Student Loan Planner

When you graduate from college, you probably have a negative net worth from student loan debt. But is your negative net worth really the problem? Join me as I talk about ways to grow your assets through four proven strategies that can work no matter how high your student loan debt is. In today's episode, you'll find out: Why negative net worth isn't the problem The two types of accounts you should be investing in The minimum amount to contribute to investment accounts Why borrowers are putting more at risk by not taking risks What a rental debt snowball is and how it can grow your wealth The truth about negative net worth being a tax instead of a debt How avoiding bad business decisions can double your net worth Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/57

Saying student loan debt isn't that big a deal is a loaded statement. But it's true! In this episode, I talk about why your loans don't matter as much as you think they do. I also go over five common high-debt career paths and share strategies to make it work to your advantage, no matter what your income is. In today's episode, you'll find out: Why your student loans aren't what's holding you back A simple mindset shift to ease your anxiety Why going from chiropractor to physician assistant can be a smart financial move How owning a practice can increase your income and decrease your student loan payment The best career for making $50k a year while working just three days a week How private practice can be better than PSLF for physicians Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/56

Dr. Ben White is has been helping medical students, residents, other physicians, and everyone else manage their student loans since 2009. He's also and author, speaker, and board-certified subspecialized neuroradiologist. Today, I talk with Dr. White about PSLF and get his thoughts on controversial repayment strategies and the future of the program. In today's episode, you'll find out: Future changes Dr. White expects to see with PSLF Why a common sense approach to student loans doesn't work Why most student loan borrowers are on the wrong repayment plan Dr. White's thoughts on controversial repayment strategies The legal loophole for Parent PLUS loans Why a 1% acceptance rate for PSLF makes sense How the annual budget of NASA compares to loan forgiveness How to mitigate the opportunity cost of medical training Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/55

The holidays are fast approaching and I know what you're thinking: what should I get for the student loan borrowers on my list this year? In this episode, I go over the top 21 gifts that would make a big impact on the lives of student loan borrowers. In today's episode, you'll find out: Why the public library is one of the best places to hang out When to use the cash back from refinancing your loan to splurge How to turn the gift of cash from ho-hum to something memorable The best way to ask for a raise to put more money in your pocket Why getting married is a wonderful thing for student loan borrowers What games I play on my iPad while waiting on hold to talk to a real person How the gift of courage can change your life Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/54

Student loan debt is a growing problem and a hot topic in the media. I asked the Student Loan Planner community how they would solve the student loan crisis, and the results were not what I expected. Join me as I go into the details about how listeners feel about the growing problem of student loan debt. In today's episode, you'll find out: How important student loan reform is to voters What borrowers think student loan reform should look like The reason most people would opt for treating student loans like a tax Why lower student loan interest rates won't fix the problem How a student loan tax would affect retirement savings How the Biden Plan compares to the Trump Plan Why past student loan reform proposals failed Whether eliminating the tax bomb is sustainable Why the future of student loans depends on the private loan market Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/53

Savanna Perry is a Physician Assistant and founder of ThePAplatform.com, a site where she shares insider tips to help others navigate the journey to becoming a PA. Today, I ask Savanna how to pick the best program, what the requirements are to get in, and whether the cost of the program is worth it in the end. In today's episode, you'll find out: How being a PA can bring balance and flexibility to your life Why Savanna chose a public program over a private program How PA programs compare to med school The trick to go from $200k in student loan debt to $80k Whether private or federal student loans are better for PA school How Savanna was able to pay off your student loan debt so quickly Career opportunities and salary expectations for PAs Why becoming a PA is a great choice for a second career Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/52

Ryan Inman, the host of the Financial Residency podcast and founder of Physician Wealth Services, shares the biggest mistakes he's seen physicians make when it comes to student loan debt. I talk with Ryan about the state of PSLF and why hiring a financial planner isn't right for everyone. In today's episode, you'll find out: The trick to making PSLF work for physicians The real reason behind PSLF rejections Why worrying about whether PSLF will still be around isn't the biggest problem Why not everyone should work with a financial planner How a physician made a mistake that cost half a million dollars What the future of PSLF might look like The 10-step plan that Ryan uses in his financial planning business How hiring a financial planner is like working with a personal trainer Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/51

In this monumental 50th episode, I'm taking you back in time on my journey of starting this thing called Student Loan Planner. Here's the story of why I feel deeply called to helping you and others like you make sense of your finances and what I've learned over the past 3 years of working full-time in the world of student loans. In today's episode, you'll find out: Why some school are honest and others are downright profit-hungry Why colleges foot the bill for flights, hotels, meals, and more when you agree to a tour The things people put too much focus on when it comes to personal finance The only three areas you need to focus on to make your money work for you The secret I've learned to increase your savings rate What happens when you think in terms of value rather than cost What I think about the future of student loans The crucial piece that most people miss when it comes to investing The biggest worry about I have about running Student Loan Planner Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/50

Leif is well-known in the personal finance space as the Physician on FIRE. He runs a website by the same name to inspire physicians and their patients to live a life of financial independence and early retirement. In this episode, I talk with Leif about his strategy of becoming financially independent and getting the most out of your money. In today's episode, you'll find out: The trick physicians can use to create more freedom with locum tenens How to leverage your income to retire before traditional retirement age How Leif escaped undergrad with no student loan debt Leif's thoughts about pursuing loan forgiveness as an anesthesiologist How you can have a better lifestyle with student loan debt When it makes sense to consider PSLF as a physician The risk of taking over a mom-and-pop medical practice What Leif says is the best return on investment of different medical specialties The reasons people start to feel "burned out" by practicing medicine The two big things Leif chooses to splurge on Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/49

