At the MoneyFix podcast, NerdWallet's in-house experts answer your real-world money questions. Hosts Dayana Yochim and Sean Pyles are your guides to help you manage your money smarter. Because nothing beats knowing.
The NerdWallet's MoneyFix Podcast is by far the best financial news and investment podcast I have come across. What sets it apart from others is the inclusion of many female experts, which is a refreshing change from other finance-oriented shows that often only feature arrogant men. The podcast provides insightful and informative content without trying to sell expensive insider training courses, which is a common tactic used by many similar podcasts.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is its short and direct format. Each episode gets straight to the point, providing valuable information without unnecessary fluff or filler. This makes it easy to consume and allows listeners to quickly grasp important financial concepts. The hosts and guest contributors have great camaraderie, creating an enjoyable listening experience that feels like a judgment-free zone.
A notable aspect that could be improved about the podcast is the lack of diversity in some episodes. While there are episodes that celebrate Black History Month or focus on personal finance within specific communities, such as the Asian or Hispanic community, these episodes are not consistently featured throughout the year. It would be beneficial to have more episodes moderated by and include interviews with people of color to provide a broader perspective on personal finance.
In conclusion, The NerdWallet's MoneyFix Podcast is an exceptional resource for anyone looking for accessible and straightforward information on personal finance. It offers practical tips, actionable insights, and thought-provoking discussions related to money matters. Despite some room for improvement in terms of diversity, this podcast remains one that everyone should listen to for its well-balanced content and knowledgeable hosts who make learning about personal finance fun and interesting.
Learn about money dealbreakers in dating, then how to plan ahead for assisted living and Medicaid costs. First, hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola dig into a new dating dealbreakers study with NerdWallet spokesperson and credit card writer Sara Rathner. They unpack why “financial infidelity” can feel like a relationship ender, what people are most likely to hide, and how to start money conversations earlier without turning the third date into an audit. They also share ways to talk about spending, expectations, and values so you can spot incompatibilities before big commitments. Then, personal finance Nerd Kate Ashford (a certified senior advisor) helps answer a listener's question about caring for an aging parent and budgeting for senior living. She discusses how assisted living costs can vary dramatically by location, what's typically included in base fees vs add-ons, and how “buy-in” communities like continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) compare with standard monthly-pay models. They also walk through key planning moves if a future nursing home stay is possible, including what to know about Medicaid being state-run, where to start researching benefits, and how to prepare for the paperwork and timelines. 0:00 Who will care for you in old age? 0:52 Dating money dealbreakers: debt and financial lies 3:33 Why couples hide purchases and spending 5:59 Rebuilding trust after financial infidelity 8:14 Dealbreakers: tipping, splitting dates, savings 13:16 Talking money early: what's a red flag? 18:02 No-spend challenge: Brick and cash-only 20:35 Friction hacks to curb impulse spending 21:49 Listener question: budgeting for senior care 23:40 Assisted living costs and what drives prices 31:02 Monthly vs buy-in CCRCs and refund rules 33:34 How long care lasts: model best/worst cases 38:00 Medicaid basics: eligibility, look-back, who can help 40:21 Final tips for families planning senior living NerdWallet Survey: One in 10 Americans Would Never Date Someone with Credit Card Debt https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/studies/data-undateable-debt Cost of Long Term Care by State | Cost of Care Report | Carescout https://www.carescout.com/cost-of-care Eldercare Locator https://eldercare.acl.gov/home Medicaid.gov: The Official U.S. Government Site for Medicaid and CHIP Services | Medicaid https://www.medicaid.gov/ Medicaid Planning Assistance – Helping Americans obtain the Medicaid long term care they require https://www.medicaidplanningassistance.org/ Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header 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
Learn how to plan for self-employment taxes and understand how savings interest can affect your tax bill. How can sports betting apps affect your finances? How do you set up taxes for 1099 contract work? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss self-employment taxes to help you prepare for tax season and avoid surprises. But first, senior news writer Anna Helhoski joins them to discuss the rise of sports betting and prediction markets. They break down how legal sports betting expanded after a 2018 Supreme Court decision, how app-based betting and prop bets make it easy to wager in real time, and the growing concerns around addiction risk, regulation, and the nonstop flood of betting ads. Then, Sean and Elizabeth dig into tax prep for contract work, including how business structure can affect self-employment taxes, ways to pay during the year through quarterly estimated payments or adjusting W-2 withholding, and how to stay organized with bookkeeping, deductible expenses, and forms like 1099-NEC. They also cover what to expect tax-wise with a Roth IRA and why high-yield savings account interest is typically taxed as ordinary income (often reported on Form 1099-INT). Use NerdWallet's free calculator to estimate your self-employment tax: https://www.nerdwallet.com/taxes/calculators/self-employment-tax-calculator Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: self-employment taxes, 1099 contractor taxes, estimated taxes, quarterly estimated tax payments, Form 1099-NEC, Schedule C, Schedule SE, sole proprietor taxes, S corp vs LLC taxes, S corp reasonable salary, self-employment tax rate 15.3%, net earnings self-employment tax, W-2 withholding for side hustle, Form 1040-ES, bookkeeping for freelancers, deductible business expenses, home office deduction, business bank account, separate business and personal finances, business credit card for expenses, tax deadline for S corp, first time penalty abatement, IRS penalty abatement, Roth IRA taxes, Roth IRA income limits 2026, Roth IRA phase-out, traditional IRA tax deduction, SEP IRA, SIMPLE IRA, tax forms for freelancers, Form 1099-INT, high-yield savings account taxes, sports betting taxes, sports betting apps, DraftKings, FanDuel, prediction markets, Kalshi, and Polymarket. 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
Get ideas for spending less in February and learn how deferment affects Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) payments. How can a month-long spending challenge reset your money habits? Should you keep paying student loans while in grad school if you're close to Public Service Loan Forgiveness and planning a move? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss no-spend experiments and “friction” strategies to help you build spending habits that stick while juggling big life changes. Joined by personal finance Nerd Amanda Barroso, they begin with a discussion of designing a February no-spend challenge, with tips and tricks on setting rules that fit your life, deciding where the saved money will go, and avoiding a binge-and-purge rebound. Then, lending Nerd Kate Wood joins Sean and Elizabeth to help answer a listener's question about how to weigh student loan payments against saving for a new home. They discuss how deferment affects qualifying PSLF payments, what to check before switching repayment plans or taking out new grad school loans, and how to prioritize cash flow when you're balancing a car payment, a mortgage, and an emergency fund. See NerdWallet's list of the best private student loans: https://www.nerdwallet.com/student-loans/best/private-student-loans See all the winners of NerdWallet's Best-Of Awards: https://www.nerdwallet.com/l/awards?utm_source=sm&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=cm_organic_020226_podcast_sm_desc_allepisodes_best-of-awards Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: no-spend challenge, low-spend challenge, spending freeze, budgeting challenge, money habits, impulse spending, track expenses, friction-maxxing, cash-only budget, stop online shopping, takeout spending, spending triggers, phone addiction and spending, Brick phone blocker, attention and spending, sinking fund, emergency fund, high-yield savings account, student loan deferment, student loan payments in grad school, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, PSLF qualifying payments, PSLF payment count, qualifying employer PSLF, income-driven repayment, PAYE repayment plan, Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, Repayment Assistance Plan, graduate student loan changes 2026, Grad PLUS loans, federal student loan borrowing limits, professional degree loan cap, nursing graduate student loans, buying a house with student loans, mortgage planning, moving costs, car payment budget, and student loan forgiveness uncertainty. 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
See what gold and silver highs mean and how to plan retirement spending without the 80% rule. Is gold's record run a sign you should buy? Do you really need 80% of your income in retirement? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss retirement income rules of thumb to help you understand how to estimate what you might spend after you stop working. But first, senior news writer Anna Helhoski joins Sean and Elizabeth to break down the precious-metals rally with investing writer Sam Taube. They discuss why investors treat gold and silver as “safe havens,” how a weakening U.S. dollar and tariff-driven uncertainty can move prices, and what to consider if you're deciding between physical metals and gold ETFs. Then, James Bashall, COO and advisor for NerdWallet Wealth Partners, joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss how to plan for retirement without blindly relying on the 80% rule. They discuss where the 80% benchmark came from, how other shortcuts like the 4% rule and the “rule of $1,000” can shape your thinking, and why running multiple spending scenarios (including a “spending smile”) can help you balance travel, inflation, and health care costs over time. Wondering how to buy gold? You have several options, including bullion, gold stocks, gold funds and gold futures. Learn more about the pros and cons of each: https://www.nerdwallet.com/investing/learn/how-to-buy-gold If you want to learn more about working with a financial advisor, then visit NerdWallet Wealth Partners at nerdwalletwealthpartners.com/smart Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: gold prices, silver prices, gold record high, investing in precious metals, gold vs silver, safe haven asset, hedge against inflation, hedge against a falling dollar, U.S. dollar decline, dollar index, portfolio diversification, gold ETF, best gold ETFs, physical gold, gold bullion, buying gold coins, storing gold safely, selling gold jewelry, central banks buying gold, geopolitical uncertainty investing, tariffs and markets, market volatility hedge, Goldman Sachs gold forecast, commodity investing, rebalancing portfolio, silver industrial demand, silver for electronics, AI chips silver demand, electric vehicle silver demand, retirement income replacement, 80% rule retirement, retirement spending, 4% rule, withdrawal rate, Monte Carlo retirement simulation, and retirement healthcare costs. 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
Protect your identity from tax-season scams and learn when 401(k) and IRA rollovers make sense. How do you roll over old 401(k)s and IRAs? And is a mega backdoor Roth worth the hassle? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola answer listener questions about retirement account rollovers, including when consolidation can help and how to avoid common missteps. But first, they kick off Identity Theft Awareness Week (and tax season) with a refresher on how you can protect your data, including pausing before you click or pay, updating passwords and tightening account security, and recognizing common scam tactics like fake websites, IRS impostors, smishing, and AI-powered impersonation. Then, investing Nerd Sam Taube joins Sean and Elizabeth for a lightning round all about retirement account rollovers. They answer listener questions about whether to roll over and consolidate multiple old 401(k) accounts, whether a mega backdoor Roth is worth the hassle and potential tax complexity, whether consolidating multiple IRAs is likely to boost returns or mainly simplify finances, and whether rollover IRAs have the same bankruptcy and creditor protections as 401(k)s. Links discussed in this episode: Report fraud through the FTC: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/ 5 Low-Cost Target-Date Funds for 2026 https://www.nerdwallet.com/investing/learn/what-is-a-target-date-fund-and-when-should-you-invest-in-one Mutual Fund Calculator: Growth and Fees https://www.nerdwallet.com/investing/calculators/mutual-fund-calculator Best IRA Accounts for 2026 https://www.nerdwallet.com/retirement/best/ira-accounts Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: tax season scams, identity theft, phishing scams, smishing, gift card draining, fake websites, IRS impostor scam, government impostor scam, emergency scam, bogus debt scam, employment scams, AI scams, voice cloning, deepfake scams, data breaches, mail theft, public Wi-Fi risks, password updates, credit report monitoring, billing statement review, Federal Trade Commission, reporting fraud, 401(k) rollover, IRA rollover, consolidating retirement accounts, legacy 401(k)s, target-date funds, expense ratios, mutual fund screener, after-tax 401(k) contributions, employer match, mega backdoor Roth, Roth conversion, pro-rata rule, taxes on investment gains, conversion limits, managed accounts vs self-directed investing, robo-advisor investing, beneficiary organization, bankruptcy protection, creditor protection, and rollover IRA protections. 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
Find out how AI shopping could tempt your budget and how to choose a city for a new career with confidence. Is AI shopping about to turn your chatbot into a checkout line? How do you choose a medical residency program when an algorithm makes the final call? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss residency location trade-offs to help a listener understand what to prioritize during low-pay training years. But first, news writer Anna Helhoski joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss the rise of AI shopping inside chats. They discuss how Google and other platforms are weaving deals into AI conversations, how ads and “instant checkout” could blur the line between recommendations and advertising, and why this convenience could make impulse spending a lot easier. Then, producer Tess Vigeland joins Sean and Elizabeth to help answer a listener's question about how to approach a medical residency match decision when weighing New York City prestige against a lower-cost path. They discuss ways to save in expensive cities without feeling like you're missing out, why starting retirement contributions earlier can meaningfully change your long-term results even if the amount is small, and how focusing on skill-building and lifestyle fit can matter more than trying to make one “perfect” career choice. Are you on track to save enough for retirement? Use NerdWallet's free retirement calculator to check your progress, see how much retirement income you'll have and estimate how much more you should save: https://www.nerdwallet.com/investing/calculators/retirement-calculator Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: AI shopping, ChatGPT ads, Google AI Mode, in-chat checkout, shopping in chatbots, sponsored results, personalized deals, impulse buying, comparison shopping, price check online, online shopping security, credit card information privacy, AI product research, AI shopping recommendations, interpreting online reviews, finding deals with AI, Shopify checkout, Etsy shopping, Walmart online shopping, Universal Commerce Protocol, Direct Offers, AI personal shopper, AI shopping agent, buy now pay later, return policy online shopping, save receipts screenshots, medical residency match, residency ranking algorithm, choosing a residency program, New York City cost of living, living on a resident salary, prestige vs cost of living, saving during residency, retirement savings early, compound interest, NerdWallet retirement calculator, emergency fund during training, roommates to save money, lifestyle creep, and career networking. 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
