Real Stories Ep 55: Turning the Tide: Ben’s Financial Comeback

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Meet Ben, a man faced with many crossroads on his financial journey. Reflecting on his early work experience as a commercial fisherman, his struggles with debt during his first marriage, and the difficult decision to file for bankruptcy, Ben learned about money management like so many of us have: the hard way.

Despite using various tools to manage his cash flow, debt remained a barrier. Emphasizing his analytical approach to challenges, Ben explored debt settlement, consolidation loans, and finally GreenPath where a phone call would bring renewed optimism. His regrets—as well as his insights —are worth a listen for anyone navigating similar challenges.

Key Moments

1:25 Ben details his experience with money growing up.

4:58 He discusses how he struggled with debt in his first marriage.

6:26 He shares what he learned going through bankruptcy.

9:05 He talks about the tools he uses to manage his cash flow.

13:39 After Ben’s debt accumulates again, he uses a debt settlement service.

16:03 When his debt creeps up a decade later, he explores a debt consolidation loan and eventually starts a Debt Management Program with GreenPath.

19:53 He talks about his approach to doing a debt snowball versus a debt avalanche.

22:10 He recalls his experience interacting with GreenPath.

27:03 Ben describes his sacrifice in living without a car to support his budget.

32:20 He recounts how he retrained himself to change his spending and credit habits.

36:43 He regrets using cash advances to make a down payment on the land he purchased.

40:05 He discusses his financial goals such as home ownership and buying a car.