Student loan refinancing can be a big help to your financial goals. But some refi strategies can make it so you can't buy a house or start a business. In this episode, I'll talk about when a refi makes sense for you and discuss how the economy, a recession, and changing interest rates factor into your decision. In today's episode, you'll find out: What is a refi ladder and can it work for you How doing more than one refi can be a smart move The reason to refi to a longer term at a higher interest rate Why you shouldn't worry about your credit score when you refinance The risk of going with an aggressive repayment strategy How your student loans can impact buying a house or starting a business How government interest impacts the interest you pay What would happen to student loan interest rates in a recession When variable rates are a smart move in your refi strategy Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/48

Robert Berger, Deputy Editor at Forbes and author of Retire Before Mom and Dad, is passionate about helping others build financial independence. In this episode, I talk with Robert about how to plan for retirement and the seven levels you need to reach financial freedom. In today's episode, you'll find out: What "retirement" can look like for you The seven levels of financial independence Is the 4% rule still relevant? How student loan borrowers can reach financial independence What is the "money audit" and how it can help cut your spending Why cars are a financial freedom killer What retirement account is the best first step to investing Why expense ratios are a huge factor in investing How to experiment with your finances to increase your savings Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/47

There are many reasons you should start a business. Business owners tend to make more money than associates. A business owner could pay less taxes than an associate, too. Overhead is often 45% to 60% depending on the practice, which means profit would be 40% to 55% instead of 28% to 33% as an associate. I spell out all the benefits of owning a business. In today's episode, you'll find out: Why you should start a business now even if you have student loans What makes the risk of being an entrepreneur lower than you think Why a dentist probably shouldn't open a restaurant business Legal write-offs to save 50% or more in taxes Why adding your spouse to your payroll can help the business How self-funded pension plans can fuel your retirement The advantage of a fiduciary financial planner for your business Why private practice is a better choice than PSLF How your business can help your REPAYE subsidy For more information, visit the show notes at https://www.studentloanplanner.com/why-start-business/

Reese Harper, a Certified Financial Planner and founder of Dentist Advisor, specializes in financial planning for dentists. In this episode, learn his thoughts on the financial planning industry, how to be successful running a dental business and whether now is the best time in history to be a dentist. In today's episode, you'll find out: How Reese got started with his firm His thoughts on the financial planning industry Conflicts of interest in financial planning The typical wealth and income Reese sees with his dentist clients How DSOs (Dental Support Organizations) are affecting dentistry What to focus on early in your dental career Why there's a place for different business models in dentistry Why dentists have to think about the business side of things Why trust is everything in a producer-consumer relationship Reese's thoughts on a fair price for a financial planner How income and net worth impact the cost of a financial adviser Is now the best time in history to be a dentist? Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/45

Why do so many financial advisers give lousy student loan advice? In this episode, the Student Loan Planner consultants — Travis Hornsby, Justin Harvey, Rob Bertman and Lauryn Williams — discuss what to look for in a financial adviser, what leads to this bad advice and why an experienced financial adviser is key. In today's episode, you'll find out: What to look for in a good financial adviser Why financial advisers need to disclose all conflicts of interest Why Student Loan Planner isn't a fiduciary investment adviser How Student Loan Planner can provide the best cash-back bonuses Why most financial advisers aren't expert on niche topics What could lead a financial adviser to give poor advice Why paying a hefty fee for an adviser isn't always a bad thing How good information lets you make sound financial decisions Why you need to interview potential financial advisers How not having enough experience leads to bad advice Why student loan strategies are foreign for many advisers Why finding an experienced financial adviser is key Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/44

Trent and Somer are the first couple in history to both get tax-free student loan forgiveness through the Temporary Expanded Public Service Loan Forgiveness (TEPSLF) program. Learn about how they qualified, their journey to forgiveness and their advice for those looking to do the same. In today's episode, you'll find out: How much student loan debt Somer and Trent graduated with How they managed to get Direct Loans What it was like for Trent to consolidate his loans in the late-2000s. How Trent ended up with five years not counting toward TEPSLF How Somer was signed up for the wrong repayment plan When their loans went to FedLoan Servicing How changing your name can cause student loan problems Why Trent's TEPSLF was a little harder to process Trent's reaction to finding out his student loans were forgiven Somer's emotions when she saw her loans had also been forgiven Somer's thoughts on why loan forgiveness isn't just free money The steps to qualify for TEPSLF Trent and Somer's advice for those going for TEPSLF Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/43

Using the refinancing ladder strategy can help student loan borrowers get out of debt much faster. In this episode, learn how the refinancing ladder works for refinancing student loans — and how to decide if refinancing is right for you. In today's episode, you'll find out: • What is the refinancing ladder strategy? • When is refinancing a good decision? • Why you shouldn't refinance federal loans too soon • What, exactly, is student loan refinancing? • How student loan refinancing differs from other refinancing • How Student Loan Planner's cash-back bonuses work • The differences between short-term and long-term refinancing • How to calculate your payment with various loan terms • How many times do people generally refinance? • How to use the refinancing ladder strategy • Should you go with a variable or fixed rate? • How historic refinancing rates compare to the rates of today • How variable rates are calculated • Why don't more people refinance their student loans? • Why putting off your financial health is unwise • How lenders profit from borrowers who don't know to refinance • Who should and shouldn't refinance their student loans • Benefits of using the refinancing ladder with cash-back bonuses Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/42

