NerdWallet's Smart Money Podcast

NerdWallet Personal Finance

NerdWallet’s objective finance journalists answer real-world questions empowering you to make smarter decisions with your money and help your finances thrive. The Nerds are your resource to make the most of your personal finances, while cutting through the clutter and misinformation of today’s economic news and advice. You’ll get clarity on strategies to help you build your wealth, invest wisely, shop for financial products, and plan for major life events. By the end of each episode, you’ll feel smarter and more informed to make the most of your finances. Future You will thank you. Join hosts Sean Pyles, Sara Rathner, and other expert Nerds as they discuss everything personal finance, including: - Credit cards: credit card rewards, different types of credit cards, credit card annual fees - Investing and retirement: investment strategies, retirement planning, financial independence, investing in the stock market, money market accounts, financial strategies, mutual funds, short-term bonds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), Roth IRA investing, robo-advisors, retirement savings - Personal finance: budgeting methods, emergency funds, paying off debt, frugal living, money management tips, wealth accumulation, money habits, cultivating a money growth mindset, debt-free living, financial resources, budgeting apps and browser extensions, avoiding scams, tax bills, financial success and financial stability - Banking: high-yield saving accounts, online banking, credit unions - Loans: student loans, home equity loans, HELOC, student loan forgiveness - Home: mortgage interest rates, homebuying, home improvement projects, homeowners insurance - Insurance: travel insurance, pet insurance, auto insurance, home insurance You’ll love NerdWallet’s Smart Money Podcast if you like podcasts like Planet Money, The Personal Finance Podcast, DIY Money, Afford Anything, How to Money, The Ramsey Show, Money Rehab with Nicole Lapin, NPR’s Life Kit: Money, Popcorn Finance, Money Girl, Everyone’s Talkin’ Money, So Money with Farnoosh Tarabi, The Money with Katie Show, All the Hacks with Chris Hutchins, The Stacking Benjamins Show, MoneyWatch with Jill Schlesinger, or Your Money, Your Wealth. NerdWallet Compare, Inc. NMLS ID# 1617539 NMLS Consumer Access: http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/ read less
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Episodes

Plan Your Next Cruise: Tips on Booking, Excursions and Entertainment
Yesterday
Plan Your Next Cruise: Tips on Booking, Excursions and Entertainment
Explore the ins and outs of planning a cruise, from choosing the right trip to coordinating on-board activities. What are the benefits of booking a group cruise for your friends and family?  What amenities do cruises offer that could make travel easier for you and your group?  Hosts Sean Pyles and Meghan Coyle discuss how to choose and book the best cruise to help you understand the logistics of planning a group vacation at sea. They begin with a discussion of the advantages and drawbacks of going on a cruise with a group, with tips and tricks on selecting destinations that fit your travel style, managing the financial aspects of shared cruise costs, and utilizing onboard amenities for all age groups.  Then, Sean and Meghan discuss the ins and outs of cruise excursions and travel tips for groups. They discuss the importance of early reservation for excursions, strategies for avoiding the rush when disembarking at ports, and the value of shared travel experiences for bonding with your party. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: group cruises, cruise planning, group travel, cruise excursions, booking a cruise, cruise experience, family cruises, cruise ship amenities, group vacations, group cruise booking, onboard activities, cruise ship entertainment options, cruises for seniors, group vacation planning, and travel planning 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.
Money in Your Pocket: Biden's Bid to Banish College Junk Fees
2d ago
Money in Your Pocket: Biden's Bid to Banish College Junk Fees
Neera Tanden, domestic policy advisor to President Biden, discusses the fight against junk fees impacting college students. What hidden “junk fees” are college students facing? How is the Biden Administration addressing fees to make higher education more affordable? Hosts Sean Pyles and Anna Helhoski discuss the Biden Administration's recent efforts to combat junk fees in colleges, from financial products marketed to students like credit cards and bank accounts to textbook costs and unused meal plan dollars. They speak with Neera Tanden, domestic policy advisor to President Biden, about the more than $1 billion annual impact of these fees and the bipartisan support she expects for some of these policies. Then, in this week's Money News roundup, Sean and Anna discuss issues with the new FAFSA, the Federal Reserve's latest stance on interest rates, and continuing surge of home sales. Get a comprehensive overview of the latest developments affecting your finances and gain valuable insights to stay ahead in an ever-changing economic environment, whether you're a student navigating the labyrinth of college fees or a homeowner keeping tabs on market trends. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: hidden fees, FAFSA troubles, Federal Reserve, interest rates, housing market, college fees, student finances, financial aid, junk fees, textbook costs, student loans, college expenses, student banking, origination fees, meal plans, tuition bills, open-source textbooks, college affordability, financial literacy, student debt, financial aid applications, existing homes, home prices, National Association of Realtors, mortgage rates, economic indicators, market trends, financial decisions, and personal finance. 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.
