The Clark Howard Podcast

Many workers are feeling miserable, prompting discussions on the necessity of career changes. Discover free online training resources to boost your skills. Learn about the health risks of sitting too much and tips for extending your life with simple changes. The show also tackles the realities of financial app security and effective charity donations. Finally, dive into the world of credit cards, exploring their benefits and pitfalls while emphasizing the importance of responsible usage.

Wes Moss, a fee-only fiduciary financial advisor and expert in investing and retirement planning, shares his insights on achieving financial freedom. He highlights the shift from pension reliance to individual responsibility, emphasizing five key strategies for successful investing. Topics include the importance of long-term planning, portfolio diversification, and the potential benefits of Roth IRAs. Wes also answers listener questions about retirement strategies in Alaska and managing investments amidst financial uncertainties.

Discover the hidden traps of timeshares and vacation clubs, designed to keep you in debt. Learn how to teach children the value of money through allowances tied to chores, emphasizing smart spending and saving. The discussion also touches on navigating financial literacy in today’s digital age, offering tips on managing accounts and maximizing credit card rewards. Explore the importance of early financial education to prepare kids for responsible money management in a complex world.

Kick off the new year with clever money-saving tips that last all year! Discover how to navigate gift returns and what to keep in mind while streaming. Explore the growing costs of various streaming services and the rise of free options. Get savvy with car shopping strategies in a changing market and uncover essential travel insurance tips. Plus, understand the differences between financial advisors to make informed choices. January deals at warehouse clubs could help you save big!

Discover how to negotiate prices on everyday purchases, from cars to appliances, and challenge the myth that only high-end models are worth it. Dive into the unregulated world of dietary supplements and learn why it's crucial to be cautious with claims made by influencers. Get tips on managing disputes over charges and protecting yourself from scams while using money transfer services like Zelle. With practical advice on financial decisions and appliance care, equip yourself with knowledge for a smarter consumer experience.

Discover the concept of a 'magic number' for retirement—how much you really need to be financially secure. Dive into risky investment pitches, from hedge funds to private equity, and learn why it's crucial to avoid non-fiduciary advice. Hear about a listener's success with a 529 college savings plan, leading to substantial educational funds. Plus, get tips on building credit for young adults and safe solo travel destinations for women. Stay informed to navigate your financial future wisely!

Explore the complexities of adult children relying on parental support, backed by alarming statistics. Dive into the struggles parents face balancing their finances while helping their grown kids. Reflect on the debate about when to cut off financial aid and the impact on family dynamics. Discover listener critiques and share your experiences through the community. Plus, uncover insights on navigating fuel recommendations and housing crisis solutions, along with practical tips for managing financial dependencies.

Consider renting in a new city before buying to avoid costly mistakes. The show shares compelling real-life examples emphasizing how this strategy can save you headaches. Meanwhile, the secondhand clothing market is booming, growing seven times faster than new clothing sales. This trend reflects a cultural shift toward sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Listeners are encouraged to embrace thrift shopping as a smart way to save money and shop responsibly, all while still looking stylish!

This engaging discussion addresses the growing trend of retail membership models, comparing offerings from major players like Target and Walmart. The conversation shifts to the alarming rise of organized crime in timeshare scams, targeting unsuspecting victims. Listeners gain insights on managing debt, including Parent PLUS loans, and the implications of debt settlements. The episode wraps up with travel tips, focusing on how to save money on hotels and flights, ensuring a festive and financially savvy season.

The hosts delve into predictions for home prices in 2025, discussing how factors like mortgage rates and income will impact affordability. They explore secure payment options, particularly focusing on virtual card numbers and rental car toll management. The conversation shifts to the sobering statistics of average 401(k) balances, emphasizing the need for better retirement planning. Personal anecdotes highlight credit building strategies for teenagers and essential safety tips for homeowners with pools.