Posts by ssolares

Okay, so debt generally stinks. I think we’ve established that in the last lesson. But sometimes you’ll hear people talk about good debt versus bad debt. Is there really a difference, or is it just a scam? What’s bad debt? Where do I start? Actually, let’s just assume that all debt is bad debt, unless…

Let’s start with the basics. Debt is when you owe someone for money you have borrowed. Debt is really digging yourself a hole. The more debt you have, the bigger your hole. Instead of paying yourself first and saving for your own goals, you have to pay back the debt you owe. If the goal…

We have two competing issues. On the one hand, talking about credit reports is mind-numbingly boring. On the other hand, talking about credit reports can save you several hundred thousand dollars. I mean, don’t get me wrong. I’m fond of money, but credit reports are sleep-inducing. It’s your call. Skip ahead to the next lesson,…

Houston, we have a problem. The title for this lesson is, “How Your Credit Score Is Calculated,” but here’s what we don’t know . . . how your score is calculated. Yeah, that’s kind of a big deal. If you are going to be graded and so much lies on getting a good grade, wouldn’t…

Imagine being just one class away from graduating and having the professor tell you that passing the class all hinges on taking one final exam. “No problem!” you think. You’re good under pressure. But then she tells you that you won’t have any idea what the test will be about. That’s not pressure. That’s insanity!…

I’m going to show you how to make $13 billion a year. Create a product that is irresistible, addictive, and just a little evil. Of course, you know what I’m talking about. Crack. Yes, I’m going to show you how to create a crack business. You are going to make billions by giving crack to…

If you’re going to have a credit card, and really, what are the chances I’ll actually talk you out of having a credit card, then please, at least practice safe charging. You can avoid most of the dangers of credit cards by thinking about these credit card rules: 1. Admit you are powerless and weak.…

The gift that keeps on giving… I’m so excited! I just bought a trucker hat, the Nookie Limp Bizkit album, Gigli movie tickets, and a Motorola StarTac flip phone. How cool is that? Yes, I’m aware that all this stuff was popular in the year 2000. But if you really need to know, I’ve been…

The problem with credit cards is . . . Oh, who am I kidding? Credit cards are awesome! You know it. I know it. You know I know it. Think about it. You get an idea for something you want. You don’t have any money. You pull out this magical plastic card and the thing…

Here’s a riddle for you. What’s hard to get but easy to lose? A girlfriend in high school. Sorry, too personal. The real answer is money, of course! Here’s a couple of tips I shared on CBS that may help you cut back a bit without even noticing. 1. Don’t budget. I know, I know.…