Find a bank that pays more, charges less, and keeps your money safe as rates adjust in 2026. How do you choose the best bank when savings rates are falling and fees won't quit? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss wealth inequality and retirement security to help you think bigger about what's “normal” in personal finance. They begin with a rapid-fire hot takes segment, with their perspectives on how money and power shape everyday life, why the decline of pensions shifts retirement risk onto workers, and questions worth asking about what a fairer safety net could look like. Then, banking Nerd Chanelle Bessette joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss banking in 2026. They go over how to compare high-yield savings accounts as APYs drop, how to avoid common bank fees (like overdraft and ATM charges), and how to weigh digital-only banks versus brick-and-mortar options. They also cover how AI is changing customer service and fraud, why reduced consumer protections can raise the stakes for shoppers, and which banks topped NerdWallet's Best-of Awards in key categories. Our Nerds researched more than 250 banking products, narrowing down to just one winner per category: https://www.nerdwallet.com/l/awards-banking-2026?utm_source=sm&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=cm_organic_011926_podcast_sm_desc_allepisodes_best-of-banking See all the winners of NerdWallet's Best-Of Awards: https://www.nerdwallet.com/l/awards?utm_source=sm&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=cm_organic_011926_podcast_sm_desc_allepisodes_best-of-awards Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: high-yield savings account, best high-yield savings account, savings account interest rates, APY, online banks, best online banks, bank fees, overdraft fees, avoid overdraft fees, ATM fees, ATM fee reimbursement, Allpoint ATM network, MoneyPass ATM network, no-fee checking account, monthly maintenance fee, bank bonuses, certificate of deposit, CD rates, best CD rates, Marcus by Goldman Sachs, SoFi bank, Newtek Bank, best bank 2026, early direct deposit, two-day early direct deposit, savings buckets, savings goal buckets, Zelle transfer limit, bill pay checks, cash deposits at ATMs, fraud protection, bank fraud scams, AI in banking, banking chatbots, customer service chat, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, CFPB complaints, CFPB settlements, credit unions vs banks, pension plan, defined benefit plan, and 401(k) vs pension. 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
Learn how to shop for cheaper insurance and escape rising credit card debt before it snowballs. Is credit card debt becoming the new normal? How can you get the insurance coverage you need in 2026 without overpaying? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss insurance shopping to help you understand how to protect yourself at a price you can live with. But first, senior news writer Anna Helhoski joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss NerdWallet's Household Debt Survey with data studies writer Erin El Issa. They break down why revolving credit card balances keep climbing, how “normalizing” debt can reduce urgency to pay it off, and why tools like buy now, pay later can feel easier upfront but get overwhelming fast. Then, insurance Nerd Kaz Weida joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss what's driving higher insurance rates and how to shop smarter in 2026. They discuss ways to lower auto and homeowners premiums without leaving yourself exposed, how renters and pet insurance can be worth it depending on your situation, and why many people may need more life insurance than they think. They also discuss NerdWallet's Best-Of winners for budget-friendly auto, budget-friendly homeowners, same-day term life, and comprehensive pet coverage. Our Nerds researched more than 240 insurance products, narrowing down to just one winner per category: https://www.nerdwallet.com/l/awards-insurance-2026?utm_source=sm&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=cm_organic_011526_podcast_sm_desc_allepisodes_best-of-insurance See all of NerdWallet's Best-Of Awards: https://www.nerdwallet.com/l/awards?utm_source=sm&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=cm_organic_011526_podcast_sm_desc_allepisodes_best-of-awards Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header 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
Find out which credit cards shine in 2026 and how to avoid rising fees, APR surprises, and buy now, pay later (BNPL) traps. How can you change your spending to better match your values? How do you choose the right credit card in 2026 as perks shift, fees rise, and “buy now, pay later” spreads? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss values-based spending and the credit card landscape to help you make purchases that fit your priorities. They begin with a discussion of aligning money with values, with tips and tricks on auditing your statements for “idle” spending, shopping around for companies and banks that match your priorities, and building accountability so your goals stick. Then, credit card expert Caitlin Mims joins Elizabeth to discuss credit cards in 2026. They cover buy now, pay later and card-based installment plans, what to watch as card perks and annual fees change, and how NerdWallet chose its Best-of Awards winners. Our Nerds researched 280 credit cards, narrowing down to just one winner per category: https://www.nerdwallet.com/l/awards-credit-cards-2026?utm_source=sm&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=cm_organic_011226_podcast_sm_desc_allepisodes_best-of-credit-cards Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards Capital One Venture Review: Easy Earnings, Effortless Redemptions Citi Strata Premier: Big Rewards Across Top Spending Categories Southwest Priority Card Review: Pay More, Get More Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card Review: 2% Cash Back With a Bonus Citi Simplicity Review: 21 Months of 0% to Whittle Down Debt 5 Things to Know About the U.S. Bank Split Credit Card Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header 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
Learn what 2026 might bring for mortgage rates, home prices, and affordability, plus smart steps to buy or refinance. Will mortgage rates drop in 2026, and is it finally a good time to buy a home? How can you get your finances ready to buy or refinance, even if prices still feel out of reach? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss mortgages and the housing market to help you understand what to watch this year and how to plan your next move. But first, senior news writer Anna Helhoski and NerdWallet senior economist Elizabeth Renter join Sean to discuss what could shape the economy in 2026. They discuss how tariffs may filter into prices, what a cooling labor market could mean for jobs and wages, and why rising household debt delinquencies are a red flag to watch. Then, Abby Badach Doyle, NerdWallet mortgage Nerd, joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss home buying and refinancing in 2026. They discuss how inventory and mortgage rates shifted through 2025, how Fed rate cuts can influence mortgage rates before they happen, and ways to make the dream of homeownership more realistic. Use NerdWallet's free calculator to see how much house you can afford: https://www.nerdwallet.com/mortgages/calculators/how-much-house-can-i-afford Use NerdWallet's free rent vs buy calculator to find out which option is best for you: https://www.nerdwallet.com/mortgages/calculators/rent-vs-buy-calculator NerdWallet's free mortgage refinance calculator can help you decide whether to refinance: https://www.nerdwallet.com/mortgages/calculators/refinance-calculator See all of NerdWallet's 2026 Best-Of Awards: https://www.nerdwallet.com/l/awards?utm_source=sm&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=cm_organic_010826_podcast_sm_desc_allepisodes_best-of-awards Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: housing market 2026, mortgage rates 2026, home prices 2026, 30-year mortgage rate, mortgage refinance, refinance calculator, when to refinance, home affordability, down payment assistance, closing cost assistance, first-time homebuyer programs, buying a house in 2026, house hunting in January, winter home buying, seller's market vs buyer's market, housing inventory, housing supply, home buying budget, rent vs buy calculator, rent vs buy, credit score for mortgage, saving for a house, emergency savings, moving costs, closing costs, homeowners insurance costs, wildfire risk insurance, home repairs budget, buyer's agent, inflation and mortgage rates, Fed rate cuts and mortgages, tariffs and inflation, and household debt delinquency. 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
Start your 2026 investing strategy with smarter moves, fewer fees, and less stress when markets get rocky. How should you invest in 2026 if tech stocks keep dominating the market? What's a smart checklist for leveling up your investing this year? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss diversification and investing tools to help you grow your wealth with a plan you can stick to. Then investing writer Alana Benson joins them to unpack what 2025's market swings can teach you, how to diversify beyond mega-cap tech stocks (including options like equal-weight funds), and how to choose the right account and platform while keeping fees and taxes in mind. Check out NerdWallet's Best-Of Awards: https://nerdwallet.com/awards Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: stock market 2026, how to start investing, passive investing, index funds, S&P 500, Magnificent 7, AI stock bubble, rebalancing portfolio, asset allocation, stocks vs bonds allocation, long-term investing, market volatility, timing the market, brokerage account, best brokerage for beginners, best investing app, best robo-advisor, Fidelity investing, Interactive Brokers, Wealthfront robo advisor, ETFs, target date fund, robo-advisor, IRA contribution limit 2026, Roth IRA, traditional IRA, SEP IRA, 401k match, 529 plan, college savings plan, and retirement investing. 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
Learn how to tie your 2026 money goals to your values so you can stick with them all year. How can you match your 2026 money goals to what you really care about? And how do you turn those goals into a plan you'll actually follow? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss values-based money planning and goal-setting frameworks to help you build a realistic, meaningful financial plan for the new year. They begin with a discussion of centering money goals on your core values, with tips and tricks on identifying what matters most (like freedom, community, or adventure), translating those values into goals such as paying off a car loan or saving for early retirement, and aligning your saving, spending, giving and fun money with the life you actually want to live. Along the way, they share their own 2026 goals, from boosting emergency funds and increasing income to opening “fun money” and giving accounts and navigating a tough housing market and crypto temptations highlighted in NerdWallet's 2026 Financial Outlook Survey. Then, Sean and Elizabeth discuss how to move from big dreams to daily action using the SMART — and SMARTER — goal framework. They discuss how to break large goals (like maxing a Roth IRA or saving for a big event) into monthly and per-paycheck targets, how to make goals specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound, and how to build in personal rewards so sticking to your plan actually feels good. They also cover getting comfortable with the discomfort of change, planning for curveballs like impulse spending and surprise kid or car expenses, and using tools like high-yield savings accounts and multiple sinking funds (yes, even for summer camp) so you can absorb surprises without blowing up your 2026 money plan. NerdWallet 2026 Financial Outlook Survey: https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/studies/2026-consumer-outlook-report Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: new year financial goals, 2026 financial goals, how to set financial goals, SMART goals for money, SMARTER goals framework, values based budgeting, align money with values, paying off car loan early, early retirement savings rate, FIRE retirement plan, increase my income 2026, emergency fund savings, sinking funds examples, fun money account, high yield savings account, giving fund for charity, support local community with money, starting a business in 2026, investing in crypto 2026, Dogecoin investing, buying a house in 2026, saving for a house down payment, NerdWallet 2026 financial outlook survey, impulse spending help, budget for summer camp, planning for surprise bills, Roth IRA contribution 2026, break big goals into small steps, reward yourself for saving, how to stick to money goals 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
Learn how to explore your money beliefs and take real steps toward saving and investing, even on a tight income. What's really behind your money habits? How can you build savings and invest if you're not earning much? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss how your relationship with money shapes your financial behaviors and what you can do to change that narrative. Joined by Shannah Game, host of Everyone's Talkin' Money and author of Unraveling Your Relationship with Money, they begin with a discussion of how money beliefs form in childhood, how your body gives clues about financial stress, and how weekly “money dates” can help shift your mindset, spending, and long-term financial outcomes. Then, Katie, a listener navigating a career change and major life transition, joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss budgeting on a lower income and how to make progress on both emergency savings and retirement. They discuss how to build an emergency fund with irregular income, when and how to roll over 403(b) accounts into an IRA, and how to invest small amounts without feeling discouraged. The conversation also covers tools like the 50/30/20 budget and NerdWallet's retirement calculator to help Katie — and listeners like her — build a path forward, even if they feel like they're starting late. Are you on track to save enough for retirement? Use NerdWallet's free retirement calculator to check your progress, see how much retirement income you'll have and estimate how much more you should save: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/retirement-calculator NerdWallet's roundup of the best IRA accounts: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/investing/ira-accounts In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to fix your relationship with money, money beliefs, financial trauma, budgeting on low income, how to start saving money, emotional spending, how to invest with little money, financial self-awareness, weekly money date, how much to save for emergencies, what is a 403b, 403b rollover to IRA, Roth IRA vs traditional IRA, how to track spending, how to set money goals, compound interest explained, how to save for retirement in your 30s, moving in with a partner finances, financial independence, personal finance for late starters, how to handle a career pivot financially, how to build an emergency fund, aligning spending with goals, how to start investing in your 30s, best IRAs for beginners, saving vs investing priorities, high-yield savings account, budgeting tools for beginners, financial planning on hourly wages, financial literacy basics, how to track expenses, how to make money habits stick, celebrating financial wins, how childhood affects money habits, somatic responses to money, financial therapy, how to stop money anxiety, 50/30/20 budget rule, NerdWallet retirement calculator. 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
