Debt vs. Savings: How to Prioritize Without Losing Peace | Ep. 206

In this episode of The New Money Habits Podcast, Coach Nino Villa responds to a listener question many people wrestle with:
Should you focus on paying off debt first — or saving money?

Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all rule, Nino explains why financial principles stay consistent while execution should flex based on real life. He walks through a phased approach to debt elimination, helping listeners understand how to prioritize different types of debt while still maintaining a savings buffer for peace of mind.

This episode covers:

  • How to think clearly about debt vs. savings

  • Why execution matters more than rigid rules

  • A phased strategy for tackling interest-bearing debt, non-interest debt, and charge-offs

  • The role of a “peace of mind” fund

  • Practical examples to help you apply these ideas to your own situation

If you’ve felt stuck between wanting to make progress on debt and needing financial stability, this episode offers a thoughtful framework to help you move forward with confidence.

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Music Credits
This episode features music by Summer School.

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