Podcasts about nerdwallet

Learn whether the "7% rule" for prioritizing debt payoff over investing applies to your mortgage. Plus: why your grocery bill keeps climbing. Hosts Sean Pyles, CFP®, and Elizabeth Ayoola talk with Max, a product designer in Portland who was laid off from his tech job earlier this year, about whether the so-called "7% rule" applies to something as big as a mortgage. They dig into when refinancing a 7.2% mortgage actually makes sense, why Max shouldn't wait to pay off his home before investing, whether to grow his emergency fund from six months to nine given the volatility in tech hiring, and how much cash is too much to hold outside the market. Then, NerdWallet's Anna Helhoski talks with David Ortega, a professor of food economics and policy at Michigan State University, about why grocery prices haven't come down even as inflation cools. Ortega explains that food prices are still more than 30% higher than before the pandemic, why eggs, beef and tomatoes have moved so differently in price, and how grocery chains' growing use of dynamic, airline-style pricing could shape what shoppers pay next. Subscribe to our podcast's free email newsletter for bonus content and more from our hosts at https://smartmoney-nerdwallet.beehiiv.com/  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 Smart Money's YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@nerdwalletsmartmoney 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. *The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Which financial pro do you need: a CFP, CPA or CFA? Plus, an economist explains why "good" economic data doesn't always feel that way. Hosts Sean Pyles, CFP®, and Elizabeth Ayoola sit down live, in-studio, with a listener named Belle, who's in the process of launching her own veterinary practice. They help figure out which financial professional she actually needs — a CFP, a CPA or a CFA. They break down what each credential means, how to vet and select the right advisor, and the real cost of choosing the wrong one. Then Belle asks for help with a second money question: whether to consolidate ten scattered retirement and brokerage accounts, and the Nerds walk through how account fees, old 401(k)s and employer rules factor into that decision. Then, Sean and Elizabeth are joined by NerdWallet senior economist Elizabeth Renter and senior news writer Anna Helhoski for a special send-off conversation. After 12 years at NerdWallet, Renter is moving on, and she looks back on what she's learned about how Americans really handle their money. They dig into the gap between headline economic data and lived financial experience, the K-shaped economy, and what NerdWallet's latest Consumer Financial Resilience Index says about household finances heading into fall. Here is the investing fee calculator Sean referenced: https://www.nerdwallet.com/investing/calculators/mutual-fund-calculator  Check out the full findings from NerdWallet's Consumer Financial Resilience Index: https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/studies/financial-resilience-index Subscribe to our podcast's free email newsletter for bonus content and more from our hosts at https://smartmoney-nerdwallet.beehiiv.com/  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 Smart Money's YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@nerdwalletsmartmoney 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. *The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to save for a home, pursue FIRE, and quiet money anxiety when every goal feels urgent at once. What does it really take to balance saving for a first home, building toward early retirement, and spending without guilt — when every goal feels like it needs to come first? Hosts Sean Pyles, CFP®, and Elizabeth Ayoola sit down with listener Hana from Portland, a super-saver putting away over $4,000 a month who still worries she's falling short. They dig into how much she actually needs for a down payment and closing costs, what makes a home a money pit rather than a sound investment, how to prioritize competing goals like the HSA, 401(k), Roth IRA, and house fund, and what it really takes to hit FIRE in 15–20 years — plus the money anxiety that makes even high savers second-guess every dollar they spend on fun. See how far your homebuying budget could take you with NerdWallet's free home affordability calculator: https://www.nerdwallet.com/mortgages/calculators/how-much-house-can-i-afford  Buying a home? Estimate the closing costs for a house of any value with this calculator: https://www.nerdwallet.com/mortgages/calculators/closing-costs  Mortgage Closing Costs: How Much You'll Pay https://www.nerdwallet.com/mortgages/learn/closing-costs-mortgage-fees-explained  First-Time Home Buyer Loans and Programs: A Beginner's Guide https://www.nerdwallet.com/mortgages/learn/programs-help-first-time-homebuyers  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 Smart Money's YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@nerdwalletsmartmoney 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. *The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn why a 69-year-old retiree is returning to work and why homeowners are staying put in a stuck housing market. What happens when your nest egg doesn't grow fast enough to support your retirement? Hosts Sean Pyles, CFP®, and Elizabeth Ayoola talk with a 69-year-old listener who's returning to work after years of overly conservative investing left her savings falling behind. NerdWallet Wealth Partners CEO Ryan Sterling joins the conversation to help her think through how much investment risk to take at this stage, what required minimum distributions will mean for her taxes, and whether working even a little longer could change her outlook. Then: why does it feel so hard to find a home to buy right now? Senior news writer Anna Helhoski talks with NerdWallet mortgage writers Abby Badach Doyle and Kate Wood about why so many homeowners are choosing to stay put — and how that's limiting the number of homes on the market for everyone else. NerdWallet Wealth Partners, LLC is an affiliate of NerdWallet Inc. NerdWallet Wealth Partners is a fiduciary online financial advisor, offering low-cost, comprehensive financial advice and investment management. Learn more at nerdwalletwealthpartners.com/smart  The NerdWallet Homebuying Climate Index tracks how favorable conditions are for home buyers each month: NerdWallet Homebuying Climate Index Subscribe to our podcast's free email newsletter for bonus content and more from our hosts at https://smartmoney-nerdwallet.beehiiv.com/  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 Smart Money's YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@nerdwalletsmartmoney 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. *The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts. Smart Travel PodcastSHOW NOTES — GoNOMAD Travel Podcast — Hosted by Max Hartshorne Featuring Senior Writer Chin Liang & guest Reint Grobler of Harvest Table BistroEpisode OverviewToday we head to South Africa's Western Cape — but not the version most travelers think they know. Yes, Cape Town is spectacular, but this episode is all about the offbeat, the gritty, the authentic experiences that lie just beyond the city limits.Chin Liang sits down with Reint Grobler, owner of Harvest Table Bistro in Wolseley, to map out a road trip filled with spice‑laden cooking lessons, quad‑bike adrenaline, whitewashed fishing villages, tractor‑powered wine tastings, and a safari just two hours from Cape Town.What You'll Hear in This EpisodeA Craft Distillery That Feels Like a Science LabReint recommends starting at Pienaar & Son, a small‑batch distillery at the V&A Waterfront Cruise Terminal. It's “science meets spirit,” with gins inspired by the Cape's history — like the cucumber‑and‑cardamom “Empire” gin and the spicy‑sweet “Orient.”Cooking Safari in Bo‑KaapWalk the colorful streets of Bo‑Kaap, then step into a family home for a hands‑on Cape Malay cooking workshop. You'll learn to fold samosas, mix masalas, and knead your own roti before sitting down for a communal feast.“YOU WILL LEARN THE ART OF FOLDING THE PERFECT SAMOSA AND THE SECRET TO A BALANCED CAPE MALAY CURRY.”Quad‑Biking the Atlantis Sand DunesTwelve square miles of shifting white dunes, the Atlantic on one side, Table Mountain on the other — a visceral, high‑speed way to feel the West Coast's raw geography.Paternoster: A Greek‑Style Fishing Village on the CapeStrict building codes keep every house whitewashed with blue trim. Eat fresh rock lobster straight from the wooden boats and breathe in the cold West Coast air.A Safari Without Flying to KrugerAquila and Inverdoorn Game Reserves offer a full Big Five experience in the semi‑arid Ceres Karoo — lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, buffalo — plus unforgettable stargazing if you stay overnight.Paarl's Granite Dome & Afrikaans Language MonumentExplore wine farms, legendary brandy distilleries, and the striking monument that honors the Afrikaans language.The Wine Tractor in Devon ValleySkip the bus. Ride an open‑air tractor between vineyards, sipping Chenin Blancs and Pinotages while the Stellenbosch mountains glow in the afternoon sun.Bain's Kloof Pass: The Ultimate Sunday Road TripA dry‑stone engineering masterpiece from 1853, winding through cliffs, mountain pools, and the gateway to the Breede River Valley.A Traditional South African Sunday LunchReint's own Harvest Table Bistro serves slow‑roasted meats, fresh vegetables, rustic sides, and baked pudding — the heart of Cape Country hospitality.“A GENEROUS SERVING OF SLOW‑ROASTED MEATS, FRESH VEGETABLES AND RUSTIC SIDES…”Travel Tips from ReintRent a car — South Africans drive on the left.Uber and Bolt are widely available.Best seasons: Autumn and Spring.Best time for wildflowers and fynbos: September to November.Listen & SubscribeApple PodcastsVoyascape: https://voyascape.comhttps://ceresrestaurants.co.za/https://www.facebook.com/winterbergmountaininn/Check out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world's best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email advertising@voyascape.com or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastWinging It On Location – Days 2-3-Tallinn: A Trendy Old Town, Estonian History and Monopoly DealIn this second instalment of my Winging It On Location series from the Baltics, I spend two full days exploring Estonia's capital beyond the first evening impressions. From avocado toast in one of Tallinn's trendiest cafés to a deep dive into the country's Soviet history, this episode blends food, culture, history and the small moments that make a trip memorable.I wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town in the sunshine, join a free walking tour to learn about Estonia's path to independence, and take in panoramic views across the city. The next day I head out to the seaside district of Pirita, visit the Soviet memorials and cemetery, and reflect on how Estonia preserves difficult parts of its past.There's also excellent coffee, cardamom buns, goulash in a bread bowl, jazz at Philly Joe's, and the beginning of a travel obsession that may last the rest of the trip: Monopoly Deal.If you're considering a European city break that feels safer, quieter and less crowded than many of the continent's major capitals, Tallinn might be the perfect choice.In this episode:Exploring Tallinn's Old Town, cafés and bakeriesLearning about Estonia's history on a free walking tourVisiting Soviet memorials and Pirita BeachJazz, wine and final thoughts on Tallinn as a city breakSupport Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastThink you hate cruises? You might just hate big ships.Today, we're exploring the world of small ship cruising — an intimate, more immersive way to travel that feels completely different from what most of us picture when we hear the word “cruise.”Joining me today is Mikkel Woodruff, co-founder and editor of Sometimes Sailing, and co-host of the travel podcast Small Ship Cruise Talk.Mikkel shares why small ship cruising has such a loyal following, what makes it different from traditional cruises, and how it can offer a completely different way to experience the world.Plan a Luxury, Small Ship Cruise Checklist: https://sometimessailing.com/how-to-plan-a-luxury-small-ship-cruise-with-a-printable-checklist/ Connect with Mikkel Woodruff Website: https://sometimessailing.com/small-ship-cruise-talk-podcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sometimes-sailingInstagram: @sometimessailing10 Mistakes to Avoid on a Cruise: https://sometimes-sailing.myflodesk.com/yt-freebieOther Episodes You'll Love Are Disney Cruises Worth It? How To Decide - Episode 229Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on SpotifyListen on Any Podcast PlayerDisney Cruise Tips For First Timers: What You Need To KnowHow To Budget and Save for a Cruise in a Year (or Less)Cruising On a Budget - Episode 164Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on SpotifyListen on Any Podcast Player Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world's best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email advertising@voyascape.com or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.Tell Me About YourselfHelp me improve the show with a short survey: https://thoughtcard.com/surveyConnect With Danielle Desir Corbett Website: www.thoughtcard.com Instagram: @thedaniellecorbettThreads: @thedaniellecorbettWork With Me:Email thethoughtcard@gmail.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.Resources & Recommendations: ➡️ Find cheap flights from the U.S. and Canada with Thrifty Traveler Premium➡️ Sign up for a high-yield savings account with Ally Bank➡️ Sign up for Rakuten and earn $50 cash back on purchases➡️ Earn more points and miles from your credit card with CardPointersSupport the Show Directly:Support The Thought Card Podcast by leaving a rating and review in your favorite podcast app like Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Your feedback makes it easier for new listeners to discover our thoughtful conversations about travel, money, and building a life you love.If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend or family member.Check out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world's best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email advertising@voyascape.com or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts. Smart Travel Podcast Show Notes and Episode OverviewIn this episode, we travel deep into British Columbia's Great Bear Rainforest — a 6.4‑million‑hectare expanse of fjords, islands, river estuaries, and ancient forest — to witness one of the planet's rarest animals: the white‑furred Kermode bear, known to the Kitasoo Xai'xais Nation as the Spirit Bear. Fewer than 150 are believed to exist, making any encounter feel improbable, almost mythical.Our guest, travel writer James Ross, recounts his journey aboard the historic tugboat MV Swell, an intimate expedition vessel operated by Maple Leaf Adventures. His story takes us from the docks of Kitimat into remote estuaries, salmon‑choked creeks, and wildlife‑rich channels where bears, whales, sea lions, and otters animate one of Earth's most dynamic ecosystems.Key Moments from the EpisodeThe Search for the Spirit BearJames describes the quiet, reverent approach to Riordan Creek on Gribbell Island, guided by Marvin Robinson of the Kitasoo Xai'xais Nation. The group waits silently on viewing platforms as the last salmon fight upstream — a ritual that draws bears from the forest.Then it happens. A pale figure emerges from the trees:“A bear suddenly appeared, its creamy fur luminous against the dark shoreline.”The Spirit Bear moves with deliberate grace, fishing with what James calls “an old ceremony,” lifting her head with a salmon in her jaws as water streams from her muzzle. She glances toward the group — aware, but unbothered — before returning to the hunt.A Brush with Black BearsUpstream, James encounters a black bear sow and cub approaching within ten feet. Marvin's advice: stay calm. The bears pass by, focused entirely on salmon. It's a moment of exhilaration and humility in the presence of wild animals.Life Aboard the SwellThe Swell becomes home for the eight‑day voyage — a restored 88‑foot tugboat with six cabins and a crew of five, including a whale scientist and a South African chef. Days unfold with kayaking, wildlife viewing, gourmet meals, and nights spent anchored under star‑filled skies.Wildlife EverywhereThe rainforest reveals its full cast:Grizzlies feeding in river estuariesRiver otters slipping through shallowsSeals and sea lions hauled out on rocksPods of dolphins surfing the bowBald eagles, osprey, goshawks, murrelets, auklets, turnstones, shearwaters, cormorantsHumpback whales bubble‑net feedingOrcas surrounding a sea lion colony in a dramatic natural standoffJames recalls the crew calling it “whale soup.”Conservation and the Future of the RainforestThe Great Bear Rainforest was nearly lost to industrial logging. Its protection came through a rare alliance between conservationists, Indigenous communities, and the timber industry — “one of the most significant conservation successes in modern Canadian history.”But new threats loom: increased tanker traffic, noise, and ship strikes in whale feeding grounds. The balance between land and sea remains fragile.A Journey That Stays With YouAs the Swell heads toward Bella Bella on the final morning, James watches sea otters drifting in kelp, mothers cradling pups on their bellies. He closes with a sentiment that defines the episode:“I knew this was one journey I would carry with me long after it ended.”About Maple Leaf AdventuresMaple Leaf Adventures offers small‑ship expedition cruises throughout coastal British Columbia and Alaska. Their philosophy: “People protect what they love, and you can't love something until you've experienced it.”Learn more at MapleLeafAdventures.com or call 1‑888‑599‑5323.GuestJames Ross — travel, outdoor adventure, and ranch writer based in Muskoka, Ontario.Check out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world's best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email advertising@voyascape.com or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastWinging It On Location – Day 1: 5-Hour Layover in Amsterdam & Arriving in TallinnThe European tour is officially underway.In this first on-the-road episode, I take you through my journey from Toronto to Tallinn via Amsterdam, including what you can realistically do with a 5-hour layover at Schiphol Airport. I share the exact train route into the city, why I chose the Jordaan district, and the coffee stop that made the short visit worthwhile.After a quick wander through Amsterdam's canals, bridges, and tree-lined streets, I head back to the airport for my flight to Estonia. Once in Tallinn, I give my first impressions of the city, explain the easiest tram connection from the airport, and meet up with friends for dinner in the heart of the Estonian capital.If you're planning an Amsterdam layover, a Tallinn city break, or simply enjoy hearing authentic travel stories from the road, this episode is for you.In this episode:How to do Amsterdam on a short layoverUsing contactless payment on Dutch trainsThe best area to wander for 2–3 hours in AmsterdamCoffee recommendation in the Jordaan districtArriving in Tallinn and getting into the city for €2Hotel informationDinner, drinks, and the start of the Baltic adventureSupport Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit

Do you have enough? And how do you even know? In the third and final episode of HerMoney's series with AARP, From First Paycheck to Forever Paycheck, Jean Chatzky and her roundtable tackle the biggest question in personal finance — what does financial security actually feel like, and how do you build something that doesn't just sustain you, but actually gives you peace? Hannah Williams sold her business and walked away with a life-changing payout, and has never been more stressed.  Viviana Vazquez recently hit $100,000 in investments and says she already feels like she has enough.  Ashley Parker thinks about what would happen if she suddenly had to make it on her own, and making sure she always could.  And Carly Roszkowski shares the AARP data that keeps her up at night: 65% of women 50 and older don't feel confident about retirement, and nearly half of those still working have less than $50,000 saved. Jean also introduces a concept that changes everything: decumulation.  This is the third and final episode of From First Paycheck to Forever Paycheck, a three-part series in collaboration with AARP exploring women's financial lives across generations, from your first job to retirement and the legacy you leave behind. If you haven't listened to episodes one and two yet, go back and start there; this conversation builds on everything we've covered. Jean Chatzky's new book, The Forever Paycheck: The New Retirement Strategy to Spend More, Worry Less, and Never Run Out of Money, is available for pre-order now and publishes September 8, 2026. Whether you're looking to save money, manage debt, or prepare for retirement, AARP has resources and tools to help you prepare for your financial future to reach your goals. Get started at www.aarp.org/retirementreadiness. Want to calculate your FIRE number? We recommend this calculator from our friends at NerdWallet.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to budget for dropping to one income with a baby on the way. Plus: what's really happening to the 50+ workforce? What's driving the labor force participation rate to a 50-year low — and what does it mean for the more than one million Americans aged 54 and up who are still looking for work? Sean Pyles, CFP®, and Elizabeth Ayoola are joined by news colleague Rick VanderKnyff and Gary A. Officer, president and CEO of CWI Works, to dig into the real challenges facing older workers today. They cover why age discrimination costs the U.S. economy an estimated $850 billion a year, how AI anxiety is hitting older workers in physically demanding jobs hardest, why the barriers to re-entering the workforce after retirement are steeper than most people realize, and what a 27% long-term unemployment rate among older Americans says about who the job market is actually built for. When you're expecting your first baby and planning to leave the workforce, how do you know your finances are truly ready for the shift to one income? Sean and Elizabeth sit down with listener Paige, who has over a year of expenses saved and around $100,000 in retirement funds but is still anxious about the jump. They tackle the specific decisions she's wrestling with: what to do about retirement contributions when one partner stops working, which expenses could be safely cut before baby arrives, whether her current life insurance coverage is adequate for a growing family, and how to build a realistic picture of what her budget could look like once the paycheck disappears this fall. Use NerdWallet's 50/30/20 budget calculator to see how your needs, wants, and savings stack up: https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/nerdwallet-budget-calculator  Estimate how much life insurance your family could need with NerdWallet's calculator: https://www.nerdwallet.com/insurance/life/learn/how-much-life-insurance-do-i-need  Subscribe to our podcast's free email newsletter for bonus content and more from our hosts at https://smartmoney-nerdwallet.beehiiv.com/  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 Smart Money's YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@nerdwalletsmartmoney 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. *The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've assumed train travel is too slow, too expensive, or simply not practical, this episode might change your mind.Train travel expert Sojourner White busts common myths about traveling by rail and shares why more travelers are choosing the journey as part of the adventure.From booking smarter to discovering some of the most breathtaking rail routes in the United States, Sojourner shares practical tips to help you decide if train travel is right for your next trip.Connect with Sojourner White Website: https://sojournies.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SojourniesInstagram: @thesojourniesTrain Trip Checklist: https://bit.ly/trainchecklistOther Episodes You'll Love How To Visit Two Cities for the Price of One with Airline Stopovers - Episode 196Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on SpotifyListen on Any Podcast PlayerAffordable Vacation Spots in the U.S. for Your Next Getaway - Episode 173Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on SpotifyListen on Any Podcast PlayerTell Me About YourselfHelp me improve the show with a short survey: https://thoughtcard.com/surveyConnect With Danielle Desir Corbett Website: www.thoughtcard.com Instagram: @thedaniellecorbettThreads: @thedaniellecorbettWork With Me:Email thethoughtcard@gmail.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.Resources & Recommendations: ➡️ Find cheap flights from the U.S. and Canada with Thrifty Traveler Premium➡️ Sign up for a high-yield savings account with Ally Bank➡️ Sign up for Rakuten and earn $50 cash back on purchases➡️ Earn more points and miles from your credit card with CardPointersSupport the Show Directly:Support The Thought Card Podcast by leaving a rating and review in your favorite podcast app like Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Your feedback makes it easier for new listeners to discover our thoughtful conversations about travel, money, and building a life you love.If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend or family member.Mentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. Voyascape Podcast NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