Learn the truth behind myths about building wealth, plus hear from a couple looking to align on financial goals and values. Can you build wealth without starting a business? How can couples figure out what to do with extra money in their budget? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola share their “money hot takes” and then talk to a married couple about how they can better align on financial priorities. Sean and Elizabeth kick off the episode with their thoughts on how to become a millionaire without needing to own your own business and why they believe consistent investing from a 9-to-5 job can help you grow your wealth. Plus are Roth IRAs overrated? They might be when compared to Roth 401(k)s. Then, listeners Naomi and Andrew join Sean and Elizabeth to discuss how couples can align on their financial goals. They talk through how to define shared values, balance short- and long-term priorities, and decide how to use some new room in their budget wisely, including strategies for emergency funds, retirement, and kids' future savings. NerdWallet's list of the best savings accounts: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/banking/savings-accounts Get matched with a financial advisor by using NerdWallet Advisors Match: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/investing/financial-advisors NerdWallet's investment calculator will calculate how much your investments will grow based on your planned contributions, timeline, rate of return and compounding frequency: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/investment-calculator Are you on track to save enough for retirement? Use NerdWallet's calculator to check your progress, see how much retirement income you'll have and estimate how much more you should save: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/retirement-calculator In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to build wealth without a business, investing from a 9 to 5 job, becoming a millionaire from salary, Roth IRA vs Roth 401k, Roth IRA contribution limits, backdoor Roth IRA, Roth 401k benefits, emergency fund recommendations, short term financial goals, good debt vs bad debt, paying off debt as a couple, managing money in a marriage, budgeting as a couple, aligning financial goals with a partner, daycare budget reallocation, how to prioritize financial goals, saving for a home addition, using home equity loan, 529 plan alternatives, taxable brokerage for kids, feeling behind on retirement, retirement planning anxiety, compound interest retirement, how to save for multiple goals, financial planning for couples, building credit as a couple, margin in budget meaning, shared financial values, and daycare cost savings. 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
Learn how to navigate job loss and reshape your money mindset to feel more in control — emotionally and financially. What should you do with your money after losing a job? How can you feel better about money and stop stressing about finances? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss managing job loss and improving your relationship with money to help you understand both the practical and emotional sides of financial well-being. NerdWallet writer Kim Palmer joins the show to share her conversation with Aja Evans, a financial therapist and author of Feel-Good Finance: Untangle Your Relationship with Money for Better Mental, Emotional, and Financial Well-Being. They discuss money taboos and financial trauma, with tips and tricks on how to open up about money, build healthier habits, and understand your emotional triggers. Then, Bri, a listener from Chicago, joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss navigating job loss and making tough financial decisions. They discuss how to choose between COBRA and marketplace health insurance, when to consider tapping savings or debt, and how to balance job search priorities without derailing your financial future. They also share smart strategies for cutting spending, staying motivated with rewards-based goals, and deciding what to do with old retirement accounts. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: job loss finances, what to do after losing a job, COBRA vs marketplace insurance, unemployment benefits, high-yield savings accounts, emotional spending, financial trauma, money shame, how to budget after layoff, unemployment job search tips, how to choose health insurance after job loss, rollover retirement account, how to talk about money, financial therapy, coping with job loss, 50/30/20 budget rule, rebuilding emergency funds, how to negotiate salary, unemployment and freelance work, how to cut spending fast, when to tap retirement savings, mental health and money, money mindset, smart budgeting strategies, financial stress relief, marketplace health insurance, spending triggers, navigating layoffs, unemployment and part-time work, personal budgeting goals, rebuilding after job loss, job loss recovery plan, financial therapy techniques, affordable health insurance options, rolling over 401(k), money taboos, improving financial habits, saving during unemployment, and the emotional impact of job loss. 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
Learn how Wall Street has changed since the 2008 financial crisis in this Smart Money special presentation of Against the Rules: The Big Short Companion. Michael Lewis' best-selling book The Big Short is now 15 years old, and the Oscar-winning movie based on it was released a decade ago. To mark the occasion, Lewis has narrated a new audiobook of The Big Short, and on The Big Short Companion from Against the Rules, he and co-host Lidia Jean Kott look back on how the 2008 financial crisis still affects the world today. In this episode, Lewis calls Bloomberg's Matt Levine for help making sense of Wall Street's hangover from the crash described in The Big Short. They talk about Bitcoin, bank regulation, and new forms of risk-taking — all ways Wall Street has changed since the crisis. Find The Big Short Companion from Against the Rules wherever you get podcasts and The Big Short audiobook wherever you get audiobooks. Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header 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
Hear how 2025 money news hit your wallet and whether your travel cards are really pulling their weight. How did 2025's biggest money stories actually affect your wallet? How can you decide if your pricey travel credit cards are still worth it? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola recap the year in finance news to help you understand what the stories mean for your budget, savings, and plans for 2026. They unpack top news items including tariff-driven uncertainty, a brief but historic stock market crash and subsequent rebound, stubborn home prices, softening rents, and a late-year run of Fed rate cuts. Then they provide tips and tricks on staying focused on long-term investing despite volatility, using rewards cards and store programs to fight higher grocery bills, weighing renting vs. buying when housing costs are sky-high, and making sure your cash is still earning a competitive yield as high-yield savings rates drift down. Then, Smart Travel podcast hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French give Elizabeth a live “credit card consult” on her stack of high-fee travel cards. They discuss how to tally up annual fees versus statement credits and perks, decide when lounge access really justifies keeping a premium card, identify weak-link airline cards that no longer match your home airport, and choose when to downgrade instead of cancel. They also dig into using grocery cards strategically, avoiding overpaying just to chase credits at specific merchants, managing the mental load of multiple “coupon book” benefits, and building a simple system to track expiring credits so your wallet — and not the card issuers — captures the most value. Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: American Express Blue Cash Preferred Review: The Ultimate Family Card American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card Citi AAdvantage Platinum Card Review: Worth the Fee for Airline Loyalists Citi AAdvantage Executive Review: Your Key to the Club AmEx Blue Cash Everyday Review: Solid Cash Back, $0 Annual Fee 5 Things to Know About the T.J. Maxx Credit Card Follow Smart Travel on your favorite podcast app: https://play.megaphone.fm/l-7v0exnsxc-kc8kejdruq Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header 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
Learn how to prepare your money for 2026 and invest retirement savings you hope to leave to your family. How do Americans feel about their money heading into 2026? How should you invest retirement accounts you don't plan to spend so your family can benefit later? The Nerds discuss how to invest a seven‑figure nest egg in workplace retirement plans to help you understand how to balance risk, taxes and legacy goals. But first, senior news writer Anna Helhoski joins hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola to discuss NerdWallet's 2026 consumer outlook survey, including how confident people feel about their financial security, which potential money setbacks are weighing on them, and what big financial moves and risks they're planning to take in the new year. Then, credit writer Amanda Barroso and investing writer Taryn Phaneuf join Elizabeth to discuss how a retired military listener and their soon‑to‑be-retired spouse might invest $1.2 million they've saved in a TSP and 403b and hope to leave to their children and grandchildren. They review how TSPs and 403bs work and when it might make sense to roll them into IRAs, how to think about asset allocation when you have a long time horizon but may still face surprise retirement costs like long‑term care, and the rules around required minimum distributions and the 10‑year payout window for inherited retirement accounts. They also explore high‑level estate planning choices such as using trusts and keeping beneficiaries up to date, pros and cons of Roth conversions for heirs (including the Roth IRA five‑year rule), and how to balance leaving a legacy with using some money to create meaningful experiences with family during your lifetime. The Roth IRA 5-Year Rule: What to Know https://www.nerdwallet.com/retirement/learn/roth-ira-5-year-rule Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: 2026 financial outlook, economic outlook 2026, rising prices 2026, inflation 2026, emergency fund savings, how much emergency fund should I have, save 1000 emergency fund, pay off high interest debt, avalanche vs snowball debt payoff, debt consolidation options, nonprofit credit counseling, crypto investing risks, invest in AI stocks, start a business 2026, buying a home in 2026, financial anxiety, Gen Z finances, women and money stress, stock market crash preparation, and TSP investment strategy. 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
Learn how to shift savings between retirement and a home down payment without derailing your future. How do you balance big life experiences with long-term financial goals? Is it smart to scale back retirement savings to buy a home sooner? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss wedding budgeting, honeymoon spending, and saving trade-offs to help you think through your own big-ticket plans. Fresh off his San Francisco City Hall wedding and multi-city honeymoon through Japan and South Korea, Sean shares how he saved ahead of time, avoided debt, and still came home with money left over. They talk about budgeting for flights and hotels, deciding when to splurge versus save, the realities of travel fatigue, and how to reset your budget afterward by trimming categories like clothing. Elizabeth also opens up about her “37 to 37” joy challenge, holiday shopping stress around Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and the emotions of planning birthday and Christmas spending. Then, fellow Nerds Dalia Ramirez and Kate Ashford join Elizabeth to discuss whether it makes sense to divert retirement savings toward a home down payment. They walk through how to prioritize savings goals, use age-based benchmarks to see if you're on track, and set a clear end date for any “pause” to protect your future self. They also break down key differences between Roth IRAs and 403(b)s, when it may be smarter to lower 403(b) contributions instead of tapping a Roth, how first-time homebuyers might use up to $10,000 in Roth earnings for a purchase, and the trade-offs of sacrificing compound growth today for the long-term benefits of owning a home. Enter to Win NerdWallet's Debt-Free December Sweepstakes: https://www.nerdwallet.com/m/loans/personal-loans/debtfreedecember Use NerdWallet's free retirement calculator to check your progress, see how much retirement income you'll have and estimate how much more you should save: https://www.nerdwallet.com/investing/calculators/retirement-calculator Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: retirement savings, home down payment, diverting retirement savings, saving for a house, Roth IRA withdrawal for home, Roth IRA first time homebuyer, 403b vs Roth IRA, pension and retirement savings, retirement savings benchmark by age, compound interest retirement, emergency fund vs house down payment, balancing savings goals, saving for retirement in your 30s, retirement calculator planning, how much to save for retirement, wedding budget, honeymoon budget, travel budget planning, Japan trip cost, Tokyo travel budget, Seoul travel budget, big life event budgeting, saving for wedding and house, Cyber Monday shopping tips, Black Friday shopping stress, holiday gift budget, birthday spending, joyful spending, government pension retirement planning, high interest debt payoff vs investing, reducing 403b contributions, Roth IRA contributions vs earnings, and first time homebuyer rules Roth IRA. 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
See what 2026's housing costs and mortgage rates might mean for your homebuying plans and learn when you can safely coast on retirement savings. How is the housing market reshaping homebuying going into 2026? When can you stop saving for retirement and still feel confident about your future? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss Coast FI and long-term retirement planning to help you understand when “enough” might truly be enough. But first, senior news writer Anna Helhoski joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss the year in housing with mortgage writers Holden Lewis and Kate Wood. They review how ultra-low pandemic mortgage rates helped fuel today's affordability crisis, why rising climate risks are driving up home insurance and escrow costs for owners, and how shifting trends like older first-time buyers and fewer buyers with kids are changing what “normal” looks like in the housing market. Then, Sean and Elizabeth discuss Coast FI with listener Paul, who wonders if his roughly $3 million nest egg means he can finally ease off saving for retirement. They discuss how Coast FI differs from traditional FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early), ways to manage retirement anxiety even when the math says you're on track, and how a certified financial planner can use tools like Monte Carlo simulations to pressure-test a plan. They also explore balancing long-term security with near-term goals like travel, buying a home, or upgrading a car, strategies for diversifying investments and accounts for tax efficiency, and how to gently transition from aggressive saving to actually enjoying more of your money today. NerdWallet Wealth Partners is a fiduciary online financial advisor, offering low-cost, comprehensive financial advice and investment management: https://nerdwalletwealthpartners.com/ Inspired to navigate your finances with an advisor? Use NerdWallet Advisors Match to find vetted professionals today at https://www.nerdwalletadvisors.com/match Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: housing market 2026 forecast, housing affordability crisis, mortgage rates 2026, climate change home insurance, rising home insurance premiums, escrow costs increase, home buying budget, when to buy a house, renting vs buying a home, age of first time homebuyer, delaying homeownership, property taxes and insurance costs, Coast FIRE, how much is enough to retire, retirement anxiety, financial independence, living below your means, high savings rate, couples financial planning, Monte Carlo simulation retirement, certified financial planner, balancing saving and spending, money fears, money stories, currency risk in retirement, travel in retirement, and multiple savings goals. 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
