More Sense Than Dollars

Credit card churning is a great way to rack up credit card points, but its not as free as it seems. In this episode we walk through the 3 most important things to know before getting started on churning and whether you're in a position to start collecting those big signup bonuses.

Have you wondered whether you should get more credit cards? Or how to know which ones to get? In this episode we'll help you maximize your rewards across your everyday spending categories to get the most points possible for the least amount of effort.

Why would I get a credit card with an annual fee when there are so many without a fee? How do I know which tier is best for me? What do cards from different banks have in common?If you've asked yourself these questions, hit play and your questions will be answered. We cover the different tiers of credit cards from entry level, mid tier, and premium and where you should jump in when applying for a card.

There are so many types of credit cards out there, so where should you start? Listen in, we'll walk through the different credit card categories and which ones apply to your credit and spending situation. From travel to balance transfers to your favorite store, there's a card out there for you!

We're back with Episode 2 in the Credit Card Crash Course series. In this one we take things further and discuss the importance of getting away from something called credit card float and how it can feel like you're more on top of your credit card bills than you actually are. If you can stay off the float you'll have a good foundation for maximizing credit card perks and benefits so tune in for strategies on fixing this hidden problem.

Welcome to Episode 1 of the Credit Card Boot Camp! We're going on a 9 episode journey to get the most out of your credit cards and start racking up points and miles. In this episode, we explain the complicated terms you'll see when you go to pay your bill and which dates are actually important to avoid paying interest.

In this episode we answer the top listener questions from season 7. We'll clarify when to do a Backdoor Roth IRA, how to spend tax refunds, and maximizing your return on credit card points.

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In this episode we continue the conversation with Eric on what factors to consider when choosing a place to live. We cover some of the overlooked costs of living and how to make sure you end up somewhere affordable that matches your values.

Have you wondered what things you should consider when choosing a city or area to live? In this episode, we're joined by guest Eric McCabe who has put hundreds of hours of research into this topic and we'll walk through how to choose the criteria that can point you towards a place you'll be happy to settle down.

Have you been accumulating credit card points but not sure how to spend them? In this episode we discuss how to cash in those points and get the best bang for your buck when you do it.

Do you have monthly subscriptions you're still paying that you rarely use? Or are you subscribed to some services you don't even know about? In this episode we discuss how to audit your list of monthly subscriptions and get intentional about which you keep while saving money by cutting the rest.

You've probably heard of a Backdoor Roth IRA, but its often explained in a complex way that makes it sound like a difficult account to open. In this episode, we'll talk through how to get the benefits of a Roth IRA when you're over the income limit to contribute. Spoiler: it's not as tricky as you think.

If you're budgeting correctly, a good portion of your income is going towards retirement savings. But have you wondered when you can access that money and how? In this episode, we discuss when you can cash out your retirement accounts and how to minimize penalties and fees when you do it.

Have you ever blown a bonus and felt guilty you didn't set any aside for savings? In this episode we discuss how to allocate those lump sums like annual bonuses or tax refunds so you can treat yourself without worrying about saving for the future.

In this episode we answer another batch of our listeners' questions. From top budgeting apps to savings guilt, from retirement planning to lifestyle inflation, Harry and Nick have you covered. Thank you to everyone that continues to listen and support the show, see you in Season 7.

Have you worried whether you'll have enough savings to retire when you want? In this episode, we'll walk through the benchmark milestones you should aim for at different ages and why starting to save early is so helpful thanks to compound interest. Whether you're just starting your savings journey or looking to grow your nest egg, this episode will give you the insights and practical tips to set yourself up for a stress-free retirement.

