Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Damazo.
Mike, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’m active duty enlisted Navy sailor. I joined the Navy right out of high school, mostly stationed in San Diego in the first ten years of my career I got into ~$50,000 worth of debt ranging from multiple credit cards, two auto loans, and a personal loan. I got out of consumer debt in 24 months. Got transferred out of San Diego for three years. During that time, I bought my first home in Lemoore where I rented out the extra rooms which was enough to cover the mortgage. When I transferred back to San Diego, that property became a full-time rental. Upon return to San Diego I invested in a small coffee shop, “Schrimsaw Coffee” and then bought a second property in UTC. I decided to document what I learned from my financial mistakes and success on YouTube for other people to get value from. The channel was created more as a resource I wish I had when I first got in. The mission is to help others get the “F” outta debt then build wealth.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. Some challenges when first starting the YouTube channel was having that “imposter syndrome” where I felt I was not qualified to share my experience. But when receiving positive feedback from comments to direct message questions on Instagram it helps solidify the content being provided.
Fitness Wealth – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
The channels mission is help people get the “F” outta debt then build wealth. I’m most proud of messages from new service members in the military that reach out and say make smarter money decisions to receiving a message from another YouTuber that has over 80k subscribers to tell me they’re close to paying off their debt. The YouTube channel distinguishes itself from other personal finance channels because it is from a military perspective and as a son of an immigrant where money isn’t really discussed growing up, its breaking that cycle of actually talking about money.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success to me personally means being able to do something impactful. It doesn’t have to be on a grand level, but reaching one person and having a positive effect is enough. Criteria and markers, I look out for is what has someone been able to contribute to the community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnJxw7QrJMG9vNAaci8qM-A
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitness.wealth/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikedamazo
Image Credit:
First image was from https://twitter.com/ramondompor
Suggest a story: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
