Episodios

  • Smart Planning Sessions: Digging Out of $36K in Debt—Without Derailing Retirement

    Smart Planning Sessions: Digging Out of $36K in Debt—Without Derailing Retirement
    Jun 16 2025
    In this month’s Smart Planning segment, a financial advisor discusses how to build a smarter debt payoff plan without sacrificing long-term financial goals. What’s the smartest way to make progress on credit card debt when budgeting alone isn’t cutting it? When can debt consolidation tools actually make your situation worse? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss strategies for getting out of debt without sacrificing long-term financial stability. But first, they begin with a round of Smart Money, Dumb Money, Fun Money, where they talk about some of the smartest, dumbest and “funnest” things they’ve seen in the world of money lately, from maximizing credit card rewards to avoiding loyalty traps with insurance providers to choosing which splurges are actually worth it. Then, they’re joined by Daniel Messeca, Certified Financial Planner and co-host of the Check Your Balances podcast, to help listener Safia weigh whether tapping their 403(b) to pay off $36,000 in credit card debt is a smart move. Together, they explore how to evaluate the long-term tradeoffs of using retirement funds, how to spot and plug budget leaks, and how nonprofit credit counseling, 403(b) loans, and even bankruptcy might fit into a comprehensive debt payoff plan. Inspired to navigate your finances with an advisor? Use NerdWallet Advisors Match to find vetted professionals today at https://www.nerdwalletadvisors.com/match Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: American Express Blue Cash Preferred Review: Perhaps the Ultimate Family Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-blue-cash-preferred Citi AAdvantage Executive Review: Your Key to the Club https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/citi-aadvantage-executive Track your net worth, stay up-to-date on consumer news, and learn smart money moves on the NerdWallet app: https://nerdwallet.com/app Compare auto insurance rates in 2 minutes: https://www.nerdwallet.com/m/insurance/auto-insurance/compare-quotes-control-29 In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: using 403b to pay off credit cards, credit card debt payoff strategies, credit card consolidation options, nonprofit credit counseling, 403b loan vs withdrawal, how to budget paycheck to paycheck, emergency fund savings tips, high-interest credit card strategies, 0 APR balance transfer, eSIM international travel, rental car insurance credit card, car insurance loyalty penalty, budgeting apps for debt payoff, student loan repayment tips, public service loan forgiveness program, SAVE plan student loans, income-driven repayment plans, how to reduce entertainment spending, reducing eating out budget, how to start a side hustle, budgeting for low income, when to pause retirement contributions, how to qualify for PSLF, tips for high annual fee credit cards, choosing the right rewards card, using hobbies for self-care, fun money budgeting tips, best credit cards for groceries, and car insurance shopping tips. 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
    Más Menos
    36 m
  • Will AI Take Your Job—or Just Your Time? Plus, Rebuilding Credit After Debt Consolidation

    Will AI Take Your Job—or Just Your Time? Plus, Rebuilding Credit After Debt Consolidation
    Jun 12 2025
    Learn how to use AI to boost your career and finances—plus, what to do when debt consolidation tanks your credit score. How can you use AI to stay competitive in your career and manage your money better? What should you do when debt consolidation tanks your credit score? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the rapid rise of generative AI and how it’s reshaping both the workplace and personal finance tools. Senior news writer Anna Helhoski joins the show to share her conversation with Maria Curi, technology policy reporter for Axios, which explores how generative AI is reshaping white-collar jobs, the skills you’ll need to stay competitive, and why you should be cautious about sharing personal financial data with AI tools. They cover how to use thoughtful AI prompting for budgeting, researching financial topics, and automating everyday tasks. Then, personal finance Nerd Amanda Barroso joins Sean and Elizabeth to answer a listener’s question about how to recover from a steep credit score drop after working with a debt consolidation company. They dive into the differences between debt settlement and credit counseling, walk through ways to rebuild your credit score, and share strategies to avoid falling back into debt. They also explain how to check your credit reports for red flags, make the most of credit utilization thresholds, and evaluate whether to stick with or switch from a debt relief company. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to rebuild credit after debt consolidation, AI and personal finance, using AI for budgeting, credit score dropped after debt consolidation, debt settlement vs debt consolidation, credit counseling vs debt consolidation, how to use AI in your job, credit utilization and credit score, generative AI tools for finance, credit monitoring tips, how to check your credit reports, how to avoid debt settlement scams, credit score recovery strategies, prompt engineering for AI tools, AI hallucinations explained, privacy risks of AI financial tools, best ways to use ChatGPT for money help, AI in white collar jobs, AI in blue collar work, how AI is changing the workplace, National Foundation for Credit Counseling, credit mix and credit score, 0% interest balance transfer cards, how to get out of debt without ruining credit, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau debt settlement warnings, risks of debt consolidation companies, and how to diversify your credit. 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
    Más Menos
    32 m
  • How to Negotiate a Raise in a Tough Economy (w/ Brown Ambition’s Mandi Money)