Learn how to donate effectively for Giving Tuesday and juggle multiple credit cards without hurting your credit score. How can you donate more intentionally on Giving Tuesday without blowing your budget? Does having multiple credit cards hurt your credit score? Hosts Elizabeth Ayoola and Sean Pyles discuss charitable giving and credit card management to help you support causes you care about while protecting your finances. Joined by Grace Nicolette, Vice President of Programming and External Relations at the Center for Effective Philanthropy and co-host of the Giving Done Right podcast, they begin with a discussion of how Giving Tuesday started and why intentional giving matters. They share tips and tricks on setting a realistic donation goal, choosing causes that align with your values, and spotting nonprofit red flags beyond “overhead ratios.” Grace also explains how to plan giving throughout the year, how to research organizations using public filings and news coverage, ways to overcome “do-gooder paralysis,” and the benefits of involving family and friends so giving becomes a shared, values-driven habit. Then, NerdWallet credit card and travel rewards expert Erin Hurd joins Elizabeth and Sean to discuss how having multiple credit cards (and we mean multiple!) can affect your credit score and day-to-day money life. They discuss why the number of cards you have matters less than how you manage them, how credit utilization and credit age really work, and why aggressive “churning” — opening cards for bonuses and quickly closing them — can backfire. Erin walks through how a large card lineup can actually help your utilization if you avoid overspending and always pay in full, why she treats card collecting as a long game, and how business cards may not show up on your personal credit report. She shares tactics for deciding when to keep, downgrade, or cancel a card with an annual fee, how to get value from airline and hotel perks, and how to avoid feeling overwhelmed by multiple accounts using tools like aligned due dates, autopay, spreadsheets, and digital tools such as the NerdWallet app. Resources discussed in this episode: How to Upgrade or Downgrade Your Credit Card: https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/learn/how-to-upgrade-downgrade-your-credit-card 7 Credit Card Tips Everyone Should Know https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/learn/credit-card-tips-everyone-should-know How to Stay Organized When You Have Multiple Credit Cards https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/learn/stay-organized-multiple-credit-cards I've Had 80 Credit Cards. Here's What I've Learned. https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/news/multiple-credit-cards-what-i-learned Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: mutual aid, community fundraising, grassroots giving, community foundations, expressive giving, philanthropic trends, giving circles, BCU funding, nonprofit audits, IRS nonprofit status, legal issues nonprofits, administrative overhead myth, nonprofit sustainability, tax deduction limits, adjusted gross income deduction limits, itemizing charitable contributions, donor research tools, nonprofit annual reports, avoiding donor overwhelm, values-based decision making, recurring donations, family giving conversations, business credit cards and scoring, issuer family rules, credit card guardrails, signup bonus minimum spend, annual night certificates, free checked bag benefits, priority boarding perks, rotating bonus categories, rewards tracking apps, travel loyalty programs. 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
Learn how to navigate job loss and reshape your money mindset to feel more in control — emotionally and financially. What should you do with your money after losing a job? How can you feel better about money and stop stressing about finances? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss managing job loss and improving your relationship with money to help you understand both the practical and emotional sides of financial well-being. NerdWallet writer Kim Palmer joins the show to share her conversation with Aja Evans, a financial therapist and author of Feel-Good Finance: Untangle Your Relationship with Money for Better Mental, Emotional, and Financial Well-Being. They discuss money taboos and financial trauma, with tips and tricks on how to open up about money, build healthier habits, and understand your emotional triggers. Then, Bri, a listener from Chicago, joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss navigating job loss and making tough financial decisions. They discuss how to choose between COBRA and marketplace health insurance, when to consider tapping savings or debt, and how to balance job search priorities without derailing your financial future. They also share smart strategies for cutting spending, staying motivated with rewards-based goals, and deciding what to do with old retirement accounts. Learn more about NerdWallet's Smart Money Podcast Book Club: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/bookclub In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: job loss finances, what to do after losing a job, COBRA vs marketplace insurance, unemployment benefits, high-yield savings accounts, emotional spending, financial trauma, money shame, how to budget after layoff, unemployment job search tips, how to choose health insurance after job loss, rollover retirement account, how to talk about money, financial therapy, coping with job loss, 50/30/20 budget rule, rebuilding emergency funds, how to negotiate salary, unemployment and freelance work, how to cut spending fast, when to tap retirement savings, mental health and money, money mindset, smart budgeting strategies, financial stress relief, marketplace health insurance, spending triggers, navigating layoffs, unemployment and part-time work, personal budgeting goals, rebuilding after job loss, job loss recovery plan, financial therapy techniques, affordable health insurance options, rolling over 401(k), money taboos, improving financial habits, saving during unemployment, and the emotional impact of job loss. 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
Learn how to spot real Black Friday deals and reshape your budget with a step-by-step money makeover. What should you watch for on Black Friday to avoid fake discounts? How can you reset your budget when debt and housing costs squeeze you? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss holiday shopping and budgeting to help you spend smarter without regrets. First, Amanda Barroso joins Elizabeth to break down Black Friday 2025: why the season now stretches from October through Cyber Monday, how members-only promos (think Prime, store cards, Walmart+) and stacked discounts can boost real savings, and why Buy Now, Pay Later could hit your credit score if you miss payments as new scoring models roll out. They also talk about dynamic pricing, where to expect the deepest markdowns (tech, toys, beauty, small appliances), and low-lift ways to track prices so you don't fall for “half deals.” Then, listener Shelby joins Sean and Elizabeth for a Budget Rehab using the 50/30/20 framework. They discuss right-sizing “needs” when housing is eating up a large chunk of take-home pay, ways to accelerate payoff on 20%+ APR cards (including a 0% balance transfer and when to combine multiple balances), and how to keep momentum while protecting essentials like a starter emergency fund and capturing a 401(k) match. They also cover fine-tuning wants so they take up less income, using side hustles to help with debt payoff, planning ahead for a 3-2-1 mortgage buydown reset and possible refinance, and simple tracking tactics that align spending with values. Resources mentioned in this episode: What to Buy (and Skip) on Black Friday 2025: https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/what-to-buy-skip-black-friday NerdWallet Advisor Match: https://www.nerdwallet.com/l/advisor-match-sem-fiduciary Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: Black Friday deals, buy now pay later, 50/30/20 budget, balance transfer credit card, credit card debt payoff, dynamic pricing, price tracking, zero APR credit card, credit score impact, FICO scoring changes, holiday shopping budget, real vs fake discounts, Prime member deals, Walmart Plus deals, Target Black Friday, gift card discounts, streaming service deals, thrifting gifts, sinking fund, high-yield savings account, emergency fund, 401k match, HSA contributions, IRA contributions, debt avalanche method, wants vs needs, refinancing a mortgage, 3-2-1 buydown, HOA costs, grocery budget tips, Austin cost of living, side hustle income, calendar payment reminders, credit utilization, hard vs soft inquiry, credit card APR, Southwest credit card, Chase Freedom, budget rehab, Nerd hotline 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
Learn how to save on Thanksgiving dinner and decide if filing taxes jointly makes sense for common law couples. How can you trim your Thanksgiving costs without skimping on the feast? Should common law spouses file taxes jointly or separately? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola dig into tax choices for couples to help you understand which filing status may fit your situation and what to weigh before you commit. But first, Anna Helhoski joins Elizabeth to unpack why the cost of a classic Thanksgiving dinner is down this year and how to shop smart for the expanded table. They cover where prices fell and rose across the holiday menu, what turkey deals and meal bundles at places like Aldi, Walmart and Target could mean for your budget, and why recently reduced food tariffs may take time to show up on store shelves. Then, tax Nerd Bella Avila joins Sean and Elizabeth to answer a listener's question about common law marriage and taxes. They discuss when married filing jointly versus separately can lower your bill, how IRS rules treat common law marriages (and what to consider if you move states), and practical to-dos like updating your W-4 within 10 days, timing a name change, and reviewing credit and student loan implications. They also touch on cohabitation agreements (a “prenup” for common law couples) and why clear money conversations matter before you file. Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: common law marriage, file taxes jointly common law, married filing jointly vs separately, Thanksgiving dinner cost 2025, turkey prices 2025, food inflation CPI, Aldi Thanksgiving meal, Walmart Thanksgiving meal, Target Thanksgiving bundle, Whole Foods Thanksgiving dinner price, Harry and David Thanksgiving meal, save money on Thanksgiving, store brand vs name brand, frozen vegetables price, sweet potato shortage North Carolina, avian flu turkey prices, food tariffs 2025, Trump food tariff rollback, grocery prices outlook, head of household vs single, surviving spouse filing status, education credits married filing separately, child tax credit MFS rules, medical expense deduction 7.5% AGI, W-4 update after marriage, add domestic partner to health insurance, dependent eligibility common law spouse, IRS rules common law marriage, cohabitation agreement, prenup cost and timeline, name change and taxes, tax brackets married vs single, standard deduction married filing jointly, and credit and deductions phaseouts joint filers. 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
Learn how first-generation earners build wealth and how to grow an emergency fund before a possible job loss. How do first-generation earners start and protect generational wealth? How can you bulk up an emergency fund fast if layoffs are looming? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss first-generation wealth building and how to build an emergency fund. Elizabeth first welcomes Grace Vandecruze, founder and managing director at Grace Global Capital LLC, to discuss being the first in her family to accumulate wealth with the goal of passing it down to future generations. Vandecruze shares tips and tricks on shifting a scarcity money mindset, setting firm boundaries with relatives who ask for financial help, and laying a 100-year legacy with insurance, wills, and family money conversations. Then, personal finance Nerd Kim Palmer joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss fast-tracking an emergency fund before a potential job loss. They discuss smart places to cut variable spending, how to route side-gig income to savings while setting aside money for taxes. They also go over ways to adjust retirement contributions while using frameworks such as the 50/30/20 budget, bare-bones budgeting, and high-yield savings to manage irregular income and avoid slipping back into credit card debt. How to Make Money Online and Offline in 2025: https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-make-money Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: budgeting with irregular income, side hustles to make money, no spend challenge, meal planning savings, grocery loyalty programs, variable vs fixed expenses, bare bones budget, high yield savings account, side gig taxes, estimated tax payments, consulting side income, adjunct professor income, nonprofit layoffs, student loan payoff strategy, save bonus vs salary, 403b match, pause retirement contributions, estate planning basics, will and power of attorney, life insurance for families, family money boundaries, saying no to money requests, financial literacy, legacy planning, intergenerational wealth transfer, talking about money with family, and underinsured households. 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
Discover how current economic data affect you and decide if a Roth or Traditional IRA is the most appropriate option for your retirement savings. What's happening with layoffs and the economy right now? How should you be thinking about the data used to determine the economy's health, and what does it mean for your personal finances? Hosts Elizabeth Ayoola and Sean Pyles discuss non-traditional financial indicators and Roth IRAs versus Traditional IRAs to help you understand the current economic landscape and make smarter retirement contribution choices. First, Elizabeth shares her conversation with NerdWallet senior economist Elizabeth Renter about how we can gauge the health of the U.S. economy based on private sector data in the midst of the government shutdown. They talk about labor market nuances, layoff announcements, and how we can use consumer sentiment figures when hardly any other federal economic data are available. Then, investing Nerd June Sham joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss retirement funding options. They weigh prioritizing retirement accounts for contributions, when to choose Roth vs. Traditional contributions, and the benefits and trade-offs of Roth conversions. The discussion covers the tax differences between Roth and traditional accounts, guidelines for deciding which to use based on your current and projected future tax bracket, and reasons why someone might convert a Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, such as avoiding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), and strategies for timing conversions. Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: 401k, retirement savings, retirement account, investing, financial freedom, tax-free withdrawals, tax planning, high income, contribution limits, Roth conversion ladder, self-employed retirement, employer match, investment options, Solo 401k, simple IRA, taxable events, Medicare premiums, ADP employment report, Chicago Fed Nowcast, stock market, corrugated box indicator, champagne indicator, men's underwear index, capital gains, estate planning, price growth, economic cooling, market stability, inflation, household finances, unemployment, and job cuts. 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
