191 – Pay Off Debt First or Follow Your Passion?

191 – Pay Off Debt First or Follow Your Passion?

Author: Doug Hoyes April 28, 2018 Duration: 28:06

As a Licensed Insolvency Trustee, I'll always advise that you prioritize debt repayment. Why is it important to pay off debt first? So that you are no longer burdened by it. While that is the most prudent course of action, not everyone wants to wait until they are debt free before pursuing their dreams. For example, if you are a recent graduate, you might not want to delay starting a business until you've paid off all your debt.

This is exactly the decision that my guest, Alex Grodnik, made. Still owing $75,000 in student loan debt, he left a stable job to follow his passion. But, should you follow in his footsteps? Alex says it depends on the kind of person you are and if you're willing to take risks.

More on Alex's story, and some practical advice, on today's podcast.


Doug Hoyes sits down each week with a different specialist to untangle the complicated feelings and hard numbers around owing money. The conversations in Debt Free in 30 move beyond simple scare tactics or dry theory, focusing instead on actionable strategies for managing debt, rebuilding savings, and making informed investing choices. You’ll hear from trustees, financial planners, and counselors who explain concepts in plain language, stripping away the industry jargon that often leaves people feeling overwhelmed. Whether it’s navigating a consumer proposal, understanding credit scores, or starting to invest with a tight budget, this podcast provides a clear-eyed look at the steps toward financial stability. Doug’s approach is grounded and pragmatic, reflecting his deep expertise in the field, making each episode feel like a direct consultation with a knowledgeable guide. Tuning in regularly offers a consistent source of demystified advice, turning what can be a stressful topic into a manageable process. It’s that blend of expert insight and relatable conversation that defines this particular personal finance podcast.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 500

Debt Free in 30
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607 – Credit Score vs Cash Flow: What Actually Matters in a Crisis? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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605 – Owe CRA Tax Debt? The Biggest Loan Mistake Canadians Make [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:23
Owing money to the CRA can feel urgent, and taking out a loan might seem like the fastest way to fix it. But in many cases, it can make your situation worse. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos break down when borrowing to pay o…