Podcasts about Equifax

What can private companies learn from government caseworkers about adopting automation and using data more effectively? In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I speak with David Turner, General Manager and Senior Vice President of Government Services at Equifax Workforce Solutions, about public sector automation, data modernization, and the people responsible for delivering social services. The conversation begins with a surprising finding from an Equifax Government Services study of over 500 U.S. government employees. Every respondent expected efficiency to improve during the following year, while 95% believed automation would free time for higher value, human centered work. David explains why government employees may be more receptive to modernization than many people assume. Caseworkers operate under rising demand, staffing pressures, changing policy, and limited budgets. When technology removes repetitive administration or supplies information faster, they can see an immediate connection between the tool and the person waiting for support. We discuss how the meaning of automation has changed inside social services. A few years ago, it might have meant entering information into an online portal. Today, integrated connections can search data sources behind the scenes and return verified information during the caseworker's existing process. David describes continuous evaluation, which can identify when circumstances within a caseload have changed. Instead of searching every case for a possible update, a worker can direct attention toward the people whose income, address, or employment data indicates that further review may be needed. Income verification provides another example. Equifax says it can return income information in under one second, helping prevent the delays created when an applicant must leave the process to find a document. Those pauses matter when an eligibility decision already involves several stages and numerous external systems. The gig economy makes this work harder. Applicants may receive income from employment, contract work, digital platforms, and several side projects. Agencies need access to a fuller income picture without sending people back toward paper forms and manual verification. David also shares what Equifax has learned through its Day in the Life program. The team spends time with caseworkers to understand their processes, policy restrictions, and information constraints. He believes public sector leadership can remain closely connected to employees in the field because many agency executives previously performed those roles themselves. AI introduces further possibilities. David discusses how data and AI could eventually identify signs that someone who has left an assistance program may be experiencing financial difficulty again. Community groups, food banks, or other services could potentially offer support before that person returns to crisis. Such a system would also require careful decisions around consent, privacy, accuracy, and responsibility. The central lesson is refreshingly human. Technology creates value when it removes administrative pauses and gives experienced caseworkers additional time to understand someone's circumstances. Could public sector automation teach private companies how to connect technology investment with human outcomes? Listen to the episode and share your thoughts with me.

Shares of capital market company MSCI and credit rating agency Equifax both posted double digit declines after posting earnings that were…ok? Matt, Lou, and Tyler dive into what went right and wrong in the most recent earnings and what to make of the two stocks today. Plus, what to make of the oil markets using Halliburton's earnings results and what is the best banking ETF today? Have a question? Email us; podcasts@fool.com Want to take the next step in your investing journey? Explore Motley Fool's Epic for our portfolio-centered investing experience, premium research, tools, and guidance: fool.com/epic fool.com/epic Tyler Crowe, Matt Frankel, and Lou Whiteman discuss: - Equifax & MSCI earnings and stock reactions - AI costs eating into profits - Halliburton's comments on the oil market - Mailbag: Best Banking ETF to buy now? Companies discussed: EFX, MSCI, MS, HAL, XLF, VFH, BRK, V, MA, JPM, KBE, KBWB Host: Tyler Crowe Guests: Matt Frankel, Lou Whiteman Engineer: Dan Boyd Disclosure: Advertisements are sponsored content and provided for informational purposes only. The Motley Fool and its affiliates (collectively, “TMF”) do not endorse, recommend, or verify the accuracy or completeness of the statements made within advertisements. TMF is not involved in the offer, sale, or solicitation of any securities advertised herein and makes no representations regarding the suitability, or risks associated with any investment opportunity presented. Investors should conduct their own due diligence and consult with legal, tax, and financial advisors before making any investment decisions. TMF assumes no responsibility for any losses or damages arising from this advertisement. We're committed to transparency: All personal opinions in advertisements from Fools are their own. The product advertised in this episode was loaned to TMF and was returned after a test period or the product advertised in this episode was purchased by TMF. Advertiser has paid for the sponsorship of this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit ⁠⁠megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Market update for Tuesday July 21, 2026Check out the Public app for incredible investing tools and to support the show (LINK)Follow us on Instagram (@TheRundownDaily) for bonus content and instant reactions.In today's episode, Zaid covers:Why a calm S&P 500 is hiding historic volatility beneath the market's surfaceTrump's new 50% tariffs on certain Canadian goods (and the looming legal fight)How GM is growing profits while selling fewer carsWhy 3M and Nebius are surging while Equifax gets hammeredHow the World Cup boosted American hotels, bars and FIFA's bottom line

Today - remote work became essential during COVID, but could it be hurting your career now? While the benefits of working remotely are undeniable, new data shows that "out of sight, out of mind" is a dangerous reality in corporate America. Clark shares several things to consider if you want to protect your paycheck and position yourself for promotions. Also, a massive storm is brewing in the healthcare industry, and it is going to hit your wallet hard. The soaring cost of healthcare—driven heavily by hospital system monopolies in major metro areas—is pushing individual deductibles toward an estimated $15,000 and family deductibles past $30,000 by 2027. Clark explains everything you need to know - including another disadvantage in Advantage Plans.  Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the July 20, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark. WFH Benefits & Risks: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Health Insurance Update: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Working remotely could make you more vulnerable to a layoff than AI Scam Alert: How To Avoid Home Title Theft - Clark Howard Home Title Lock: Is It the Same As Home Title Insurance? Property Fraud Alert Are Missing Money Websites Legit? - Clark Howard Raisin Review: Can You Trust This Online Savings Marketplace? 16 of the Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts in July 2026 Is Plaid Safe? 5 Things to Know Before Linking Your Bank Account  Searching for health insurance? Keep scrolling to avoid government impersonators How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion What Is a Secured Credit Card and How Does It Work? - Clark Howard Best Secured Credit Cards for 2026: Top Picks for Building or Repairing Credit Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The financial health of the American consumer is top of mind these days, and no one better to discuss it with than Emmaline Aliff of Equifax and our own consumer maven, Mike Brisson, join the podcast to dig into the evidence. While the consumer sector as a whole remains resilient, the story differs dramatically across the thrivers, the strivers, and the survivors. We also unpack a week full of inflation data with Matt Colyar, who helps us sort through the numbers and their implications for the economic outlook. Guest: Emmaline Aliff, Advisory Leader, Equifax Hosts: Mark Zandi – Chief Economist, Moody's Analytics, Cris deRitis – Deputy Chief Economist, Moody's Analytics, and Marisa DiNatale – Senior Director - Head of Global Forecasting, Moody's Analytics Follow Mark Zandi on 'X' and BlueSky @MarkZandi, Cris deRitis on LinkedIn, and Marisa DiNatale on LinkedIn Questions or Comments, please email us at InsideEconomics@moodys.com. We would love to hear from you. To stay informed and follow the insights of Moody's Analytics economists, visit Economic View. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Small business fraud is evolving — and fraudsters are using increasingly sophisticated tactics, from synthetic identities to AI-generated documents and digital deception. In this episode of Market Pulse, Equifax's David Adams talks with Jill Molitor, Director of Fraud and Credit Administration at Stearns Bank, about how lenders can balance faster decisioning with stronger fraud prevention.In this episode:How are fraudsters using AI to target small businesses?Fraudsters are increasingly using AI and digital tools to create synthetic identities, falsified documents and more sophisticated fraud schemes. These tactics can make fraudulent businesses appear legitimate, requiring lenders to look beyond traditional verification methods, according to Stearns Bank. What is synthetic identity fraud in business lending?Stearns Bank describes synthetic identity fraud as a “Frankenstein” identity — where fraudsters combine fabricated or manipulated information to create a person or business profile that appears real. These identities may establish credit history before eventually defaulting, leaving lenders with limited recourse. Can AI solve fraud detection challenges?Equifax and Stearns Bank discuss how AI and machine learning can help identify suspicious patterns, unusual activity and potential risks. However, technology alone is not enough. Human expertise remains critical for evaluating context, reducing false positives and making informed decisions. 

