NerdWallet's Smart Money Podcast

Amber Clayton, Senior Director at SHRM, shares her expertise on navigating the maze of employer-provided benefits during open enrollment. She highlights often-overlooked perks like pet insurance and legal assistance. Listen in as they uncover the ins and outs of dental and vision coverage, and discuss the rising importance of mental health resources. The conversation also touches on unique offerings such as adoption support, student loan assistance, and gym memberships, empowering listeners to make informed decisions about their benefits.

Join Sam Taube, writer of the Nerdy Investor newsletter, as he dives into prediction markets like PredictIt and Polymarket. He explains how these platforms allow betting on event outcomes, navigating legal gray areas especially regarding elections. The discussion raises fascinating questions about the blurred lines between investing and gambling. Sam also shares insights into the regulatory challenges facing these markets, urging listeners to see them as entertainment rather than a sound financial strategy.

Spencer Tierney, a banking expert at NerdWallet with nearly a decade of experience, dives into the complexities of online banking and neobanks. He clarifies the crucial differences between traditional banks and neobanks, emphasizing FDIC insurance's role in safeguarding deposits. The conversation highlights recent vulnerabilities in the neobanking sector, particularly in light of Synapse's bankruptcy, raising awareness about potential risks and protections for consumers. Also discussed are practical tips for affordable holiday hosting, linking festive spending to overall financial health.

Ryan Brady, an Insurance Nerd at NerdWallet, and John Ryan, CEO of Ryan Insurance Strategy Consultants, share their expertise on vital income protection through insurance. They discuss the importance of life and disability insurance, revealing common pitfalls in coverage. The duo compares employer-provided options to individual policies, highlighting complexities in disability insurance. Listeners gain insights on safeguarding their financial future against worst-case scenarios, stressing the emotional responsibility of ensuring loved ones are protected.

Lisa Green, a NerdWallet insurance expert, shares her wealth of knowledge on navigating life insurance choices. She dives into the differences between term and permanent life insurance, revealing insights on cash value accumulation. The discussion also tackles the complexities of variable life insurance and its investment potential. Green explains the intriguing concept of infinite banking, including its benefits and risks, emphasizing the discipline required for successful implementation. Listeners gain practical strategies to choose the right policy for their financial goals.

Dive into the financial implications of Donald Trump's potential return to the White House. Discover how his economic policies could influence inflation and what that means for consumer prices. Explore the expected impacts of his tax cuts and tariffs on American wallets. Unpack the consequences for housing and health care, along with the economic effects of his immigration strategies. Expert analyses reveal the uncertainties surrounding his proposals, shedding light on potential changes to the national economy and individual finances.

In this insightful discussion, guests Kate Ashford, a certified senior advisor in Medicare and retirement, and Tina Orem, a NerdWallet tax expert, break down the open enrollment process. They simplify the intricacies of different healthcare plans like HMOs, PPOs, and HDHPs, discussing how to assess personal needs and budget effectively. They also explain the tax advantages of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) versus Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), helping listeners navigate the complexities of selecting the right healthcare coverage.

Alana Benson, an investing writer from NerdWallet, breaks down the rising trend of treating life insurance as an investment. She explains why life insurance should not replace a 401(k) and debunks common misconceptions propagated by TikTok influencers. Alana highlights critical differences between life insurance policies and retirement accounts, pinpointing hidden fees and potential conflicts of interest. The conversation also touches on the importance of scrutinizing financial advice on social media while discussing recent economic trends like GDP growth.

In this engaging discussion, Jae Bratton, a NerdWallet credit card writer, shares her insights on retirement account rollovers, drawing from personal experiences. The conversation delves into the benefits of consolidating accounts for better financial security and explores the surprising risks of indirect rollovers. Additionally, tips on smart budgeting for the holidays and strategies to avoid impulsive spending are highlighted, making for a well-rounded talk on financial management and planning.

Jessica Spangler, author of "Invest Like a Girl" and a popular money educator, shares her insights on why women often excel in investing. She discusses how patience and a focus on long-term goals lead to better outcomes. The hosts delve into practical strategies for overcoming financial hurdles, managing debt, and building wealth. With a blend of personal finance tips and gender-specific insights, they inspire listeners to take charge of their financial futures and invest confidently.