I have $23,000 Total In Debt — Which One Should I Pay Off First?
The Table with Anthony ONealPlay episode
Show notes
Most people are told to attack their debt in the "smartest" order — highest interest rate first. It's the math-correct move. So why do so many people who follow that exact advice quit before they ever get debt-free?
In this episode, Anthony breaks down the real story of a couple juggling five debts — from a $400 medical bill all the way up to a $13,000 student loan — and what happened when they tried the "correct" method versus what actually got them results. Backed by a 2012 study of over 6,000 real households, this episode settles the debt snowball vs. debt avalanche debate for good, and explains why momentum — not math — is what actually gets people out of debt.
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN:
- Why attacking your highest-interest debt first can actually cause you to quit
- What a study of 6,000+ households found about who actually becomes debt-free
- Why paying off a small debt fast can matter more than saving the most money
- The exact order to list and attack your debts (no interest-rate math required)
If you're tired of starting debt payoff plans and quitting in the middle, this episode will change how you think about where to start. And if you're ready for a full step-by-step plan, Anthony's new book, Stop Living Paycheck to Paycheck, walks you through the complete 5-phase debt-free roadmap — available now at https://www.anthonyoneal.com/book.
ABOUT ANTHONY ONEAL:
Anthony O'Neal is a nationally bestselling author, speaker, and host of The Table with Anthony O'Neal. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance & Banking and is a professor of Consumer Economics at Virginia Union University. Since 2014, he's helped millions of people get out of debt, build wealth, and break generational poverty. His mission is to help you maximize your income, eliminate debt, and create a life of freedom and legacy.
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This content is for educational and entertainment purposes only. I am not a licensed financial advisor. Please do your own research and consult a certified professional before making financial decisions.
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