    How to Negotiate a Raise in a Tough Economy (w/ Brown Ambition’s Mandi Money)
    Jun 9 2025
    Learn how to negotiate higher pay and choose between Roth vs. traditional retirement accounts with confidence. How can you negotiate for a raise in an uncertain economy? Should you invest in a Roth or traditional retirement account? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss career strategies and retirement planning to help you maximize your earning potential and long-term savings. Joined by Mandi Woodruff-Santos, career coach and host of the Brown Ambition podcast, they begin with a discussion of salary negotiations, with tips and tricks on understanding your market value, making a strong case to your manager, and building a powerful professional network. Then, Sean and Elizabeth discuss how to balance contributions between Roth and traditional retirement accounts in a Q&A with listener Mitch. They cover how your tax bracket impacts retirement planning, the pros and cons of Roth 403(b)s vs. IRAs, and why tax diversification can give you more flexibility in retirement. They also explore the strategies behind reaching Mitch’s financial goals, like early retirement and family financial protection. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to negotiate salary, Roth vs traditional 403b, Roth 403b vs Roth IRA, retirement savings strategy, salary negotiation tips, career change strategy, how to ask for a raise, Roth IRA contribution limits, high income retirement planning, 403b Roth vs traditional Roth, tax diversification retirement, FIRE movement tips, early retirement accounts, high income Roth IRA eligibility, job market 2025, negotiating compensation without a job offer, professional networking tips, LinkedIn career growth, career storytelling, raise during midyear review, 401k vs Roth IRA, no 401k match strategy, high income investing, saving for retirement as a nurse, dual income retirement planning, maximizing 403b contributions, 529 plan strategy, how to build an emergency fund, term life insurance for parents, trust setup for families, how to grow your salary over time, and career moves for higher pay. 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
    Más Menos
    38 m
  • Economic Chaos and Car Costs: How to Weigh Risks in Uncertain Times

    Economic Chaos and Car Costs: How to Weigh Risks in Uncertain Times
    Jun 5 2025
    Learn how to keep calm and carry on with smart money moves and car buying plans amid tariffs, market swings, and rising prices. Should you buy a car now or wait — even if prices are expected to rise? How can you navigate the financial noise of today’s economy without losing your cool? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss coping with economic uncertainty and the impact of tariffs on consumer behavior. Joined by NerdWallet data journalist and senior economist Elizabeth Renter, they explore how ongoing policy whiplash — from tariffs to spending bills — is fueling market volatility, price instability, and stress for financially savvy households. They share strategies for cutting through the noise, including setting boundaries on news consumption, sticking to the fundamentals of budgeting, and staying focused on what you can control. Then, Shannon Bradley, a NerdWallet authority on auto loans and car buying, joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss whether now is a smart time to buy a car. They explore how rising tariffs, depleted inventory, and market unpredictability are reshaping the auto market. They also discuss when buying makes sense, how to tell if your current car is worth holding onto, and tools to assess financing tradeoffs. Plus: used car loan interest rates, prioritizing transportation in your budget, signs it's time to replace your car, and how to budget for future vehicle purchases. Use NerdWallet’s free auto loan calculator to estimate a monthly car payment and total loan cost: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/auto-loan-calculator In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how tariffs affect car prices, economic uncertainty 2025, car prices and inflation, used car financing tips, emergency fund during inflation, average car payment 2025, best time to buy a car, auto loan calculator, how to deal with market volatility, economic stress coping strategies, when to replace your car, saving for a car down payment, impact of tariffs on economy, trade policy and car prices, high yield savings for emergencies, used car interest rates 2025, how to manage financial anxiety, budgeting during inflation, how to stay calm during economic turmoil, effects of tariffs on global trade, how to get a good deal on a car, Kelley Blue Book car value, how to plan for a recession, used car inventory shortage, when to shop for cars, employee pricing car deals, how to choose a car loan, and NerdWallet car buying tips. 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
    Más Menos
    34 m
  • Recover from Vacation Overspending and Avoid Costly Rental Property Management Mistakes

