NerdWallet's Smart Money Podcast

Learn how to navigate gas prices this summer, then hear how to make your money work after retiring early and moving abroad. What’s going on with gas prices this summer? How can early retirees turn their savings into income abroad? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss gas price trends and smart investment options for early retirees to help you plan a smoother ride — both on the road and in your financial journey. Joined by NerdWallet’s Anna Helhoski and AAA’s Aixa Diaz, they begin with a discussion of 2025 gas prices, with tips and tricks on timing your fill-ups, choosing the right fuel blend, and prepping your car for summer travel. Then, Sean and Elizabeth answer a listener’s question about how to turn $150,000 in savings into ongoing passive income after achieving FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) and relocating to Spain. They discuss how to balance accessibility with growth through options like CD ladders, T-bills, REITs, and dividend ETFs. They also explore considerations around managing rental properties from abroad, currency risk, and the importance of working with a CPA to avoid tax pitfalls when investing internationally. Use NerdWallet’s free compound interest calculator to see how your savings and investment account balances can grow with the magic of compound interest: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/compound-interest-calculator  Dividend aristocrats are stocks that raise their dividends every year. Here’s an overview of how to invest in them: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/top-dividend-aristocrats-list Dividend stocks can be a great choice for investors looking for passive income and portfolio stability. View NerdWallet’s list of the best high-dividend stocks and learn how to invest in them: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/how-to-invest-dividend-stocks  Here’s NerdWallet’s list of the best ways to send money internationally: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/banking/best-ways-to-wire-money-internationally  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: gas prices 2025, summer gas prices, how to save money on gas, why are gas prices rising, AAA fuel cost calculator, road trip cost calculator, gas price trends, crude oil price impact on gas, how to prepare for a road trip, car maintenance for road trips, road trip emergency kit checklist, what affects gas prices, hurricane impact on gas prices, early retirement abroad, how to generate passive income after FIRE, CD ladder strategy, high-yield savings alternatives, best short-term investments, moving to Spain finances, cost of living in Spain vs USA, living off rental income abroad, managing rental property from overseas, REIT vs dividend ETF, opening brokerage account abroad, FATCA rules for expats, real estate income planning, investing while living overseas, treasury bills vs CDs, compound interest calculator, diversifying passive income, financial planning after FIRE, and retiring in your 40s. To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email podcast@nerdwallet.com. Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amanda Barroso shares her low-buy journey, revealing how grief influenced her emotional spending. She emphasizes mindful budgeting, including planning for travel, and offers tips like creating a 'grief budget.' Eva Velasquez, CEO of the Identity Theft Resource Center, discusses the alarming rise of job scams, highlighting red flags and recovery steps for victims. The conversation stresses the need for awareness in avoiding scams and encourages a proactive approach to protecting one’s finances.

Colette Stallbaumer, co-founder of Microsoft WorkLab and general manager for Microsoft 365 Copilot, delves into the 'infinite workday' phenomenon and its impact on work-life balance. She shares insights on how AI tools can help reclaim focus time and reduce burnout. The discussion also includes practical strategies for setting boundaries in an always-on culture. Additionally, listeners learn how stay-at-home parents can build retirement savings, with tips on using spousal IRAs and the power of compound interest to grow modest contributions into significant funds.

Join seasoned housing expert Holden Lewis as he shares insights on navigating today's competitive real estate market. He explains the intricacies of mortgage recasting and offers strategies for tackling tough financial decisions, such as whether to save for a larger down payment or pay off existing loans. The conversation also delves into the benefits of placing rental properties in trusts, alongside practical tips for standing out in a crowded market like New York City. Get ready to unlock smart home-buying strategies!

Margarette Burnette, a banking writer at NerdWallet, dives into the nuances of managing conservatorship accounts in this engaging discussion. She highlights the unique requirements for these accounts and the importance of finding financial institutions that understand these needs. Listeners learn about barriers to savings for everyday Americans, effective strategies like sinking funds, and the best options for securing interest on conservatorship funds. Don't miss her insights on navigating credit unions versus online banks for optimal service and compliance!

Guest Daniel Messeca, a Certified Financial Planner and co-host of Check Your Balances, shares insights on managing debt without jeopardizing retirement plans. He discusses the risks of tapping into retirement funds to pay off credit card debt, emphasizing the importance of evaluating long-term implications. Messeca also highlights strategies for spotting budget leaks and the benefits of nonprofit credit counseling. Additionally, the conversation includes navigating the pitfalls of debt consolidation and the value of seeking professional financial advice.

Amanda Barroso, a personal finance expert at NerdWallet, shares insights on recovering from credit score drops after debt consolidation. Maria Curi, a technology policy reporter for Axios, discusses how generative AI is transforming the job market and personal finance strategies. They dive into practical ways to utilize AI for budgeting and managing finances while highlighting the importance of data privacy. The conversation also covers alternatives to debt consolidation, revealing strategies to improve credit scores and avoid financial pitfalls.

In this engaging discussion, Mandi Woodruff-Santos, a career coach and personal finance expert, provides invaluable insights on negotiating raises in today’s challenging economy. She shares tips on understanding your market value and building a robust professional network. The conversation also dives into the pros and cons of Roth and traditional retirement accounts, emphasizing the importance of tax diversification for financial flexibility. Mandi's expertise empowers listeners to confidently enhance their earning potential and make informed retirement decisions.

Elizabeth Renter, a NerdWallet data journalist and senior economist, joins car buying authority Shannon Bradley to tackle economic uncertainty and its impact on auto purchases. They discuss whether now is the right time to buy a car amid fluctuating tariffs and market instability. Tips include assessing your financial situation, understanding market trends, and managing news consumption. Listeners learn about the implications of ownership decisions and tools to analyze financing options, ensuring they can navigate the current chaotic landscape confidently.

Lisa Green, a NerdWallet writer and seasoned rental property owner, joins the hosts to share her insights. They tackle post-vacation budgeting strategies, including tips for cutting back on spending and resetting financial goals after a trip. Lisa also reveals the ins and outs of rental property management, discussing the choice between DIY management and hiring professionals. The conversation highlights the challenges of passive income, tax considerations, and the realities of becoming a landlord with practical advice and personal stories.