DFS: Kait Paid Off $62K Without Increasing Her Income, Here’s How She Did it – EP 429

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They often tell us that the way to pay off debt is to increase our income, but what if we tell you there’s a way to achieve it without all that hustle? In this episode, Jen and Jill are joined by Kait to uncover her inspiring journey and how she navigated her financial decisions and used her income and time wisely!

It’s okay to talk about money, you don’t have to sweep it under the rug!

Sponsors:

  • August. It’s back to school season and in addition to algebra and literature, why not teach your kids about money! A great way to start that is not gonna feel overwhelming is to teach them how to spend money! Open a HYSA for them at CIT and may the odds be ever in your favor.

Empowerment Through Inspiration

Kait is a registered nurse and has been married for five years. Her catalyst for starting her debt-free journey was a personal finance podcast that motivated her to organize her personal finances. Since then, Kait has transformed her financial situation through savings and an inheritance. As a result, she and her husband are now 100% debt-free, enjoying greater peace of mind and allocating more towards retirement savings.

Normalizing Financial Conversations Leads to Confidence

Kait had around $62,000 in debt, including student loans, a vehicle loan, and credit card debt, which she has been paying off for 10 months. One of the tips she shared is joint banking and shared financial responsibilities as a couple, as it made managing finances easier for them—providing accountability and simplifying logistics, budgeting, and transactions.

Her journey inspires us to also discuss money openly with others. Because opening up about personal finance makes learning, finding support, and normalizing financial well-being easier. Now, their next financial steps are focused on retirement planning and future enjoyment.

Debt Freedom without More Income

Kait reassures us that it’s okay not to be knowledgeable at first, emphasizing that learning about finances goes beyond books—like experience! She believes living within your means and embracing a modest lifestyle is important when on this journey.

One important factor for her is prioritizing financial goals over societal pressures and focusing on what truly brings happiness and contentment. She also emphasized the importance of planning for the future while also finding a balance in enjoying life in the present. Thus, providing a small portion for personal spending is necessary for guilt-free enjoyment!

How did you handle the temptation to spend money on non-essentials while paying off debt?

Jen has grown to love no-spending challenges because they challenge her to be better at not spending and to prioritize what she truly values. Jill permits herself to spend on specific items she values but would avoid places where she’s likely to overspend.

Bill of The Week

Thank you Cindy for sharing about your low student loan payment due to a helpful non-profit program!

Thanks so Much for Listening!

Thanks so much for listening. We love love love reading your kind reviews and we especially loved this one from:

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Not just abt frugality!

I love podcasts, minimalism, the journey to being completely debt free & a good sense of humor. These 2 are rocking my favorite things!

If you want to check out our monthly challenge community head to frugalfriendspodcast.com/club to see what challenge we have coming up next.

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