    Recover from Vacation Overspending and Avoid Costly Rental Property Management Mistakes
    Jun 2 2025
    Reset your vacation budget and learn about the real work it takes to manage a rental property as a new or aspiring landlord. How can you get back on budget after overspending on vacation? What should you know before turning a home into a rental property? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss navigating the financial aftermath of travel and break down the real-world expectations of becoming a landlord. Joined by Lisa Green, NerdWallet writer and experienced rental property owner, they discuss the practicalities of managing a rental and share firsthand budgeting wins and miscalculations from recent international trips. They begin with a discussion of post-vacation budget resets, with tips and tricks on embracing no-spend months, identifying emotional spending triggers, and realigning with financial goals. Then, Lisa Green joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss rental property ownership. They talk about what it takes to manage a property, the role of property managers vs. DIY, and how taxes, legal structures, and financing strategies work when building a long-term rental portfolio. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to manage a rental property, post-vacation budgeting, rental property taxes, passive income rental property, cost of property management, rental property depreciation, rental property LLC pros and cons, travel spending budget tips, managing a rental from afar, all-inclusive vacation budgeting, is passive income really passive, how to budget for vacation, how to rent out your house, first-time landlord advice, LLC vs trust for rental property, owner-occupied rental property, how to start a rental property business, multifamily property investment, rental property tax benefits, short-term loan for real estate, rental property umbrella insurance, refinancing a rental property, how to avoid selling your house, budgeting after vacation, rental property record keeping, rental property write-offs, and how to buy your second property. 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
    Más Menos
    39 m
  • What to Do When the U.S. Gets Downgraded and Your Travel Credit Card Stops Paying Off

    What to Do When the U.S. Gets Downgraded and Your Travel Credit Card Stops Paying Off
    May 29 2025
    Learn what a U.S. credit downgrade means for your portfolio, plus find out when it might be time to cancel your travel credit card. What does the U.S. credit rating downgrade mean for your investments? Should you cancel your travel credit card if the perks no longer justify the fee? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the U.S. government’s recent credit downgrade by Moody’s and how it could impact markets, borrowing costs, and long-term economic stability. Joined by NerdWallet news writer Anna Helhoski and investing writer Sam Taube, they break down the downgrade’s broader implications and offer tips on navigating bond yields, safe investment vehicles, and economic uncertainty. Then, Sean and Elizabeth are joined by credit cards Nerd Melissa Lambarena to answer a listener’s question about canceling a high-fee travel credit card. They explore the pros and cons of closing accounts, how to audit whether a card’s perks are still worth the fee, and alternatives like downgrading to a lower-fee card. They also cover how to track credit card value, minimize credit score impact when making changes, and optimize benefits like lounge access, rental car perks, and more. Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews: United Quest card review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/united-quest United Explorer card review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/united-explorer NerdWallet offers a Treasury account through a partnership with Atomic: https://www.nerdwallet.com/lp/treasury-account What is a credit card product change and how does it work? Instead of opening a new account, you could ask to change to a different card. Here's when and how to do so: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/credit-card-product-change In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: US credit rating downgrade, Moody’s downgrade 2024, what happens if US defaults, effects of US credit downgrade on investments, treasury bond yields 2024, how to evaluate credit card perks, downgrade travel credit card, how to keep a high credit score without using credit cards, short-term Treasury bills, Treasury accounts vs savings accounts, investing during economic uncertainty, Moody’s credit rating explained, credit rating agencies, U.S. debt ceiling 2024, credit card points strategy, tracking credit card rewards, how to downgrade a credit card, budgeting for credit card annual fees, short-term treasuries vs CDs, best way to manage multiple credit cards, using perks to offset credit card fees, and investing during economic downturns. 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
    Más Menos
    28 m
  • Should You Keep Your Old Home? The Financial Case for Selling vs. Renting

    Should You Keep Your Old Home? The Financial Case for Selling vs. Renting
    May 26 2025
    Planning a big move? Learn how to decide whether you should sell or rent your home and fund your next down payment. Should you sell or rent out your home when you move? What’s the best way to fund a down payment from multiple accounts? Host Sean Pyles talks to NerdWallet writer Lisa Green about the big financial decisions that come with relocating across a long distance. Joined by listener David, they explore how to evaluate whether keeping a home as a rental makes sense, and what it takes to manage that property from a distance. They begin with a discussion of long-distance landlording, with tips and tricks on hiring a property manager, maintaining a savings cushion, and considering the tax benefits of depreciation and travel deductions. They also discuss which accounts to withdraw from with minimal tax consequences, how to leverage a HELOC before moving, and how the timing of a move can impact your financial strategy. Learn about down payments and calculate how much to put down on a house: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/down-payment-calculator If you’re ready to find the right mortgage with expert guidance every step of the way, get started today at https://www.nerdwallet.com/prequalify/m/mortgage-experts/lp1 In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: renting out your home after moving, long distance landlord tips, property manager costs, managing a rental property from another state, home equity line of credit for down payment, how to get money for a home down payment, using Roth IRA for home purchase, cashing out taxable investments for a down payment, capital gains tax on investment sales, moving across the country with kids, how to prepare financially for a move, cross-country move costs, downsizing before a move, furnished rental property tax benefits, rental property depreciation, rental property travel tax deduction, renting furnished home to traveling nurses, comparing cost of pods vs U-Haul, best way to move long distance, property management for out-of-state rental, rental vacancy costs, tax benefits of keeping a rental property, how to handle moving logistics, financial planning for relocation, and how to access money for a house down payment. 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
    Más Menos
    23 m
  • How to Prepare for Stagflation and Make Your Insurance Work Harder

    How to Prepare for Stagflation and Make Your Insurance Work Harder
    May 22 2025
    Learn what stagflation could mean for your finances and how to tell if you need life insurance. Do you still need life insurance if you’ve built enough wealth? What does stagflation mean for your financial plan? Hosts Elizabeth Ayoola and Sean Pyles discuss how to determine whether your life insurance coverage still fits your needs and what to watch for as economists warn about potential stagflation. First, along with NerdWallet senior news writer Anna Helhoski and inflation expert Taryn Phaneuf, they break down how to think about your financial protection in uncertain times, discussing stagflation—what it is, why it’s so rare, and what signs to look for now—and offering tips on monitoring inflation, adjusting your savings strategy, and reducing high-interest debt. Then, listener Adam joins Sean and Elizabeth to explore whether increasing umbrella insurance means he can lower his auto coverage, when to switch to a group life policy through work, and how to estimate college savings needs for three kids. They discuss comparing life insurance policies, how to factor net worth into coverage decisions, and why regular insurance check-ins are key. Use NerdWallet’s free tool to compare life insurance quotes and find the right coverage for you and your family https://www.nerdwallet.com/insurance/life/life-insurance-quotes In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: life insurance vs net worth, term life insurance, umbrella vs collision insurance, when to update life insurance, group life insurance policy, employer life insurance coverage, best life insurance for parents, convert group life insurance, stagflation, what is stagflation, signs of stagflation, stagflation 2025, Consumer Price Index April 2025, high-yield savings accounts inflation, saving during inflation, emergency fund inflation, umbrella insurance minimums, collision coverage and umbrella insurance, auto insurance comparison, saving for college with 529, 529 contribution calculator, estimating college savings, tuition benefits, financial checklist after remarriage, insurance tips for high net worth, choosing term vs whole life, how to save on insurance, switching insurance after marriage, family insurance planning, life insurance for spouse, when to drop term life insurance, inflation trends 2025, how to prepare for stagflation, and Federal Reserve inflation targets. 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
    Más Menos
    34 m
adbl_web_global_use_to_activate_webcro805_stickypopup