Learn how couples can budget around inconsistent income and navigate the financial and emotional strain it can create. What can you do when your partner's income is too unpredictable to plan around? Hosts Sean Pyles, CFP®, and Elizabeth Ayoola answer a question from a listener who is struggling to cover household bills because her spouse's income fluctuates week to week. They examine the financial mechanics of the situation — from which budgeting frameworks could bring more stability to an irregular income household, to whether separate accounts might protect your finances, and what to consider when the budget feels like there's nowhere left to cut.  Then, they get into the messier emotional questions: how this kind of financial imbalance could shift the power dynamic in a relationship, what a "funder and beneficiary" dynamic looks like and when it tips into unhealthy territory, and what it takes to have honest money conversations with your partner before financial stress erodes the trust between you. Sean and Elizabeth also draw on NerdWallet's 2026 Dating Dealbreaker survey, which found that 46% of Americans say a partner asking to borrow money is a dealbreaker in a romantic relationship. Sign up for the Smart Money newsletter for bonus content and behind-the-scenes updates from Sean and Elizabeth: https://smartmoney-nerdwallet.beehiiv.com/  Survey: 17% of Americans Say Credit Card Debt is a Dating Dealbreaker https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/studies/2026-dating-dealbreakers  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 Smart Money's YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@nerdwalletsmartmoney 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. *The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn what's in a rare bipartisan housing bill in Congress, then find out whether a credit card payment plan beats buy now, pay later. Why did a housing bill with overwhelming bipartisan support suddenly stall on the president's desk? Hosts Sean Pyles, CFP©, and Elizabeth Ayoola are joined by senior news writer Anna Helhoski, and mortgage writers Abby Badach Doyle and Kate Wood to unpack the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. It's a nearly 400-page bill designed to ease the national housing shortage by cutting federal red tape around permitting, expanding small-dollar mortgages, limiting large institutional investors from buying more single-family homes, and creating incentives — not mandates — for local governments to build more housing, including manufactured homes and accessory dwelling units. Then, Sean and Elizabeth are joined by credit cards Nerd and NerdWallet spokesperson Sara Rathner to help a listener named Emma decide how to pay off a large purchase without draining her savings. They walk through how to compare the fees on a credit card issuer's payment plan against your card's regular APR, how these plans differ from third-party buy now, pay later services, and whether either option can help — or hurt — your credit score. Locked Out: 3 Outdated Myths About Manufactured Homes: https://www.nerdwallet.com/mortgages/news/locked-out-manufactured-homes-affordable-housing-crisis Best 0% APR Credit Cards of July 2026: https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/best/zero-percent Subscribe to our podcast's free email newsletter for bonus content and more from our hosts at https://smartmoney-nerdwallet.beehiiv.com/ 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

Thinking about booking your first Disney cruise, but not sure where to start? Brian and Sam from DCL Duo, one of the leading travel podcasts dedicated to Disney Cruise Line, answer the biggest questions first-time cruisers have.Plus, we compare a Disney cruise to a Disney World vacation, discuss when it makes sense to combine the two, and share insider tips for making the most of your sailing.Whether you're dreaming of relaxing on Castaway Cay, planning a family vacation, or simply looking for the ultimate Disney cruise guide, this conversation is packed with helpful Disney cruise tips every first-time cruiser should know before setting sail.Read the blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/are-disney-cruises-worth-it/

Rising over 1,000 feet straight from the red desert of Australia's Northern Territory, Uluru is one of the great wonders of the world. At sunrise it glows pink, gold, and amber. At dusk, it forms the backdrop to one of the most spectacular sunsets you will ever see. But that's just scratching the surface. What most visitors never discover is that the real wonder of Uluru lives in the stories, and culture, of the people for whom it is not just a wonder - but a part of them.In this Bucket List episode, Kylene Randall, a traditional custodian of Uluru and member of the local Anangu people, takes us deep into the Aboriginal heart of this extraordinary and sacred place. We'll discover the ancient creation law of Tjukurpa, hear the story of the Stolen Generation and how Kylene's grandfather found his way home, walk the stories at the base of Uluru, learn hands-on bush skills and traditional culture, and find out what the four pillars of Anangu wellbeing might teach us about how to live our lives too.This is a journey into the soul of Uluru and the people who have kept watch over it for more than 30,000 years.Episode Highlights:Walk the Stories at the Base of UluruTravel with Kylene on an indigenous-led walk around Uluru, hearing the story of the Mala people, their ceremony, their fight, and the lessons it contains.Hear the Story of the Stolen GenerationLearn how Kylene's grandfather was forcibly removed as a small child, spent his life searching for his mother, and ultimately found his way back to his culture - and how that extraordinary act of resilience changed her life and continues to inspire her work today.Experience Culture Hands OnDiscover what it's like to make traditional tools, learn bush medicine from native plants, dig for honey ants, cook kangaroo tail on a fire, and spend a night on country beneath a sky full of stars.The Four Pillars of Holistic WellbeingHear Kylene's grandfather's teaching on the four things that make us complete - family, country, spirit, and law - and why, when we are disconnected from any one of them, we cannot truly thrive.FIND OUT MOREThis Bucket List episode is the second in our series on Australia's Northern Territory. If you missed the first - Into the Wild: A Road Trip Through Australia's Northern Territory - go back a few episodes in the feed. Together they make an extraordinary two-week itinerary that finishes right here at Uluru.To experience Uluru with Kylene and her family, visit talikatu.com or follow on Instagram at @talikatuPLAN YOUR TRIPWe designed this itinerary with a company called Down Under Endeavours, who specialise in authentic Australian adventures — wide open spaces, real wilderness, and the kind of local characters you'll be telling stories about for years.Armchair Explorer listeners get $500 off any trip. Head to downunderendeavours.com/armchair and use the code ARMCHAIR at checkout.You can literally book this exact trip or design something entirely your own. You can book from anywhere in the world, and even if you're just dreaming right now, the website is worth a visit. The dream is half the fun.Know Someone Who Needs This?If this episode moved you - and it will - do us a favour and send it to just one person. One friend, one family member, one person who needs a little wonder in their life right now. Hit the share button in your podcast app, it takes about ten seconds, and it makes a genuine difference to the show.FOLLOW US:Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcastFacebook: @armchairexplorerpodcastNewsletter: armchair-explorer.comCONNECT WITH US:If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it! It helps us grow the show and continue to bring these stories to you.Armchair Explorer is written and presented by Aaron Millar. Audio editing and sound design by Charles Tyrie. Theme music by Sweet Chap. Produced by Armchair Productions.Mentioned in this episode:Check out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel PodcastCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world's best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com. For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.Voyascape Podcast Network

The biggest mistake first-time homebuyers make is waiting too long to hire the right realtor and lender, missing opportunities that could save money, reduce stress, and create more options. Many aspiring homebuyers believe they need to figure everything out on their own before reaching out to a realtor or lender, but this episode explains why that approach is backwards. The episode breaks down the difference between true advocates and transactional “door openers” or “order takers,” while providing practical guidance on how to identify and interview the right professionals. It also explains why assembling a trusted team early can become one of the most valuable advantages in a successful homebuying journey. “The right team doesn't want to wait for you at the finish line. The right team meets you at the starting line.” — David Sidoni, First Time Homebuyer CoachHighlightsWhy should you hire your realtor and lender before you think you're ready? Are you choosing an advocate—or just a door opener? Could chasing the lowest interest rate cost you more money? What separates a great homebuying team from an average one?Referenced Episodes339 – Don't Get Pre-Qualified—Get a Plan (INTERVIEW)340 – Down Payment Assistance, Discovery Calls & Lending Myths (INTERVIEW)413 – Common Questions About Getting a Home Loan437 – What Is a Unicorn Realtor? First Time Homebuyer FAQ:454 – First Time Homebuyer Lending Options 2026: How to Find the Best Deal when Shopping for a Mortgage (Interview)474 – WARNING: "Step by Step" Lists for First Time Homebuyers -- Can You Trust Them? (Zillow, Best Money, NerdWallet...etc.)480 – How to Buy a Home Explained in Under 20 Minutes (First Time Home Buyers)483 – Top 10 Mortgage Questions Every First Time Homebuyer Needs Answered488 – 8 First Time Homebuyer Tips to Beat High Interest Rates495 – Mortgage Calculators are Lying to You (First Time Homebuyers Beware)Check out our updated 2026 First Time Homebuyer's Episode Guide - Over 100 of our BEST Episodes of Detailed Homebuying Knowledge, Interviews, and MORE! Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!

Hear about travel to Paris as the Amateur Traveler talks to Angela J. Reed of Parisienne Farmgirl about museums, cafés, neighborhoods, markets, gardens, and viewpoints in the City of Light. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Why should you go to Paris? Angela says, “Paris is alive. It has a rhythm of its own, and I think when you visit Paris, you get to become part of that rhythm.” In this episode, she helps us plan a visit that includes the classic first-time Paris experiences, but also leaves room for the slower, more personal moments that make travelers want to return. Itinerary ... https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-paris-france-2/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wayfinding is an ancient Polynesian way of navigating by reading the ocean, stars and wind. No compass, no map, just deep observation, and experience passed down through generations. But because of that, wayfinding is more art than science. It's about trusting your instinct and using all your senses - and it's exactly the kind of travel Daniel Scheffler believes in, and exactly what this conversation is all about.Daniel Scheffler is one of the world's most successful travel writers, and in today's episode he and host Aaron Millar swap tales like a couple of mates having a laugh down the pub. Expect scorpion bites in Angola, voodoo ceremonies in Benin, Berber festivals in Morocco, and lots more.But between the wild stories, this episode is about something much deeper too. If you want to be inspired about not just what to see, but how to see - and how to make travel more than just Google reviews and ticking off lists - this is the episode for you.HIGHLIGHTSHear how Daniel survived a scorpion bite in Angola, three minutes from death, and the tribal leader who saved his life by sucking out the venom. Travel with Aaron to a Festival Fantasia in the foothills of Morocco's Atlas Mountains, the biggest culture shock he's ever experienced, and why that discomfort was exactly the point. Discover what it's like to sit inside a voodoo ceremony in Benin, a belief system entirely outside Daniel's own, and why he calls it one of the best things he's ever done.FIND OUT MOREDaniel Scheffler writes regularly on Substack at Without Maps find more of his writing and adventures there.And don't miss his own podcast, Wayfinder: Life-Changing Travel - if you enjoy Armchair Explorer, we think you'll love it too.Listen to Wayfinder: Life-Changing Travel on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, or wherever you get your podcasts: Wayfinder: Life-Changing Travel on Apple PodcastsPASS IT ON:If this episode lit something up in you, do me a favor - send it to just one person. One friend, one family member, one person who needs a little wayfinding inspiration in their life … Or go old school and tell someone about it over a cheeky pint! Every single share genuinely moves the needle. Thank you for whatever you can do.FOLLOW US:Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcastFacebook: @armchairexplorerpodcastNewsletter: armchair-explorer.comCONNECT WITH US:If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it! It helps us grow the show, and continue to bring this content to you.Armchair Explorer is written and presented by Aaron Millar. Audio editing and sound design by Charles Tyrie. Theme music by Sweet Chap. Produced by Armchair Productions.Mentioned in this episode:Check out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel PodcastCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world's best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com. For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.Voyascape Podcast Network

Should you book now or wait for a better travel deal?Today, we're pulling back the curtain with Susan Catto, Head of Publishing, Canada at Travelzoo, to uncover how travel insiders evaluate vacation deals, avoid costly booking mistakes, and find the best value in today's travel landscape.Drawing on insights from millions of travelers and years of experience covering the travel industry, Susan shares practical tips to help you make smarter travel decisions and stretch your travel budget further.Connect with Susan CattoTravelzoo: https://thoughtcard.com/travelzooLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjcatto/Other Episodes You'll Love Stop Overpaying for Travel with Insider Tips from Pauline Frommer - Episode 198Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on SpotifyListen on Any Podcast PlayerHow To Visit Two Cities for the Price of One - Episode 196Listen on Apple PodcastsListen on Spotify Listen on Any Podcast PlayerConnect With Danielle Desir Corbett Website: www.thoughtcard.com Instagram: @thedaniellecorbettThreads: @thedaniellecorbettWork With Me:Email thethoughtcard@gmail.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.Resources & Recommendations: ➡️ Find cheap flights from the U.S. and Canada with Thrifty Traveler Premium➡️ Sign up for a high-yield savings account with Ally Bank➡️ Sign up for Rakuten and earn $50 cash back on purchases➡️ Earn more points and miles from your credit card with CardPointersSupport the Show Directly:Support The Thought Card Podcast by leaving a rating and review in your favorite podcast app like Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Your feedback makes it easier for new listeners to discover our thoughtful conversations about travel, money, and building a life you love.If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend or family member.Mentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. Voyascape Podcast NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

Financial therapist and licensed marriage and family therapist Christine Hargrove explores the complex relationship between ADHD, money, emotions, and relationships. She discusses why managing money is often more challenging for people with ADHD, the role of executive functioning in financial decision-making, and how emotional factors such as shame, avoidance, impulsivity, and financial trauma can affect financial well-being. The conversation also examines the impact of childhood messages about money, common challenges faced by couples when ADHD and finances intersect, and practical strategies for building healthier financial habits. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes that financial success is not simply about knowing what to do, but about creating systems, supports, and self-awareness that help turn good intentions into sustainable action.   Christine Hargrove, PhD, LMFT, is clinical assistant professor and assistant director of the Love and Money Center in the College of Family and Consumer Sciences at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a certified financial therapist. Her expertise has been featured in the Journal of Financial Counseling and Planning, the Journal of Financial Service Professionals, Family Relations, Attention magazine, USA Today, NerdWallet, Fidelity.com, the Globe and Mail, the XY Planning Network, and many more, and she regularly presents at national, international, and virtual conferences. Dr. Hargrove currently serves as president-elect of the Financial Therapy Association.

Hear about travel to Western Crete as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jonty Crane from jontytravels.com about his hiking adventure around the villages and in the mountains of the largest Greek island. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Why should you visit Western Crete? Jonty says, "Crete is a diverse Greek island, home to excellent hiking, dramatic gorges, atmospheric villages, epic coastlines, and ancient history." Jonty spent around a week hiking in western Crete, village walks in the north, the White Mountains in the center, and along the south coast. He did a self-guided trip with the Natural Adventure and their local operator, S-Cape. They organize the logistics, including accommodation, bag transfers, and provide GPS walking routes. Many of the sights can be seen without hiking, though, in fewer days with a car. ... https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-western-crete/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn what to buy and skip on Prime Day 2026 and Reddit's lessons that reveal how a $250K earner can end up broke. Is Prime Day actually a good deal this summer, and how financially resilient are American consumers right now? Host Elizabeth Ayoola is joined by news colleague Rick VanderKnyff, NerdWallet personal finance writer Tommy Tindall, and NerdWallet Senior Economist Elizabeth Renter to dig into Prime Day deals and the latest on American consumers' financial resilience. They discuss which product categories could be worth purchasing during Amazon Prime Day and competing retailer sales, how AI-powered price history tools are changing the shopping experience, and what NerdWallet's June Consumer Financial Resilience Index score reveals about how confident Americans feel about their finances as they get ready to shop. Then, host Sean Pyles, CFP®, joins Elizabeth to break down five candid personal finance posts from Reddit. They explore why a Redditor earning $250,000 a year feels broke after lifestyle creep took hold, what the concept of hedonic adaptation could mean for your own spending habits, how “chubby FIRE” factors into the real-world complexities of early retirement and dating, what kinds of decisions led millionaires to lose everything they'd built, and how to break free from the money comparison trap when someone in your circle has $20 to $50 million in AI startup equity. What to Buy (and Skip) on Prime Day 2026: https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/what-to-buy-on-prime-day-2026  Explore the NerdWallet Consumer Financial Resilience Index: https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/studies/financial-resilience-index  Subscribe to our podcast's free email newsletter for bonus content and more from our hosts at https://smartmoney-nerdwallet.beehiiv.com/  Reddit posts discussed: 250k a Year and Broke, 4 Years Ago I Made 120k And Was Happier  CPI Just Came in At 3.8  Dating After FIRE  Ex-Millionaires of Reddit, what made you lose all your money?  How to Get Out of Money Comparison  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

There is a state in New England where ancient mountains rise above the treeline into bare Arctic tundra, where sheer granite summits look out over oceans of forests, and where one of the fastest wind speeds ever recorded was once clocked here at 231 miles per hour. But New Hampshire is also the place where Thoreau came to reflect, Thornton Wilder was inspired to write his seminal play Our Town, and the oldest summer stock company in America stills performs in an 18th century barn. New Hampshire is art and adventure, natural wonders and quintessential charm. But most of all, like the state's nickname suggests, it is a place to live free and to the fullest.In today's episode we set off on a seven-day road trip through three of the state's most rugged and fascinating regions - from backpacking in the White Mountains and scrambling up waterfalls to discovering art inspired by nature, and nature infused with an artistic eye. Get ready for the Live Free Road Trip.Highlights include:Hiking the Presidential Traverse - three days, and four peaks above 5,000 feet, including Mt Washington, the highest (and windiest) summit in New England.Discovering the ‘business class of backpacking' staying in the Apallachain Mountain Club's backcountry huts - three-course dinners, epic views, and cosy beds.Finding out about the MacDowell Institute, a legendary artists' residency founded in 1907, whose past guests include Aaron Copland, Leonard Bernstein, James Baldwin, Thornton Wilder and hundreds of other world-class artists.Hiking Mount Monadnock - reputedly the second most climbed mountain in the world after Mount Fuji, with views across New Hampshire, Vermont and Massachusetts. Hear why this was one of Thoreau's favorite hikes!FIND OUT MOREProduced in collaboration with Lonely Planet: LonelyPlanet.comFind inspiration, itineraries and everything you need - including how to book this exact road trip - at visitnh.gov (Visit New Hampshire) or follow them on social at @VisitNHThank you to our guests:Marielle Fibish, senior outdoor guide at the Appalachian Mountain Club.Find out more at: outdoors.orgBen Cote, Newport local and outdoor fanatic. Connect with him at tracylibrary.orgMichelle Stahl, Executive Director at the Monadnock Center for History and Culture. Find out more at monadnockcenter.orgKnow Someone Who Needs This?If this episode lit something up in you, do me a favour — send it to just one person. One friend, one family member, one person who needs a little wonder in their life right now. Or go old school and tell someone about it over a cheeky pint. Every single share genuinely moves the needle.FOLLOW US:Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcastFacebook: @armchairexplorerpodcastCONNECT WITH US:If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. It helps us grow the show, and continue to bring these stories to you.Armchair Explorer is written and presented by Aaron Millar. Audio editing and sound design by Charles Tyrie. Produced by Armchair ProductionsMentioned in this episode:Check out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel PodcastCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world's best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com. For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.Voyascape Podcast Network

