8 - Debt Part 2

“I was three months behind on rent, living off peanut butter and graham crackers, but I told myself — this is going to make a great story one day.”

The Cost of Ambition
In this powerful continuation of Joe Wanner’s financial journey, Part II of the “Debt” series dives deep into the college years and young adulthood that tested his grit like never before. From working weekends in high school to fund gas and insurance, to being publicly showcased in a financial aid video while catering the event, Joe was constantly reminded that he came from less—and that drove him to want more.

Hungry and Hustling
Joe recounts moments of literal hunger, where his family’s lack of understanding around athletic nutrition led to skipped meals, and how he’d confide in close friends about not having enough food. By the time he entered college, he was used to hustle. From work-study cafeteria jobs to selling his Xbox, TV, and favorite Nikes to attend a business conference, Joe was all in on building a better future—even when that meant sleeping in frat house sewer water during spring break.

Drowning in Debt but Not in Defeat
Through network marketing, unpaid internships, and car payments he could barely afford, Joe shares his rawest financial lows. Living three months behind on rent, surviving on scraps, and walking past restaurants knowing he only had $7 to his name—these moments didn’t break him. They sharpened his purpose and solidified his resolve.

Built Through the Struggle
What sets this episode apart is Joe’s honesty in the discomfort. From building dreams on bus rides to working in gyms with no AC while wearing a suit, he makes it clear: the price he paid was steep, but it was necessary. Hope was his currency when money ran out—and the belief that one day, his story would serve someone else.

Conclusion
Joe’s journey from broke and behind on rent to building businesses, paying for his wedding in cash, and having millionaires on speed dial is a testament to what’s possible when you reject victimhood and embrace purpose. This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt like their financial situation is too much to overcome—because Joe proves it’s not.

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Chapters
01:26 Early Financial Challenges in High School
05:26 Transition to College Life and Financial Burdens
10:39 Struggles During College and Building a Business
18:16 Overcoming Debt and Finding Hope
20:33 Reflection on Growth and Success

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