Do you wonder why our student loan plan consult form has you give so much information? Hear the Student Loan Planner consultants — Travis Hornsby, Justin Harvey, Rob Bertman and Lauryn Williams — break down all 26 questions and explain how your plan is unique. In today's episode, you'll find out: How the consultants react to learning someone's occupation Why the consultants want to know what metro area you're How community property states affect student loans How your choice of school might influence your loans The consultants' thinking on different loan balances Why knowing the different kinds of loans you have is crucial How your income affects possibly refinancing Why your payoff plan involves your projected income How interest works with student loans What your retirement savings lets the consultants know How savings illustrates your financial mindset Why the date you took out your loans matters How the consultants make a plan based on your information What your spending level indicates How both empathy and being realistic plays into your plan Why savings versus debt matters How family size factors in How Parent PLUS Loans and PSLF factor into the consult Why filling out the entire consult form is critical Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/41

Most people are committing financial sins of omission — not doing things because they're too complicated. In this episode, see how anything from bad website designs to having too many options can cause financial inertia — and how setting up automatic plans can help. In today's episode, you'll find out: How is Vanguard's website design costing people money Why people use robo-advisers instead of companies like Vanguard Why developing the habit of investing is important How a "nudge" works in finances How student loans could be more simple to deal with What financial sins of omission might you be committing right now How the economy shifting pushed people to start investing Why automatic financial plans are so important How to avoid having complexity cost you money How schools convince people to borrow so much money Examples of people unable to handle so many financial options Is taking time off from Public Service Loan Forgiveness OK? How alternative documentation of income works Why it's important to not let student loans dictate your life Refinancing rates are lower than they've been in a long time Why you should book a student loan consultation now Why you should apply for the Student Loan Planner scholarship Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/40

In today's exciting episode, hear questions directly from the Student Loan Planner audience, covering topics ranging from financing a car to preparing for a massive student loan bill, with each question answered by Travis. In today's episode, you'll find out: Is financing a car ever a good idea? How to best prepare for the tax bomb on an income-driven plan How student loans can affect buying a home Should you pay down student loans before buying a house? Should you wait until after your grace period to refinance? Is it better to go for a physician or traditional mortgage? How to prepare for a large student loan bill after graduation Is refinancing a mortgage worth it, despite closing costs? Why it's often good for dentists to buy their own practice Why getting a custom plan from us could be life-changing Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/39

Jake wants to attend dental school while Carissa has enrolled in an occupational therapy program. See how they plan to finance their educations and why going for student loan forgiveness is a better option than Carissa's parents paying for grad school. In today's episode, you'll find out: How Jake and Carissa decided on their specific programs How their choice of schools affects their future student debt Their plan for future work post-graduation Carissa's plan for financing her degree Why parents helping pay for grad school can be a bad idea Why PSLF is a good gamble Possible scenarios if Carissa chose to work in the private sector Why trading PSLF away isn't a good deal Why Travis recommends Jake and Carissa borrow the max amount The possible future of tax bombs — and why it's political The low downside risk of PSLF and tax bombs Should you pay interest or investigate forgiveness while in school? Why don't we hear more about student loan forgiveness? When refinancing can also be a valuable option Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/38

We can sweat the small stuff — like Netflix subscriptions or gym memberships or daily lattes. But sweating the big stuff — like housing and car purchases — is most important for your financial health. See how these big-ticket items can affect your finances — and what to do about it. In today's episode, you'll find out: How buying too much house leads to financial train wrecks Why having too many cars isn't a good financial decision Why buying a latte every day doesn't have much of an impact How not budgeting for compounded expenses leads to problems How much to set aside for housing expenses How price-to-rent ratio works Price-to-rent ratios in major U.S. cities How life changes affect whether to rent or buy a house How reducing high-expense items alleviates financial stress Possible ways to reduce big child-care expenses How family support expenses can get out of control Other big-ticket items to examine How to approach big-ticket purchases Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/37

Most people don't seem to like their student loan servicer — and for good reason. Here are the 10 most common student loan servicer mess-ups and why they happen. In today's episode, you'll find out: The 10 most common student loan servicer mess-ups Why servicers urge switching to Revised Pay As You Earn (REPAYE) How switching to REPAYE can hurt some borrowers Why inaccurate payment counts for loan forgiveness happen How to get your payment count fixed Why inaccurately reporting your spouse's income is a bad idea How to find out the repayment plan you're actually on Why you shouldn't wait on Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Why you should use your tax returns to report your income How "paid ahead" status happens Why servicers will sometimes put you in forbearance or deferment Why servicers will avoid answering questions Why servicers don't always tell you about your loan options How did loan servicing get this bad? Congress' role in bad student loan servicing Why the government won't spend on better loan servicing What incentives might improve student loan servicing Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/36