En el episodio de esta semana, Karla y Susana platican sobre el incremento en las ventas de autos nuevos en México; el modelo de negocio de la Thermomix; la llegada de Crumbl Cookies a México; y la adquisición de Círculo de Crédito por parte de Equifax.RecomendaciónWhitepaper Hoy 7 de Julio 2026

Today's episode includes a look at the intersection of housing policy and HMDA data. Plus, Robbie interviews Equifax's Justin Demola on how rising credit costs, higher borrower fallout rates, and inefficient credit-pull strategies are increasing origination expenses, making it critical for lenders to manage credit usage more strategically while leveraging reforms to improve efficiency and reduce costs. And we close with a look at the increasing prevalence of buydowns as a percentage of originations.Thank you to Equifax, a global data, analytics, and technology company, which helps mortgage lenders gain the borrower and market insights they need to improve efficiency and make accurate decisions. Access differentiated consumer credit data, powerful consumer and market insights, and income and employment data from The Work Number.The Chrisman Commentary is your go-to daily mortgage news podcast, where industry insights meet expert analysis. Hosted by Robbie Chrisman, this podcast delivers the latest updates on mortgage rates, capital markets, and the forces shaping the housing finance landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to stay informed, you'll get clear, concise breakdowns of market trends and economic shifts that impact the mortgage world.

Today's episode includes a primer on why recapture rates vary so much across the mortgage industry. Plus, Robbie interviews Alston & Bird's Stephen Ornstein on all things RESPA, as well as how regulation needs to be improved for the modern times we live in. And we close with a look at why the Federal Reserve's latest stress test reaffirmed the resilience of the U.S. banking system.Thank you to Equifax, a global data, analytics, and technology company, which helps mortgage lenders gain the borrower and market insights they need to improve efficiency and make accurate decisions. Access differentiated consumer credit data, powerful consumer and market insights, and income and employment data from The Work Number.The Chrisman Commentary is your go-to daily mortgage news podcast, where industry insights meet expert analysis. Hosted by Robbie Chrisman, this podcast delivers the latest updates on mortgage rates, capital markets, and the forces shaping the housing finance landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to stay informed, you'll get clear, concise breakdowns of market trends and economic shifts that impact the mortgage world.

What does the Equifax Market Pulse Index reveal about the true financial health of American consumers? Equifax Advisors Emmaline Aliff, Jesse Hardin and Tom O'Neill explore how the Market Pulse Index uncovers financial stress and resilience that traditional economic measures often miss. The conversation examines the growing K-shaped economy, the "illusion of the average," generational wealth trends, and why factors such as assets, cash flow, and financial capacity provide a more complete picture of consumer health than GDP or credit scores alone. In this episode:What is the Equifax Market Pulse Index?The Equifax Market Pulse Index is a multidimensional measure of consumer financial health that combines credit behavior, income, assets, debt, and financial capacity. Unlike traditional economic indicators, it provides a more complete view of a consumer's ability to withstand financial stress and navigate economic change.Why doesn't GDP tell the full story of consumer financial health?GDP measures spending activity, but it doesn't reveal how consumers are financing their lifestyles. According to Equifax experts, strong spending by higher-income households can mask growing financial stress among middle- and lower-income consumers who may be relying on credit or depleting savings to keep up with rising costs.How can lenders use the Market Pulse Index to improve decision-making?The Market Pulse Index helps lenders look beyond traditional credit scores by incorporating a broader view of financial health. This allows organizations to identify consumers whose financial fundamentals remain strong despite short-term pressures, helping uncover opportunities while managing risk more effectively.What opportunity should businesses and lenders be paying attention to?According to Equifax, precision targeting is becoming increasingly important. Organizations that can identify financially resilient consumers using multidimensional data may be better positioned to grow portfolios, improve customer experiences, and uncover opportunities that traditional metrics alone might overlook.

Today's episode includes storylines from around the mortgage industry. Plus, Robbie interviews Spring EQ's Reno Heine on differentiating oneself in the increasingly competitive home equity and non- QM markets, how technology and AI are shaping growth, and practical advice for brokers seeking new business opportunities. And we close with a look at various duration and prepayment profiles across the Agency MBS sector.Thank you to Equifax, a global data, analytics, and technology company, helps mortgage lenders gain the borrower and market insights they need to improve efficiency and make accurate decisions. Access differentiated consumer credit data, powerful consumer and market insights, and income and employment data from The Work Number.The Chrisman Commentary is your go-to daily mortgage news podcast, where industry insights meet expert analysis. Hosted by Robbie Chrisman, this podcast delivers the latest updates on mortgage rates, capital markets, and the forces shaping the housing finance landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to stay informed, you'll get clear, concise breakdowns of market trends and economic shifts that impact the mortgage world.

Today's episode includes reports on the 21 st Century ROAD to Housing Act moving along. Plus, Robbie interviews HELIX's Carl Markman and Frank Perugini on improving borrower and loan officer experiences, accelerating loan processing, and growth in some of the fastest-expanding segments of the mortgage industry. And we close with a look at why Agency MBS posted modestly negative performance last week.Thank you to Equifax, a global data, analytics, and technology company, helps mortgage lenders gain the borrower and market insights they need to improve efficiency and make accurate decisions. Access differentiated consumer credit data, powerful consumer and market insights, and income and employment data from The Work Number.The Chrisman Commentary is your go-to daily mortgage news podcast, where industry insights meet expert analysis. Hosted by Robbie Chrisman, this podcast delivers the latest updates on mortgage rates, capital markets, and the forces shaping the housing finance landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to stay informed, you'll get clear, concise breakdowns of market trends and economic shifts that impact the mortgage world.

Today's episode includes the practical realities of how advocacy gets done in the mortgage industry. Plus, Robbie interviews Class Valuation's Mark Walser on UAD 3.6: stages of panic versus planning, and what lenders can expect in the fall. And we close with a look at why investors and the Fed care about inflation.Thank you to Equifax. With Equifax's suite of mortgage solutions, mortgage lenders can use trusted, independently verified consumer and financial data and analytics to reduce manual processes, accelerate loan decisions, improve accuracy, manage risk, and enhance the borrower experience from initial application through ongoing loan servicing. The Chrisman Commentary is your go-to daily mortgage news podcast, where industry insights meet expert analysis. Hosted by Robbie Chrisman, this podcast delivers the latest updates on mortgage rates, capital markets, and the forces shaping the housing finance landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to stay informed, you'll get clear, concise breakdowns of market trends and economic shifts that impact the mortgage world.

What Exactly Is a Reverse Mortgage? Episode 387 – We hear so much talk these days about reverse mortgages. Are they worth looking into? For some people the answer is yes, but only if certain conditions are met. More SML Planning Minute Podcast Episodes Transcript of Podcast Episode 387 Hello, this is Bill Rainaldi, with another edition of Security Mutual's SML Planning Minute. In today's episode: so what exactly is a reverse mortgage? It's hard to miss all the talk these days about reverse mortgages as an income tool for retirees. Some experts like them, some experts don't. But what are they and how do they work? For many Americans, their biggest asset is the equity they have in their home. Some might not have saved much for retirement. But after years, perhaps decades, of living in the same home, they've built up their home equity through appreciation and amortization of their mortgage. When they look at their balance sheets, that becomes their biggest plus. What options do people have if they get to retirement age, have limited retirement savings, and realize that Social Security just isn't going to be enough? A reverse mortgage is one possible answer. A reverse mortgage is available for homeowners aged 62 and over. It is a way to fund retirement by borrowing against the equity you've built up in your home. The more home equity you have, the better. But it's certainly not for everyone. A reverse mortgage is not the same thing as a home equity line of credit, or HELOC. It's called a reverse mortgage because instead of you making monthly payments to the bank, the bank makes monthly payments to you. The income you get from a reverse mortgage is generally not taxable. You can use that income as needed to cover monthly expenses, including such things as home maintenance, property taxes, or, if needed, home health care expenses.[1] A reverse mortgage isn't free. The amount you owe against your house, which includes the principal and accruing interest, increases as you receive your monthly payments. So over time, your home equity decreases. You are essentially trading a little bit of your home equity every month for current income. Note that you typically don't have to repay the mortgage as long as you continue to use the home as your primary residence. But if you decide to sell your house or move out, the full balance will become due. If you die before you move out, in most cases your executor will sell the home and use the proceeds to pay back the accumulated reverse mortgage debt.[2] Reverse mortgages generally come in three different varieties. The first, and by far the most common, are loans overseen by the Federal Housing Authority. These are known as Home Equity Conversion Mortgages or HECMs. The homeowner has discretion over what to use the funds for, but before closing, they must meet with a counselor approved by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. This one requirement is designed to help curb fraud and abuse. HECMs account for approximately 95 percent of all reverse mortgages.[3] They are more regulated than other types of reverse mortgages and offer some extra protection. For one thing, neither you nor your heirs will ever owe more than the house is worth, even if it goes down in value. And if your lender goes out of business, the federal insurance program guarantees that you will still receive your monthly payments.[4] The maximum you can borrow under the federal program in 2026 is $1,249,125.[5] You will typically need to have at least 50 percent equity in your home (based on appraised value) to qualify. Reverse mortgages typically have adjustable interest rates. Note that the income from a reverse mortgage usually comes in the form of a monthly payment, but that's not a requirement. It can also be in a lump sum. The two other less common types of reverse mortgages are “single-purpose reverse mortgages,” which are backed by a nonprofit organization or a state or local government, and “proprietary reverse mortgages,” which are offered by private organizations without any government backing. Reverse mortgages have had a somewhat mixed reputation over the years. For one thing, the fees involved can be considerable. A reverse mortgage typically has origination fees, mortgage insurance premiums, closing costs and monthly servicing fees, all of which add up.[6] And there are still some scams out there. Some fraudsters will entice vulnerable seniors with misleading or fraudulent claims. One of those might be when a potential intermediary tries to get you into a reverse mortgage, then uses the money for some sort of “investment opportunity” that they control. They will then typically end up pocketing some of your home's equity themselves.[7] One way to avoid scams like this is to start with a trusted financial advisor or your current lender. Are there other potential solutions? Of course. The most obvious is, if possible, to save more at an earlier age and allow compound interest to work its magic. But for a lot of people, that's just not possible. For some people, a reverse mortgage is another option. There are caveats, but this may be a good choice in the right circumstances. A reverse mortgage is not the perfect solution, but for some, depending on their situation, it may be the most viable one. [1] Equifax Life Stages. “What is a Reverse Mortgage and How Does it Work?” Equifax.com. https://www.equifax.com/personal/education/credit/score/articles/-/learn/reverse-mortgage/ (accessed May 19, 2026). [2] Id. [3] Yale, Aly J. “What Is a Reverse Mortgage?” AARP.org. https://www.aarp.org/money/personal-finance/reverse-mortgage-guide/ (accessed May 19, 2026). [4] Id. [5] Johnson, Jamie. “HECM Loan Limits: What They Are and How They Work in 2026.” Themortgagereports.com. https://themortgagereports.com/124868/hecm-loan-limits (accessed May 20, 2026). [6] Miller, Peter G. “Reverse mortgage pros and cons.” Bankrate.com. https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/reverse-mortgage-pros-and-cons/#cons (accessed May 20, 2026). [7] Goff, Kacie. “Reverse mortgage scams: What they are and how to avoid them.” Bankrate.com. https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/reverse-mortgage-scams/#common-scams (accessed May 20, 2026). More SML Planning Minute Podcast Episodes This podcast is brought to you by Security Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York, The Company That Cares®. The content provided is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Information is provided in good faith. However, the Company makes no representation or warranty of any kind regarding the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of the information. The information presented is designed to provide general information regarding the subject matter covered. It is not to serve as legal, tax or other financial advice related to individual situations, because each individual's legal, tax and financial situation is different. Specific advice needs to be tailored to your situation. Therefore, please consult with your own attorney, tax professional and/or other advisors regarding your specific situation. To help reach your goals, you need a skilled professional by your side. Contact your local Security Mutual life insurance advisor today. As part of the planning process, he or she will coordinate with your other advisors as needed to help you achieve your financial goals and objectives. For more information, visit us at SMLNY.com/SMLPodcast. If you've enjoyed this podcast, tell your friends about it. And be sure to give us a five-star review. And check us out on LinkedIn, YouTube and Twitter. Thanks for listening, and we'll talk to you next time. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. The information presented is based on current interpretation of the laws. Neither Security Mutual nor its agents are permitted to provide tax or legal advice. The applicability of any strategy discussed is dependent upon the particular facts and circumstances. Results may vary, and products and services discussed may not be appropriate for all situations. Each person's needs, objectives and financial circumstances are different, and must be reviewed and analyzed independently. We encourage individuals to seek personalized advice from a qualified Security Mutual life insurance advisor regarding their personal needs, objectives, and financial circumstances. Insurance products are issued by Security Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York, Binghamton, New York. Product availability and features may vary by state.​ SubscribeApple PodcastsSpotifyAndroidPandoraby EmailTuneInDeezerRSSMore Subscribe Options

Welcome to a packed Monday edition of WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, hosted by Malcolm Harris and Michael Vincent! In this episode, we dive deep into a multi-state cargo theft operation that recently led to eight indictments in New York after diverting $4.5 million worth of freight—ranging from beef and copper to massive hauls of cigarettes. Michael also shares a frustrating personal story about the disappearing security of airport valet tickets after his $3,000 Martin guitar vanished on a direct flight. On a brighter note, we highlight the Broker Carrier Summit's exciting launch of the "Veterans in Logistics" initiative in Kansas City, naming John Tozer to lead the charge in connecting military veterans with great careers in transportation. Our first featured guest is small business credit fintech guru Gerri Detweiler, who explains why owner-operators must treat their business credit with the same urgency as their next load. Gerri breaks down how business credit reports are compiled behind the scenes by bureaus like Dun & Bradstreet, Experian, and Equifax to influence lenders, fuel card issuers, and insurance companies. Closing out the show is Aqil Naeem, founder and CEO of the e three group, the first AI transformation partner for middle-market and enterprise freight companies. Aqil explains that as traditional cybersecurity improves, sophisticated bad actors are pivoting to physical cargo theft because defenses in logistics haven't kept pace. ⁠Watch on YouTube⁠ ⁠Visit our sponsor - KOONER FLEET MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS⁠ ⁠Subscribe to the WTT newsletter⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠More FreightWaves Podcasts⁠ #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a packed Monday edition of WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, hosted by Malcolm Harris and Michael Vincent! In this episode, we dive deep into a multi-state cargo theft operation that recently led to eight indictments in New York after diverting $4.5 million worth of freight—ranging from beef and copper to massive hauls of cigarettes. Michael also shares a frustrating personal story about the disappearing security of airport valet tickets after his $3,000 Martin guitar vanished on a direct flight. On a brighter note, we highlight the Broker Carrier Summit's exciting launch of the "Veterans in Logistics" initiative in Kansas City, naming John Tozer to lead the charge in connecting military veterans with great careers in transportation. Our first featured guest is small business credit fintech guru Gerri Detweiler, who explains why owner-operators must treat their business credit with the same urgency as their next load. Gerri breaks down how business credit reports are compiled behind the scenes by bureaus like Dun & Bradstreet, Experian, and Equifax to influence lenders, fuel card issuers, and insurance companies. Closing out the show is Aqil Naeem, founder and CEO of the e three group, the first AI transformation partner for middle-market and enterprise freight companies. Aqil explains that as traditional cybersecurity improves, sophisticated bad actors are pivoting to physical cargo theft because defenses in logistics haven't kept pace. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor - KOONER FLEET MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today - A warning about how much information you give an AI chatbot. Artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini have made getting financial advice faster and easier than ever. But as the AI gold rush heats up, a massive privacy risk is emerging. Clark breaks down the critical things you should never tell an AI chatbot.  Also - The anatomy of a Ponzi scheme that RIPPED OFF $140 million from “investors.”  Clark covers two massive fraud cases—Drive Planning and First Liberty—which collectively defrauded thousands of investors out of hundreds of millions of dollars. When inflation or economic uncertainty makes us feel insecure about our money, we become susceptible to smooth pitches. Clark reminds us of the ultimate golden rule of investing: any time someone promises you "guaranteed" double-digit returns with zero risk, it is a lie. Learn how these schemes operate so you can spot the red flags, protect your hard-earned savings, and secure your financial future. Plus, Lane (Clark's wife!) shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the June 1, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit questions: Ask Clark AI Privacy Risk: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Ponzi Schemes Steal Millions: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Don't tell your AI chatbot these 5 things to keep your money safe  Where Should You Keep Your Cash Reserve? - Clark Howard 6 Things To Know About Series I Savings Bonds - Clark Howard How To Open a Roth IRA Anatomy of a Ponzi scheme How to Teach Young Kids About Money - Clark Howard How I Set My Teens Up for Retirement in 5 Minutes What Brokerage Do You Recommend for First-Time Investors or Kids? How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cherolle Prince, Director of Fraud and Identity Management at Equifax Canada, unpacks the alarming rise of first-party fraud — when individuals misrepresent their own identity or inflate their income to qualify for credit. With economic pressures pushing more Canadians to the financial edge, Equifax data shows first-party fraud is up over 30% year over year, doubling in both credit cards and banking. Cherolle explains how AI-powered detection tools and lender collaboration are fighting back, and why this growing trend ultimately tightens credit access for everyone — even those who play by the rules. Connect on LinkedIn(Cherolle), X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn(Equifax).