Owning a pet can be fun and rewarding, but it can also be expensive if you don't know what bills to expect. In this episode, we uncover some of the most common upfront and recurring costs that come with getting a pet as well as some you might have missed so you can be financially prepared for your new pet. Your MissionEstimate the extra monthly expenses based on the categories we providedSee how it fits within your current budget and whether its affordable to youSplit the line items by needs and wants within your budget and enjoy your new petEconomics of pet ownershipCost of owning a dog or catHow to budget for a new dog

How long have you been using the same checking and savings account at the same bank? There are more account options out there than ever, and with the competition comes some nice incentives to switch to a better bank. In this episode we discuss reasons to switch accounts and how to do it painlessly, whether its online or a physical bank. Your MissionDecide whether you'd be better off at another bankOpen the account and switch over your recurring deposits and withdrawals Check in after a few months and see if the experience is better before closing the old account Reasons to switch banksBest checking accountsWhat to consider when switching 

If 80% of New Year's Resolutions fail by February, how are you going to make sure yours survive the year? In this episode, we discuss how to set yourself up for success in making and keeping your financial resolutions to reach your personal finance goals. Your MissionMake your resolutions simple and specific, set the bar lowSet reminders to check in throughout the year on your progressAdd to your goals as you achieve them during the yearResolution failure rateFinancial resolutions10 resolutions for the new year

A lot happened in the world of finance in 2023, and in this episode we'll recap the most relevant stories and events of the year. From crypto fraud to the Eras Tour, we discuss how this years events could impact your 2024 financial goals. 

When you've successfully negotiated a pay raise, what do you do with the extra money? In this episode we discuss how to allocate extra income to give yourself some reward today and still set your future self up for success. Your MissionConfirm the budget ratios that work best for you Allocate your additional income based on the same percentages Look back after 90 days of your new spending and see if you need to make any tweaks Lifestyle inflationWhat to do with a new salaryHow to avoid lifestyle creep

Happy Thanksgiving listeners! If you pay attention to the 24 hour news cycle, the present and future economy seem pretty bleak. Luckily the actual data is a lot more promising, but less dramatic. In this episode we discuss some of the good news out there to be grateful for and how to avoid the negativity the press likes to highlight. 

Gone are the days where you need pen and paper or a spreadsheet template to create your budget. Today there are apps and software tools that track your transactions and offer recommendations on how to dial in your spending the way you want. In this episode, we'll walk through some of the top rated apps out there to help you figure out which one is best for you. Your MissionResearch the tools we mentioned that stick out to you as interesting Sign up and give one a try for at least one month Evaluate after a month and extend or try a new one until you find one that works for you You Need a BudgetMintGoodbudgetEveryDollarPersonal WealthPocketguardCopilot

Have you tried the 50/30/20 budget and found it doesn't work for you? In this episode we offer up some other ways to allocate your paycheck that help you save for your future and keep the lifestyle you want.  Your MissionChoose the budget breakdown that feels most sustainable for you Run the budget for a few months and see if you're happy with the results Don't let perfect be the enemy of good, tweak the percentages as you need Why 50/30/20 might not work for youAlternative budget options50/30/20 and other options

This season had some great questions come in. In this episode we answer a few on interest rates, buying a car, credit scores, and more. Thank you all for listening to another chunk of episodes, more to come and let us know what topics you'd like to hear. 

Everyone is saying interest rates are too high to buy cars or houses, but why are rates high and who decides the rates? In this episode we'll explain how to Federal Reserve sets interest rates and what impact those rates have on everyday life.  Your MissionBe a lender, put your money in High Yield Savings Accounts and CDsAdjust your budget with current rates based on your new buying power Question any unnecessary loans that could be more difficult to get a return on How the Fed sets ratesWhy waiting for rates to go down could be badShould you wait for rates to drop?

You're sold on credit card churning and want to apply for your first card, but which type of card from which bank? This episode covers more specifics on credit card bonuses and recommendations on cards we own with the best perks available.  Your MissionResearch card signup promotions with bonus categories that match your spendingCreate loyalty accounts and apply for a card you're interested in Wait a few months, then consider adding another card to the mix Card Sign up bonuses Chase 5/24 ruleThe Points Guy

Credit card sign up bonuses might seem too good to be true, but you can earn some big rewards with a bit of discipline. In this episode we'll give the basics behind credit card churning and whether you should be getting into the game or not. Your regular spending habits might be able to get you hundreds or thousands in free travel or cash back. Your MissionDecide whether you're in a healthy financial position to apply for credit cards Explore different cards based on current bonuses or your brand loyalty Apply, hit the minimum spend requirement, and treat yourself with the points Credit Card Churning Current sign up offersChurning 101