Learn how first-generation wealth builders create financial freedom and what stablecoins could mean for your savings. How do you build wealth when you're the first in your family to be able to do so? And can stablecoins really out-earn your savings account? Host Elizabeth Ayoola and Sean Pyles explore generational wealth-building and the myths and realities of stablecoins in a rapidly changing cryptocurrency environment. Joined by entrepreneurs and fiancés Ronne Brown and Courtney Hale, Elizabeth kicks off the first segment with a heartfelt look at how first-generation wealth builders are redefining what it means to be “rich.” Ronne and Courtney share their journeys from modest beginnings to financial independence, relaying how childhood lessons shaped their values, how they built multiple income streams through entrepreneurship, and the steps they're taking to continue building generational wealth together. They discuss the power of investing early, using real estate and the stock market strategically, and protecting assets through estate planning and life insurance. Then, investing writer Sam Taube joins Sean and Elizabeth to break down the difference between Bitcoin and stablecoins — and whether high-yield stablecoins are too good to be true. They explore how the Genius Act changes crypto regulation, how yield-bearing stablecoins compare to high-yield savings accounts, and what risks investors should consider before diving in. They discuss how to find a balance between risk and reward in crypto-based savings options, how stablecoins actually earn yield, and why traditional banking products still offer peace of mind for the risk-averse. Best High-Yield Savings Accounts of November 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/banking/best/high-yield-online-savings-accounts The Costs of Being Unbanked (and How to Minimize Them) https://www.nerdwallet.com/banking/studies/data-unbanked Crypto staking: What it is, how it works, calculator https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/how-crypto-staking-works Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: financial independence, building generational wealth, multigenerational money mindset, family legacy planning, breaking the cycle of poverty, entrepreneurship strategies, business ownership, side hustles, wealth psychology, mindset shifts, money trauma, minority entrepreneurship, real estate investing, stock investing basics, portfolio diversification, passive income streams, estate strategy, life insurance for families, trust and wills, crypto investing, digital currency regulation, crypto yield risks, yield-bearing coins, decentralized finance, DeFi savings, crypto-backed savings accounts, tokenized assets, stablecoin interest rates, inflation hedge, risk management, safe investing, traditional bank safety, asset protection, long-term wealth growth, market volatility, risk versus reward, financial resilience, and balancing traditional and digital assets. 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
Learn how to pick dental, vision, life, and disability coverage with confidence, and when refinancing a home can actually save you money. Is now a good time to refinance your mortgage? Which open enrollment benefits are worth it this year? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola talk to an expert about the ins and outs of open enrollment in 2026. But first, news Nerd Anna Helhoski joins them to share her conversation with NerdWallet mortgage writer Holden Lewis about falling mortgage rates and what they mean for buyers, sellers, and homeowners. They begin with a discussion of refinancing and today's housing market, with tips and tricks on using a refinance calculator, how much of a rate cut to target, weighing closing costs and the break-even timeline, and other smart reasons to refi. Then, benefits expert April Brasher, knowledge advisor at the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss open enrollment choices beyond health insurance. They discuss what dental and vision plans usually cover and what they don't, how and when to add to group life insurance provided by some workplaces, and how disability insurance works. They also discuss when accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D), hospital indemnity, and critical illness policies can make sense, how to avoid being over-insured, and why taking a quick personal and financial inventory before enrollment deadlines helps you choose only what you need. Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: mortgage rates, refinance mortgage, refinance break-even, FHA mortgage insurance, remove FHA MIP, conventional vs FHA loan, housing market outlook, best time to buy a house, home buying season, mortgage closing costs, homeowners insurance shopping, lower mortgage payment, Fed rate cuts, housing inventory, open enrollment, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance through employer, supplemental life insurance, beneficiary designation, evidence of insurability, AD&D insurance, disability insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, own occupation vs any occupation, hospital indemnity insurance, critical illness insurance, high deductible health plan, and limited purpose FSA. 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
Learn how to pick the right health plan for your situation and build a stronger retirement even if you feel behind. How do you choose the best health plan during open enrollment? What can you do to secure retirement if savings feel like they're falling short? In the first of a two-part series, hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola break down open enrollment decisions so you can protect your health and long-term wealth. But first, NerdWallet senior writer Kim Palmer joins them to present this month's book club conversation about Gen X's path to retirement security. She talks to Kerry Hannon and Janna Herron, authors of “Retirement Bites: A Gen X Guide to Securing Your Financial Future,” about how to take control of retirement even when you feel like you're late to the game. That includes revisiting cash flow and lifestyle creep, attacking high-interest debt, considering step-down or flexible work to extend earning years, and planning for healthcare costs in retirement. Then, NerdWallet writer Kate Ashford joins Sean and Elizabeth to present a clear walkthrough of healthcare plans as we enter open enrollment season. She discusses premiums vs. deductibles vs. out-of-pocket maximums, when an HMO or PPO fits best, and how Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) work — including the triple-tax edge of HSAs. They share practical, listener-first guidance on running plan comparisons, checking drug prices and doctor networks, watching ACA subsidy changes and deadlines, and building a values-driven, realistic retirement health plan you can start acting on today. From comparing health insurance plans to understanding out-of-pocket costs, here's NerdWallet's free step-by-step guide to help you choose the best coverage: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/health/choose-health-insurance Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: health coverage options, ACA marketplace, premium tax credits, health insurance subsidies, annual enrollment period, insurance plan comparison, coinsurance examples, copay structure, catastrophic health plans, employer benefits package, dependent coverage, preventive care coverage, out-of-network costs, provider networks, telehealth coverage, prescription tiers, pre-tax savings, IRS contribution limits, healthcare inflation, medical cost planning, retirement healthcare expenses, long-term care costs, catch-up contributions, IRA rollover, compound growth, late retirement planning, work after retirement, side income in retirement, debt-free retirement, financial independence, budgeting for healthcare, reducing healthcare costs, maximizing employer benefits, flexible work transition, delayed retirement, insurance renewal tips, healthcare budgeting, and cost-of-living planning. 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
Learn how to spot shutdown-era scams and build a budget that works even when you and your partner disagree. How can you protect yourself from shutdown-era scams? How do you build a household budget when you and your partner see money differently? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola share strategies to figure out a household budget when you and your partner are not on the same page about how to manage your finances. But first, senior news writer Anna Helhoski joins them to discuss a surge in spam calls, texts, and emails tied to the federal government shutdown. She talks with Eva Velasquez, CEO of the Identity Theft Resource Center, about the spike in government-imposter schemes, AI-driven deepfakes, and spoofed sites — and how to avoid and respond. Then, fellow Nerd Jay Leong joins Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola to discuss getting on the same budgeting page with a spouse who prefers a different system. They discuss using the 50/30/20 framework without obsessing over every transaction, setting shared goals and “money dates” to surface financial values, and practical tools like sinking funds and lightweight expense tracking. They also cover trimming inflated “needs,” capping discretionary categories such as dining out or kids' activities, and giving each partner clear fun-money boundaries via separate checking accounts or allowances. Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header See your money clearly, save smarter, and unlock sophisticated hassle-free investing all in one place with the free NerdWallet app: https://www.nerdwallet.com/l/nerdwallet-app-track-your-wealth-and-build-your-future In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: government shutdown scams, spam calls surge, do not call registry, FTC scam reporting, Identity Theft Resource Center, government imposter scam, deepfake scams, voice cloning scam, AI phishing, spoofed websites, how to report a scam, how to stop spam calls, credit card charge dispute, safer payment methods, couples budgeting, money dates, values-based budgeting,sinking funds, manual expense tracking, budgeting apps for couples, NerdWallet app budgeting, overspending fixes, wants vs needs, separate checking accounts, joint vs separate finances, kids activities budget, dining out budget, Costco credit card, travel credit card, insurance shopping, car insurance quotes, home insurance quotes, emergency fund buckets, vacation fund, budget categories, and shutdown impact on finances. 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
Learn how to get and read your free credit reports and spot red flags so you can protect your score and money. How do you set a realistic budget for a big life event without guilt? What's the foolproof way to get and read your free credit reports? In this episode, hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss wedding budgeting and credit monitoring to help you protect your finances. They open by discussing trip and wedding budgeting trade-offs, like how to prioritize comfort, set spending caps, and decide when to splurge. They share tactics for separating wedding and honeymoon costs, using cash gifts and registries wisely, and staying flexible when real prices blow past early estimates. Then, NerdWallet lead writer Amanda Barroso joins Sean and Elizabeth to answer listeners' questions about how to access and monitor their credit reports. They explain the difference between reports and scores and do a live read-through of Sean's Experian report. They cover how to get free weekly credit reports, how to spot hard vs. soft inquiries, what truly matters to your score, what to ignore, and step-by-step moves to dispute errors with the right bureau(s) fast. NerdWallet's list of the best high-yield savings accounts: https://www.nerdwallet.com/banking/best/high-yield-online-savings-accounts Standout high-yield CDs: https://www.nerdwallet.com/m/banking/standout-cd-rates-2 Enter your deposit, CD term and APY to see what interest you would earn on a certificate of deposit with NerdWallet's free CD calculator: https://www.nerdwallet.com/banking/calculators/cd-calculator Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: free credit report, credit score, FICO vs VantageScore, how to read a credit report, dispute credit report errors, credit freeze vs lock, Experian, Equifax, TransUnion, hard vs soft inquiry, identity theft credit report, free weekly credit reports, adverse action notice, credit utilization, bank app credit score, frozen credit report, collections on credit report, mortgage on credit report, mixed credit files, verify identity for credit report, step by step read credit report, remove errors from credit report, how to check credit score for free, VantageScore 3.0, FICO score 10T, credit bureau upsell, lock vs freeze security, and travel budget planning. 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
Learn how to handle holiday shopping in an increasingly expensive spending environment. Plus, lightning round insights around debt, investing, and savings goals. How should you prepare for holiday shopping when tariffs and inflation are leading to higher prices? When should you prioritize paying off your mortgage versus investing in the market? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola welcome back senior news writer Anna Helhoski and data writer Erin El Issa to dig into holiday shopping trends, including ways you can save on gifts and travel while reducing stress. Then, Sean and Elizabeth jump into a lightning round to answer a number of listener questions. They share insights on how to weigh the opportunity cost of paying off a mortgage versus investing in the market. They also look into how to better understand what your robo advisor may be investing in. And they talk about some of the smartest places to stash cash — like high-yield savings accounts or CDs — if you are planning for a short term goal. NerdWallet Holiday shopping report: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/studies/holiday-spending-report Best CD rates: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/banking/cd-rates Best High-Yield Savings Accounts: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/banking/high-yield-online-savings-accounts Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: holiday budgeting, holiday spending tips, how to budget for the holidays, holiday shopping debt, how to avoid holiday debt, NerdWallet holiday spending report, tariffs and inflation 2025, saving for holiday gifts, managing holiday travel costs, holiday money stress, how to save for holiday travel, pay off mortgage or invest, paying off mortgage vs investing, opportunity cost investing, ETFs explained, SPY ETF, XLK ETF, Vanguard Digital Advisor, collective investment trust, CIT vs ETF, Vanguard institutional trust, best high-yield savings accounts, CD ladder strategy, best CD rates, how to save for a house down payment, short-term investing options, budgeting app, NerdWallet app, personal finance podcast, Smart Money podcast, holiday money advice, how to manage debt during the holidays. 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
