

NerdWallet's Smart Money Podcast
NerdWallet Personal Finance
NerdWallet’s trusted finance journalists answer real-world money questions to help you make smarter financial decisions with confidence.Each episode dives deep into topics like budgeting, saving, investing, home buying, and credit cards, cutting through misinformation to bring you clear, actionable advice backed by thorough research.By the end of every episode, you’ll have the latest financial insights and the tools you’ll need to manage your money wisely, build wealth, and plan for life’s milestones. And if you have questions for the Nerds, you can leave them a voicemail at 901-730-6373.Join hosts Sean Pyles, CFP®, Elizabeth Ayoola, and other expert Nerds as they answer your biggest money questions and share strategies to help you build wealth and reach your financial goals, including:– Investing: Advanced investment strategies, integrating ETFs and mutual funds into a diversified portfolio, tax-efficient retirement planning, understanding Roth IRA conversions, and navigating robo-advisors.– Credit Cards: Top credit cards for travel rewards and luxury perks, balance transfer strategies, maximizing credit card points, and optimizing credit card usage to boost your credit score.– Personal Finance: Advanced budgeting tips, building generational wealth, creating effective savings plans, managing high-income expenses, and developing a strong money growth mindset.– Home: Smart strategies for homebuying in competitive markets, leveraging home equity loans and HELOCs, refinancing for long-term savings, first-time homebuying tips, and budgeting for major home improvements.If you’re searching for the best personal finance podcasts or want practical knowledge to make smarter money decisions, then follow NerdWallet’s Smart Money Podcast.You’ll love NerdWallet’s Smart Money Podcast if you like podcasts like: Planet Money, The Personal Finance Podcast, DIY Money, Afford Anything, How to Money, The Ramsey Show, Money Rehab with Nicole Lapin, NPR’s Life Kit: Money, Popcorn Finance, Money Girl,Money Guy Show, Everyone’s Talkin’ Money, So Money with Farnoosh Tarabi, The Money with Katie Show, All the Hacks with Chris Hutchins, The Stacking Benjamins Show, MoneyWatch with Jill Schlesinger, or Your Money, Your Wealth.NerdWallet Compare, Inc. NMLS ID# 1617539 NMLS Consumer Access: http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 13, 2024 • 12min
Crypto Makes Another Comeback: What's Different This Time?
The podcast delves into the recent resurgence of cryptocurrency, particularly Bitcoin, discussing factors like blockchain reward halving and spot Bitcoin ETFs. They explore the controversies surrounding cryptocurrency, its use as an alternative investment, and the environmental impact of mining. Topics include bitcoin ETFs, digital currencies, crypto investing, volatility, and DeFi, shedding light on the divisive nature of the market.

Mar 11, 2024 • 35min
How to Choose Between Paying Debt and Investing After a Windfall
Join the hosts as they discuss learning from financial mistakes, debate between paying off debt or investing a windfall, managing high-interest credit card debt, building emergency funds, planning for retirement, and maximizing returns in 529 accounts.

Mar 7, 2024 • 30min
Elevate Your Family & Group Getaways: Get Travel Deals with Smart Planning and Points
Learn how to plan affordable family and group getaways with expert tips on maximizing travel points and credit card perks. Discover strategies for booking flights, saving on seat selection fees, and leveraging Southwest Airlines perks. Dive into the world of travel rewards, budget travel, and smart planning for memorable group vacations.

Mar 6, 2024 • 11min
“Dynamic Pricing” Could Save You Money at the Drive-Through
Learn about how 'dynamic pricing' in fast food could save you money. Dive into the differences between surge pricing and dynamic pricing, and discover how AI technology can impact consumer discounts. Explore Wendy's controversial pricing strategy, the potential applications of dynamic pricing in various industries, and the role of artificial intelligence in shaping pricing strategies.

Mar 4, 2024 • 27min
Tips to Save on Groceries and Navigate Tax Season
Learn how to save on groceries by comparing prices and using curbside pickup. Get expert tax advice on IRS updates, filing methods, and maximizing deductions. Discover the financial benefits of a plant-based diet and explore how to navigate tax season stress-free.

Feb 29, 2024 • 22min
Revitalize Your Budget with a 30-Day Money Cleanse
Embark on a 30-day money cleanse journey to align spending with joy and values. Learn about budget optimization, money journals, visualization techniques, and money parties for financial empowerment and savings. Discover the benefits of frugal living and aligning spending with personal values for a more fulfilling financial approach.

Feb 28, 2024 • 13min
Student Loan Debt Relief and the SAVE Plan’s Future with Secretary Miguel Cardona
The podcast delves into the early rollout of $1.2B in student loan forgiveness and the motivations behind prioritizing debt relief. U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona discusses the SAVE plan, offering insights into who benefits and how eligible borrowers will be notified. They also explore the impact of debt cancellation on student loan borrowers and future strategies to make higher education more accessible and affordable.

Feb 26, 2024 • 28min
Unlock the Benefits of 529 Plans to Save for College Tuition and Education Expenses
Learn about the risks of skipping home inspections and how to navigate unexpected healthcare costs. Discover the benefits of 529 college savings plans, including tax advantages and flexibility. Get tips on contributing to a friend's 529 plan and setting effective college saving goals.

Feb 22, 2024 • 29min
Succeed in Self-Employment: How to Choose The Best Business Structure for Liability and Taxes (S Corps, C Corps, LLCs, Sole Proprietorships)
Learn how to choose the right business structure for financial success and legal protection as a self-employed entrepreneur. From comparing LLCs, S corps, and traditional corporations to understanding tax implications and liability protection, this podcast provides valuable insights on navigating the complex process of business formation and transitioning from self-employment to business ownership.

Feb 21, 2024 • 15min
Navigating Surging Mortgage and Child Care Costs
Explore strategies to navigate surging mortgage and child care costs impacting American families. Insights on housing market dynamics, high mortgage rates, and practical advice for prospective homebuyers. Discussing challenges in child care industry, rising home buying costs, Federal Reserve actions, and navigating expenses with creative solutions and financial strategies.