Wondering what to do with money you need safe but isn't making any interest in your checking account? In this episode we walk through some options for shorter term investments that are safer than stocks but give more return than sitting under the mattress. We explain how to buy fixed income investments and the pros and cons of each.  Your MissionFigure out what savings you have that you don't need soon Explore different options offered by your bank and shop aroundBuy one and start small to get used to these types of investments Guide to fixed income investmentsBest fixed income investmentsPros and Cons of fixed income

Banks are always looking for ways to attract new customers, so why not take advantage? Bank account bonuses are a way to make some extra cash in exchange for a little time and effort. We'll cover the pros and cons of opening accounts to get a few hundred dollars and help you decide whether its a good option for you. Your MissionLook through the banks and see if you're eligible for any promotionsFollow the steps to get your bonus for each accountCollect the cash and repeat with other banks Best account bonusesAre bank bonuses worth it?Pros and cons of bank account bonuses

We've all done it: You're having a rough day, you go do some online shopping, you feel better for a bit, then you regret buying something you didn't need and you're stuck with credit card bills. In this episode you'll learn tips to practice self-care and treat yourself without hurting your budget and future financial goals.  Your MissionLook for your emotional spending triggers and stay mindful when they come upUse the 48 hour rule to prevent buying something you don't needDedicate a piece of your budget to self-care spendingHow to stop emotional spendingStatistics on retail therapy How to deal with retail therapy

Episode NotesIt might seem like just a number, but a high credit score can make your life easier and save you money in a lot of different ways. In this episode we'll bust some myths about credit scores and explain how a higher score opens more opportunity on your personal finance journey. Your MissionSign up for auto pay and payment alerts on your loans and credit cardsMonitor your score for any big changes to investigate Make your payments on time, keep your balances low, and keep your accounts open How to freeze your creditChase credit score monitoringCredit score percentages

Car insurance can be a big part of car ownership expenses, so its important to get the most coverage for the lowest cost. In this episode we'll explain the industry buzzwords, how to get a policy, and when you should file a claim. Your MissionFind out what coverage you need in your stateShop around policies with different insurance companies Purchase a policy and drive safe to keep your premium lowTop car insurance companies When to file a claimHow premiums are calculated 

Is used car salesman on your list of biggest fears? This episode will help you conquer that. We break down all the steps to take from researching to driving off the lot so you can get the car you want at a price that fits your budget. Your MissionFigure out what you can affordDo the research and pick your make and model Test drive and negotiate, but be patient in the processHow Much Car You Can Afford How to Buy a CarBuying a Car Tips

You asked some good questions about moving, unemployment, and stocks and we've got answers. Keep the questions coming, it helps us decide what to cover in each episode and what episode topics to use in the future. 

2022 had some ups like interest rates and some downs like the stock market. In this episode we're covering some of the biggest financial events and news stories of the year and how they can influence your personal finance decisions for 2023 and beyond.Your MissionDecide what you want to do more and less of financially for 2023Start with small changes to reach your goals for next yearFollow us on social media and let us know what episodes you want to hear2023 Financial resolutionsStock market lossesStudent loan updates

Whether you're unemployed now or in an at-will employment state where you could find yourself unemployed without warning, this episode will help you plan for the worst. Staying disciplined and following a few key steps while you're jobless can be the difference between finding something quickly and having trouble paying bills. Your MissionHave a plan for if you find yourself unemployed, it can happen at any time If it happens don't panic, listen to this episode again and start executing the plan Stay positive and remember lots of other people have gone through it Making the most of unemploymentResume templatesThings to do while unemployed

When you buy or sell shares of a stock, have you wondered what all those options under Order Type mean? You'll see things like Market, Limit, Stop Market, Stop Limit and they all have very different purposes depending on what you want to do. In this episode we'll explain what they mean and when to use which type of order. Your MissionFigure out what you want to do with your shares Experiment with limit/stop orders in small amounts Use market, limit, and stop orders as part of your strategy going forward Stock Order TypesWhen to use Market vs LimitStop Loss vs Stop Limit

