Debt shapes the way people think, behave, and relate to one another. Many carry the weight of financial stress, shame, and fear in silence, even while presenting a stable and successful exterior.

In this episode, Scott Maderer of Inspired Stewardship joins Dan to share his personal journey from hidden debt and overwhelm to honesty, clarity, and long-term financial freedom. Together, they explore why debt so often becomes a secret, how financial stress impacts relationships, and why true change comes from behavior and consistency rather than perfect budgeting.

Key Talking Points:

• How debt quietly reshapes behavior, relationships, and daily decisions
• Why consumer culture and rising costs trap many households
• Why your debt plan does not need to be perfect to work
• How tools like the debt snowball rebuild confidence and momentum
• The difference between getting out of debt and staying debt-free

Escape The Clock Resources:

• The Book: www.escapetheclock.com/book
• The Planner: www.escapetheclock.com/planner
• 1:1 Help: www.escapetheclock.com/schedule
• Free Weekly Newsletter: www.escapetheclock.com/subscribe

Episode References/Resources:

• Average U.S. household debt exceeds $104,000 – Federal Reserve (2025)
• 43 percent of marriages cite money stress – Ramsey Solutions (2023)
• Written debt plans increase payoff success by 60 percent – Fidelity (2024)
• 80 percent of debt payoff attempts relapse within 18 months – Credit Counseling Society (2023)

Connect with Scott:

• Website: https://inspiredstewardship.com/escape
• Podcast: https://inspiredstewardship.com/podcast

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• Join the newsletter at www.escapetheclock.com/subscribe
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• Send your thoughts to contact@escapetheclock.com

This information is for educational purposes only and not financial advice. Consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance.