In My Finance Era by Vanguard

Many money mistakes aren’t obvious failures—they’re missed opportunities. This episode highlights common, easy to overlook choices that can quietly slow progress, and how small changes can make a meaningful difference over time. What you’ll learn: The most common easy to miss money mistakes and how to spot them. Why combining employer match + time can have an outsized impact on savings. How to avo...

Should you focus on paying down debt—or start saving first? In this episode, we walk through a practical order of operations that helps you make progress without feeling stuck or overwhelmed. What you’ll learn: How to prioritize debt by interest rate to help reduce long-term costs. How to start building an emergency fund in realistic, achievable steps. How budgeting can support better decisions wi...

If investing terms like “risk” and “compounding” feel abstract, this episode makes them concrete. In this episode of In My Finance Era, we break down how investing actually works—how money can grow over time, what different types of risk really mean, and why many long‑term investors choose diversified index funds instead of trying to pick winners. Rather than focusing on short‑term market moves, t...

Investing doesn’t require perfect timing or constant monitoring. In this episode of In My Finance Era, we share an answer‑first framework built around a few core principles that help investors stay focused, disciplined, and aligned with long‑term goals, even when the market feels noisy. Instead of chasing trends or reacting to headlines, this conversation breaks investing down into simple ideas th...

Getting started with retirement saving can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of In My Finance Era, we break down two of the most important early career money moves: understanding your employer’s 401(k) match and making sense of health savings accounts (HSAs), especially if you’re changing jobs. Instead of trying to do everything at once, this conversation focuses on a fe...

Ever wondered, “How much should I save?” In this episode of  In My Finance Era , Brandon King, head of personal investor cash strategy at Vanguard, joins us to break down the essentials of financial discipline and lifestyle financial planning. Learn how to build an emergency fund that fits your life, prepare for income and spending shocks, and stay consistent with your savings goals—without sacrif...

Ever wondered what an emergency fund is and why it’s essential? In this episode, Vanguard behavioral economics expert Malena de la Fuente explains how building emergency funds can protect your financial future and reduce stress. We share real-life examples, compare saving vs. investing, and offer simple strategies to help you save money consistently—even if you’re just starting out.   Further info...

What is APY (annual percentage yield), and why does it matter? In this episode of  In My Finance Era , Sonia Fraher, head of cash management at Vanguard, breaks down how compounding interest can help you grow your savings faster. Learn how to compare savings options, understand the impact of inflation, and play our “Worth It or Waste It?” game to help you make smarter money moves.   Further inform...

Ready to maximize your savings? In this episode of  In My Finance Era , we explore smart alternatives to savings accounts—like high-yield savings accounts, cash management accounts, and money market funds—to help your money work harder. With expert insights from Andrew Kadjeski, principal and head of Brokerage & Investments for Vanguard’s Personal Investor business, you’ll learn how to choose...

Want to learn how to save money without feeling overwhelmed? In this kickoff episode of In My Finance Era , we explore the essentials of opening a savings account, setting saving goals, and understanding investing basics with expert insights from the head of cash plus distribution at Vanguard, Kate Byrne.   Whether you’re starting from scratch or leveling up your financial game, this episode is pa...