This week on CruiseTipsTV Unplugged, we're joined by travel rewards expert and NerdWallet travel writer Sally French to talk about her first Alaska cruise aboard Star Princess. Sally shares her biggest surprises about Alaska, favorite experiences from the cruise, thoughts on staying active while traveling, and practical tips for getting the most value from your vacation using points, miles, and travel rewards. Whether you're planning your first Alaska cruise or looking for ways to travel smarter, Sally offers a fresh perspective on one of cruising's most unforgettable destinations. You can find Sally on Instagram at @savewithsally and listen to her on the Smart Travel podcast from NerdWallet. Shop our favorite cruise essentials on Amazon

Hear about travel to Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan and the annual Amateur Traveler trip as host Chris Christensen and guest Bill Abbott talk about a tour to 2 of the 5 'Stans in Central Asia. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Why should you go to Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan? Chris says, "In this area, you can stand in these beautiful cities that date back over two thousand years. This is a trip through some of the great crossroads of world history: Persian empires, Silk Road merchants, Turkic tribes, Mongol armies, Timurid architects, Russian generals, Soviet planners, and two very different modern countries. This is not the edge of the map as we tend to view it, but historically, it's the middle of the map." In this episode of Amateur Traveler, we celebrate episode 1,000 with a trip through Central Asia to Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. The episode follows a G Adventures trip, Best of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, with a small group of Amateur Traveler listeners. ... https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-uzbekistan-and-turkmenistan/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is a place at the top of the world where the land runs out, a sheer thousand-foot cliff rising straight from the Arctic Ocean, and nothing beyond it but open sea all the way to the North Pole. This is the North Cape - the northernmost point of continental Europe and getting there means sailing one of the most spectacular coastlines on Earth. From Oslo, we travel north through towering fjords and fishing villages so remote the ship is their only connection to the outside world. We pass the Lofoten Islands rising like a mountain range planted in the middle of the ocean, Alta - nicknamed the Northern Lights City - and on into the deep Arctic silence of Finnmark. Norway's coast is not just beautiful. It is staggering.The Northern Lights wait for us there too. The Sami called them Govsov - the light you can hear, the light that speaks. Science calls them solar particles colliding with the earth's atmosphere. But standing beneath them, none of that matters. What you are seeing is the invisible touch of our sun, raining down in colour all around you - and it is unlike anything you have ever experienced before.Join host Aaron Millar, and two expert guests, as we set sail on the North Cape Line with the legendary adventure ships of Hurtigruten. This is more than an expedition cruise, it is a journey to the edge of the world along one of the most awe-inspiring coastlines in the world in search of the Aurora at its most breathtaking.Produced in Armchair Explorer's signature documentary style, this immersive audio adventure is designed not just to let you hear what it's like to chase the Northern Lights along the Norwegian coast - but to feel it.Highlights include:Sailing the Trollfjord - a fjord so narrow it feels like you could reach out and touch the mountains on either side, sheer walls of rock and snow rising straight from the water around you.Standing at the North Cape - the northernmost point in Europe where beyond the cliff edge there nothing but the Arctic Ocean, all the way to the North Pole.Sitting inside a Sami Lavvu - warm with firelight and wood smoke - hearing stories, sharing food and listening to yoik, the ancient song form where every melody carries the spirit of a specific person, animal or place.Husky sledding into the Arctic wilderness - the moment the dogs stop barking, set off, and everything goes utterly silent. Just you, the animals, and the snow.The food of Norway's coast - fresh Arctic cod from the world's largest cod fishery in Lofoten, king crab hauled from the icy waters of Finnmark and cooked within the hour, cheese from a family farm whose recipes are 300 years old, and wild herbs foraged from cliff edges above the fjords.The Aurora itself - the crowning corona, where the lights rain down in every direction around you - “like taking a dream out of your head and placing it into the sky”FIND OUT MOREProduced in collaboration with Lonely Planet: LonelyPlanet.comThis journey is run by expedition cruise company Hurtigruten, whose ships have sailed this coastline for generations. This is what they promise: If you're on one of their 11-day or longer voyage during the Auroral season and the Lights don't appear, they'll give you another chance on a future sailing at no extra cost.Find out more at hurtigruten.comConnect with expert Aurora chaser Tom Kerss at TomKerss.com or follow him on Instagram at @tomkerssThank you also to Andre Pettersen, the man behind Hurtigruten's extraordinary food and community connections along the Norwegian coast.Know Someone Who Needs This?If this episode lit something up in you, do me a favour - send it to just one person. One friend, one family member, one person who needs a little wonder in their life right now. Or go old school and tell someone about it over a cheeky pint. Every single share genuinely moves the needle.Hit the share button in your podcast app - it takes about ten seconds, and helps us continue to bring these stories to you.FOLLOW US: Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcastCONNECT WITH US: If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it! It helps us grow the show, and means you won't miss an episode (we've got some good ones coming up!).Armchair Explorer is written and presented by Aaron Millar. Audio editing and sound design by Charles Tyrie. Theme music by Sweet Chap. Produced by Armchair Productions. Find our other shows at Armchair-Productions.com Mentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world's best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com. For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.Voyascape Podcast NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

Learn what the AI IPO boom could do to reshape your index funds and how to fund years of grad school with no income. With SpaceX set to debut as the biggest IPO in history — and OpenAI and Anthropic filing to follow — what does this landmark moment in the markets actually mean for your portfolio? Senior news editor Rick VanderKnyff and investing writer Sam Taub join hosts Sean Pyles, CFP®, and Elizabeth Ayoola to break down the latest AI IPO news. They discuss what makes SpaceX's offering the largest public offering ever, what the historical track record of IPOs says about buying in at the opening price, and a quietly consequential change to index fund inclusion rules that could leave passive investors with a far bigger stake in mega-cap AI companies than they anticipated. They also explain what direct indexing is and how it could give you more control over what lands in your portfolio. How do you manage your money when you're leaving a career to spend up to three years in graduate school with no income? Sean and Elizabeth tackle a listener's detailed, multi-part question about funding a $117,000 occupational therapy doctorate. They explore whether a Roth IRA conversion could be a smart way to capitalize on low-tax years before graduation, what the new federal student loan borrowing caps under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act mean for graduate students' funding plans, how deferring an existing $17,000 in student debt could play out over time, and what to weigh before earning money on the side while in school. Subscribe to our podcast's free email newsletter for bonus content and more from our hosts at https://smartmoney-nerdwallet.beehiiv.com/  Sign up for MoneyNerd, NerdWallet's free weekly newsletter, for tips on watching the 2026 World Cup for free: https://moneynerd-nerdwallet.beehiiv.com/  What Is the New Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) for Student Loans? https://www.nerdwallet.com/student-loans/learn/what-is-the-new-repayment-assistance-plan-rap-for-student-loans  Direct Indexing: What It Is, How It Works https://www.nerdwallet.com/investing/learn/direct-indexing  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

After losing her job, Kelly Peeler made a bold decision: she bought and renovated a home on the Greek island of Milos—with no prior experience—and transformed it into an art residency designed for women to rest, create, and connect.Kelly shares how burnout and years of living nomadically across Europe led her to Greece, why she chose Milos, and the vision behind building a global ecosystem for female artists.We also dive into the practical side of making a move like this, including what it takes to buy property in Greece as a foreigner, how she searched for homes abroad, and what surprised her most about the cost of living, healthcare, and everyday life.If you've ever dreamed about moving abroad, starting over, or designing a life that feels more aligned with who you are today, this conversation will leave you inspired to think bigger about what's possible.Want to build your own art residency? Kelly is hosting a LIVE workshop sharing key mistakes to avoid before you spend a cent and how to map out clear next steps for your specific situation. Learn more here.Connect with Kelly PeelerArt Residency Builder Workshop: https://www.kellypeeler.com/residency-builder-workshopFollow on Instagram: @kellypeeler (Link: https://www.instagram.com/kellypeeler/)Threads: https://www.threads.com/@kellypeelerOther Episodes You'll Love How To Plan an Adult Gap Year with Stephanie Perry - Episode 49How To Teach Oversees with Adrienne M. Walker - Episode 129Connect With Danielle Desir Corbett Website: www.thoughtcard.com Instagram: @thedaniellecorbettThreads: @thedaniellecorbettWork With Me:Email thethoughtcard@gmail.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.Resources & Recommendations: ➡️ Find cheap flights from the U.S. and Canada with Thrifty Traveler Premium➡️ Sign up for a high-yield savings account with Ally Bank➡️ Sign up for Rakuten and earn $50 cash back on purchases➡️ Earn more points and miles from your credit card with CardPointersSupport the Show Directly:Support The Thought Card Podcast by leaving a rating and review in your favorite podcast app like Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Your feedback makes it easier for new listeners to discover our thoughtful conversations about travel, money, and building a life you love.If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend or family member.Mentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. Voyascape Podcast NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

