The Clark Howard Podcast

This episode dives into the complexities of financially supporting adult children while maintaining your own stability. Listeners hear about alternative health options and the risks faced by gig economy workers. The conversation also touches on experiences with travel credit cards and how to manage family finances without overextending. Clark shares insights on budgeting for children and the importance of teaching financial lessons early. Add in some feedback from listeners and you've got a mix of practical advice and community interaction!

Clark wants to help you to save more, spend less, and if you’re struggling with debt - avoid ripoffs that target debt with more debt. Know how to get legit help if you’re in too deep. Also today - a warning for all travelers involving a serious, fast-growing crime happening here in the U.S. and abroad.  Dig Out Of Debt: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Travel Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Warning: Here’s What Those Debt Settlement Companies Don’t Tell You Clark Howard's 2025 Credit Card Debt Elimination Strategy How To Get Out of Debt in 7 Steps 6 Things To Know Before Contacting the National Foundation for Credit Counseling Why You Should Keep Old Credit Card Accounts Open How and When To Cancel a Credit Card Best Airline Credit Cards for 2025: Are They Right For You? Best Travel Credit Cards: Top Rewards Picks for 2025 Follow Clark Howard's #1 Rule To Travel Cheap How To Save Money With Google Flights Best Free Streaming Services in 2025: Movies and TV for Cord Cutters Credit Score Experts: How To Take Your Score from ‘Good’ To ‘Exceptional’ Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoicesSponsorsCredit Karma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Retirement Accounts in Panic? and Your Secret Weapon for Volatile MarketsAre you seeing unsettling headlines about 2025? You're not alone. Reports show a surge in retirement account trading, with a staggering 40% of people moving to stable value funds. Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss explains why "Tariff Terror" is driving these decisions – and the incredible reason why we should navigate uncertainty with confidence. Also, with market dips and volatility on the rise, how can you protect your portfolio? Wes introduces the "Dry Powder Principle” -- your strategic reserve of safety assets.Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the March 18, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: https://clark.com/askWe hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes, in which Christa and Wes discuss investing and retirement savings in depth. Let us know what you think in the comments!Learn more about Wes: Wes Moss, CFP®Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Clark focuses on one of the biggest purchases most of us make in life - cars. There are ways to get a vehicle for way less money than most people pay. Also, a look at the pros & cons of so called smart electric meters and time of use plans offered by utility companies - and how to decide which is best for you.  Best Low Cost Vehicles: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Smart Meters: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Best new cars in 2025: Consumer Reports reveals top picks for reliability, safety and more Costco Car Buying Program: 4 Things To Know Before You Sign Up How To Buy a Used Car / How to Buy a New Car in 5 Steps Elliott Report: Home Should You Get a Smart Meter for Your Home? What Is Term Life Insurance? How To Buy Term Life Insurance in 7 Easy Steps What Is Disability Insurance and How Does It Work? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com / Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listener feedback sparks a candid discussion on past financial advice and concerns about rising fuel prices. The housing market is experiencing a significant shift, with buyers gaining the upper hand as inventory increases. There's an amusing take on electric vehicles and tips for selling used cars effectively. Grocery shopping comparisons reveal significant price differences, and insights into 529 plans highlight the nuances of saving for college. Finally, tips for navigating personal finance decisions amidst changing housing dynamics are shared.

Discover the ins and outs of retail pricing and how to shop smart, with a focus on unit pricing that can save you money. Learn about the upcoming Real ID requirements for air travel, ensuring you’re prepared for your next flight. Explore alternatives to expensive hearing aids and financial strategies for managing rising medical expenses. Plus, get tips on cybersecurity for your travel accounts to keep your information safe while you rediscover the joy of travel in a post-pandemic world.

Wes Moss, a fiduciary and seasoned financial advisor known for his expertise in retirement planning, shares valuable insights on navigating early retirement. He identifies six critical mistakes to avoid for those dreaming of an early exit from the workforce. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of retirement planning, including the FIRE movement and the importance of multiple income streams. Wes answers listener questions, offering practical strategies to ensure financial stability and make informed investment choices.

Dive into the current landscape of airline safety and discover why some travelers are choosing budget carriers like Spirit over traditional airlines. Learn tips for snagging discount fares and essential travel advice for European cruises. Unpack the latest trends in used vehicle pricing, considering the ongoing effects of COVID-19 on the market. Gain valuable insights on rental car insurance and the importance of vehicle inspections before making a purchase. This is your one-stop guide to smarter travel and car buying.

Listeners share their critiques in the engaging 'Clark Stinks' segment, prompting lively discussions on financial advice. Daylight Saving Time brings an interesting assignment aimed at optimizing insurance benefits. Conversations touch on the pros and cons of annuities, while practical topics like documenting possessions for insurance and navigating personal finance challenges are explored. Community feedback on lab-grown diamonds and credit scores adds depth, all wrapped up with insights into current postal service challenges and a celebration of the longer daylight hours.

Discover how the cost of living and retirement funds vary dramatically across U.S. states, with Hawaii topping the charts as the most expensive. Explore the economic implications of tariffs and their impacts on consumer prices. Clark also shares insights into car rental tips and high-yield savings options, emphasizing prudent financial strategies. Tune in for a compelling look at your money and how to navigate today’s economic landscape.