In today's real estate market, you can get burned trying to “flip” homes. The reality of today's market means the math rarely works for the average investor. Clark explains when we'll see a healthy environment for investment. Also - The job market is wide open for those willing to roll up their sleeves. Despite foreboding headlines warning of grim prospects for graduates, young people are finding employment more easily than expected. This is especially true for teens looking for summer work. Due to labor shortages in the hospitality and restaurant industries, jobs are readily available. Clark discusses  where the summer (and year round) jobs are now.  Real Estate Investing: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Where The Jobs Are: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage or Invest?  /  Calculator - Clark Howard Why Your Teen Needs a Summer Job Jobs Archives - Clark Howard Authorized User vs. Joint Account Holder - Clark Howard How To Prevent, Report and Repair Identity Theft - Clark Howard How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Who Controls Gas Prices in the US? / NYT: Why Gas Prices Go Up Fast & Fall Slowly How To Save Money on Gas: 23 Ways - Clark Howard Don't Get Dinged at the Gas Pump by This Visa and Mastercard Policy Are You Getting the Best Discount Possible on Your Gas? Clark Howard's 'Half-Tank' Strategy To Save on Gas  Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.  Also today - While the widespread adoption of security cameras has revolutionized public safety, their application is spurring privacy debate throughout the country.  The rules of engagement for our data are dangerously lacking. It's time to demand clear state and local laws that delineate how this data is stored and shared, especially when private businesses are involved.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Security Camera Privacy Backlash: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Simple Trick To Pay Down Credit Card Debt Quicker - Clark Howard How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Should I Freeze My Credit With the Other Credit Bureaus? Privacy vs. Protection: Where Should We Draw the Line on Security Cameras? What Is a Roth 401(k) and How Does It Work? - Clark Howard Target Date Funds: Clark Howard's Favorite Retirement Investment How To Choose Funds in Your 401(k) (and How Not To) Fidelity Investments Review: Pros & Cons - Clark Howard Best 529 College Savings Plans By State Life Insurance Archives - Clark Howard Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The first of three episodes recorded at Google Cloud NEXT, Las Vegas in partnership with Kyndryl, the world's largest IT infrastructure services provider Host Russell Goldsmith was joined by: 1/ Kris Lovejoy, Global Head of Strategy, Kyndryl 2/ Vincenzo Forciniti, AI Adoption and Data Platform Leader, Fastweb & Vodafone 3/ Adrian Tatsch, VP AI Technology & Innovation, Equifax 4/ Patrick Bobrukiewicz, VP Data Services, Thrive Restaurant Group 5/ Kaapro Kanto, VP, Cybersecurity & Digital Platforms, DNA 6/ Brad Duff-Hudkins, VP Data Analytics, Next After Each of our guests offered a grounded, real‑world view of AI adoption at scale. The episode opens with Kris Lovejoy, Global Head of Strategy at Kyndryl, who outlines why digital sovereignty, geopolitical risk and regulatory pressure are reshaping enterprise architecture. She also breaks down the guardrails required for employee productivity tools versus mission‑critical agentic systems and why modernisation itself has become a security control. Next, Vincenzo Forciniti, AI Adoption & Data Platform Leader at Fastweb and Vodafone Italia, discusses the data‑unification challenges following Fastweb's acquisition of Vodafone Italia. He shares how the team built a shared data catalogue, why change management is often harder than technology, and how modernising legacy stacks is enabling scaled AI across SDLC optimisation, operations and customer‑facing processes. We then hear from Adrian Tatsch, VP of AI Technology & Innovation at Equifax, who explains how the company is connecting APIs to AI agents using Apigee MCP, and how Equifax's multi‑billion‑dollar cloud transformation has accelerated AI maturity. Adrian explains how Equifax is redefining human vs. non‑human work, upskilling, and measuring ROI across the organisation. Patrick Bobrukiewicz, VP of Data Services at Thrive Restaurant Group, shares a hospitality‑sector perspective on AI adoption. Kaapro Kanto, VP, Cybersecurity & Digital Platforms, DNA explains how DNA moved from traditional network operations to AI‑driven SecOps, enabling small businesses to benefit from enterprise‑grade detection, automation and response, and why the biggest barrier to AI maturity is shifting from pilot experiments to trusted, scalable operational models. And finally Brad Duff‑Hudkins, VP of Data Analytics at NextAfter, explains how his team used Google's data engineering agents to cut onboarding time from 2–3 weeks to just 72 hours, and why agentic AI is already unlocking faster, more personalised, more scalable data operations for lean teams. A fast, insight‑rich episode capturing the reality of AI transformation inside complex global enterprises, from security and sovereignty to data foundations, workflow automation and the future of human‑machine collaboration.

Hablamos con Ignacio Gil, Gestor de Cuentas Estratégicas en Equifax. Nos acompaña Inés Muñoz Vidal de Credit Logic

She watched a brilliant female CEO — strategic, skilled, accomplished — get pushed out of her company. And in that moment, Alejandra Torchia had a realization that changed how she thinks about her entire career: if it can happen to her, it can happen to any of us. A job title is the most fragile kind of power there is. The only power that can't be taken away is the one you build inside yourself. Alejandra is SVP of Technology, Global Infrastructure Solutions at Equifax, leading teams across multiple countries and continents. She also runs "I Am Remarkable" workshops — originally a Google initiative — helping professionals, especially women and underrepresented groups, learn to celebrate their own achievements out loud. She did not always find this easy. Growing up in Argentina, where the culture does not reward self-promotion the way the U.S. does, she spent years assuming her work would speak for itself. It didn't. In this episode, she shares what she learned late, by her own admission, and what she now teaches others from the start. You'll learn: Why waiting for others to recognize your achievements is a trap, and the mindset shift that breaks it The story of how she walked into a job interview at 22 with no experience and got hired on boldness and a single honest promise Why she left a well-paying job that supported her family to escape bias, and how she made that decision The difference between title-based power and internal power, and why only one of them survives a corporate restructure The single biggest leadership gap she sees across cultures, levels, and industries, and it's not what most leaders focus on How values contain ambition and keep influence from crossing into manipulation The practical system she teaches for tracking and sharing your own achievements before you forget them If you've been doing great work and waiting for someone to notice, this episode reframes that habit entirely. About Alejandra Torchia: SVP of Technology, Global Infrastructure Solutions at Equifax, Alejandra leads infrastructure teams across the globe. Originally from Buenos Aires, she moved to the U.S. seven years ago. She is an advisory board member of WATT (Women Advancing Technology Together) at Equifax, a board member of the Start House Foundation, an active facilitator of the I Am Remarkable initiative, and a member of Women in Technology (WIT) Atlanta. Connect with Alejandra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alejandra-torchia-001954 Stop Waiting to Be Recognized: How Equifax SVP Alejandra Torchia Learned to Promote Herself — and Why You Need To

Jeremy Samuelson is the Executive Vice President of AI and Innovation at Integrated Quantum Technologies (CSE: ICS). Jeremy, a former AI leader at Equifax and Mastercard, invented VEIL™ (Vector Encoded Information Layer) - a breakthrough privacy-preserving framework to let AI models work with sensitive data without ever exposing raw information to security breaches.Episode Blog Post: https://www.sharesforbeginners.com/blog/samuelson-ics

Jeremy Samuelson is the Executive Vice President of AI and Innovation at Integrated Quantum Technologies (CSE: ICS). Jeremy, a former AI leader at Equifax and Mastercard, invented VEIL™ (Vector Encoded Information Layer) - a breakthrough privacy-preserving framework to let AI models work with sensitive data without ever exposing raw information to security breaches.Episode Blog Post: https://www.sharesforbeginners.com/blog/samuelson-ics

When negotiating a salary or a raise, most people don't know what they are up against.   Many companies purchase data from payroll processors and other sources to optimize salary expenses.   This info often includes previous job incomes and what increases you recieved. The info obtained by companies include address changes, credit card utilization, delinquent debt, and past due balances. This data aggregation determines the lowest salary you will accept.    The salary offered is typically about 3-6% above your minimum number. This is just enough to feel like you are negotiating.   Veena Dubai, a law professor, completed extensive research on algorithmic wage discrimination and found that when many employers in the same market use the same data vendors, it creates price-fixing of labor.   The company has the advantage with all the data. They know what you will settle for. You think you are negotiating. The system even accounts for your counter in advance.   You think your salary is based on the position; your knowledge and experience. It isn't. It is based on your desperation.   Salary optimization requires information. The primary source is a product called the Work Number. You can contact Equifax and freeze your info.    Take back control of your personal info, freeze your info and maybe even your salary negotiations!

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.  Also today - Scam artists are getting more sophisticated and they're targeting your retirement funds. Clark explains this digital crime wave and how fraudsters are using sophisticated tools & tricks to get into your accounts. The first step in protecting your money is being aware of some of the latest techniques these criminals use.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Scam Vigilance: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 5 Best Robo-Advisors - Clark Howard When Is the Best Time To Collect Social Security? - Clark Howard Term Life vs. Whole Life Insurance: Understanding the Difference How To Buy Term Life Insurance in 7 Easy Steps - Clark Howard Fraud Is Skyrocketing: 5 Ways To Protect Your Hard-Earned Assets Why You Should Never Click on Random Text Messages thestreet: Vanguard warns fraud is quietly draining retirements now Protect Your Rights & Identity Archives - Clark Howard How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Virtual Credit Cards: An Online Security Measure Worth Taking? Best 529 Plans by State: How Clark Howard Picks the Top College Savings Plans Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us Fan MailCheck us out at:  https://www.cisspcybertraining.com/Get access to 360 FREE CISSP Questions:  https://www.cisspcybertraining.com/offers/dzHKVcDB/checkoutGet access to my FREE CISSP Self-Study Essentials Videos:  https://www.cisspcybertraining.com/offers/KzBKKouvLinkedIn might be doing more in your browser than you think. We start with a report dubbing it “BrowserGate” a claim that LinkedIn quietly checks for installed Chrome extensions using hidden JavaScript, raising real questions about privacy, browser fingerprinting, and what platforms should disclose to users when collecting device level signals tied to real identities and jobs. From there, we shift into a core CISSP topic that shows up everywhere in real security work: implementing and supporting patch vulnerability management (CISSP Domain 7.8). We talk about why patching is not just maintenance, but a primary security control that shrinks your attack surface across the entire ecosystem, including servers, endpoints, cloud services, mobile devices, and OT/ICS environments where uptime and safety make patching harder. We also cover the uncomfortable reality of unpatchable legacy systems and how compensating controls like micro-segmentation and network isolation help manage risk when a vendor will never ship an update. We ground the conversation with the Apache Struts remote code execution lesson and the Equifax breach, then walk through a practical patch management lifecycle: evaluate applicability, test in non-production when needed, follow change management approvals, deploy with rollback plans, and verify with follow-up scans. You'll also hear clear CISSP-ready distinctions between hotfix vs patch vs update, authenticated vs unauthenticated vulnerability scanning, CVE feeds, CVSS prioritisation, MTTR metrics, and how to respond when a zero-day vulnerability has no patch yet. If this helps your CISSP prep, subscribe, share the episode with a study partner, and leave a review so more security learners can find it. What part of patch and vulnerability management is hardest in your environment right now?Gain exclusive access to 360 FREE CISSP Practice Questions at FreeCISSPQuestions.com and have them delivered directly to your inbox!  Don't miss this valuable opportunity to strengthen your CISSP exam preparation and boost your chances of certification success. Join now and start your journey toward CISSP mastery today!

In this special edition of CyberWire Daily's 10th anniversary series, N2K CyberWire's Maria Varmazis and Dave Bittner discuss the biggest breaches over the past 10 years. The foundational 2014 Sony hack kicks off our conversation, then Maria and Dave highlight: the 2015 OPM breach, which exposed sensitive security-clearance data and was attributed to long-term access by China amid outdated government systems and security 2017's WannaCry and NotPetya's global disruption and Equifax's ongoing fallout the 2020 SolarWinds breach underscored supply-chain risks and raised concerns about potential personal criminal liability for CISOs. The conversation illustrates two main threat-actor categories—nation-state espionage and financially motivated criminals—and the increasingly blurred lines between them. Join us as we reflect on how the industry and cybercrime have evolved over the past decade. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emmaline Aliff sits down with Cox Automotive Chief Economist Jeremy Robb to unpack the forces reshaping today's auto market—from affordability pressures and credit expansion to the growing wave of used EVs. As consumers navigate rising costs and lenders adapt to shifting risk, the conversation explores what's really driving demand—and what dealers and lenders should watch next.In this episode:What is driving the current auto market in 2026?The auto market is being shaped by a mix of macroeconomic forces, including inflation, interest rates, tariffs, and consumer affordability challenges. At the same time, credit availability is expanding, creating a complex environment where demand persists despite financial pressure.What is a K-shaped economy and how does it impact auto buyers?A K-shaped economy means higher-income consumers are thriving while lower-income consumers face increasing financial strain. In the auto market, this results in strong demand for high-end vehicles while affordability challenges push many buyers toward used cars—or out of the market entirely.Why is affordability such a major issue in the auto industry right now?Affordability is being impacted by rising vehicle prices, higher interest rates, increased insurance costs, and ongoing inflation. These combined factors are making it harder for many consumers to purchase or finance a vehicle.How is credit availability increasing despite consumer financial pressure?Lenders are expanding access by offering longer loan terms, financing lower down payments, and taking on more subprime risk. While this increases access to credit, it can also introduce additional long-term financial strain for consumers.What should dealers and lenders watch for in the second half of the year?Key indicators include interest rate changes, inflation trends, mortgage activity, and continued consumer demand. Lower rates and improved economic conditions could unlock stronger sales.