Do you have a good savings rate? What is a good savings rate anyway? In this episode, learn why a high savings rate is so critical — and how to secure one for yourself. In today's episode, you'll find out: How do you define a savings rate? The history of savings rates in the U.S. How advertisements might have affected savings rates Where the current average national savings rate has settled How having six figures of student loan debt should affect your savings rate The saving statistics of the Student Loan Planner audience Our recommended savings rate How savings rates affect taking risks or changing your situation What a savings rate can get you in terms of retirement Five ways to fix a bad savings rate Why a savings rate is more important than a student loan strategy How to start saving with a better rate Why avoiding money paralysis is imperative Why considering a fee-only fiduciary financial planner is wise Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/35

Are private student loans worth it in comparison to federal loans? In this episode, learn how your degree path and future plans affect whether private loans should be on your radar, whether they're a good idea for parents and grad students, and situations where they're the worst option. In today's episode, you'll find out: How credit risk impacts your private student loan interest rate How your degree path affects whether private loans are a good decision Why you might take out a private loan instead of waiting to refinance Borrowing limits for Stafford Loans How Parent PLUS Loans come into the picture Why Parent PLUS Loans are such a burden Is a private loan better than a Parent PLUS Loan? Should private loans be used for graduate school? A rule of thumb for how much private loans can save you vs. Grad PLUS How a private loan payment could affect your financial goals Why an additive payment is bad news Fields with higher Stafford Loan limits Situations where private loans are the worst option Why overestimating your potential earnings can hurt you Why private loans might make a big comeback How an interest rate offer shows whether a degree choice is sound Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/34

Jordan Lee is the CEO and co-founder of CollegeBacker, a startup that helps people start 529 college savings plans. In this episode, learn what a 529 plan is, why it's so important and how to get started. In today's episode, you'll find out: What led Jordan to co-founding CollegeBacker How a 529 plan works The impact of saving when your child is young What counts as a qualified expense for a 529 Tax benefits of a 529 What's a good annual contribution Should a 529 be priority over retirement savings? What superfunding is How to calculate what to save in a 529 How friends and family can contribute to your child's 529 Which states provide income tax benefits with 529 plans What happens if your child decides not to attend college Differences between adviser-sold and direct-sold plans How you might choose where to house a 529 plan How prepaid tuition plans work Can you save too much to a 529? Why every parent should contribute a 529 plan Full show notes at https://studentloanplanner.com/33

Dr. Zachary Kingsberg is a dentist who, after graduating from the very expensive Nova Southeastern University, is now running his own dental practice startup in Dallas alongside his wife. In this episode, see how Zach began his startup journey, how he handled his student loans and the advice he'd give for an up-and-coming dentists on starting your own practice. In today's episode, you'll find out: Zach's journey into dental school How his associateship period played out How he and his wife prepared themselves to become startup practice owners How Zach went about acquiring patients The process of getting funding from a bank for a dental startup How demographics played into how Zach started his practice The issues he ran into trying to secure a mortgage Zach's advice for refinancing student loans and getting a mortgage What he learned about running a dental practice in the first year How he handled marketing for his practice How running a bread-and-butter clinic has kept costs low Why Zach's practice focuses on simple dentistry over cosmetics How income-driven repayment could have helped Zach's loan applications His long-term goals for his practice Zach's experience with hiring (and firing) employees The advice he'd give to a dentist associate considering a startup The importance of being willing to work hard as a new dentist Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/32

Chad Carson is real estate entrepreneur who has worked in real estate investing for 16 years. In this episode, learn how he got started on his entrepreneurial journey, how real estate investing really works, and whether it's a good idea for your situation. In today's episode, you'll find out: • Chad's background a college football player • How he got started in real estate investing • What Chad's first rental was like • What a house hack is • How REO (real estate owned) property works • Whether real estate is a good tax shelter • How depreciation on property affects taxes • What a 1031 Exchange is • How many properties to start off with • The importance of having a CPA (certified public accountant) to help you with real estate taxes • How using a house hack can help you qualify for a better mortgage loan • Chad's view on real estate crowdfunding • How active of investing real estate really is • What commercial house hacking is • Chad's experience living abroad on his rental property income • How investing can pay off in the long term Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/31

Many student loan borrowers are worried about the risks of relying on Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). In the episode, find out why these risks are vastly overestimated as well as the histories of PSLF repeal attempts and taxable loan forgiveness. Also learn what you need to do in the extremely unlikely case that forgiveness programs are eliminated. In today's episode, you'll find out: Other programs like PSLF that haven't been repealed, despite massive costs The history of PSLF repeal attempts Why politicians are unlikely to try to have PSLF completely taken away What would happen in the unlikely event that PSLF was repealed How your savings rate affects how long you'd need to work before retiring The two kinds of people worried about PSLF going away The history of taxable loan forgiveness Government approaches to tax bombs Why having a high savings rate means you don't need to worry about suddenly owing your forgiven loan balance How Congress might deal with taxable loan forgiveness in the future The history of income-driven repayment plans The idea behind the possible new Pay As You Earn plan What could happen if any of these programs were eliminated Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/30

The Student Loan Planner consultants — Travis Hornsby, Justin Harvey, Rob Bertman and Lauryn Williams — discuss cases they've had, with amazing success stories as well as financial catastrophes. In today's episode, you'll find out: ▪ Fun background stories from each of the Student Loan Planner consultants ▪ Cases from each of the consultants — success stories and ones where they were too late to stop someone from making a huge financial mistake ▪ Why banking on Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) isn't risky for current borrowers ▪ How student loan forgiveness instead of refinancing, depending on the situation, might save someone money ▪ How, even on the verge of default, taking the steps to address your student loan situation can turn everything around ▪ Why Parent PLUS Loans can lead to financial disaster — and strained relationships ▪ How parents end up in PLUS Loan situations while trying to provide for their children ▪ Another PLUS Loan situation — and why pursuing grants and scholarships is better ▪ Why having tough conversations about student loan debt and budgeting is important ▪ How extensive budgeting allowed a parent to stay home with her child ▪ Why it's imperative to make sure you're on track for PSLF ▪ Travis' thoughts on reaching out for student loan help as soon as possible ▪ How income-driven repayment could save end up saving someone money versus staying on the Standard Repayment Plan ▪ More interesting background stories from the consultants Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/29

Dr. Mark Ard is a resident psychiatrist who finished medical school with roughly $330,000 of debt. Learn how he's working toward Public Service Loan Forgiveness, how refinancing his loans has helped him and what his tips are for optimizing loan forgiveness. In today's episode, you'll find out: Mark's background and education journey as a resident psychiatrist His family situation and how it's affected his student loan repayment How he's approached retirement accounts and buying a house Why purchasing a home is usually not the best decision for someone in residency How moonlighting has affected recertification with Public Service Loan Forgiveness How the breadwinner loophole can help people in community property states Why tax accountants might not know to equally distribute your income in you live in a community property state How much the breadwinner loophole can save someone on student loan payments How Mark refinanced his student loan debt How cashback bonuses with refinancing companies work How consolidating right after graduation can give medical students $0 payments their first year out of school Why putting loans in deferment or forbearance right out of school isn't the best idea How a solo 401(k) could help someone with 1099 income Why life insurance and disability insurance are so important Mark's long-term plans when it comes to retirement His advice for other residents entering student loan repayment Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/28

Robert Farrington is the founder of The College Investor, a site that's helped people with their student loans for 10 years and counting. He worked as an executive at Target before making his way into the personal finance blogosphere following a horrible experience with FedLoan Servicing. Learn about Robert's thoughts regarding Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), the student loan crisis and his advice for getting out of debt. In today's episode, you'll find out: Why Robert founded The College Investor Why articles claiming PSLF will have a 99% rejection rate are misleading How a lack of education regarding student loans hurts borrowers How a side hustle can help you pay off your student loan debt more quickly Robert's advice for student loan borrowers considering whether to buy a house His thoughts on whether the student loan crisis will eventually crash How trying to unwind the credit in the student loan marketplace could negatively affect graduate programs Why Robert is a fan of borrowing caps for student loans What order financial savings should be put in, in terms of debt Extreme stories Robert has heard in regards to student loan borrowers The financial stressors he saw in employees while working at Target Robert's thoughts on the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement What percentage people should be saving of their income His advice for setting up your own professional website — and why it's important The best financial advice Robert has ever received Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/27

Are you familiar with shady student loan practices versus legit ones that actually help student loan borrowers? In this episode, the Student Loan Planner consultants — Travis Hornsby, Justin Harvey, Rob Bertman and Lauryn Williams — discuss what type of strategies to steer clear of and which ones could potentially save borrowers both money and stress. In today's episode, you'll find out: Whether a borrower should claim that they can't access their spouse's income information How student loan repayment strategies can sometimes lead to divorce If starting your own 501(c)(3) for loan forgiveness is a good idea How being small business owners can affect student loan repayment Should you use your pay stub or your tax return to recertify income? How a sudden change in salary could affect your income certification Why researching any financial adviser you plan on working with is critical Can you use last year's tax returns to certify income? What the breadwinner and reverse breadwinner loophole is Is moving abroad to avoid student loan payments a legit strategy? What the die-with-your-debt strategy is Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/26

How familiar are you with investing? Are you prepared for retirement? You may be surprised to learn that, according to a recent Student Loan Planner investing survey, many in the SLP community are not financially ready for retirement. Learn why your investing plan is just as imperative as paying off your student loans if you want to retire at a reasonable age (or even make work optional). (Plus, learn how to sign up for Student Loan Planner's investing course, available until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time tonight!) In today's episode, you'll find out: Why your investing plan is just as important as your student loan payoff plan Why putting all your money into paying your student loans can impede your retirement How financial advisers have changed from the era of pensions to now Why so many financial advisers don't understand the nuances of student loans What the Student Loan Planner survey said about attitudes toward investing How many respondents from the SLP community are using investment products The difference between maxing and matching with retirement accounts Three main questions survey respondents had about retirement and investing How investing and student loan payoff plans would look in a real-world example Why millennials have struggled with finances more than previous generations How technology has shaped millennials' finances for the better Why the "Six-Figure Debt to Six-Figure Net Worth" investing course is worth it Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/25

