In this series, NerdWallet interviews people who have triumphed over debt using a combination of commitment, budgeting and smart financial choices. Responses have been edited for length and clarity. Lydia Senn and her family wiped out $36,000 in debt in just over 2 years. Frugal, Debt Free Life Who: Lydia Senn How much: $36,000 in two... More From NerdWallet Rent-to-Own Complaints Spur Federal Scrutiny 7 Tips for Paying Off Debt — From People Who Did It Should You Follow Jay-Z’s Financial ‘Blueprint’? Jeanne Lee is a writer at NerdWallet.