The Clark Howard Podcast

Learn Clark’s position on crypto and why it’s not yet ready for prime time. Most people who’ve put money into crypto have lost money, either through fraud or lost value. Ultimately digital money will become part of our lives. This is the pioneering phase of crooks, con artists, speculators and believers. Also, Clark was diagnosed with prostate cancer 14 years ago. Why this can be a complicated dia...

Clark discusses how travel insurance and cancellations generally work, and a void in the market that AMEX is filling. Then, the discussion turns to weddings, a recent low cost nuptial ceremony that went viral and cash wedding gifts.  AMEX Travel Benefit: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Budget Weddings: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show:  The Points Guy: American Express adds new...

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also, jobs are abundant right now for all but the summer employment outlook has never been better for teens. There are jobs aplenty for decent pay. Plus, an important professional courtesy tip from Clark.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Summer Jobs for Teens: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4...

While investment costs have never been lower, some investors pay really high costs to non-fiduciaries. Clark explains a sneaky trick involving insurance agents posing as financial advisors, and the vital, costly difference between “fee-based” advisors and fee ONLY fiduciaries. Plus - Now is the time to break with cellular inertia and shop great new options that can serve you well and save you larg...

Learn how to save for the future when you freelance, work side hustles or own your own business and don’t have access to a company retirement plan. AND - Neglecting one simple auto maintenance step can cost you big time. Heed Clark before your road trip this summer.  Self-Employed Retirement Planning: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Get Roadworthy: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4   Mentioned on the...

Party rentals have become a huge problem for Airbnb, so they’re launching an anti-party crackdown. What to expect when booking - and major considerations for potential hosts. Also, there has been a lot of talk lately about student loans and the cost of college. Clark covers which degree programs have the best payback. When you can match your interests with an in-demand high-earning degree - career...

If you feel you can serve a need in the marketplace, this is a golden era for entrepreneurs. Clark discusses the many considerations involved in starting your own business. Also, the number of people injured or killed in road accidents has gone way up. A.I. technology can prevent or reduce the severity of accidents, which involves driver tracking & control - now mandated in parts of Europe. Auto I...

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. And - Clark has a scam warning & rip off alert about travel booking, and a heads up about an emerging airline practice you need to be aware of. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Travel Warnings: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Apple Credit Card Review: Earn Cash Back on...

College isn’t the only path to success. Clark summarizes the skills education landscape including Google IT training programs. But for many, college is the path to career fulfillment. Why many are dropping out today, and ways to go the distance at lower cost and get that degree. Clark also talks about internet privacy and U.S. tech giants’ initiatives vs. Europe’s Right to Be Forgotten. Now there’...

The cost of solar is down 80% from a decade ago - a way to defray energy cost, along with ultra efficient HVAC systems coming soon. Ways to reduce energy consumption now include LED light bulbs,  adequate insulation and smart thermostats.  Also - lab created diamonds are taking off and for a very beautiful reason.  Energy Consumption: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Lab Created Diamonds: Segment 3...

Two special warnings this episode - The first deals with confusion around Medicare Advantage plans, a choice many regret. Heed this warning if you or a loved one is approaching age 65. Plus, an alarming trend in mortgages and a Clark smart hard & fast rule to follow. Medicare Disadvantage Plans: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Adjustable Rate Mortgages: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on t...

The big runup in gas is getting people more focused on where they buy. The market is becoming dominated by independent retailers, not the traditional oil companies. The forward thinking growth of Wawa includes charging stations. And where and how you shop for groceries makes a big difference too. Clark shares what’s getting more pricey and what’s not, and strategies for all to save on groceries, i...

Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also, you may be offered alternative investments from your brokerage house - private equity investments. They aren’t just for the ultra rich anymore. Why you should proceed with caution.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Alternative Investments: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4   Mentioned on the show:...

In addition to Series I Savings Bonds - Clark explains a Treasury Direct program as another risk free way to earn more on your idle cash. And - What every parent of young children should know: A new study out reveals the best baby formulas for both quality and price,  Better Savings Rates - Zero Risk: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 BEST Baby Formulas: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4   Mentioned on...

Fidelity. one of the largest and most innovative administrators of 401(k)s, is now offering Bitcoin in 401(k)s as an option for employers to add. Clark explains why this is risky, speculative and not ready for prime time. Also, tipping pressure in all new places has spread all over the country. Is this just maddening or are we finally giving employees their due?  Bitcoin in 401(k)s: Segment 1 Ask...

Clark clears confusion surrounding new loan forgiveness, We’re approaching $2 trillion in outstanding student loan debt. Clark talks about how general policy should be surrounding student loans moving forward. Also, Zelle is a monster bank creation causing widespread financial hardship, getting the pushback it deserves. Clark describes how Zelle came about, the increasing problems now, and has a s...

From hotels to Airbnb, the tactic of unbundling to hide junk fees has worked. People go for a low headline price, only to be charged more. Clark helps you navigate booking so you see the true price. Also, besides reducing costs for heating and cooling, there’s another area for energy savings. Free and easy ways to help cut your energy bill.   Vacation Rental Surprise Fees: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Seg...

Clark Stinks day - Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also, Credit bureau dirty tricks of the trade include conning consumers into paying for unnecessary subscriptions or info required by law to be free. Learn how that game is played, and what to know about credit freeze and credit reports.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Credit Bureau Cons: Segment...

A small company owned by an individual now sells 1 in 6 ready to drink ice teas in the U.S. This entrepreneur is bucking the system, maintaining a price point even as costs rise - holding to a business model that sets the brand apart. And - American charge volume on existing cards has gone up 25% over the last year, a reverse from pandemic pay offs - at a time of rising interest rates. Are you run...

Home prices remain inflated and mortgage rates are the highest in 11 years, making for an extremely difficult spring buying & selling season. Prices vary by metro area and there are places where - even today - it can make sense to buy. And from the labor force - This generation of workers speaks out and tone-deaf corporate bureaucracies would do well to listen. One of the fastest growing retailers...

People are buying homes sight-unseen. Clark conveys how this practice worked out 15 years ago, and now the stakes are much higher. Learn Clark’s new strategic advice on home buying in today’s hot housing market. Also, Costco Wholesale is a hit with the stock market, their employees and customers. What’s their secret? Hear why Wall St. used to hate their business model, but loves it now!   Buying A...

The average Baby Boomer faces retirement with no pension and inadequate savings. Plus many got pushed out of work during the pandemic. Clark has two recommendations. Also, roughly half the nation’s states now require personal finance classes, teaching kids the basics - and the dangers of student loan debt. But financial education can start any time and is ongoing as you build your future. Clark he...

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Then Clark discusses a wise approach to market volatility, where to park savings for the best rate moving forward and Series I Savings Bonds. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Current Saving & Investing Strategy: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4   Mentioned on the show: 5 Things To Know About S...

Monday’s launch of the F-150 Lightning marks an inflection point in the evolving vehicle market. Clark gives an overview of the market now, and where we’re headed. Also, new cell phone offerings can save you big bucks! There’s a new low price leader for family plans well worth checking out. Google Fi Price Drops: Unlimited for As Low as $20 per Line F-150 Lightning Launch-Auto Overview: Segment 1...

Clark weighs in on an old debate: Which is the better investment - rental property or stocks? Learn the pros and cons of each. Also, a WFH question is brewing: Should employers pay work from home expenses? Should you expect your employer to foot the bill for any of your costs?  Real Estate vs. Stocks: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 WFH Expenses: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4   Mentioned on the sh...