If you're heading into a career in dentistry, medicine or pharmacy, is a residency worth it? What are the differences in requirements, and how do those affect your salary and student loan repayment? Here's what the economic value of a residency could look like for you, and how it varies by profession. (Also learn about Student Loan Planner's brand-new investing course, launching alongside our podcast for one week only!) In today's episode, you'll find out: How residency programs have proliferated What the various programs are — and why some cost you and some don't How residency for medicine differs from other fields like dentistry and pharmacy Travis' thoughts on how hospitals could pay for residency programs How pharmacy residencies are a special case How hospitals have adapted to the massive influx of pharmacists The value of residency in veterinary medicine The economic value of residencies as far as what they're designed for Ultimately, is a residency worth it for doctors? For dentists? Veterinarians? Pharmacists? What the Student Loan Planner investing course is all about Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/24

Mark Strucker is an educational consultant based in Atlanta, Georgia. He's worked in boarding school admissions and then the college admissions space for 19 years. After working in the KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program) Schools, he founded School Match 4U, a full-service educational consulting company that helps future college students and their families with the college admissions process. Learn how Mark's educational consulting company works, what his advice is for getting good financial aid and his thoughts on the recent college admissions scandal. In today's episode, you'll find out: How Mark began working in the boarding school and college admissions space Answers to common questions parents have when considering boarding school College admissions counseling in public schools versus private or boarding schools Mark's four categories for helping families as an educational consultant How to get a good aid package when applying to a school What's more important — a brand-name, prestigious school or educational value? What percentage of students Mark sees take out student loans to fund their education How retirement savings and home equity can affect financial aid How future students can stand out to get merit money Mark's reaction to the college admissions scandal that surfaced in March 2019 How Mark believes college admissions will change in response to the scandal How Mark's full-service educational consulting company, School Match 4U, helps future college students and their families Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/23

Alan is a national security specialist living in the D.C. area. He graduated with $120,000 of student loan debt, which had now climbed to $160,000 with interest. His wife is a vice principal with about $40,000 of student loan debt herself. Both are working toward student loan forgiveness — Alan with Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) and his wife with Teacher Loan Forgiveness. Learn about Alan's struggles with FedLoan Servicing (the servicer in charge of all things PSLF) and how loan forgiveness is unfolding for both he and his wife. In today's episode, you'll find out: How Alan ended up in the national security field — and what that career is really like What education is required to work in national security When Alan first realized he had tons of student loan debt How bad advice from his loan servicer led his loan balance ballooning How the incentive structures of loan servicer call centers affect the advice you get Why it's usually best to use your prior tax returns to certify income for income-driven repayment plans How student loans affect married couples filing taxes jointly or separately Alan's experience with FedLoan Servicing after inquiring about loan forgiveness Why PSLF is usually the better option over Teacher Loan Forgiveness — and how both programs work Why an emergency fund is essential, especially as the student loan debt crisis will likely get worse Alan's tips for dealing with the psychology of debt Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/21

Alex Barnette is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who graduated from St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas. She currently has about $115,000 in student loan debt that she's paying off. She's also launched her own practice — Alex Barnette Counseling, also located in Austin. In today's episode, you'll find out: What schooling looks like for someone wanting to be an LMFT The breakdown of various license abbreviations in the therapy world The tuition to expect in a master's program to become an LMFT How private schools tend to raise their tuition cost every semester How Alex handled her student loan debt while working after graduation Why agency fees can make it difficult for LMFTs to focus on their student loans How Alex took the leap to start her own practice The difference between qualifying for Public Service Loan Forgiveness and income-driven repayment loan forgiveness How getting married can drastically affect your student loan repayment Why student loan servicers can be so difficult to deal with Alex's advice on when to seek therapy — and how clients choose what to get out of it Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/21

Have you ever thought about being a millionaire — even if you have student loan debt? Then this episode will be powerful for you. Most people want to earn enough to retire comfortably and to live their dreams, but they aren't sure how they can do it. If you're wondering how to prepare for the future when you're dealing with a ton of student loan debt, here's how you can hit a seven-figure level net worth. In today's episode, you'll find out: Is it possible to become a millionaire with student loan debt? How can a couple with $100k of combined income have a seven-figure net worth? Why it's so important to max your retirement accounts How long does it take to become a millionaire? Why is it a good idea to contribute to brokerage accounts? How would becoming millionaire work for a couple earning a combined $200k? Or $600k? Should you invest in savings or brokerage accounts? How much do you need to save to be able to retire? What's the difference between maxing and matching your retirement contributions? How Student Loan Planner's upcoming investing course can help you Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/20

Tim Ulbrich graduated from the Ohio Northern University Doctor of Pharmacy program — which he decided on straight out of high school at age 18 — with $200,000 in student loan debt. After three years of Tim and his wife being on the Standard Repayment Plan and feeling like they were living paycheck to paycheck, they began aggressively paying back on the loans and were able to pay off the last of the debt in the fall of 2015. Now Tim is a clinical professor of pharmacy and program director for the master's program in Health-System Pharmacy Administration at Ohio State University. On top of that, he founded the Your Financial Pharmacist blog, co-hosts the Your Financial Pharmacist podcast and co-wrote the book "Seven Figure Pharmacist," all of which are geared toward helping pharmacists realize their financial goals and achieve the lifestyles they want. In today's episode, you'll find out: Tim's journey into pharmacy school at Ohio Northern University How the return on investment for pharmacy school has changed over the last decade Why it's essential to be strategic and intentional with your choice of school and your debt repayment strategy How Tim ended up helping people in the pharmacy world with their money How Tim and his wife paid off his high student loan debt Train wreck situations and success stories Tim has seen in pharmacist finances Tim's thoughts on how residency has become more important for future pharmacists Why the pharmacy profession needs to evolve — and what could happen if it doesn't How someone can become a seven-figure pharmacist Whether or not Tim would support his children become pharmacists Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/19