The mortgage industry is debating whether to move away from the long-standing TriMerge credit reporting standard. Wendy Hannah-Olson of Equifax speaks with mathematician and behavioral modeling researcher Joni Baker at Andrew Davidson & Company about new research analyzing credit score differences across the three credit bureaus. Their discussion reveals how shifting to single or bi-merge credit reports could affect loan qualification, mortgage pricing, and risk—potentially costing consumers thousands of dollars and reshaping how lenders evaluate credit.In this episode:Why are lenders debating moving away from the TriMerge credit report?Some policymakers and industry groups are exploring whether using a single credit report or a bi-merge report could reduce costs and streamline the mortgage process. However, new research suggests that using fewer credit reports may introduce pricing uncertainty, increase risk, and lead to inconsistent loan qualification outcomes.How different can credit scores be between the three credit bureaus?According to a recent study from Andrew Davidson & Company, credit scores across bureaus can differ significantly. In the data analyzed, 27% of consumers had score differences of at least 10 points between bureaus, 14% had differences of 20 points or more, and nearly 1 in 10 had differences of 30 points or more.How could moving away from TriMerge affect mortgage pricing?If lenders rely on a single credit score instead of the TriMerge median, borrowers could move between pricing tiers more frequently. In some scenarios, a change of just 10–20 credit score points could alter loan pricing, potentially affecting mortgage costs by $3,000 to $5,000 or more over the life of a loan.

What do Bigfoot and credit reports have in common? They're both surrounded by myths. While we may never settle the question of an eight-foot-tall creature wandering the woods, we can clear up the confusion around credit reports. On this episode of Faith & Finance, Neile Simon, a Certified Credit Counselor with Christian Credit Counselors, stops by to clear up some of the most common misconceptions about credit reports and credit scores. Understanding how credit really works can help you avoid costly mistakes and make wiser financial decisions. Myth #1: Paying Off Debt Instantly Fixes Your Credit Paying down debt is always a good step—but it doesn't instantly produce a perfect credit score. A credit score reflects your history of borrowing and repayment. Lenders use it as a snapshot of how responsibly you've managed credit over time. That means improvement takes patience. The most important habit is simple: consistently pay your bills on time. Over time, that steady pattern will strengthen your credit profile. And beware of anyone claiming they can “fix your credit overnight.” Building good credit always takes time. Myth #2: Credit Counseling Ruins Your Credit Score Many people fear that seeking help will damage their credit—but that's not true. Participating in a credit counseling program is considered a neutral mark on your credit report. What can affect your score is closing accounts, not the counseling itself. In fact, nonprofit credit counseling agencies often help people regain control of their finances through structured debt management plans. If you seek help, make sure the organization is accredited and nonprofit. That's why Christian Credit Counselors is the only organization we recommend for credit counseling and debt management.  Myth #3: Canceling Credit Cards Boosts Your Score Closing credit cards may seem responsible, but it can actually lower your credit score. Why? Because it reduces your available credit, which increases your credit utilization ratio—a key factor in credit scoring. If you have credit cards with zero balances and no annual fees, keeping them open can actually help your score. If you must close accounts, do it gradually—perhaps one every six months—to minimize the impact. Myth #4: Too Many Inquiries Hurt Your Score This myth was once more accurate than it is today. Credit bureaus now recognize that consumers shop for loans. If you're applying for a mortgage or car loan, multiple inquiries within a short window—typically about 45 days—are counted as a single inquiry. That means you can compare offers without damaging your credit score. And when it comes to checking your own credit report, that's considered a soft inquiry, which does not affect your score at all. In fact, it's wise to check your credit regularly to monitor for fraud or mistakes. Myth #5: You Don't Need to Check Your Credit If You Pay Bills on Time Even responsible borrowers should check their credit reports. Studies suggest that a large percentage of credit reports contain errors. Reviewing your report once or twice a year allows you to catch mistakes or fraudulent activity early. You can obtain free reports from all three major bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com. Correcting errors can take time—sometimes up to 90 days—so staying proactive is important. Myth #6: All Credit Reports Are the Same There are three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Each may contain slightly different information because creditors don't always report to all three bureaus, and updates may occur at different times. Different lenders may also use different scoring models depending on the type of loan—auto, mortgage, or credit card. For the most complete picture, it's wise to review all three reports. Myth #7: Divorce Automatically Removes Joint Debt Divorce agreements may divide debts between spouses—but they don't change the original credit contract. If your name remains on a joint account, you're still legally responsible for the debt. If the other person misses payments, your credit score can suffer too. That's why it's important to close joint accounts or refinance debts into one person's name whenever possible. Myth #8: All Negative Marks Disappear After Seven Years Some negative items disappear after seven years—but not all. For example: Chapter 13 bankruptcy: up to 7 years Chapter 7 bankruptcy: up to 10 years Positive closed accounts: can remain for 10 years The good news is that positive information usually stays longer than negative information, helping your score recover over time. Myth #9: You Can Pay Someone to “Fix” Your Credit Many companies promise fast credit repair—but most simply send dispute letters to creditors. If the information on your credit report is accurate, it cannot be removed. That means many consumers pay fees without seeing real results. The truth is, you can dispute errors yourself for free. Christian Credit Counselors provides free resources and sample dispute letters to help you correct inaccuracies. The Bottom Line Understanding how credit works empowers you to use it wisely. Credit reports aren't mysterious or magical—they simply reflect how consistently and responsibly you've handled debt over time. With accurate information, good habits, and a little patience, you can build a strong credit profile that supports your financial goals. And when challenges arise, seeking wise counsel and staying informed can help you move toward greater financial freedom. If you're struggling with credit card debt, Christian Credit Counselors can help. They've helped thousands of people get out of debt 80% faster while honoring their financial obligations. Visit ChristianCreditCounselors.org or call 800-557-1985 to learn more. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My small retail business in a local mall is struggling as other stores close and sales decline. We're starting to lose money and take on debt. Should I consider closing the business and pursuing a new venture or a job to stabilize our family's finances? We've always tithed on our gross income. After selling our previous home, we made a non-taxable profit but used it to buy another home that still needs repairs and has a small mortgage. Should we tithe on that profit, or focus on maintaining the home and paying down the mortgage? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Christian Credit Counselors AnnualCreditReport.com  Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Should You Use Your “Sacred” Retirement Fund To Save Your Business? & 2026 Jobs Outlook As rapid technological shifts ripple through every industry, many entrepreneurs are finding themselves in a temporary cash flow crunch. While retirement accounts are often viewed as a "sacred chest" that shouldn't be touched, Wes Moss explores how to strategically leverage your brokerage and Roth IRA accounts to bridge the gap. Also, Wes dives deep into the latest data from the U.S. labor market to see what it actually means for your portfolio. Despite some "ancient history" revisions from 2025 that initially painted a gloomy picture, the January 2026 jobs report tells a much more resilient story. Whether you're managing a business or a retirement timeline, understanding these labor trends is key to staying invested with confidence. Mentioned on the show: Asset Class Returns A Jack Bogle Lesson: Remember Reversion to the Mean How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion What Is Long-Term Care Insurance Cost & Coverage Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the February 17, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ashley Sellers of Equifax sits down with Jordan Sullivan, Director of Retail Lending at CSL Financial, to explore how modern credit scoring is reshaping mortgage lending. As one of the first lenders to adopt VantageScore for underwriting, CSL shares real-world results, from higher approval rates and lower costs to stronger portfolio performance. The conversation dives into affordability, trended credit data, thin-file borrowers, and why delaying adoption of new credit models may be a competitive disadvantage for lenders navigating today's evolving credit ecosystem.Economist Justin Begley of Moody's Analytics provides our economic update.In this episode:Why did CSL Financial adopt VantageScore for underwriting?CSL Financial adopted VantageScore after internal testing showed it was a stronger predictor of credit risk than legacy models. The lender found it better aligned with borrower behavior and more effective for evaluating thin and non-traditional credit files.How does VantageScore help lenders approve more borrowers?VantageScore uses trended credit data to evaluate whether a borrower's financial behavior is improving or declining over time. This allows lenders to make more informed decisions than snapshot-based models, helping qualified borrowers who may have been overlooked receive approval.What results has CSL Financial seen using VantageScore?Since adopting VantageScore, CSL Financial has increased loan pull-through rates from approximately 8% to nearly 20%, while maintaining stable delinquency levels. The lender has also reduced credit-related costs and improved portfolio performance. Who benefits most from VantageScore-based underwriting?Borrowers with thin credit files, limited credit history, or past credit challenges benefit most. This includes younger borrowers building credit and older consumers who have paid off debt and have limited active tradelines.Why is delaying VantageScore adoption a competitive disadvantage?Lenders who delay adoption risk higher costs, lower approval rates, and less accurate risk pricing. Early adopters like CSL Financial report both operational savings and stronger credit outcomes, making modern scoring models a competitive advantage.

Experian is one of those giant multinationals convoluted enough to have multiple CEOs all over the world, so first I asked Alex Lintner, Experian's CEO of technology and software solutions, to dig into the classic Decoder questions and explain how all of that even works. He oversees big operations like security and privacy, and now, of course, AI. If you want to participate in the modern economy — rent an apartment, buy a car, get a job, etc  — you're part of Experian's ecosystem, whether you like it or not. At its heart, Experian's core service is data about people and the choices they make. And this extremely valuable data weirdly makes Experian a part of your life  — a life that becomes much smoother if the data the company collects about you tells a good story.  Links:  Roughly half of Americans are knowledgeable about personal finance | Pew Research How Americans view data privacy | Pew Research Consumer voices on credit reports and scores | CFPB Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius on Decoder | The Verge The Palantir app ICE uses to find neighborhoods to raid | 404 Media T-Mobile customers exposed in major Experian breach (2015) | The Verge All the news about the Equifax breach | The Verge Subscribe to The Verge to access the ad-free version of Decoder! Credits: Decoder is a production of The Verge and part of the Vox Media Podcast Network. Decoder is produced by Kate Cox and Nick Statt and edited by Ursa Wright. Our editorial director is Kevin McShane.  The Decoder music is by Breakmaster Cylinder. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks.  Also in this episode, Clark shares a narrow set of strategies for becoming a landlord successfully in today's fraught housing market. To determine if a property is a viable investment, know the classic 1% rule. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Investment Real Estate: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Sell, Cancel or Get Rid of Your Timeshare How To Make Your Venmo Transactions Private Homeowners Insurance Archives - Clark Howard Teslarati: Tesla partners with Lemonade for new insurance program 10 Things Homeowners Insurance Doesn't Always Cover How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Should You Invest in a Rental Home? Here's Clark's 1% Rule What Is a Solo 401(k) and How Does It Work? Roth vs. Traditional 401(k): What's the Difference? What Is a SEP IRA and Who Is Eligible? What Is the Highest Credit Score? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jennifer Henry of Equifax sits down with Christina Randolph of Freddie Mac to discuss how lenders can drive efficiency, improve data quality, and build resilience through digitization and automation. From reducing origination costs to leveraging tools like Loan Product Advisor, AIM, and verified income data, the conversation offers practical insights to help lenders prepare for the next market cycle while delivering a better borrower experience.In this episode:How are lenders improving efficiency in today's housing finance market?Lenders are improving efficiency by digitizing and automating key steps in the mortgage process, including underwriting, income and employment verification, and data validation. Tools that reduce manual documentation help lower origination costs, shorten cycle times, and improve consistency across fluctuating market conditions.What does resilience mean in the mortgage and housing finance ecosystem?Resilience means a lender's ability to perform consistently across economic cycles by managing risk, maintaining data quality, and using technology that scales with volume changes. A resilient mortgage operation is prepared for both market slowdowns and rapid growth without sacrificing loan quality or borrower experience.Why is loan data quality critical for mortgage lenders and investors?Loan data quality is critical because inaccurate or incomplete data increases defects, repurchase risk, and operational costs. Verifying income, employment, and assets earlier in the loan lifecycle helps lenders deliver cleaner loans, meet investor requirements, and reduce downstream risk.How can digital income and employment verification reduce mortgage costs?Digital income and employment verification reduce costs by eliminating manual document collection and repeated reviews. Lenders using automated, source-verified data can save hundreds to thousands of dollars per loan, reduce cycle times by several days, and significantly lower the likelihood of income-related defects.

Emmaline Aliff of Equifax sits down with Matt Orlando, Chief Experience Officer at Informative Research, to unpack one of the most talked-about developments in mortgage lending: FICO's new Mortgage Direct Licensing program and what it could mean for lenders, credit providers, and borrowers.In this episode:What is FICO's Mortgage Direct Licensing program?FICO's Mortgage Direct Licensing program allows lenders and technology providers to license FICO scores directly, rather than receiving them solely through traditional credit reporting agencies. The program is still new, and its full impact on the mortgage ecosystem has yet to be determined.How could FICO Direct Licensing impact mortgage lenders?Lenders are still evaluating how the program will affect their overall cost of credit each month and whether it will increase expenses across the loan lifecycle.What risks does Direct Licensing introduce into the mortgage market?The program introduces risk across multiple layers of the ecosystem. Credit reporting agencies may now be asked to generate scores—something they have not historically done. Lenders must assess the reliability of these scores, while the broader mortgage market and borrowers face uncertainty as scoring responsibility shifts to a more fragmented landscape.How might borrowers be affected by these changes?Borrowers could ultimately bear higher costs if credit expenses rise for lenders. There is also risk tied to accuracy and consistency as new parties begin generating credit scores. The long-term borrower impact remains unclear.

Bobby Deery sits down with Praveen Chandrahomhan, SVP of Origination Growth at Cotality, to explore how AI is reshaping mortgage lending. They discuss the rise of “micro AI” in origination, the balance between speed and empathy in the borrower journey, and why personalization and retention are becoming critical in a purchase-driven market. In this episode:How is AI changing mortgage lending?AI is improving customer service, underwriting, document processing, and workflow automation while keeping humans in the loop. AI helps lenders increase speed, accuracy, and empathy throughout the borrower journey.What mortgage challenges does AI help solve?The conversation highlights how AI reduces friction, improves clarity for borrowers, lowers operational costs, and supports more personalized experiences—especially in a highly regulated, purchase-driven market.Why are personalization and retention so important right now?With fewer refinance opportunities and evolving trigger legislation, lenders are prioritizing retention and relationship-based lending. AI-powered data and automation help lenders stay connected to borrowers across the full lifecycle of homeownership.