Learn how to choose term vs whole life insurance and calculate your coverage so your family stays protected. How much life insurance do you really need? Which is smarter, term or whole life? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss recent smart, fun, and dumb spending to spark a quick audit of your own money habits, then pivot to right-sizing life insurance so your family isn't left exposed. They begin with a discussion of everyday spending wins and fails, with tips and tricks on reviewing statements to catch unused subscriptions, setting guilt-free “fun” budgets that match your values, and investing in your health and home with intention. Then, insurance Nerd Kaz Weida joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss a listener's question about life insurance choices. They explain the DIME method for figuring out how much coverage you need, how to weigh term vs whole based on goals and risk, what costs look like at different ages, and how to handle beneficiaries, trusts, and group coverage from work. Plus: why you should periodically update your beneficiaries as life changes. How much life insurance do you need? NerdWallet's free life insurance calculator can help you do the math: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/insurance/how-much-life-insurance-do-i-need Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: life insurance, term life insurance, whole life insurance, beneficiary designation, trust vs beneficiary, group term life insurance, life insurance cost in your 30s, life insurance cost in your 40s, cash value life insurance, indexed universal life insurance, variable universal life insurance, estate planning basics, stay-at-home parent life insurance, update life insurance beneficiaries, convert term policy, smoker vs nonsmoker life insurance rates, life insurance medical exam, term vs whole life comparison, permanent life insurance, life insurance through employer, supplemental life insurance, life insurance payout, coverage amount calculator, college fund and life insurance, mortgage protection with life insurance, and prenuptial agreement and finances. 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
Learn how to plan for surprise bills and what to ask about a home's past so your budget and buying feel stress free. Do sellers have to disclose deaths, crimes or “hauntings” in a home? How can you budget for irregular expenses without daily tracking? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola open a spooky episode with housing Nerds Holden Lewis and Kate Wood to break down which states require sellers to reveal a home's dark history, when they don't, and how to protect yourself as a buyer. They unpack how to check local laws, research an address, and talk with neighbors so you can make confident choices — and avoid creepy surprises. Then, Sean and Elizabeth answer listener Alyssa's question about managing expenses that change (or don't come up at all) from month to month. They share practical ways to plan ahead for costs like home maintenance, credit card fees, childcare, pet care, and car repairs — without tracking every penny. Learn how to build flexible savings buckets, automate deposits, and keep lifestyle creep in check so your budget finally feels steady. Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: haunted house disclosure laws, seller disclosure death in house, stigmatized property, California real estate law, Alaska disclosure rules, Massachusetts disclosure requirements, Minnesota property laws, South Dakota home sale rules, Kentucky real estate disclosure, house history search, property value and crime, neighborhood research before buying, state disclosure differences, how to check a home's history, due diligence when buying a home, buyer protection strategies, homebuyer checklist, surprise home costs, unpredictable expenses, annual fees planning, sinking funds, budgeting system, flexible savings account, automated transfers, pay yourself first, lifestyle creep management, household budget balance, high income budgeting, financial organization, saving for irregular costs, long-term financial planning, and how to do a monthly money check-in. 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
Learn how your habits and the cash and cards in your wallet reveal your money mindset, then learn how to know when it's time to quit your job. What amount of cash should you keep on hand? Should you “quiet quit” or make a clean break from your job? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss everyday wallet decisions and career change trade-offs to help you understand how everyday money habits and major career choices can strengthen your financial stability. They begin with a candid, “What's in Your Wallet?” segment, revealing what they keep close and providing some tips and throughs on keeping a small emergency cash stash, rotating rewards cards wisely, and avoiding risky wallet habits like storing everything in your car. Then, Tess Vigeland, Smart Money producer and author of Leap: Leaving a Job with No Plan B to Find the Career and Life You Really Want, joins Sean and Elizabeth to help answer a listener's question about whether they should quit their job or simply “quiet quit.” They discuss building a “freedom fund” before quitting, ways to reduce workload without burning bridges, the realities of healthcare and benefits if you leave your job, how today's labor market affects timing, and why giving yourself reflection time can clarify your next step. Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: American Express Gold Card Review: Dining Rewards Royalty https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-premier-rewards-gold American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: quiet quitting, emergency fund, freedom fund, how much cash to keep at home, what to keep in your wallet, wallet organization, travel credit cards, cashback card strategy, debit vs credit, remote work burnout, career change planning, leave a job without plan b, how to quit without burning bridges, lateral move vs new job, reduce workload tips, using AI at work, outsource repetitive tasks, referral risk when underperforming, healthcare after quitting, benefits when changing jobs, real estate license costs, FIRE financial independence retire early, savings goals at 29, HSA spending, high deductible health plan, emergency cash vs card, labor market trends, employee engagement Gallup, identity beyond work, partner concerns about quitting, building a freedom fund timeline, cash vs digital payments, keeping cards safe, rotating cards for categories, smart travel rewards use, backup plan before quitting, burnout signs, and when to leave a job. 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
In this special video episode, learn what proposed stock market rule changes could mean for your portfolio and how to grow your teen's money skills. Will corporate earnings reports soon shift from quarterly to twice a year? And what could new rules about day trading mean for everyday investors? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola team up with senior news writer Anna Helhoski and investing lead writer Sam Taube to break down how potential SEC rule changes could reshape the stock market. They explore the pros and cons of less frequent earnings reports, what research shows about long-term investing behavior, and how easing day-trading limits might open doors for some investors — while raising risks for others. They also share practical ways to interpret earnings data, stay focused on long-term goals, and avoid emotional trading. Then, Sean and Elizabeth meet with listener Essa in-person to discuss how to teach kids money skills at home. They cover options for approaching allowances and savings goals (e.g., Greenlight), building credit safely via authorized-user setups or secured cards, and turning lessons into hands-on practice with simulations and budgeting tools. Essa shares what's been working in her household so far and gets suggestions on how to introduce new money concepts to her kids. The Nerdy Investor by NerdWallet is a monthly email briefing for investors who want to stay informed about what's happening in the world of money: https://nerdwalletinvesting.substack.com/about Get matched with a financial advisor for free using NerdWallet Advisors Match: https://nerdwalletadvisors.com/match Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: SEC rule change 2025, Trump administration stock market changes, FINRA margin requirements, quarterly earnings cycle, semiannual financial reporting, stock market volatility trends, P/E ratio meaning, price to earnings ratio formula, long-term investor behavior, day trading regulation, PDT minimum balance, $25,000 day trading rule, margin trading risks, investor protection rules, stock market research studies, dot-com crash lessons, European Union earnings rules, financial disclosure requirements, investing newsletter signup, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission updates, FINRA proposal 2025, retail investor access, beginner investing risks, youth financial literacy, teaching kids about credit, financial education apps for students, Bite of Reality app, Next Gen Personal Finance platform, EverFi money games, Financial Times Uber game, teen debit cards, compound interest examples, high-yield savings comparison, 401k matching concept, family money discussions, allowance systems for children, and parent-daughter investing ideas. 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
In this special video episode, Sean and Elizabeth and special guests eat spicy wings and share hot takes on saving versus investing, inflation, crypto, and when to trade up for an electric vehicle. When should you prioritize investing over traditional savings? How do you know when to keep repairing your car versus trading it in for something new, like an EV? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola share their zestiest financial takes over hot wings, blending financial insights with fiery fun. NerdWallet YouTube creator Stephen Smith joins them in-person at NerdWallet HQ in Scottsdale, AZ, for a lively discussion which, like the hot sauce, gets eye-wateringly spicy. They debate whether saving in a checking account makes sense, how high-yield savings stack up against inflation, and whether the U.S. dollar could one day be backed by cryptocurrency. They also dig into why consumer debt is so easy to rack up, including the rise of Buy Now, Pay Later for everyday purchases. Then, listener Sandra joins the in-person conversation with Sean and Elizabeth as they discuss whether she should keep repairing her Acura or buy a new EV. They explore repair costs versus new car payments, the impact of high-yield savings rates, trade-in timing, and refinancing considerations. The episode wraps with practical insights on how to balance financial security with lifestyle goals like travel, education savings, and staying debt-free. Get matched with a financial planner for free using NerdWallet Advisors Match: https://nerdwalletadvisors.com/match Smart Money is a finalist for TWO Signal Awards! Please take a moment to vote for us here: https://vote.signalaward.com/PublicVoting#/2025/individual-episodes/genre/money-finance https://vote.signalaward.com/PublicVoting#/2025/shows/genre/money-finance Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: Bitcoin reserve currency, dollar backed by crypto, consumer debt in America, Buy Now Pay Later pros and cons, Klarna food delivery, Klarna at Chipotle, financing gas with BNPL, credit card debt cycle, checking account interest rates, financial literacy for kids, trust fund for children, custodial accounts for kids, Acura MDX, car repair costs, car repair vs new car cost, average car payment 2025, EV tariffs 2025, zero APR car financing, mortgage refinance break-even, 529 vs Roth IRA rollover, saving for college vs high-yield savings, passing down a car to kids, luxury vehicle maintenance costs, average miles per year US drivers, opportunity cost of buying a car, travel vs new car decision, and financial security vs lifestyle goals.. 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
In this special video episode, Sean and Elizabeth give each other a “budget rehab,” revealing their own budgets to help you fix yours. How can you feel more in control of your spending? How can you plan for irregular expenses like credit card annual fees or surprise bills? In this video episode, hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola give each other a “budget rehab” to reveal how they really manage their money — and how you can apply the same strategies to your own finances. But first, they're joined by NerdWallet senior writer Anna Helhoski to discuss new NerdWallet survey findings about money stress and what steps you can take to alleviate it. They discuss why money stress hits some groups harder than others and share practical tips for easing the pressure. Then, Sean and Elizabeth present a personal “Budget Rehab” segment where they analyze each other's real numbers while sitting eye to eye at NerdWallet HQ. Sean shares how he balances rental income, savings, and splurges, while Elizabeth maps her freelance income, high savings rate, and family priorities. Together, they highlight the pros and cons of tactics like setting up multiple savings buckets, trimming recurring costs, maxing out tax-advantaged accounts, and planning ahead for annual fees and surprise expenses. Smart Money is a finalist for TWO Signal Awards! Please take a moment to vote for us here: https://vote.signalaward.com/PublicVoting#/2025/individual-episodes/genre/money-finance https://vote.signalaward.com/PublicVoting#/2025/shows/genre/money-finance Want the cheapest prepaid phone plan that still fits your phone service needs? Read NerdWallet's article on the best cheap cell phone plans: https://www.nerdwallet.com/p/best/finance/cheap-cell-phone-plans Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: money anxiety, reduce financial stress, generational money differences, Gen Z money habits, Millennial money habits, Gen X finances, Baby Boomer finances, grocery inflation, high food prices, emergency savings, build emergency cushion, debt payoff strategies, debt snowball vs avalanche, credit card debt payoff, homeownership vs renting, housing costs, mortgage vs rent, rental affordability, HSA benefits, high-deductible health plan, maxing out 401k, brokerage account investing, saving for car replacement, sinking fund examples, subscription audit tips, lower utility bills, cheaper phone plan, cutting cell phone costs, donating to charity, values-based spending, overspending triggers, budget burnout, financial literacy gaps, improve financial confidence, setting financial goals, FIRE movement, early retirement savings, family budgeting, and teaching kids about money. 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