Justin Harvey is a brand new team member here at Student Loan Planner. As a student loan consultant, he's hit nearly a hundred consults. He's been in the financial industry since graduating from Villanova University in 2010. After seeing the student loan debt his wife had as an anesthesia resident and how it's impacted their lives, he launched his own firm in 2017, Quantifi Planning, which focuses on anesthesia and pain physicians with student loan debt. In today's episode, you'll find out: How Justin began working in the financial industry Why he decided to launch his own firm How he ended up consulting at Student Loan Planner Why it's imperative to know what you're doing before refinancing or consolidating your student loans When hiring a student loan planner instead of relying on your student loan servicer might be a better option Why "follow the money" should be your go-to phrase when choosing a financial planner Justin's thoughts on poor student loan advice A few of his favorite anecdotes from consulting at Student Loan Planner Why he tells people to "question the assumptions" before incurring student loan debt Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/18

Dr. David Donelson graduated from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine with $330,000 in student loan debt. After practicing in New York City for two years, he felt compelled to find a brand new environment and found himself in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The foreign earned income exclusion has allowed him to tackle his student loans more aggressively. He still currently practices in Dubai, where he's been located for seven years. He plans to return to the U.S. in the next few years and to finally kick the rest of his student loan debt. In today's episode, you'll find out: David's background in dental school at Tufts University His experience practicing dentistry in New York City How he ended up leaving the U.S. for Dubai Why living in Dubai helped David's tax situation The cost of living in Dubai versus the U.S. How the foreign earned income tax exclusion works — and could help with student loan debt David's tips for anyone wanting to practice dentistry in Dubai How being a dentist in Dubai compares to the U.S. David's experience with refinancing his student loans How living in a tiny town can bump up your income His one regret while living in Dubai David's advice for living abroad Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/17

Lauryn Williams isn't just a student loan consultant here at Student Loan Planner. She's also a four-time Olympian and three-time Olympic medalist who grew up learning to save and work hard for what she had. Though she graduated without student loan debt, she had many friends who struggled under the pressing weight of it. At only 20 years old, she began earning a $200,000 income, and she trusted financial advisers to sort out what to do with her money. But when those advisers didn't end up having her best interests at heart, she decided to learn as much as she could about student loan financial planning to be the change she wanted to see in the world. She earned her MBA and CFP and started her own financial firm Worth While in Oct. 2015, where she currently works along with performing consultations for Student Loan Planner. In today's episode, you'll find out: How Lauryn became one of the most prolific student loan consultants in the world What her experience in the Olympics was like How she transitioned from a career as a professional athlete into the financial industry Her personal experience with the private wealth management world Her path from being a track and field star in college to becoming the first American woman to win a medal in both the Summer and Winter Olympic Games Lauryn's thoughts on professional athletes dealing with finances How she started her firm Worth Winning Why Lauryn is passionate about finances and helping people Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/16

Dr. Amanda Endsor graduated from vet school with $168,000 in debt. She worked through school to make ends meet while accruing fewer student loans, and she had little support from her school when it came to handling her loans after graduating. She also continued her education into veterinary dentistry, and she's now working to pay off her debt. She currently practices veterinary medicine in Knoxville, Tennessee, where she's also involved with Vinea, a women's mentorship program. In today's episode, you'll find out: • How Amanda decided on veterinary medicine and applied to vet school • How she made her way financially through school • Her thoughts on the lack of preparation and support from the school when it came to loan repayment • The ethics of schools raising tuition • Her reaction to her student loan payments right after graduating • How Amanda came across Student Loan Planner and got help with her loans • How Amanda talked with her husband about her vet school debt • What it's like to learn veterinary dentistry • How Amanda got involved with Vinea, a women's professional mentoring program • Why women mentorship is so important • Amanda's advice for young women professionals Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/15

If you have student loan debt and want to work either part time or not at all, this episode will blow your mind. Most people want to work less than they currently are, but they aren't sure how they can afford to do so. No matter your life situation, it can be confusing to know how you can make your payments while working less. The strategies I'll share in this episode will help you know how to approach both federal and private student loan debt if you want to cut your work hours — and how to live your life the way you want to. In today's episode, you'll find out: Is it possible to work only part time (or not at all)? Can you work less even if you have student loan debt? What are reasons you may want to work less? How to negotiate a part-time work schedule with employers Strategies for paying student loans and preparing for a "tax bomb" while working less How can you pay less on your federal student loans if you work less? How to work less if you're single Ways to approach private student loans if you want to work part time Can you take a sabbatical if you don't work in academia? How to approach student loan debt if you want to be a stay-at-home parent How to handle student loans while living abroad and traveling What's the Foreign Earned Income Tax Exclusion? Can you work part time while going for Public Service Loan Forgiveness? How to start limiting your budget and tracking expenses Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/14