The June 2026 housing market update reveals why waiting for a dramatic market shift may be keeping first-time homebuyers from opportunities available right now.Many first-time homebuyers are still waiting for mortgage rates to fall or home prices to drop, but the 2026 housing market continues to show only gradual changes. While prices, rates, and demand remain relatively stable, seller concessions, price reductions, and increased inventory are creating new opportunities for prepared buyers. This episode breaks down the latest housing data, explains why low inventory remains the biggest factor affecting affordability, and highlights practical strategies buyers are using to purchase homes despite today's challenges. Learn why education, planning, and understanding your options may be more valuable than trying to perfectly time the market.“The biggest mistake I see is almost never somebody buying a home at the wrong time. It's almost always people waiting too long to start learning about their options.” — David Sidoni, First Time Homebuyer CoachHighlightsAre mortgage rates and home prices really changing enough to justify waiting for a better market?Why are seller concessions, price reductions, and new construction creating opportunities for first-time homebuyers in 2026?How are FHA and VA buyers finding affordable paths to homeownership despite higher interest rates?What strategies are helping informed buyers move forward while others remain stuck on the sidelines?Referenced Episodes426 – Lowering Your Down Payment – Financially Prepare to Buy Your First Home – Pt. 7440 – First Time Homebuyer Playbook (Part 1): Rent Replacement Strategy441 – First Time Homebuyer Playbook (Part 2): The Last Lease Ever443 – First Time Homebuyer FAQ: What Can I Actually Afford in 2026?457 – First Time Homebuyers: Buy or Wait in 2026? (March Housing Market Update)460 – Rent vs Buy in 2026: Are First Time Homebuyers Crazy?462 – How to Win a Bidding War as a First Time Homebuyer - 50 Expert Tips (Spring 2026)464 – This ONE Myth is Killing First Time Homebuyers in 2026468 – Scouting Home Listings Like a Pro - First Time Homebuyers Guide (2026)469 – Putting a Plan into Action - First Time Homebuyers vs. High Cost of Living 2026470 – Effective Solutions to Get UNSTUCK - First Time Homebuyers vs. High Cost of Living 2026474 – WARNING: “Step by Step” Lists for First Time Homebuyers – Can You Trust Them? (Zillow, Best Money, NerdWallet…etc.)479 – Can You Buy Your First House Solo? (Women Are Taking the Lead)483 – Top 10 Mortgage Questions Every First Time Homebuyer Needs Answered485 – Timing the Market as a First Time Homebuyer488 – 8 First Time Homebuyer Tips to Beat High Interest Rates489 – 2026 Housing Affordability Update for First Time HomebuyersCheck out our updated 2026 First Time Homebuyer's Episode Guide - Over 100 of our BEST Episodes of Detailed Homebuying Knowledge, Interviews, and MORE! Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, in

“You stand at the edge of the boat - and you take a giant stride into the unknown.”Today we're chatting with Pier Nirandara, a bestselling author, film producer, SCUBA diver and underwater photographer. She's dedicated her life to sharing the beauty and importance of this marine world about which we still know so little. With her work in photography, writing, and more, she's also helping to shape a new generation of divers and ocean advocates from all corners of the world.In the episode, you'll hear about the dive that changed her life and stopped her career path in its tracks; how it feels to share the water with some of the world's rarest, most ancient sea creatures; and why exploring the ocean and encountering marine wildlife is more important than ever. This episode will inspire and move you to consider all the life that exists beneath the water's surface - and what we owe to it.FIND PIERFollow Pier on Instagram (@piersgreatperhaps) and Facebook, or visit her website at piernirandara.com to find her amazing photography, articles, books, TED Talk, and more. She also leads snorkeling and diving expeditions all around the globe, so if you want to experience some of the adventures you heard in the episode firsthand, you can find those on her website too.SPONSORSTHANK YOU to our amazing sponsor, The North Face, for supporting this episode! When you wear The North Face, it's more than a jacket…it's the calling to get out there and explore. Find your next fleece, parka, or winter jacket at thenorthface.com.And thank you to our other sponsor, Juggernaut Wines! Get four bottles of their delicious wines delivered to your home for only 1 cent in shipping costs. Just head over to juggernautwines.com and use code ARMCHAIR21.SOCIALShare the show with your friends! Follow @armchairexplorerpodcast across Instagram and Facebook, and check out Armchair Explorer (www.armchair-explorer.com) for background videos, photos and more on each episode. And please hit that follow button to support the show!CREDITSThis episode was produced by Armchair Productions. Find our other shows at armchair-productions.com. Jenny Allison wrote and produced this episode, along with host and producer Aaron Millar. Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Theme music written by the artist Sweet Chap.Mentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world's best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com. For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.Voyascape Podcast NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

Hear about travel to Umbria in Italy as the Amateur Traveler talks to Katerina Ferrara, the author of the Ultimate Festival & Travel Guide Umbria. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Why should you go to Umbria? Katerina says, "Travelers should include Umbria in their plans because the hill towns feel just completely suspended in time. These are beautifully preserved places that stay off the main tourist track because the region has no major airport, and the high-speed trains are limited. But if you get there, you can really enjoy some time in the small towns as well as in nature." "There are incredible hikes and pilgrimage trails, like the Way of St. Francis, that also work for cyclists. So if you've been to Tuscany and loved it, to me, Umbria should be your next stop. Everything you came to is here. It's got fresco churches, olive oil, wine, truffles, and no crowds. There's no coaches bringing giant tours. And also the prices are excellent. Lodging in Umbria costs a fraction of what you're going to pay in Florence, Rome, or Venice." Katerina's Recommended Umbria Itinerary Katerina recommends a one-week Umbria itinerary by car, starting from Rome Fiumicino Airport, then driving north into Umbria. Her core route is: Rome → Orvieto → Assisi → Gubbio, with day trips from each base. ... https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-umbria/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most people learn about money the hard way. In this episode, I sit down with Beth Kobliner, personal finance journalist and New York Times bestselling author of Get a Financial Life: Personal Finance in Your 20s and 30s and Make Your Kid a Money Genius (Even If You're Not), to talk about how to build a strong financial foundation before the real world hits. Beth shares her journey from ghostwriting for pioneering personal finance columnist Sylvia Porter to writing for Money magazine, and why the core principles she has taught for decades still hold up today. From avoiding credit card debt to grabbing your 401k match, the fundamentals matter more than ever. She also breaks down the new threats facing young people, from buy now pay later traps to online gambling and social media money influencers, and shares her current passion project bringing a free financial literacy curriculum to New York City public schools. In this episode, Beth Kobliner shares: Foundational money moves for young adults, including high-yield savings accounts, index funds, and 401k matching The biggest updates in the new edition of Get a Financial Life and why the basics still win How to protect yourself from modern financial traps like gambling apps, buy now pay later schemes, and crypto hype Why financial literacy education in high schools is more urgent than ever and how to bring it to your school for free + more! What's New in the Paperback Edition of Your Journey to Financial Freedom: A bonus chapter: When Life Happens: Staying on the Path to Financial Freedom Through Setbacks, Shifts, and Uncertainty A book club and discussion guide with prompts, exercises, and action steps Updated corrections from the original hardcover Exclusive bonuses when you The Fire Starter Course The Find Your FIRE Number Worksheet Other related blog posts/links mentioned in this episode: Get a Get a Financial Life: Personal Finance in Your 20s and 30s and Make Your Kid a Money Genius (Even If You're Not) Get a Financial Life NYC curriculum: getafinanciallifenyc.com Student Loan Simulator: studentaid.gov High-Yield Savings Account Comparison: bankrate.com NerdWallet: nerdwallet.com Check out the FIRE Calc Get your paperback edition of Your Journey To Financial Freedom if you haven't already. Apply to Share Your Journeyer Story, here. Join the Journey to Launch Book Club to dive deeper into financial freedom with guided discussions and resources here! Join The Weekly Newsletter List to get updates, deals & more! Leave Your Journey To Financial Freedom a review! Get The Budget Bootcamp Check out my personal website here. Leave me a voicemail– Leave me a question on the Journey To Launch voicemail and have it answered on the podcast! YNAB –  Start managing your money and budgeting so that you can reach your financial dreams. Sign up for a free 34 days trial of YNAB, my go-to budgeting app by using my referral link. What stage of the financial journey are you on? Are you working on financial stability or work flexibility? Find out with this free assessment and get a curated list of the 10 next best episodes for you to listen to depending on your stage. Check it out here! Connect with Beth: Website: bethkobliner.com Instagram: @BKobliner Facebook: @BethKobliner Connect with me: Instagram: @Journeytolaunch Twitter: @JourneyToLaunch Facebook: @Journey To Launch Join the Private Facebook Group Join the Waitlist for My FI Course Get The Free Jumpstart Guide

Learn whether Robinhood Gold Card's 3% cash back and investing perks are worth the waitlist and membership cost. Is the Robinhood Gold Card the rare credit card that could put your rewards directly to work in a brokerage account? Sean Pyles, CFP®, and Elizabeth Ayoola are joined by NerdWallet credit card writer Melissa Lambarena to examine what makes this card stand apart: an uncapped 3% flat-rate cash back on all purchases, 5% back through Robinhood's travel portal, and the ability to redeem rewards as a deposit into a Robinhood brokerage account. They dig into who the card could work for (and who it definitely isn't right for), how the required Robinhood Gold membership factors into the value equation, what the card's high APR could mean for your rewards if you carry a balance, and how the ongoing waitlist came to exist and how long it could last.  They also walk through how to weigh this card against alternatives like the Chase Freedom Flex, Capital One Savor, Wells Fargo Active Cash, and Chase Sapphire Preferred, to help you figure out which card might deliver the most value for your spending habits and financial goals. Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:  5 Things to Know About the Robinhood Gold Card  Atmos Rewards Ascent Review: Well Worth $95 a Year Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits  Chase Freedom Flex: Multiple Bonus Rewards in One Card  Capital One Savor Review: Foodie-Focused Rewards, for No Annual Fee Wells Fargo Active Cash Card Review: 2% Cash Back With a Bonus Fidelity Rewards Visa Review: 2% Back for Your Nest Egg Citi AAdvantage Executive Review: Your Key to the Club 5 Things to Know About BMW Credit Cards 5 Things to Know About the T.J. Maxx Credit Card Subscribe to Smart Money, our podcast's weekly email newsletter, at https://smartmoney-nerdwallet.beehiiv.com/ And you can find other NerdWallet newsletters at https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/news/newsletter-signup 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

