The Clark Howard Podcast

Short-term vacation rentals like VRBO and Airbnb are facing more issues, raising questions about user responsibility. Learn how to navigate these platforms and the importance of good communication with hosts. On the flip side, purchasing a vehicle can be both thrilling and daunting. Discover innovative buying options that prioritize consumers and tips to avoid pitfalls, such as the risks of debit cards. Plus, find out how to manage your finances better with smart investment strategies.

The stock market is becoming a risky gamble, especially for young investors, who should focus on long-term strategies. As new laws aim to improve pay transparency, understanding your worth is becoming easier in the job market. Listeners share experiences with hidden hotel fees, emphasizing the need for clear pricing. Additionally, documenting rental car damages is crucial for dispute resolution. Lastly, insights into travel credit cards reveal the best options while navigating the world of charitable giving.

Wes Moss, a fee-only fiduciary financial advisor, shares valuable insights on retirement savings and Social Security changes. He assures listeners that it’s never too late to start saving for retirement, offering strategies that ease financial anxiety. The conversation highlights impending Social Security adjustments affecting public sector employees and discusses how legislative shifts could enhance benefits for many. Wes also answers listener questions, emphasizing the role of fiduciary advisors in securing financial futures.

When looking for a flight deal, there’s a trick that can save you a lot of money. Clark points to 3 airlines that might not be on your radar, but should be. Also - is your car spying on you? It’s highly likely. And what happens with your data? Clark discusses privacy concerns prevalent today.  New Airlines & Destinations: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Vehicular Spying & Privacy Rights: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: NYTimes: Coming to a Tiny Airport Near You: New Airlines How To Find Cheap Flights in 3 Easy Steps How To Prevent, Report and Repair Identity Theft What Is a Credit Union? / Credit Union vs. Bank: What's the Difference? Submit a complaint | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Should You Get a Store Credit Card? Is your car spying on you? What it means that Tesla shared data in the Las Vegas explosion Best Cash Back Credit Cards With No Annual Fee in 2025 Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 SURFSHARK - Alternative Number: your online identity safeguardPOLICYGENIUS - The Simple Way To Buy InsuranceAPELLA WEALTH - Advice For LifeLearn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This installment dives into the funny and insightful 'Clark Stinks' segment, where listener feedback takes center stage. Clark also tackles the pitfalls of changing jobs and how it can lead to significant losses in 401(k) savings. Discover crucial tips on avoiding costly retirement mistakes, plus comparisons between Roth and traditional accounts. The episode touches on maximizing college savings through 529 plans, offering practical advice for parents. It's a blend of humor, personal stories, and valuable financial wisdom!

The podcast dives into the growing issue of consumerism and online shopping addiction, offering simple strategies to help listeners avoid overspending. It emphasizes the importance of unsubscribing from enticing retail communications to foster better financial habits. Additionally, the host warns about the dangers of public Wi-Fi, suggesting alternatives like personal hotspots for secure online activities. The discussion also touches on managing retirement accounts and the essential role of reviewing financial statements to spot fraud quickly.

Wes Moss, a fee-only fiduciary financial advisor and member of Team Clark, dives deep into the world of investing and retirement planning. He discusses the necessity of stocks for building a retirement nest egg, highlighting that a median happy retiree needs around $700,000. Wes also tackles the issue of FOMO—fear of missing out—and emphasizes why ignoring impulsive investment decisions is crucial. Listeners also get to hear about effective retirement strategies, including diversification and the balance between stocks and stable assets.

Listeners dive into constructive feedback on financial advice, sparking valuable discussions. A significant lawsuit against a major financial firm reveals lessons for saving and investing. The complexities of retirement savings are unraveled, with insights on extended warranties and credit challenges. Consumer complaints about low savings interest rates are addressed, along with tools to manage credit effectively. The episode wraps up with guidance on fixing mortgage reporting inaccuracies, ensuring listeners are better equipped for their financial journeys.

The podcast dives into strategies for tackling post-holiday credit card debt, with an emphasis on focusing payments on high-interest balances. Listeners learn about the IRS's expanding Direct File program, making tax preparation simpler and more accessible. Concerns around tax refund security are raised, alongside the benefits of seeking professional help versus self-filing. Real-life consumer challenges, like unexpected credit score drops and shopping experiences, are discussed to empower listeners with practical solutions.

Wes Moss, a fee-only fiduciary financial advisor, shares crucial insights on what investors should monitor in 2025. He discusses potential market volatility and the implications of tariffs on consumer behavior. Moss also highlights the importance of dividends and bonds in a balanced portfolio. Additionally, he tackles misconceptions about financial advisors, emphasizing the benefits of index funds. The discussion includes strategies for retirement savings and managing inherited wealth, providing listeners with valuable financial guidance.