The path to financial freedom is not linear. Your personal finance journey really is a journey and there'll be mistakes and regrets along the way. In this episode we'll cover a few expensive lessons and things we wish we could do over if we could go back. Learn from our mistakes so you don't need to make as many of your own. Your MissionDon't get hard on yourself when you make mistakes, but don't make the same one twice Learn from others who have been in your shoes before Remember that you can recover from missed opportunities and still succeed How to avoid credit card debtHow to stay on a parents health care planUsing exit strategies for investments 

A home can be one of the most expensive purchases of you're life, so it's worth doing it right the first time. We'll go through the steps from saving up to closing day and how preparation can make buying a house more exciting than scary and stressful. Your MissionGet your savings and credit score in order Get mortgage pre approvals to find out your budget Find a realtor and narrow your search within that budget range ResourcesFirst Time HomebuyersTips for Buying a Home8 Tips for Home Buyers

From plane tickets to hotels to restaurants, traveling can be expensive. But you don't need to go into debt every time you want to take a trip. This episode is about how to see new places on a budget and making your vacation fund stretch as far as possible while still having a great time doing it. Your MissionStart planning and booking your next trip ahead of timeCompare hotels, Airbnb's, and camping options Save on food by not eating out every meal Saving on TravelBudget Travel TipsForbes Travel Tips

We continue the conversation with Hannah Roberts on how she maintains discipline without a manager, the pros and cons of entrepreneurship, and what her goals are for the future. 

On this week's episode we welcome our very first guest to the podcast! Nick's sister Hannah joins the usual duo for a 2-part interview covering her path to entrepreneurship, what it takes to cut it as a sole proprietor, and why you don't need to go corporate to be successful.And if you're ever in southeastern Massachusetts, be sure to check out Red's Beauty at Hair Essentials in Taunton, MA for the best haircut of your life!

Is the financial burden of an upcoming move keeping you up at night? This episode is all about how to move from one place you're living to another without breaking the bank. We'll talk through the balance of time vs money when it comes to DIY or hiring movers and how to save along the way. Your MissionPrepare for your move a few months in advance Donate or sell what belongings you can to lessen the work and expenses Choose between DIY and hiring some help based on your budget How to Cut Moving CostsSaving on MovingMoving on a Budget

Another season, another group of listener questions we've gathered over the last few weeks. We'll cover questions on things like credit cards, grocery shopping, and switching jobs. Stay tuned for another group of episodes!

Most people think that management is the main way to progress in your career, and that once you're a manager there's no turning back. Neither of those things are true. In this episode, we'll walk through your options for getting more raises and promotions in a way that fits your personal skills and preference.Your MissionWork on your soft skills whichever path you decide to takeKnow which track you're on now and decide if it's the one you wantFollow people who have found success before you and don't be afraid to climb Individual Contributors vs ManagersHow to Improve Soft SkillsBecoming a ManagerICs Who Don't Want to Manage

The stock market is tanking and you're not sure what to do? You've come to the right place. In this episode we explain what to do when there's a bear market or stock market crash so you don't panic or make any impulse decisions. In a bear market, there are still ways to see the glass half full and set yourself up for future success. Your MissionDon't panic or sell your shares for a loss Don't look at your account falling if it'll scare you Continue investing normally for the long term Charles Schwab StudyTime in the Market Beats Timing the MarketInvesting during a Bear Market

Have you heard you should carry a credit card balance month-to-month to boost your credit score? Or that you should pay for things with your debit card instead of a credit card? In this episode, we're busting ten of the biggest myths that are hurting your personal finance journey so you can get back on track. Your MissionIdentify any of these myths that you believe todayTry taking actions opposite to the belief and see if your finances improveSearch for any other myths you hear to confirm whether they're true or notTop 10 Personal Finance Myths5 Personal Finance Myths6 Money Myths5 Myths You Still Believe 

Without the right skills, building healthy habits and breaking bad ones is nearly impossible. In this episode we'll give some tips on how to strengthen the willpower muscle you'll need to turn conscious routines into unconscious habits. To make healthy money habits you'll need a plan, because a goal without a plan is really just a wish.Your MissionStart small with one good habit to make and one bad one to break Break it into chunks and choose a target that seems too low Once you reach your target for at least a week, increase it a little bit How to Build a Habit- James ClearRoutines vs Habits Good Financial Habits