Welcome to this special episode where I am on the other side of the mic!I recently joined the Temporary Locals Podcast to share my experience travelling through the fascinating Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan. In this conversation, we dive into what makes Bhutan one of the most unique travel destinations on Earth, from its strict tourism policies and sustainable tourism model to its rich Buddhist culture and breathtaking mountain scenery.We discuss the realities of planning a trip to Bhutan, including costs, guided tours, and the famous Sustainable Development Fee. I share stories from hiking to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, staying with a local family in a traditional homestay, attending Bhutanese festivals, exploring the capital Thimphu, and experiencing the country's deep spiritual culture.Along the way, we talk about Bhutanese food, local customs, mountain life, and even the surreal experience of flying home on the same flight as the King and Queen of Bhutan. If you've ever wondered what it's really like to visit one of the world's most exclusive and mysterious countries, this episode is packed with practical advice, cultural insights, and memorable travel stories.Temporary Locals' ShownotesIn this episode, Jared and Megan welcome travel vlogger James Hammond to discuss his recent trip to Bhutan. They explore Bhutan's unique culture, geography, and the requirements for visiting this lesser-known Himalayan destination. James shares his experiences hiking to the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery, staying with a local family, interviewing a Lama, nightlife of Thimphu and ending up on the same flight as a King.Please check out Megan and Jared's Temporary Locals Podcast below. I love their style, content and approach to travel.Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/temporary-locals-podcast/id1845249694Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3pQ3gIDSRfd4Ep9zqZ2YoK?si=f4997bb0755b4997YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TemporaryLocalsPodcastSupport Winging It Travel PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode:⭐ Leave a 5-star rating or review on your podcast app☕ Support the show at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit

Hear about travel to Delaware as the Amateur Traveler talks to Dannelle Gay from the Traveling Cheesehead about her recent visit to The First State. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Why should you go to Delaware? Dannelle says, "If you are a foodie, if you're a history buff, if you're a beach person, there are so many different reasons. If you're into military history or you get into aircraft World War II history, any of that, it is such an amazing place to visit. Yes, it's the first state, but there was so much more that I learned when I was there." Suggested Delaware Itinerary Fly into Philadelphia, then drive or take an Uber to the Wilmington / Christiana area. Dannelle stayed at the Hilton Wilmington/Christiana and liked it as a central base because Delaware is small enough that you can head north or south from there without changing hotels. Day 1: Arrive and Base in Wilmington Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn what generational spending data reveals and what to do when fear is keeping $200K in savings from growing. What do the stereotypes about each generation's finances actually get wrong? Sean Pyles, CFP®, and Elizabeth Ayoola kick off the episode with senior news writer Anna Helhoski and NerdWallet data writer Kurt Woock, who breaks down a new study analyzing federal Consumer Expenditure Survey data spanning decades of American spending. They explore why housing costs follow a U-shaped curve that could hit hardest in retirement — not just in young adulthood — why the real expense of owning a car isn't the car payment, and how healthcare spending could triple as a share of your income in your later years, just as earnings begin to decline. When is having $200,000 in savings actually working against you? Sean and Elizabeth welcome Kat from Virginia, who has maxed out her 401(k), opened 529 accounts for her kids, and accumulated $200,000 in cash — but is too anxious to touch any of that cash. Joined by Ryan Sterling, CEO of NerdWallet Wealth Partners, they dig into how financial anxiety develops, how to determine the right size for your emergency fund, and what steps could help you move from hoarding cash to building real long-term wealth. NerdWallet Wealth Partners, LLC is an affiliate of NerdWallet Inc. NerdWallet Wealth Partners is a fiduciary online financial advisor, offering low-cost, comprehensive financial advice and investment management. Learn more at nerdwalletwealthpartners.com/smart  Data: Massive Survey Shows How Generations Spend Money https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/studies/generational-spending-CES  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

Is travel blogging dead or does it just look different today? Michelle Jensen of Travel HerStory shares what it actually takes to make money as a travel blogger. From earning her first $100 to building sustainable income streams through ads and affiliate marketing, Michelle highlights the realities behind turning a blog into a profitable side hustle or full-time business.If you've ever wondered whether travel blogging is still worth pursuing, this episode is for you.Connect with Michelle JensenWebsite: https://www.travelherstory.com/ Follow on Instagram: @travelherstory (Link: https://www.instagram.com/travelherstory)Threads: https://www.threads.com/@travelherstory Other Episodes You'll Love How To Become a Travel Blogger with Christopher Mitchell - Episode 52Lucrative Side Hustle Ideas with Daniella Flores - Episode 72Connect With Danielle Desir Corbett Website: www.thoughtcard.com Newsletter: ​​https://thethoughtcard.substack.com/ Instagram: @thedaniellecorbettWork With Me:Email thethoughtcard@gmail.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Resources & Recommendations: ➡️ Find cheap flights from the U.S. and Canada with Thrifty Traveler Premium ➡️ Sign up for a high-yield savings account with Ally Bank➡️ Sign up for Rakuten and earn cash back on purchases➡️ Earn more points and miles from your credit card with CardPointersSupport the Show Directly:Support The Thought Card Podcast by leaving a rating and review in your favorite podcast app. Your feedback helps the show grow and makes it easier for new listeners to discover thoughtful conversations about travel, money, and building a life you love.If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend, creator, or aspiring travel blogger who's curious about what it really takes to make money blogging.Mentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. Voyascape Podcast NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

Lance Ringnald was one of the youngest members ever of a USA Mens Gymnastics Olympic team when he competed at the 1988 Seoul Olympics as an 18-year-old.Mentioned in this episode:Check out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel PodcastCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.Voyascape Podcast Network

Hear about travel to Jerez de la Frontera and the province of Cádiz in Spain as the Amateur Traveler talks about a recent press trip to the 2026 Culinary Capital of Spain. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This episode is based on a recent press trip to Cádiz and Jerez, with guest Kristen Henning from Travel Past 50 joining Chris to talk about why travelers should consider this corner of Andalusia. Why Visit Cádiz Province and Jerez? The focus of the trip was Jerez de la Frontera, recently named Spain's Culinary Capital for 2026. But as Chris and Kristen discovered, Jerez is not just about food. It is also about sherry, Andalusian horses, Carthusian monks, flamenco, history, and easy access to the beaches and ports of Cádiz Province. Kristen describes Jerez as best known for sherry wine production, but says there is far more to the region than she expected. Travelers will find horses, especially the Andalusian horse, a deep history stretching from Roman times to the Moors, connections to Columbus and Magellan, flamenco, beaches, golf, and a strong food culture. Chris starts by adding context for Cádiz, the oldest city in Spain, founded by the Phoenicians around 1100 BC. Cádiz later became Carthaginian, Roman, Visigothic, Moorish, and, after the Reconquest, Spanish. Its maritime history made it one of Spain's most important ports, especially once trade with the New World shifted from Seville to Cádiz. ... https://amateurtraveler.com/jerez-spain/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Follow travel author Oscar Scafidi on his world-record paddle down the Kwanza River inAngola. Stretching 600-miles from its source in the Angolan Highlands, in the center of thecountry, to the Atlantic Ocean on the country's west coast, Oscar and his partner AlfieWeston kayaked the entire length and hiked an additional two hundred miles to circumventrapids, waterfalls and dams.The going was tough and they were unprepared for the dangers and hardships ahead. But,that's also part of what's so inspiring and unique about this story – Oscar and Alfie aren'tprofessional adventurers, explorers or African bush experts. They're just two young guyswith a crazy idea and a lot of guts.They faced man-eating crocodiles, angry hippos and even angrier police. But over 33 harddays, camping beside the banks of the river and in small settlements along the way, theyreached the ocean and in doing so did something no one else had ever achieved before,which has since been recognised as an official world-record by Guinness World RecordsThis is a story about that adventure, but it's also a story about dreaming big, taking risks andachieving something extraordinary. If two ordinary guys, with very little kayakingexperience, can paddle the entire length of one of the longest rivers in Africa, why can't youachieve your travel dreams too?Highlights:Facing 600-miles of man-eating crocodiles, deadly rapids and pods of angry hipposKayaking the entire length of one of the least explored rivers on the planet – an official Guinness World RecordDiscovering Angola, one of Africa's least visited and most misunderstood countries,still reeling from the aftermath of a brutal civil war.But one that's also filled with incredible wildlife, surfing, hiking and moreGetting arrested in the middle of the night at gun point by the security forcesBeing inspired to follow your own dreams of adventure and hearing what it takes to get it doneIf you want to connect with Oscar directly his Instagram is @oscarscafidi and his twitter is@scafiditravels. He also has an awesome YouTube channel which charts this trip and hisother adventures www.youtube.com/c/ScafidiTravelsThe book of this journey is called Kayak the Kwanza: Source to Sea Along Angola's LongestRiver - www.amazon.com/Kayak-Kwanza-Oscar-Scafidi/dp/1789650127Oscar and Alfie were raising money for the HALO Trust who are removing landmines fromAngola and other war-torn countries around the world. Their goal is a landmine-free wolrsby 2025. Help them get there at www.halotrust.orgFollow @armchairexplorer podcast on Instagram and Facebook or head over towww.armchair-explorer.com to find more background information on this episodeMentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world's best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com. For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.Voyascape Podcast NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

