My name is Dave Hilton and I'm the Geek behind the Debt Black Hole. My galactically stupid financial decisions resulted in my whole family being sucked into the Debt Black Hole. I can't blame aliens, government conspiracies or anyone else for what happened. In February of 2002 we filed for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy protection. In 2007 we completed our five year Chapter 13 payment plan and managed to come out the other side scarred, but not broken. Those five years were the most frustrating, humbling and painful of my life. I don't want anyone else to have to go through what we did. That's why I've created this site- to keep other Geeks from being sucked into the Debt Black Hole like we were.

This blog will offer a unique blend of Personal Finance topics mixed with some Science, Sci-Fi and Geek Culture. My *professional* background is in Broadcasting (mostly Radio) and Dispute Resolution (mostly Mediation; Negotiation; Generational, Cultural & Gender Based Conflicts; and Conflict Assessment), so don't be surprised if you see posts about those subjects too. I want the Personal Finance information on this site to be an EMERGENCY FINANCIAL BEACON that alerts you to the dangers ahead- inside the Debt Black Hole- before it's too late!

As I mention on my disclaimers page- I don't consider myself a Financial Jedi Master or anything like that, so don't- not even for a nanosecond- think I am providing financial, legal or other professional advice here. The information I provide is based on my own experiences, things I've read or just my opinion. If you make a decision based on any of these experiences or opinions and it turns out badly, I am not responsible.

If you're new to the site and are trying to figure out what the Debt Black Hole actually is- you might want to read this first.