What "Got to Get Out" Taught Us About Beating Debt
This week on our podcast, we dove into an unexpected yet eye-opening connection between the hit reality show Got to Get Out and the process of getting out of debt. Who knew a competition show could offer such powerful insights into financial freedom? When our daughter suggested the show, we didn't think much of it—but as we watched, the parallels to debt reduction became impossible to ignore.
If you're trying to tackle debt or looking to reach any other financial goal, here are some lessons from Got to Get Out that might just change the game for you.
You Can’t Do It Alone
One of the first things Got to Get Out highlights is the power of teamwork and external support. Contestants lean on each other for help, motivation, and valuable tips. Similarly, when you're working to get out of debt, having people in your corner makes all the difference.
This could mean talking to a financial advisor, joining a community of people who are also working on debt reduction, or even just learning from others' stories. Isolation often leads to frustration. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, encourage you, and remind you why you started.
A Solid Strategy is Non-Negotiable
On the show, the participants who succeed are the ones who have a clear-cut strategy. They don’t rely on luck or random attempts to win. The same applies to addressing debt. Without a proper plan, you may find yourself circling back to where you started.
Know your numbers. How much debt do you have? What's the interest rate on each balance?
Set priorities. Are you tackling the smallest balances first (snowball method) or is there a high priority debt that needs to be attended to first?
Track progress. Whether it’s a simple spreadsheet or a budgeting app, keep tabs on your wins and challenges.
Without direction, you're essentially just winging it. Don't leave your financial freedom up to chance.
Cut the Noise and Stay Focused
Another takeaway from the show is knowing when to tune out the extra noise and just push through. Sometimes, contestants overanalyze situations or listen too much to outside input, and it slows them down. The same holds true for getting out of debt.
Focus on your own progress. Avoid comparing your timeline to someone else’s or getting overwhelmed by unsolicited advice. Keep your head down, stick to your plan, and celebrate your milestones quietly if that’s what keeps you going.
Greed Will Cost You
One particularly striking theme from the show is how greed can backfire. Contestants who get overly greedy or take unnecessary risks often lose out in the end. Similarly, when tackling debt, greed can be a hidden saboteur.
Here’s how greed shows up in personal finances:
Overextending yourself for quick wins, like trying to invest while heavily in debt.
Spending impulsively because you feel "deserving" after a small win (hello, lifestyle creep).
Taking shortcuts with debt without understanding the long-term consequences (e.g., same as cash, buy now/pay later).
Debt reduction isn’t about cutting corners or trying to get rich quick. Steady, disciplined action may not be flashy, but it works better and lasts longer.
Have a Goal Beyond Paying Off Debt
One of the most heartwarming parts of the show is hearing what contestants want to do with their prize money. Some dreams were massive and potentially unrealistic, like retiring their parents, while others were more practical. Regardless of their goals, every participant was chasing something bigger than just winning the game.
Debt freedom is a milestone, but it isn’t the finish line. What's your "why"? Do you want to save for your kid's college education, start a business, or finally build retirement wealth? Having a clear vision for life after debt will keep you motivated and focused.
Final Thoughts
Watching Got to Get Out wasn’t just entertaining; it was a surprising crash course in goal-setting, discipline, and teamwork. Debt, much like the show's challenges, can feel insurmountable at times, but the principles remain the same. You’ll need support, a solid plan, and the ability to tune out the distractions along the way.
If you're ready to get out, take a moment to reflect on these lessons and apply them to your debt-reduction strategy. And just like the contestants on the show—we promise it’s worth the effort.
Check out this week’s For Better AND Worth podcast on YouTube here.