Learn what new Fed data says about Americans' finances and whether a perfect 850 credit score is worth chasing. What does the latest Federal Reserve data actually reveal about how Americans are holding up financially — and why do feelings and facts so often diverge? Sean Pyles, CFP®, and Elizabeth Ayoola are joined by senior news writer Anna Helhoski and NerdWallet economist Elizabeth Renter to dig into a new Fed analysis of U.S. household financial wellbeing. They discuss why wellbeing has declined for young adults, low-income families, and Black adults even as headline economic data stays relatively stable, what a shifting labor market means for workers' confidence, and what NerdWallet's new Financial Resilience Index could reveal about the gap between feeling in control of your money and actually being prepared for a financial shock. What does a perfect 850 credit score actually get you — and is it even worth chasing? Sean and Elizabeth are joined by NerdWallet personal finance writer Amanda Barroso to answer a question about reaching the credit score mountaintop. They discuss where the real "good enough" threshold sits, how to build a healthier relationship with your score, and what habits could help you reach — and maintain — a score that actually works in your favor. 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 tackle $25,000 in credit card debt and which payoff strategy could work best for your situation. How do you get out of $25,000 in credit card debt when minimum payments aren't making a dent? In this episode, hosts Sean Pyles, CFP®, and Elizabeth Ayoola sit down with listener Jessica, a Bay Area mom carrying three maxed-out credit cards with interest rates ranging from 11% to 24%. They walk through her real budget, including nearly $2,000 in rent, close to $1,200 in monthly transportation costs, and significant childcare expenses, to understand why her spending outpaces her income. They also explore what options could realistically help her make progress, from nonprofit credit counseling and debt management plans to whether a free bankruptcy consultation might be worth her time before committing to any path. Read through NerdWallet's guide to the best strategies for whittling down what you owe, depending on how much debt you have: https://www.nerdwallet.com/personal-loans/learn/pay-off-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 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 about travel to Santiago, Chile, as the Amateur Traveler talks to Kristin Henning from TravelPast50.com about this city that she called home for a time. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Why should you go to Santiago? Kristin says, "You can get to the mountains quickly. You can get to the valley for wine tasting quickly. You can get to the coast, Valparaíso, and beach towns quickly. But Santiago itself does hold a lot of interest in its museums, culture, and climate." Santiago, Chile Itinerary Day 1: Historic Santiago and Pre-Columbian Culture ... https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-santiago-chile/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how the E-shaped economy is reshaping middle-class budgets and how to stretch travel points on real trips. What does it really mean when economists say the U.S. economy has shifted from a K-shape to an E-shape, and where do middle-class households fit in this new picture? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola talk with senior news writer Anna Helhoski about why middle-class earners are increasingly slipping from the top of the K to the middle of the E, what new data reveals about families struggling to afford basic necessities in their own metro areas, and how spending patterns are shifting as essential costs eat up more of each paycheck. Then, how can you actually make travel points work for a real trip without burning them on the wrong redemption? Sean and Elizabeth are joined by Meghan Coyle, co-host of NerdWallet's Smart Travel podcast, to walk through the smartest ways to use airline miles and hotel points. They discuss how to calculate whether points or cash is the better deal for any booking, why hotel points and airline miles aren't created equal, what happens when you transfer points speculatively, and creative ways to keep earning points without picking up another credit card. Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: Best Travel Credit Cards of May 2026 https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/best/travel  Atmos Rewards Summit Card: Perks as Unique as They Are Valuable https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/atmos-rewards-summit  Atmos Rewards Ascent Review: Well Worth $95 a Year https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/alaska-airlines-credit-card  American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/american-express-platinum  Is a Bilt Credit Card Worth It? https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/bilt-mastercard Resources discussed in this episode: 'K-Shaped' Economy Is Giving Way to an 'E-Shaped' Divide https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/news/e-shaped-economy  How Much Are Travel Points and Miles Worth in 2026? https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/airline-miles-and-hotel-points-valuations  Points and Miles vs. Cash Calculator https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/calculator-should-you-book-a-flight-with-cash-or-miles  The Best Award Travel Search Tool for 2026 https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/best-award-travel-search-tool  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

David Sidoni breaks down the biggest mortgage myths, lending traps, and loan questions confusing first-time homebuyers in today's housing market.The mortgage process can feel overwhelming when every lender, website, and social media post seems to give different advice. In this episode, David Sidoni explains why first-time buyers should stop chasing the lowest advertised interest rate and start looking for a true mortgage advisor who can guide their long-term strategy. He also exposes how large online lenders and real estate platforms are relying more heavily on automation and AI-driven systems instead of personalized service for buyers who need education the most. Throughout the episode, listeners learn how to avoid common lending mistakes, understand key mortgage concepts, and build a smarter plan to buy a home with confidence. “You want to shop for a mortgage advisor, a planner, a guide.” — David Sidoni, First Time Homebuyer CoachHighlightsWhat are the biggest mortgage myths hurting first-time homebuyers right now?Why can chasing the lowest mortgage rate actually cost buyers more long term?How are AI-driven lenders and online mortgage systems failing first-time buyers?What should buyers look for in a mortgage advisor before starting the homebuying process?Referenced Episodes364 - Buying a Home in High Mortgage Interest Rate Markets - 2025 Update402 - How to Buy a Home - Step 2: Realtors & Lenders (Choosing Your Guides)403 - How to Buy a Home - Step 3: Improving Your Credit Score (16 Pro Tips)339 - Don't Get Pre-Qualified-Get a Plan (INTERVIEW)340 – Down Payment Assistance, Discovery Calls & Lending Myths (INTERVIEW)11 – Should A First Time Home Buyer Use A National Internet Lender Instead Of A Local?16 – How To Get A Loan When Looking To Buy Your First Home with Dino Katsiametis443 - First Time Homebuyer FAQ: What Can I Actually Afford in 2026?426 - Lowering Your Down Payment – Financially Prepare to Buy Your First Home – Pt. 7480 - How to Buy a Home Explained in Under 20 Minutes (First Time Home Buyers)474 - WARNING: “Step by Step” Lists for First Time Homebuyers – Can You Trust Them? (Zillow, Best Money, NerdWallet…etc.)454 - First Time Homebuyer Lending Options 2026: How to Find the Best Deal when Shopping for a Mortgage (Interview)349 - Credit Score Solutions for First-Time Buyers (INTERVIEW)346 - How to Build the Perfect Mortgage Plan (Before You Apply)345 – Why You're Asking the WRONG Question About Interest Rates261 - How to Shop for the Best Mortgage Rate66 - How To Shop For The BEST Mortgage Interest Rate On Your Home Loan236 - Interview with First Time Home Buyer Navigating High Interest Rates + (mini) 2024 Housing Market Update!192 - Google Sucks: Financial Basics You Should Know180 - Online Mortgage Calculators Are GARBAGE - Here's Why153 – Buying Your First Home Right Out Of College - And A Special Announcement32 – Interview With VA Loan Specialist Chris Griffith With Tips For Vets, As Well As All First-Time Home BuyersCheck out our updated 2026 First Time Homebuyer's Episode Guide - Over 100 of our BEST Episodes of Detailed Homebuying Knowledge, Interviews, and MORE! Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy

Hear money lessons from NerdWallet moms and learn how to budget for healthcare on a high-deductible plan. What does motherhood teach you about money? In honor of Mother's Day, hosts Sean Pyles, CFP®, and Elizabeth Ayoola gather money lessons from NerdWallet moms — including Erin El Issa, Amanda Barroso, Kate Ashford, and Pamela de la Fuente — as well as from Sean's mom, Jeanne. They explore the pressure to keep up with influencers and other parents, the costly belief that core childhood memories can be bought, the role allowances play in helping kids feel the weight of their own money, and what becoming a parent reveals about long-term saving. How do you budget for healthcare when your employer switches you to a high-deductible plan and bills are coming in faster than you can build up your HSA? Sean and Elizabeth are joined by personal finance writer Kate Ashford to answer a question from a listener whose routine doctor visit ballooned from a $30 quote to nearly $500 out of pocket. They dig into the triple tax advantages of HSAs, the math behind comparing high-deductible and traditional coverage, why the first year on an HDHP can feel especially brutal, and what to do when medical expenses outpace your savings. 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 about travel to Saxony as the Amateur Traveler talks about a recent press trip to Leipzig, Dresden, Meissen, and more in this southeast corner of Germany. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Recommended Saxony Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Leipzig Start in Leipzig. Base yourself in the compact historic center, ideally near the Old Town Hall. Chris stayed at the Steigenberger Icon Grand Hotel, close to the market square and the old town. ... https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-saxony-germany/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Farnoosh shares Mother's Day plans, and reacts to news including the April jobs report and an Apple class-action settlement that could pay eligible iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max and iPhone 16 buyers up to $95 per device. She also cautions against Fannie Mae's move toward crypto-backed mortgages, arguing that borrowing against volatile crypto to fund a down payment adds risk and doesn't address the real housing crisis. Mailbag topics include: how to prepare for or respond to a layoff (unemployment, COBRA, cutting expenses, bridge income, networking, and rolling over retirement accounts), how to save on rising summer utility bills, and whether 0% balance transfer credit cards are a good tool for managing high-interest credit card debt. Check out the full list of recommended balance transfer cards on Nerdwallet.com.Learn more about Farnoosh's upcoming literary workshop Book to Brand. Early bird registration is now open! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hear about travel to Las Vegas, Nevada, as the Amateur Traveler talks to Meryl Pearlstein about this glamorous city in the desert that keeps drawing her back. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Why Go to Las Vegas if You Don't Gamble? Meryl makes the case that Las Vegas is far more than casinos. She highlights the city as a place where you can combine top-tier dining, arts and culture, unusual museums, live entertainment, and desert outdoor adventures, all in one trip. She also points to adrenaline-fueled experiences, from exotic cars to go-karting and off-roading. ... https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-las-vegas/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices