsq6ybN4Qu8
• Send an email to [email protected]

Getting served with a debt lawsuit? Don't panic—but don't ignore it either. Attorney Dennis Charney joins this week's episode of The Debt Hotline to share insider strategies for responding to debt collection lawsuits and protecting your rights in court.

Dennis brings over 20 years of legal experience (plus he's a helicopter pilot in his spare time!) to break down exactly what happens when you're sued for debt and how to fight back effectively. Whether you're facing a credit card lawsuit, medical debt collection, or dealing with aggressive debt buyers, this episode gives you the roadmap to respond properly and avoid costly mistakes.

Sued for debt? Visit https://www.solosuit.com/?utm=podcast to resolve it.

The clock starts ticking the moment you're served. Dennis explains why filing an Answer is absolutely critical—and why 95% of people lose their cases simply by doing nothing. He also reveals a powerful strategy that debt collectors hate: demanding arbitration under your original credit card agreement.

In this week's episode of The Debt Hotline, you'll learn:

• How long you have to respond (varies by state: 20-45 days)
• The exact strategy for filing an Answer that puts you in control
• Why demanding arbitration can force collectors to spend thousands while giving you massive leverage
• How to use debt validation letters before lawsuits even start
• What happens if a judge refuses your arbitration request (and how to fight back)

Dennis and George also tackle real listener questions, including:

• What to do if you missed court and got a default judgment
• How to negotiate when you're already making payments on a lawsuit
• Whether calling the attorney directly helps with small medical debts
• How to handle situations where hospitals can't even find your old bills
• Protection strategies for Social Security recipients

Remember: debt collectors prefer getting something over nothing, and they definitely prefer settling over fighting. When you respond properly, you hold the cards.To submit a question to The Debt Hotline, you can:

• Call 801-613-8181 and leave a voicemail
• Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/28gd4XFsq6ybN4Qu8
• Send an email to [email protected]

If you’re staring down debt and wondering if bankruptcy might be the right option, this episode is a must-listen. Ben Jackson joins this week’s episode of The Debt Hotline to share his personal bankruptcy experience and expert tips on how to navigate the whole bankruptcy process. 

Ben is the Co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Upsolve, a nonprofit that’s helped hundreds of thousands of people file bankruptcy without having to hire an attorney. Plus, Ben explains how he personally resolved more than $60,000 of debt through bankruptcy, and how it helped him find financial freedom and eventually become a homeowner.   

If you’re considering bankruptcy and struggling with debt, enter Solo’s Debt Payoff Giveaway for a chance to win $4,700 towards paying off your debt from now until June 4th: https://get.solosuit.com/giveaway?utm_source=podcast

Sued for debt? Visit https://www.solosuit.com/?utm=podcast to resolve it.

In this week’s episode of The Debt Hotline, you’ll learn: 

• When it makes sense to respond to a lawsuit vs when to consider bankruptcy
• How long the bankruptcy process takes
• How bankruptcy affects your credit
• HHow to protect your assets, including your home

Ben and George also answer real listener questions about wage garnishment, arbitration, and what to do if your credit report isn’t updating properly after discharge. Here are some important tips if you’re considering bankruptcy:

• You can file Chapter 7 bankruptcy for free using Upsolve.org no lawyer required.
• Filing bankruptcy stops most lawsuits and wage garnishments, but timing matters.
• Responding to a debt lawsuit first is critical—even if you plan to file bankruptcy later.
• Most people erase $40K–$100K in debt and only pay a $338 court fee (often waived).
• Common DIY mistakes include using the wrong forms and missing key deadlines.

To submit a question to The Debt Hotline, you can:

• Call 801-613-8181 and leave a voicemail
• Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/28gd4XFsq6ybN4Qu8
• Send an email to [email protected]

Predatory lending traps millions of Americans in debt cycles with interest rates as high as 600%. Law professor Nathalie Martin joins us to expose the shocking truth behind payday loans, title loans, and internet installment loans.


Sued for debt? Use Solo to resolve it:

https://www.solosuit.com/?utm=podcast 
Nathalie reveals how these loans target vulnerable communities with interest rates that would be illegal in many states. While 400% interest on payday loans sounds extreme, she explains that in states like Texas, rates can legally reach an astounding 662% with no effective cap. She also breaks down the differences between various predatory loans and how title loans can cause people to lose their vehicles—often their last valuable asset.
In today's episode, you'll discover:

• Why 75% of lender revenue comes from borrowers who take 10+ loans per year
• How predatory loans are designed to be "easy to get into and hard to get out of"
• The state-by-state patchwork of interest rate caps (and where there are none)
• Why most borrowers use high-interest loans for basic expenses, not emergencies
• Practical strategies for escaping predatory loan cycles when you're already trapped

Whether you're struggling with payday loans, title loans, or considering a high-interest borrowing option, this episode provides critical information to protect your financial future. Solo can help you respond to debt collection lawsuits, and SoloSettle makes debt negotiation straightforward—giving you the tools to break free from predatory debt.

You can also enter Solo's Debt Payoff Giveaway for a chance to win $4,700 towards paying off your debt from now until June 4th: get.solosuit.com/giveaway
To submit a question to The Debt Hotline, you can:

• Call 801-613-8181 and leave a voicemail
• Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/28gd4XFsq6ybN4Qu8
• Send an email to [email protected]