This time of year tax forms start landing in your mailbox. Clark clears the confusion and misinformation around the IRS's Direct File vs Free File offerings. Also, a topic sure to generate a lot of Clark Stinks - Clark's opinion on why you should wait until age 70 to take social security - with two exceptions. Tax Filing Changes: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Social Security: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: IRS Direct File won't be available next year. Here's what that means for taxpayers Which Documents Should You Keep and for How Long? How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Will Social Security Run Out? When Is the Best Time To Collect Social Security? Wait Until 70 to Claim Social Security. Don't Let These Myths Convince You Otherwise Where Should I Set Up My Health Savings Account (HSA)? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is now the time to refinance your mortgage? Only if you meet certain criteria. Clark breaks it down.  Also - Are you with what Clark calls a Giant Monster Mega Bank? If so, you may be paying fees you don't have to! Clark's overview of the banking industry makes it clear, the regional, super regional and giant banks are not your wallet's friend. Hear how people are migrating their money in a way that's comfortable for them - a method called “soft switching”.  Mortgage Refi Guidelines: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Banish Bank Fees: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How and When To Refinance Your Mortgage: A Step-By-Step Guide Mortgage Refinance Calculator - With Cash Out and Points What Can I Safely Use for Peer-to-Peer Payments? How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion How To Switch Banks in 4 Simple Steps Best Online Banks: Free Checking and High-Interest Savings Accounts Best Cash Management Account: Comparing Vanguard, Fidelity, and Schwab Costco Travel: 5 Things To Know Before You Book When Do You Need a Travel Agent? Clark's Christmas Kids Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What's awesome?  The trend of lifelong learning. And in this age of emerging AI disruption and uncertainty, it seems to be catching on. Later - Not awesome: Paying expenses for your adult children when it impacts your own financial well-being over time. How prevalent is this practice? Clark shares some surprising statistics.  Life Is For Learning: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Parental Funding: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Where To Take Free Online Courses 12 Best College Scholarships Websites Plus Other Resources NYTimes: Why Are More Retirees Going Back to College? Why I Take Every Single Vacation Day (And You Should Too!) Is LifeLock Worth It?  /  Protect Your Identity Archives Why You Need To Lock Your Phone Number Today SIM Card Swapping: The Dangerous Cell Phone Scam How To Freeze & Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax & TransUnion The Real Cost of Funding Adult Children: Postponing Retirement Fidelity Investments Review: Pros & Cons Roth vs. Traditional 401(k): What's the Difference? Is Chase Sapphire Reserve® Worth It? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today I'm joined by Alan Haig, President of Haig Partners. We dig into why Q4 buy-sell activity is suddenly exploding, which franchises are becoming “must-own” (and which aren't), how rate cuts are reshaping buyer math, and get a sneak peek at the latest Haig Report before its released. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Equifax - Fund More Auto Loans, Faster. Auto loan applicants are 40% more likely to be funded when instantly verified by The Work Number. You can get the data you need to know your borrower better and make fast, smart decisions. Equifax provides instant, secure access to verified borrower identity, address, income, and employment information, helping you move deals forward quickly." Visit @ https://carguymedia.com/3Lplzue to learn more. 2. Amazon Auto - With Amazon Autos, your dealership can reach more buyers, drive more sales, and deliver a modern, more delightful car-buying experience. Learn more @ https://sell.amazon.com/programs/autos⁠⁠⁠⁠ 3. Haig Partners - Since 2014, the Haig Report® has delivered expert analysis on dealership performance, market activity, and franchise valuations, offering a clear view of opportunities and challenges in automotive retail. Learn more in the full Q3 2025 Haig Report® by subscribing to receive it as soon as it's released. Visit @ https://share.hsforms.com/1AEDx2iJDSsibryqbI1HyCgnr2vn 4. CDG Circles - A modern peer group for auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Visit https://cdgcircles.com to learn more. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: Industry job board ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://jobs.dealershipguy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Dealership recruiting ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.cdgrecruiting.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Fix your dealership's social media ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.trynomad.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Request to be a podcast guest ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.cdgguest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.cdgpartner.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Industry job board ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://jobs.dealershipguy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Request to be a podcast guest ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.cdgguest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Topics: 00:59 What defines the marathon's spirit? 02:53 Why did the CarMax CEO resign? 03:49 How is Carvana influencing the market? 07:14 Current state of the auto market? 11:14 Which brands are performing best? 21:40 Who is buying cars today? 26:51 Biggest opportunity in dealership sales? 29:05 Where are the hottest regional markets? 43:59 Future outlook for dealers? Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠x.com/GuyDealership⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/cardealershipguy/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tiktok.com/@guydealership⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Threads ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠threads.net/@cardealershipguy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Everything else ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠dealershipguy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

One decision you may be working on right now is where to stay during holiday or spring travel. Clark has some key advice if you're considering AirBnB or VRBO.   And - tomorrow is Veteran's Day. Clark shares advice and special warnings for those who have served our country. Airbnb & VRBO - New Rules: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Veterans Day: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: NYTimes: Oops, You Broke Something at an Airbnb. What Now? Clark Howard's New Airbnb Rule to You Need To Follow 3 Reasons You Should Never Book a Nonrefundable Hotel Room How To Find Cheap Flights in 3 Easy Steps Google Flights Launches New Tool for Finding Cheap Airfare Military and Veterans Guide: Free Resources for Your Finances-Clark.com Job-seeking servicemembers: Avoid scams while you search Want to support veterans? 4 tips for finding good charities Veterans and caregivers: Recognize VA benefits overpayment scams How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Best Cash Back Credit Cards With No Annual Fee in 2025 Cash Back Credit Card Calculator - Clark Howard Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's November, and holiday shopping is underway. How do you make sure your packages aren't stolen? Also, now that we're in Black Friday month - there's a major hazard to avoid while purchasing online.  Thwarting Porch Pirates: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Warning: BNPL aka Pay In 4: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Avoid Porch Pirates With These Delivery Options From Amazon, UPS, FedEx and USPS⁠ How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax & TransUnion⁠ ⁠Should I Freeze My Credit With the Other Credit Bureaus?⁠ 12 Keys To Keeping Your Home Wi-Fi Network Safe and Secure Why 'Buy Now, Pay Later' Worries Clark Howard What is hospital medicine, and what is a hospitalist? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today - What are the chances of full recession, what's the extent of it  now, and how can you prepare?  There are some key steps to take.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Recession Planning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Should I Freeze My Credit With the Other Credit Bureaus? Streaming TV - Clark.com Why You Need To Check Your Credit Report Today Credit Karma Review: Free Credit Score and More at Your Fingertips Axios:The 22 states close to (or in) recession Credit Card Balance Transfer Calculator Loan Payoff Calculator  /  Make A Budget - Clark.com 10 Ways To Save on Prescription Drugs 3 Reasons You Should Never Book a Nonrefundable Hotel Room Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Food prices continue to rise - and Team Clark continues to find ways to help you control those costs.  Also today, something else costing more - electricity. With winter weather on the horizon how do you keep yourself warm and avoid setting your wallet on fire? Clark discusses ways to help you use less electricity. Grocery Savings: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Home Power Bills: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How to Save Money on Groceries: 22 Clever Ways Aldi products have a new look / Aldi rebrands its private-label products Credit Karma Review: Free Credit Score and More  /  How To Monitor Your Credit How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion How To Save Money on Utilities   /   Electrify Now Heat Pumps  /  Want a heat pump? This startup just cut the cost in half Is It Ever OK To Co-Sign a Loan With a Family Member? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode - do you consider steaming TV as a monthly essential? You won't believe how many of us do. So how do you spend less to watch your favorite shows?  And later - does certified pre-owned actually mean anything when you're considering a used vehicle purchase? Clark explains how the CPO program began, and how it's become very problematic. Your Streaming Costs: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 CPO Vehicles: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: STREAMING TV - Clark.com What Disney's New Price Hikes Mean for Your Favorite Streaming TV Bundles Best Free Streaming Services in 2025: Movies and TV for Cord Cutters 4 Things To Know Before You Buy a TV Antenna Clark Howard Is Making These Changes to His Streaming TV Strategy How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles: What You Need to Know Before You Buy Should You Buy an Extended Warranty on Your Car? Are Car Wash Memberships Worth It? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode - Football season means Clark is back to watching TV, and he's got clarification on some offers in ads you're likely seeing too.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 “FREE” Phones? Not Really: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 4 Things To Know Before You Buy a TV Antenna How To Watch Local Channels Without Cable Report: The Most Affordable Places To Live in America 5 Money Mistakes To Avoid When Traveling Best Way To Exchange Dollars for Foreign Currency & When To Exchange 5 Money Tips To Know Before You Travel Abroad Why You Should Never Use a Debit Card To Pay for Anything The Best Phone Plan For You - Compare Phone Plans Should you ever get a "free" phone from a wireless carrier? How To Monitor Your Credit   /   How To Get a Free Credit Report How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, football is in full swing, and so is something very troubling. People are losing enormous amounts of money on electronic gambling. Clark discusses how the nature of modern gambling can increase the risk of gambling addiction, and steps to take if this is a concern.  Also - How accurate are credit reports by the 3 credit bureaus? What you don't know about your credit report can hurt you. A Clark assignment. Sports Gambling: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Credit Report Accuracy: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Resource: Pause Before You Play Best Online Banks: Free Checking and High-Interest Savings Accounts How To Buy a Used Car How To Get a Free Credit Report Credit Karma Review: Free Credit Score and More at Your Fingertips How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion Why Clark Howard Wants You to Set Up a 'Financial Chromebook' How To Bring an Old Laptop Back to Life for Free Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices