How Debt Really Works And Why Most Payoff Advice Fails
How Debt Really Works (And Why Most Payoff Advice Fails)
Before you focus on debt snowballs, avalanches, refinancing, or other payoff strategies, you need to understand how debt actually works.
In this video, I break down the foundation of smart debt payoff — including cash flow, how different types of debt behave, and why so much common debt advice falls short in real life.
We cover:
• Why debt payoff is a cash flow problem, not just a math problem
• How credit cards really work and why balances don’t fall on their own
• How lines of credit and HELOCs differ from other debt
• How amortized loans (mortgages, auto loans, personal loans) actually work
• Why interest is often called “front-loaded” — and what’s really happening
• A side-by-side example of a $100,000 loan at 6% over 5, 15, 30, and 100 years
This video is Part 1 of a two-part series.
In Part 2, I’ll walk through the actual strategies — debt snowball vs avalanche, refinancing and restructuring, and why velocity banking isn’t magic.
If you want to get out of debt the smart way, this is the foundation you need first.
⏭️ Up Next
👉 Part 2: How to Get Out of Debt the Smart Way (Step-by-Step)
[Link when published]
The escalating problem of consumer debt is a major concern, as rising interest rates and the cost of living crisis make it difficult for many to maintain their lifestyles. This video explains the mechanics of the debt trap and how credit card interest can cripple personal finance. Understanding these concepts is crucial for financial education and learning how to get out of debt effectively.
🔔 Subscribe for weekly videos on personal finance, debt, investing, and financial planning for middle-class families.
Subscribe Here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJoM14_FRzdVAK4awLISSDA?sub_confirmation=1
Come Join the School of Personal Finance
https://www.schoolofpersonalfinance.com
★ CONNECT WITH RICH ON SOCIAL★
▸Twitter: https://twitter.com/richmccormack/
▸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rich_mccormack_cfp/
▸Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/richmccormack
▸Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-mccormack/
This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. It is not a recommendation to buy or sell any specific security. The views expressed are those of School of Personal Finance and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. All investments involve risk, including the loss of principal.