Jessica Cox found herself in $300,000 of student loan debt after attending law school in New York. She went through many trials like losing her scholarships after her first year of classes. Despite the struggles during the first year, she was able to come back the next year and make the dean's list. It wasn't easy, but Jessica graduated from law school and is now working to pay back her debt. She's currently working in legal marketing and business development in Houston, Texas. In today's episode, you'll find out: Jessica's thoughts on law school after losing her scholarship after her first year Her thoughts on the bar exam What to do immediately after graduating law school What it's like to work as a legal manager? What moving to Texas did for Jessica's career Can you get get a license in one state and practice in another? Jessica's first approach to tackling her student loan debt. What did she do to get a better idea of her debt and how did she start paying it back? How she used forbearance to help her get out of debt Will refinancing make any impact on my credit score? Has Jessica ever considered what impact her student loan debt can have on a future spouse? What piece of advice would Jessica give someone who hasn't yet attended law school? What piece of advice would Jessica give someone who just graduated law school? My thoughts on the future of law schools. Is the schedule that a lawyer has worth the pay? For more information, visit the show notes at https://studentloanplanner.com/13

If you are over 50 years old with student loan debt or know someone who is, this episode is going to be life-changing. There are 1.9 million people over the age of 50 who still have student loan debt. It's no secret that the information surrounding most student loan debt is pretty bad and somewhat confusing. When you're in your 50s, 60s, and 70s dealing with student loan debt, it can be even more confusing as you deal with Social Security and different issues with Parent PLUS loans. The student loan repayment strategies that I'm going to share in this episode will help you understand the core issues surrounding those who are 50+ with student loan debt, along with how to overcome them and get rid of the loans. Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/12

Eric Meissner is a Marine JAG who knew there would be financial benefits to joining the military. Eric had some good mentors and family members who encouraged him to attend law school. He went in with the intention of getting a portion of his loans forgiven on behalf of the military. Eric graduated from law school with a little over $120,000 of student loan debt and his loans just came out of deferment. In this episode, we'll be discussing his repayment options, what led to his career path as a JAG in the Marine Corps, and any tips that can help someone who's also looking into a military career but is concerned about student loans. In today's episode, you'll find out: What type of minor did Eric pair with his undergrad criminal justice degree? What led him to join the Marine Corps Did the military give any money for law school? What type of assistance the military offers How much debt Eric walked away with So what would Eric have done if he did not join the military? Are internships an option in the military? Do you get extra time added to your term if you ask for tuition assistance? What kind of income Eric can make as a JAG in the Marine Corps What the retirement system is like in the military Tips for law students who want to become a JAG Does your five-year contract with the military start while you're still in law school? Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/11

Is student loan debt good or bad? This is a controversial topic because we hear all the time from colleges and universities that student loan debt is 'good'. Still having loan debt can be stressful, especially if you owe six figures. If you've ever wondered is student loan debt was better or worse than others or even how to turn your loan debt from bad to good, this episode is for you. In today's episode, you'll find out: Which debt is worse, credit card or student loans? What is negative amortization? How much interest would you be paying at the end of say a PAYE plan? How student loan debt accrues How to change student loan debt from bad debt to good debt Is student loan debt good debt or bad debt? Is forbearance ever a good option? Are graduate school programs good investments? 6 Factors to look at to decide if a debt is good or not Good debt is tax deductible. How having a repayment plan in place can make life less stressful How to determine if refinancing is right for you Links mentioned: Studentloans.gov Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or TuneIn Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts Follow on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try our free student loan calculator Check out the refinancing bonuses we negotiated Book your custom student loan plan

Let's go back to the beginning when I landed my very first student loan consulting client. I've been very fortunate to have Elaina as a friend over the years and helping her with her veterinarian student loans is where it all began. We met on a grouper date when a bunch of us got together and hung out. I actually was just helping out as a friend and didn't take any sort of payment until I finally caved when she forced me to take some compensation. Going through veterinary school, her student loan debt quickly piled up, but I was able to help guide her to the correct repayment methods for her situation. In today's episode, you'll find out: Private schools or public schools? Which is "better" for professional degrees in terms of student loan debt? Differences between a DVM and a VMD How many different vet schools did Elaina apply for? Working with someone you know and someone you don't. (Travis as her SL advisor). If Elaina had a chance to look for and start a practice where would she look? What are the benefits of buying your own practice? Why don't some veterinarians want to become business owners? What has been holding Elaina back from buying a practice? Retirement accounts experience - What and how much Elaina decided to invest in? Elaina's ideal financial life? New or used car? What's a better investment? Full show notes at: http://studentloanplanner.com/9 __________________________ Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or TuneIn Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts Follow on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try our free student loan calculator Check out the refinancing bonuses we negotiated Book your custom student loan plan

Financial independence is a goal that many people strive for. Two-thirds of Americans would rather be doing something else with their time than showing up to work. In this episode, I'm going to cover the FIRE movement and why people want to achieve it. Also, how can you achieve FIRE when you're juggling 6-figures of student loan debt? It's definitely possible, and I'll go over some ways that you can make it happen despite your massive loan debt. In today's episode, you'll find out: • What does it mean to be financially independent? • Why financial independence is not just a dream • What if you are in a situation where you owe more than double your income? • 10% or 20% of the population will be forced into retirement because of health problems • Are your monthly memberships and your subscriptions worth it? • Should you contribute as much as possible to your 401K? • What kind of thoughts should you have when buying a car? • Does actually loving your job affect any of this FIRE movement thinking? Link to episode: https://www.studentloanplanner.com/8