

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

Feb 27, 2025 • 33min
Egg Prices, Greenwashing, and Smarter Ways to Invest
Discover the surprising reasons behind the soaring prices of eggs, including the avian flu crisis and supply chain issues. Dive into the complexities of ethical investing as hosts dissect the realities of ESG funds and the risks of greenwashing. Learn smart savings strategies and how to balance investments with financial goals, especially for student loan management. Plus, hear about the benefits of high-yield savings accounts and the importance of emergency funds in achieving long-term financial stability.

Feb 24, 2025 • 29min
Behavioral Finance Mistakes That Hurt Your Portfolio and What “Good” Returns Look Like
In this enlightening discussion, Yohance Harrison, a behavioral financial advisor and founder of Money Script Wealth Management, explains how psychological biases like anchoring and recency can derail investment decisions. He emphasizes the need for patience and strategic long-term planning to counteract emotions in trading. The hosts also dive into what constitutes a 'good' return on investments and when to reconsider your strategy, providing listeners with practical advice for navigating market volatility.

Feb 24, 2025 • 1min
Welcome to NerdWallet's Smart Money Podcast
Dive into practical financial wisdom as the hosts tackle your biggest money questions. They simplify topics like budgeting, saving, and investing to empower you in making informed decisions. Explore strategies for home buying and credit card management, all delivered in a friendly, jargon-free style. By tuning in, you’ll gain actionable insights to help you build wealth and successfully plan for life’s big moments.

9 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 30min
Marriage and Money Myths — and Why the Economy Feels 'Off'
Lauren Schwahn, a NerdWallet Personal Finance Writer, dives into the financial intricacies of marriage. She discusses how marriage can influence taxes, credit scores, and debt management between partners. They explore the misunderstandings surrounding joint credit and the importance of individual credit histories. The conversation also touches on estate planning, healthcare decision-making, and how to maintain financial transparency in a relationship. Plus, insights on how economic indicators often don't tell the full story for middle and low-income Americans.

11 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 37min
Why Traditional Budgeting Fails and What’s Missing from Your Money Plan
Jen Smith and Jill Sirianni, hosts of the Frugal Friends podcast and authors of "Buy What You Love Without Going Broke," discuss the limitations of traditional budgeting. They emphasize values-based spending as a method to combat impulse purchases and enhance financial confidence. The conversation delves into aligning financial choices with personal values and reframing financial mistakes without shame. Additionally, they touch on retirement savings, financial blind spots, and the importance of enjoying money while planning for the future.

Feb 13, 2025 • 37min
Cross-Country Moving Tips and What a CFPB Shutdown Could Mean for You
Chuck Bell, Program Director for Advocacy at Consumer Reports, shares insights on the potential shutdown of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and its implications for consumer rights. He discusses the CFPB's crucial role in safeguarding financial protections. The conversation then shifts to practical advice for cross-country moves, weighing the pros and cons of renting versus selling homes. Tips on budgeting for moving costs, strategies for covering down payments, and navigating logistics highlight the financial complexities of relocating.

Feb 10, 2025 • 30min
Debt in the Dating World and Retirement Planning for Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
Dive into the intriguing world of dating where debt can be a dealbreaker! Discover how financial responsibility impacts romance and learn to spot red flags in relationships. The hosts reveal secrets about managing money and discussing finances with a partner. Transitioning to business, uncover essential retirement planning tips for entrepreneurs, including when to prioritize personal savings over business reinvestments. Plus, hear from a farmer on navigating farm finances and succession strategies for a smooth retirement.

Feb 6, 2025 • 31min
Will New Tariffs and Tax Rules Cost You? (Plus: Travel Rewards & Roth IRA Tips)
Dive into the world of tariffs and their impact on consumer prices. Discover the best travel credit cards, including the perks of the Chase Sapphire Reserve and American Express Gold. Learn how to navigate the maze of Roth IRAs and investment options for beginners. Gain insights from a lightning round of listener questions, covering everything from travel rewards to tax implications. Stay informed about federal spending changes and consumer protections amid shifting financial policies.

Feb 5, 2025 • 3min
Introducing Smart Travel: Upgrade Your Getaways, a NerdWallet Podcast
Planning a vacation can be overwhelming, but there are ways to make your travel budget stretch further. Discover actionable tips and expert insights that’ll help you get the most bang for your buck. Plus, dive into the features of the Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch, perfect for adventure lovers, and snag a special discount. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just looking to save, these insights will set the stage for your dream getaway.

Feb 3, 2025 • 32min
The Price Isn’t Right: How to Stop Overspending and Stay Debt-Free
Join Amanda Barroso, personal finance writer at NerdWallet, as she shares insights on breaking free from overspending. Discover the concept of a no-buy year, a powerful tool for resetting spending habits and enhancing mindful consumerism. Learn practical strategies like setting clear spending rules, resisting impulse purchases, and the importance of financial therapy in combating debt cycles. The discussion also delves into the psychology of spending and practical measures to improve budgeting and achieve financial stability.