In a special presentation of Smart Travel, learn what your points and miles are really worth in 2025 — and why the answer might change how you book travel. Should you take a $650 flight voucher or 32,500 miles? How much are your points and miles actually worth? Smart Travel hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle break down the latest NerdWallet valuations to help you make smarter redemption choices. But first, they cover recent travel headlines, including Southwest Airlines' new partnership with EVA Air, Frontier's companion certificate promotion and status match, and JetBlue opening up award bookings with Condor Airlines. Then, travel Nerd Craig Joseph joins Meghan to discuss NerdWallet's latest airline, hotel, and credit card point valuations, with tips and tricks on comparing loyalty programs, maximizing transfer partners, and deciding when cash is more valuable than points. They also discuss the impact of devaluations, how close-in bookings can save you points, and why premium cabins can sometimes offer outsized redemption value. Plus: Craig's hot take on airport lounges. Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: Is the Frontier Airlines World Mastercard Worth Its Annual Fee? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/is-the-frontier-airlines-world-mastercard-worth-its-annual-fee Citi Strata Credit Card Review: Solid Rewards for No Annual Fee https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/citi-strata Citi Double Cash Review: A Solid Choice for Everyday Spending https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/citi-double-cash Citi Custom Cash Card Review: Low-Maintenance 5% Cash Back https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/citi-custom-cash Citi Strata Premier: Big Rewards Across Top Spending Categories https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/citi-strata-premier Is the New Alaska Atmos Summit Card Worth a $395 Annual Fee? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/is-the-alaska-airlines-atmos-summit-card-worth-its-annual-fee Resources discussed in this episode: Airline Miles vs. Cash Calculator https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/calculator-should-you-book-a-flight-with-cash-or-miles How Much Are Travel Points and Miles Worth in 2025? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/airline-miles-and-hotel-points-valuations Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email podcast@nerdwallet.com. In this episode, the Nerds discuss: points and miles valuation, airline miles value, hotel points value, credit card points value, Southwest EVA Air partnership, Frontier Companion Certificate, JetBlue Condor award booking, Citi American Airlines transfer, Amex Membership Rewards value, Capital One points value, Bilt points value, Hyatt points value, Hilton points value, Marriott points value, Wyndham points value, IHG points value, Alaska miles value, JetBlue points value, American Airlines miles value, United miles value, Southwest points value, Virgin Atlantic miles value, ANA miles value, Avianca LifeMiles value, best way to use Amex points, best way to use Citi points, best way to use Capital One points, use cash or points for flights, last minute award flight value, premium cabin redemption value, economy flight points value, airline devaluation, hotel point devaluation, cash vs points travel booking, when to transfer credit card points, how to maximize travel rewards, and NerdWallet points and miles calculator. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Learn how to prepare for a government shutdown and where to put $600 a month after building your emergency fund. What happens in a federal government shutdown? Where should you put $600/month after funding an emergency cushion? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the looming shutdown before answering a listener's question about where to allocate their extra income. They begin with senior news writer Anna Helhoski, breaking down how a lapse in government funding could affect benefits, travel, parks, mail, and taxes, and how to keep your own plan steady. Then, Elizabeth and Sean answer a listener's question about how to think about allocating $600/month. They discuss automating IRA/solo 401(k)/SEP IRA contributions, using diversified index or mutual funds and a taxable brokerage, balancing a home down payment with retirement via time horizons and DTI/credit score, and what to look for in funds. They also explore how habit-building and automation can help you grow retirement savings while still working toward a down payment. Get matched with a financial advisor for free: https://www.nerdwallet.com/l/advisor-match-financial Are you on track to save enough for retirement? Use NerdWallet's free calculator to check your progress, see how much retirement income you'll have and estimate how much more you should save: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/retirement-calculator Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: Social Security during shutdown, TSA delays shutdown, Medicare during shutdown, Medicaid during shutdown, WIC benefits shutdown, IRS refund delays, FAFSA processing delay, federal employees furlough, furloughed vs essential workers, continuing resolution, national park closures shutdown, food safety inspections shutdown, EPA inspections shutdown, FDA inspections shutdown, NIH grants shutdown, unemployment benefits shutdown, debt-to-income ratio mortgage, mortgage approval process, credit score mortgage requirement, down payment savings strategy, closing costs when buying a home, emergency savings for home repairs, retirement calculator, 15 percent retirement savings rule, ETF vs mutual fund, S&P 500 index fund, expense ratio explained, index fund performance history, index fund tracking error, taxable brokerage account basics, diversification in investing, automate retirement contributions, solo 401k contribution limit, and SEP IRA contribution limit. 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
Learn how to prepare your finances for fall and support aging parents who have limited retirement savings. How can you check in on your finances this fall? What's the best way to help parents with little savings retire? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola explain how you can give yourself a fall financial check-in before they answer a listener's question about supporting aging parents. They begin with a discussion of fall planning and open enrollment season, with tips for using this year's health costs to choose next year's plan, reviewing IRA/401(k) contributions and allocations, and setting a realistic holiday budget while tracking travel prices. Then, NerdWallet lead writer Kate Ashford joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss how a listener can support their aging parents who haven't saved much. They discuss how to start sensitive money talks, navigate Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage (plus SHIP and Medicaid resources), and practical ways to help, including how to cover specific bills, explore subsidized senior housing, and avoid raiding your own retirement fund in order to help. See the latest rates in NerdWallet's roundups of the best high-yield savings accounts: https://www.nerdwallet.com/m/banking/standout-online-savings-accounts-2 Read NerdWallet's 2024 Financially Assisting Aging Parents Report: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/2024-financially-assisting-aging-parents-report Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: open enrollment, Medicare vs Medicare Advantage, Social Security benefits, holiday budget, IRA contribution limits, 401(k) contribution limit, high-yield savings accounts, emergency fund, claiming parents as dependents, subsidized senior housing, State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), retirement planning checklist, talking to parents about money, healthcare plan comparison, out-of-pocket maximum, Summary of Benefits and Coverage, Roth IRA vs Traditional IRA, SSA account estimate, travel prices Thanksgiving, Christmas flight prices, budget for gifts, avoid 401(k) loans, elder law attorney, support aging parents financially, pay parents' bills vs cash, cost of Medicare Advantage networks, housing downsize for retirees, public benefits for seniors, SNAP for seniors, utility assistance programs, property tax relief seniors, high-yield savings rate 4 percent, set savings buckets, wedding budget overrun, and school-year child care costs. 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
Learn how the Fed rate cut impacts loans and savings, then find out when to freeze your credit and how to do it fast. What does a Federal Reserve rate cut mean for your wallet? Should you freeze your credit if an internet provider runs a soft pull? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola kick off this episode with senior news writer Anna Helhoski to unpack the Federal Open Market Committee's (FOMC) new federal funds rate target range and how it filters through to credit cards, mortgages, auto loans, personal loans, and high-yield savings accounts and CDs. They explain why Fed chair Jerome Powell framed this as a “risk-management cut,” what dissent within the committee signals, how a cooling labor market and sticky inflation shape the outlook for additional cuts, and what stock market moves might follow. Plus, what all of that means for your near-term borrowing and saving decisions. Then, NerdWallet's Amanda Barroso joins Sean and Elizabeth for a practical lesson in credit freeze 101. They start with when and why to freeze your credit, with tips on freezing at all three bureaus, using apps for fast thawing, and setting time-boxed thaws before major credit applications. They also discuss soft vs. hard inquiries, fraud alerts vs. credit freezes vs. credit locks, and common pitfalls (forgetting one bureau, thawing too late at the car dealership, weak passwords) to help you understand when to keep your reports “frozen like Elsa,” but still move fast when you need new credit. Fed Trims Rate: What Does It Mean For You? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/fed-rate-cut-sept-2025 How to Unfreeze Your Credit With Equifax, Experian and TransUnion https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/how-to-unfreeze-your-credit Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: credit card APR, mortgage refinance rates, savings account interest rates, certificate of deposit rates, stock market after Fed decision, inflation forecast, unemployment trends, federal funds rate explained, Trump pressure on Fed, dissent at FOMC, labor market cooling, tariffs and inflation, soft credit check vs hard credit check, how to unfreeze credit, thaw credit timeline, fraud alert vs credit freeze, credit lock vs credit freeze, identity theft protection steps, FTC identity theft reports, data breach protection, certified mail credit freeze, password manager for credit bureaus, how to freeze credit by phone, and credit freeze pitfalls. 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
Learn if digital wallets make you overspend and how simple habits can help you stay on budget. How do you start money conversations that actually help? Do mobile wallets make you overspend? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss intentional money conversations and the psychology of paying by phone vs. card vs. cash to help you control spending and feel better about your money habits. Joined by Shari Rash, host of Everyone's Talkin' Money, they begin with a discussion of money talk made easier, with tips and tricks on opening with neutral topics like grocery prices, identifying your first money memory, and swapping shaming language for neutral phrasing. Then, personal finance nerd Kate Ashford joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss whether paying by phone changes what you spend. They discuss why “payment coupling” can dull the pain of spending, guardrails to curb impulse buys (fun-money caps, 24-hour waits, no saved cards), and where cash, credit cards, mobile wallets, and envelope-style budgeting apps (like YNAB and Goodbudget) fit for security and self-control. Does Using a Credit Card Make You Spend More Money? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/credit-cards-make-you-spend-more Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: mobile payments, Apple Pay, Google Pay, digital wallet security, overspending, impulse buying, cash vs credit card, payment coupling, behavioral finance, pay by phone vs card, cash stuffing, envelope method, ynab, goodbudget, budgeting apps, grocery budget tips, price per ounce shopping, money mindset, first money memory, financial check-ins, unsubscribe from promo emails, wait 24 hours before buying, fun money budget, online shopping guardrails, biometric authentication, credit card fraud protection, cashless venues, spending guardrails, budgeting limits, talking about money with partner, how to start money conversations, rising grocery prices, neutral money language, feeling rich vs being rich, allocate money for joy, mobile wallet pros and cons, tap to pay risks, and how to curb impulse shopping. 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
Learn how to think about AI stocks and decide if now's the time to buy a car, including how to choose between 48- and 60-month loans. Are AI stocks in a bubble? Should you buy a car now or wait? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss AI-driven market euphoria and today's car-buying math to help you understand how to balance risk in your investments and make a cost-smart auto purchase. Joined by NerdWallet senior news writer Anna Helhoski and investing writer Sam Taube, they begin with a discussion of whether AI stock valuations resemble the late-'90s dot-com era, with tips and tricks on reading signals like index P/E ratios, building diversification beyond a single index fund, and using “lazy portfolios” or robo-advisors to stay balanced. Then, auto Nerd Shannon Bradley joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss the 2025 car market and financing choices. They discuss what stable-but-high prices mean for timing a purchase (and how tariffs could push prices higher), how much to put down and when negotiation is realistic, and choosing between 48- vs 60-month terms if you expect to pay a loan off early. You'll also hear practical pointers on pre-qualification vs. pre-approval, checking Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds pricing, avoiding prepayment penalty surprises, and a reminder to consider tax implications if you plan to clear an auto loan with pension income. Mentioned in this episode: Lazy Portfolios: How to Diversify with Just a Few Funds Best Robo-Advisors: Top Picks for 2025 Car Shopping? The ‘Big, Beautiful Bill' May Change What You Pay Estimate your monthly car loan payment and total cost with NerdWallet's auto loan calculator. Adjust car price, term, rate and down payment to find the best fit for your budget. https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/auto-loan-calculator Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: AI bubble, Nvidia market cap, are AI stocks overvalued, Nasdaq 100 PE ratio, S&P 500 concentration, diversification strategy, lazy portfolio, robo-advisor comparison, bond allocation, international index fund, how to invest during AI boom, dot-com bubble vs AI, used car prices 2025, average new car price KBB, car tariffs impact on prices, is now a good time to buy a car, negotiating car price, Kelley Blue Book vs Edmunds, 48 vs 60 month auto loan, auto loan interest cost, prequalification vs preapproval, hard credit inquiry car loan, prepayment penalty auto loan, auto loan calculator, refinance auto loan rules, when to buy previous model year car, dealer incentives low APR, end of month car deals, pension to pay off car, car loan term strategy, tariffs and carmakers losses, Edmunds used car average price, S&P 500 exposure to AI, best Robo advisors list, and lazy portfolio examples. 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
Learn how to build a simple estate plan and lend or repay family money without hurting your relationships. What's the first thing to do when creating an estate plan? What's the smartest way to handle loans between friends or family? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola break down estate-planning basics like wills, revocable trusts, living wills/advance healthcare directives, and durable powers of attorney — tools that can ensure your wishes are carried out and help your loved ones avoid probate. They also share when to update your documents, how beneficiary designations can override your will, and three simple to-dos to get started without feeling overwhelmed. Then, mortgage and student loans writer Kate Wood joins Sean and Elizabeth to answer a listener's question about paying a loan back to her parents. They explore how family loans and lending circles work, why it's important to put agreements in writing (and when notarizing helps), and the impact informal loans can have on your credit. They also weigh different ways to set money aside, comparing high-yield savings accounts with taxable brokerage accounts invested in ETFs and considering timelines, growth potential, and tax trade-offs. Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: estate planning, will vs trust, revocable trust, living will, durable power of attorney, healthcare proxy, advance healthcare directive, probate explained, beneficiary designation vs will, update beneficiaries after marriage, how often to update a will, intestate meaning, avoid probate, family loan agreement, lend money to family safely, informal lending, lending circle, saving circle, notarized loan contract, pros and cons of family loans, protect relationships when lending money, credit score and informal loans, high-yield savings accounts, taxable brokerage accounts, ETF basics for beginners, repaying parents for college, fiduciary roles in estate planning, power dynamics of lending to friends, writing a repayment schedule, when to use a trust for minors, and retitling assets into a trust. 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
Learn when a refi saves money and how target-date funds work, including fees and when to pick a later fund year. What exactly is a target-date fund, and when should you move your date? How do you know if now is a good time to refinance a house? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss mortgage refinancing and target-date funds to help you understand how to quantify savings on a refi and how to set (and adjust) an age-appropriate retirement glide path. To kick off the episode, NerdWallet senior news writer Anna Helhoski joins with mortgages and student loans writer Kate Wood and mortgage reporter Holden Lewis to break down why refis are spiking even without fresh Federal Reserve cuts, who's most likely to benefit right now, and how markets (not just the Fed) drive daily mortgage rate moves. They begin with a discussion of rate-and-term vs. cash-out refinancing, with tips and tricks on calculating your breakeven point, using the ~0.75 percentage-point rule-of-thumb for potential savings, and factoring in 2% to 6% closing costs and how long you'll stay put. Then, investing Nerd June Sham joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss target-date funds. They discuss how glide paths work (to vs. through retirement), when to push your target year if you'll work longer, and how fees compare with index funds/ETFs, plus contribution frameworks (10% to 15% of income vs. the “80% replacement” rule) and why many hands-off investors value auto-rebalancing despite higher expense ratios. A listener case study (age 35, 2055 fund) highlights how to revisit your target date in the decade before retirement, how to read a fund's glide path, and why staying invested and consistent often matters more than chasing perfect timing. Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In this episode, the Nerds discuss: mortgage refinance, refinance calculator, mortgage rates today, breakeven point refinance, cash-out refinance, HELOC vs cash-out, refinance closing costs, when to refinance, refinance vs home equity loan, bond market and mortgage rates, Federal Reserve and mortgage rates, target-date fund, best target-date funds, target-date fund glide path, to vs through glide path, 401k target-date fund, change target-date fund year, 2055 target-date fund, target-date fund fees, expense ratio comparison, ETF vs mutual fund, index funds S&P 500, retirement contribution 10 to 15 percent, 80 percent income replacement rule, taxable brokerage vs 401k, annuity vs staying invested, debt consolidation with home equity, credit card APR vs mortgage rate, divorce refinance requirements, stay-or-sell breakeven analysis, and refinance eligibility 2025. 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
Find out when it's worth splurging on kitchen gear and how to switch banks without losing your financial footing. What kitchen tools are actually worth the money? Is switching to an online bank really worth the hassle? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the value of investing in high-quality kitchen gear and what to consider when moving your money to an online bank so you can make smarter, more intentional financial choices. They begin by speaking with Michele Norris, host of the podcast Your Mama's Kitchen. She explains how you can align your purchases with your cooking habits — without falling for social media hype. Plus, they discuss how to think about home kitchen upgrades, including tips and tricks on choosing the right knife or stove, knowing when to skip premium brands, and avoiding aesthetic-driven purchases that don't match your lifestyle. Then, NerdWallet consumer banking editor Ruth Sarreal joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss how to evaluate whether switching banks makes sense. They explore how to compare rates and fees, keep your auto-payments organized, and transition smoothly without damaging your credit or missing a bill. NerdWallet's roundup of the best online checking accounts: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/banking/online-checking-accounts In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: high yield savings account, switching banks, best kitchen appliances to buy, online-only banks, SoFi checking account, bank account switching process, best knives for home cooks, Vitamix vs Ninja blender, Le Creuset alternatives, when to splurge on appliances, budgeting for kitchen upgrades, online banks vs traditional banks, how to switch banks, ATM access with online banks, pros and cons of online banks, choosing a stove, best air fryer to buy, kitchen appliances worth the money, countertop appliances, instant pot storage, what to look for in a blender, managing multiple bank accounts, best checking accounts, how to avoid bank fees, how to transfer auto-payments, comparing bank APYs, personal finance for home cooks, financial planning for kitchen purchases, emotional value of kitchen gear, and sentimental kitchen items. 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
Before cohabiting, how do you talk about finances without conflict? Plus: the global forces pushing up your coffee and tea bill. Why are your daily coffee, tea, or matcha drinks costing more? What financial conversations should you have with your partner before signing a lease together? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola explore rising beverage costs and relationship money talks to help you understand how tariffs, inflation, and personal values affect your wallet. Joined by NerdWallet's Anna Helhoski and editor Rick VanderKnyff, they begin with a discussion of global coffee and tea markets, with tips and insights on why tariffs and climate change are raising prices, how supply chains are shifting to new exporters, and what consumers can do to get their caffeine fix. Then, Sean and Elizabeth discuss how couples can navigate money conversations with each other before moving in together. They cover key issues like how to split expenses proportionally, why you need a personal emergency fund, and the importance of discussing debt, income, and financial values openly. Together they highlight strategies for handling conflict, aligning goals, and deciding whether (and when) to combine finances, to help couples set themselves up for financial and relational success. Survey: One in 10 Americans Would Never Date Someone with Credit Card Debt https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/data-undateable-debt Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: rising coffee prices, tea prices rising, matcha shortage, matcha prices, tariffs on coffee, tariffs on tea, tariffs on matcha, climate change and coffee, climate change and tea, coffee inflation, tea inflation, rising coffee costs, why is tea expensive, matcha demand social media, U.S. coffee imports, Japan matcha exports, cost of Starbucks coffee, cost of matcha latte, moving in with partner finances, how to talk about money with a partner, financial conversations before moving in, splitting bills with partner, joint account vs separate accounts, sharing income with partner, debt in relationships, credit scores and renting, financial goals with partner, emergency fund before moving in, combining finances with a partner, money conflicts in relationships, high earner relationships, household expenses split, and moving expenses budgeting. 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
Learn about banking blacklists and how to decide when sign-up bonuses are worth your time and money. Why might you get denied when trying to open a new bank account online, even if all your information is correct? When are bank account sign-up bonuses really worth pursuing? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola explain how banks verify identities, what can cause account applications to fail, and how seasonal spending habits affect financial planning to help you better manage your cash flow and set realistic expectations. But first, they kick off the episode by discussing how summer expenses like weddings, vacations, utility bills, and back-to-school shopping can disrupt budgets, and how to prepare emotionally and financially for an expensive fall. Then, NerdWallet banking writer Margaret Burnett joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss why banks sometimes block new account applications and how to navigate “banking blacklists.” She helps answer a listener's question about repeated online account denials, and together they walk through how verification systems work, what ChexSystems and Early Warning Services track, and how to clean up your record. They also break down when bank account sign-up bonuses are worth it, what fine print to watch for, and how to balance rewards with potential risks. Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header Best Bank Bonuses and Promotions of August 2025 (up to $3,000) https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/banking/best-bank-bonuses-and-promotions What to Do if You're Listed in ChexSystems https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/banking/steps-to-clear-up-your-chexsystems-record Blocked From Getting a Bank Account? Learn About ChexSystems https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/banking/blocked-by-chexsystems-what-to-know Banks That Don't Use — or Will Look Past — ChexSystems https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/banking/banks-that-dont-use-or-will-look-past-chexsystems Second Chance Checking Accounts Across the U.S. https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/banking/second-chance-checking In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: bank account denied online, banking blacklist, ChexSystems, early warning services, bank sign-up bonus, bank bonuses, high yield savings account, verifying identity for bank account, blocked by bank, open bank account online problems, how to dispute ChexSystems, early warning services report, how to get off ChexSystems, bank fraud prevention systems, denied checking account, high risk banking customer, banking verification system, online bank application failed, identity mismatch bank account, checking account promotions, sign-up bonus fine print, taxable bank bonuses, 1099 bank bonus, avoiding bank account fees, managing multiple bank accounts, best banks for sign-up offers, credit union account opening, how to open checking account, banks that don't use ChexSystems, new bank account requirements, and bank promotions 2025. 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
The Nerds debut a new Budget Rehab segment, dissecting a real family's budget to reveal strategies for saving more, investing smarter, and managing lifestyle costs. Plus: tariffs' role in rising auto insurance. Why are auto insurance premiums continuing to climb, and what do tariffs have to do with it? How can a real family adjust their budget to meet their financial goals? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola debut a new Budget Rehab segment, where they take a hands-on approach to evaluating a listener's finances. But first, they're joined by senior news writer Anna Helhoski and insurance Nerd Andrew Hurst to unpack the forces driving auto insurance costs higher in 2025. They discuss how tariffs on imported parts, inflation, and more expensive claims are putting pressure on premiums—and what drivers can do to find competitive rates in a shifting insurance market. Then Sean and Elizabeth are joined by Garrett, a listener who receives the first “Budget Rehab” on Smart Money. They walk through his family's finances step by step, from a stretched grocery bill and drained emergency fund to the challenges of saving while raising a young child. The conversation covers how Garrett and his wife can rebuild their financial cushion after buying a new car, prepare for the possibility of living on one income, and expand retirement savings through tools like IRAs and solo 401(k)s. Along the way, they highlight practical strategies for balancing wants and needs while still leaving room for joy in the family budget. Inspired to navigate your finances with an advisor? Use NerdWallet Advisors Match to find vetted professionals today at https://www.nerdwalletadvisors.com/match NerdWallet Wealth Partners is a fiduciary online financial advisor, offering low-cost, comprehensive financial advice and investment management: https://nerdwalletwealthpartners.com/ Rates for auto and homeowners insurance have been on the rise. NerdWallet's here to help consumers navigate those changes: https://www.nerdwallet.com/insurance/data#auto-insurance Use NerdWallet's free retirement calculator to check your progress, see how much retirement income you'll have and estimate how much more you should save: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/retirement-calculator Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: budget rehab, household budget planning, how to use 50/30/20 budget, family budget with one income, rebuild emergency fund, self-employed budgeting tips, budgeting for stay at home parents, budgeting for a baby, how to save on groceries, Costco vs Trader Joe's groceries, reducing travel expenses, retirement savings for self-employed, IRA contribution limits, rising auto insurance costs 2025, auto insurance tariffs, car insurance premiums 2025, supply chain car parts, reinsurance premiums, weather-related claims auto insurance, social inflation insurance, state auto insurance increases, and comparing car insurance rates. 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
Learn how to cut prescription costs and prepare for steep health insurance hikes if ACA tax credits expire. How can you make prescription drugs more affordable? What can you do if subsidies in the Affordable Care Act expire and health insurance costs spike? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss rising prescription costs and looming changes to health insurance premiums to help you find ways to save and protect your budget. Joined by Dan Weissmann, host of the podcast An Arm and a Leg, they begin with a discussion of the structural problems in the U.S. prescription drug system, with tips on comparing prices across pharmacies, using discount programs like GoodRx, and checking for manufacturer coupons. Then, personal finance Nerd Kate Ashford joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss how ACA premium tax credit changes could impact your wallet. They explore strategies such as comparing marketplace plans carefully, shifting to different tiers of coverage, considering employer-based insurance, and preparing for open enrollment. They also highlight the risks of going uninsured, ways to use preventive care benefits to save money, and why America's healthcare system ended up so tied to employment. Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: prescription drug costs, how to save on prescriptions, GoodRx, Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs, pharmacy benefit managers, drug manufacturer coupons, ACA subsidies, ACA premium tax credits, Affordable Care Act healthcare costs, ACA marketplace plans, health insurance open enrollment, formulary, health insurance tiers, high deductible health plan, bronze vs silver plan ACA, health savings account, ACA premium increases, ACA subsidies expiring, ACA tax credits 2025, how to compare health insurance plans, employer sponsored health insurance, self-employed health insurance options, preventive care coverage, avoiding medical debt, risks of going uninsured, Vermont ACA costs, ACA premium increase by state, ACA cost saving strategies, how to check if prescriptions are covered, negotiating prescription costs, medical bankruptcy risk, Medicare and Medicaid differences, US vs UK healthcare costs, ACA income thresholds, ACA marketplace eligibility, losing ACA subsidies impact, choosing an ACA plan, and ACA open enrollment dates. 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
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