How Secure and Private Are Your Digital Wallet Transactions? Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo and More
4d ago
How Secure and Private Are Your Digital Wallet Transactions? Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo and More
Learn the truth behind common credit score myths and get a better understanding of digital wallet privacy and security. 00:51 This Week in Your Money: Do you need to carry a credit card balance in order to maintain a good credit score? Does checking your credit score hurt your credit? Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner debunk common credit score myths to help you understand the realities of your credit health. They offer valuable insights into how carrying a balance affects your credit score, the safety of checking your credit score regularly, and the importance of maintaining a history with your credit accounts open.  09:45 Today’s Money Question: Are digital wallets truly safe and private? Is it safer to pay with a check than online? Sean and Sara discuss the intricacies of digital wallets, explaining the role of tokenization in securing transactions, the importance of phone security features like passcodes and biometrics, and the varying privacy policies of digital wallet providers like Google Pay and Apple Pay. They explain how digital transactions are protected, how to navigate privacy settings in apps like Venmo, and how they’ve used digital wallets in their own lives. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: credit score myths, digital wallets, mobile transactions, transaction tokenization, credit scores, cashless transactions, credit card balance, checking credit scores, Google Pay, Apple Pay, Venmo, Samsung Pay, digital payment options, digital spending, financial reputation, privacy policies, mobile payments, credit card fraud, secure transactions, consumer data, credit utilization, credit history, biometric data, phone locks, digital payment security, financial decisions, credit score improvement, online bill payments, credit card security, payment tokenization, credit bureaus, credit profile, credit card management, digital wallet adoption, credit score factors, cashless convenience, and payment privacy. 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.
Save on Travel Transportation: Your Guide to Rental Cars, RVs and Public Transit
21-03-2024
Save on Travel Transportation: Your Guide to Rental Cars, RVs and Public Transit
Get savvy about car rental services, pros and cons of RV rentals and navigating public transportation when traveling. What are the best transportation options when traveling with a group?  When is it worth it to rent a car?  NerdWallet’s Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss group transportation options and public transportation strategies to help you understand how to move your squad around efficiently and economically. They begin with a discussion of various modes of transportation, with tips and tricks for saving money on rental cars. Then, they discuss the ins and outs of RV travel and public transit in cities. They also talk about RV delivery services, managing fuel costs, the practicality of Amtrak for group travel, and the advantages of public transit over car rentals in urban settings. Has this episode given you a travel bug? Then check out our list of the 15 Best Travel Credit Cards of March 2024. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: group travel, rental cars, RV travel, public transportation, Amtrak trains, electric vehicles, travel tips, group excursions, travel with friends, family vacations, RV adventures, RV delivery services, rental car expenses, rental car elite status, downtown rental locations, travel logistics, group transportation options, car sharing apps, travel insurance, travel savings, renting electric cars, Turo, GetAround, group travel strategies, group transportation logistics, hop-on hop-off buses, travel by train, urban travel, group road trips, managing travel costs, travel apps, rental car alternatives, efficient transportation, travel planning, group trip planning, sustainable travel, eco-friendly travel, family road trips, and car rental 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.
A Landmark Legal Settlement Could Make Home Buying and Selling More Complicated
20-03-2024
A Landmark Legal Settlement Could Make Home Buying and Selling More Complicated
Discover how a historic change in the way real estate agents are paid could impact prices for home buyers and sellers. Will housing costs become cheaper under new real estate commission rules? How will the recent settlement by the National Association of Realtors impact home buyers and sellers? Hosts Sean Pyles and Anna Helhoski delve into the details of the $418 million settlement by the National Association of Realtors, discussing its potential implications on the home buying and selling process. NerdWallet mortgage writer Holden Lewis joins the conversation to break down the changes and their possible effects on home prices. From understanding the intricacies of commission negotiations to potential ripple effects on the housing market, this episode equips you with the knowledge to navigate the evolving real estate industry. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned seller, you'll gain valuable perspectives on optimizing your real estate transactions and making informed financial decisions. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: real estate commissions, home buyers, home sellers, National Association of Realtors, real estate industry, realtor commissions, housing market, real estate agents, buyer agents, seller agents, real estate negotiations, real estate lawsuit, buyer negotiation, seller negotiation, home prices, home sales, NAR settlement, real estate news, commission structures, buyer-seller negotiations, and real estate commission changes. 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.
Automate Your Way to Building Wealth with Vivian Tu, “Your Rich BFF”
18-03-2024
Automate Your Way to Building Wealth with Vivian Tu, “Your Rich BFF”
“Your Rich BFF” Vivian Tu explains how to adopt a millionaire’s mindset and shares key strategies for building wealth. How do wealthy people think about building wealth? What career choices can lead to a faster increase in income? Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner discuss spring financial planning and wealth-building strategies to help you understand how to effectively grow your finances and navigate career advancement. They begin with a discussion of setting SMARTR financial goals for spring, with tips and tricks on setting realistic goals, checking in on your financial objectives, and planning for home improvements.  Then, podcaster, social media influencer, and author Vivian Tu, also known as "Your Rich BFF," joins Sean to discuss wealth-building through passive income and active career decisions. They discuss the importance of making your money work for you, the psychological barriers to seeking higher income, and the significance of securing a meaningful raise or position shift every two years. She shares her insights on transitioning from Wall Street to digital media, democratizing financial knowledge, and cultivating a mindset for wealth accumulation.  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: financial growth, wealth-building strategies, smart money moves, financial planning, financial freedom, financial literacy, career growth, money management, passive income, salary negotiation, side hustles, investing, home improvement fund, tax season, budgeting, saving money, personal finance, financial goals, wealth accumulation, money strategies, raise negotiation, professional development, financial wellbeing, emergency funds, financial education, financial independence, increase income, workplace dynamics, financial security, money motivation, financial planning tips, money tasks, personal finance philosophy, financial automation, meritocracy, job switching, raise requests, and wealth-building 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.
Group Vacations: Affordable Accommodations, Cost-Splitting, and Embracing Flexibility
14-03-2024
Group Vacations: Affordable Accommodations, Cost-Splitting, and Embracing Flexibility
Discover tips and get answers to common questions for smooth group travel, from choosing accommodations to managing meals and costs for a successful trip. How can you find the perfect accommodations for group travel without overspending?  How can you split group expenses fairly?  NerdWallet’s Megan Coyle and Megan Lee discuss the ins and outs of group travel accommodations and the logistics of planning a group trip to help you understand how to orchestrate a seamless group vacation experience.  They begin with a discussion of lodging options, with tips and tricks on selecting cost-effective stays, balancing the convenience of hotels against the charm of vacation rentals, and splitting costs to prevent financial surprises. Then, they discuss orchestrating meals for large parties, managing group dynamics by rewarding those who take the lead, and crafting memorable group activities that cater to everyone's interests. Interested in more travel tools? Then check out our list of the 15 Best Travel Credit Cards of March 2024. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: group travel, travel planning, group accommodations, vacation rentals, Airbnb, Vrbo, group vacations, travel expenses, travel budgeting, group meals, shared costs, travel tips, group activities, retreat planning, travel harmony, travel expert insights, group lodging, cost savings, group getaways, stress-free travel, group retreats, group travel strategies, travel accommodations, hotel stays, city travel, group dynamics, group costs, travel flexibility, travel adventures, travel amenities, travel experiences, group dining, communal experiences, travel memories, group travel options, group travel challenges, and budget discussions. 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.
How to Choose Between Paying Debt and Investing After a Windfall
11-03-2024
How to Choose Between Paying Debt and Investing After a Windfall
Learn from others’ missteps in our new segment, “My Favorite Financial Mistake.” Plus: balancing paying debt vs. saving. 00:39 This Week in Your Money: What can you learn from making financial mistakes? Should you save and invest or pay off debt when you get a financial windfall? Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner, along with their new co-host Elizabeth Ayoola, discuss turning financial blunders into learning opportunities to help you set up for future financial success. They begin with a candid discussion about their personal financial missteps, offering insights on mental accounting, the perils of emotional spending, and the importance of maintaining flexibility in your financial planning.  13:22 Today’s Money Question: Adam, a Colorado firefighter, joins Sean and Sara to discuss cash windfalls and long-term planning. They delve into the intricacies of choosing between paying off debt and investing in a 529 college savings plan, the merits of a zero percent APR balance transfer, and the joy of spending on memorable family experiences. They also explore long-term financial goals and the art of balancing immediate financial needs with future planning. They highlight the benefits of starting an emergency fund with modest contributions, the strategy of tackling high-interest credit card debt while saving, and the value of investing in life experiences.  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: financial planning, money management, paying off debt, 529 college savings plan, retirement savings, emergency funds, financial goals, investment strategies, credit card debt, high-yield savings accounts, long-term wealth creation, financial windfall, financial mistakes, educational savings accounts, budgeting, personal finance, managing finances, mental accounting, emotional spending, financial balance, financial empowerment, financial success, economic stability, budgetary slips, financial blunders, credit challenges, money missteps, financial faux pas, long-term planning, financial fears, and financial shame. 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.
Elevate Your Family & Group Getaways: Get Travel Deals with Smart Planning and Points
07-03-2024
Elevate Your Family & Group Getaways: Get Travel Deals with Smart Planning and Points
Get expert tips on affordable group and family air travel, from maximizing points and rewards to booking the best flights and maximizing airline perks. How can you make group travel both enjoyable and affordable?  What are the best strategies for using travel points and credit cards to your advantage when planning group trips?  Hosts Sean Pyles and Meghan Coyle discuss the intricacies of group travel planning and the mastery of travel points and credit card perks to help you understand how to have a memorable group trip without breaking the bank. They begin with a discussion of group travel planning, with tips and tricks on securing the best deals, navigating planning for multiple people, and leveraging travel credit cards to mitigate extra fees such as those for seat selection.  Then, Meghan interviews credit card Nerd Erin Hurd about the nuances of booking flights for groups. They discuss strategies for using points effectively when traveling with a group, the benefits of programs like Southwest Airlines' Early Bird Check-In and Upgraded Boarding, and the flexibility of pooling points with hotel programs like Hilton and Marriott. Has this episode given you a travel bug? Then check out our list of the 15 Best Travel Credit Cards of March 2024.  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: group travel, travel savings, travel rewards, travel tips, budget travel, group vacations, travel points, travel credit cards, Southwest airlines, early bird check-in, family travel, travel planning, airline points, companion passes, airport lounges, group flights, group lodging, travel experiences, airline perks, travel benefits, travel coordination, credit card perks, flight booking, pooling points, credit card rewards, airport lounge access, travel itineraries, airline status matching, airline incidental fees, and upgraded boarding. 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.
Tips to Save on Groceries and Navigate Tax Season
04-03-2024
Tips to Save on Groceries and Navigate Tax Season
Learn about savvy grocery saving and expert tax filing tips to bolster your budget and ease tax season stress. 1:14 This Week in Your Money: How can you slash your grocery bills and still eat healthy foods amid rising costs? What’s new for this year’s tax season? Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner discuss saving money on groceries and simplifying tax filing to help you understand how to eat smart, save big, and conquer tax season with ease. They begin with a discussion of frugal grocery shopping, with tips and tricks on comparing unit prices, the benefits of curbside pickup, and incorporating a plant-based diet. NerdWallet’s Alana Benson joins Sean and Sara to explain how she saved $800 on groceries over 5 months, highlighting the financial and health benefits of a plant-based diet and giving practical tips for those who are interested in cutting costs. 10:33 Today’s Money Question: Bella Avila from NerdWallet’s tax team joins Sean and Sara to discuss IRS updates for this tax season, including the new Direct File tax filing software and an update to standard deductions. They also demystify tax brackets, explain how to get your tax refund faster, and weigh the pros and cons of consulting with a professional advisor for personalized financial guidance. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: tax filing, grocery shopping hacks, grocery bills, tax season, plant-based diets, money saving tips, tax refunds, IRS Direct File, standard deductions, tax brackets, healthy eating, tax filing deadline, tax updates, tax software, student loan interest deduction, curbside pickup, vegetarian meals, tax returns, frugal food shopping, maximizing your return, tax preparation, financial savings, navigating taxes, budgeting tips, tax filing tips, comparing prices, direct deposit, IRS updates, lentils and legumes, affordable eating, tax deductions, and tax rates. 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.
Revitalize Your Budget with a 30-Day Money Cleanse
29-02-2024
Revitalize Your Budget with a 30-Day Money Cleanse
Discover how to revamp your finances with a 30-day money cleanse that aligns your spending with joy and personal values. How can you set a budget that aligns with your goals?  How can you optimize your spending to reduce waste?  NerdWallet’s Kim Palmer talks to Ashley Feinstein Gerstley, author of The 30-Day Money Cleanse, to help you understand how small changes can make a significant impact on your financial health. They begin with a discussion of the financial cleanse, with tips and tricks on aligning spending with personal values, creating lasting habits in 30 days by using a method that has saved others an average of $950 over 30 days — without feeling deprived.  They also discuss money management tactics that include keeping a money journal, practicing visualization and having money parties. They discuss the benefits of recording feelings associated with each purchase, indulging in simple low-cost activities that bring happiness and aligning spending with personal values for a more satisfying approach to personal finance. In this conversation, you’ll learn about: The 30-day Money Cleanse, financial wellbeing, saving money, frugal living, financial habits, money management, financial health, money mindfulness, budgeting tips, personal finance, spending patterns, financial planning, money journals, visualization techniques, aligning spending with values, financial discussions, financial empowerment, financial strategies, money challenge, saving tips, low-cost activities, financial cleansing, emotional spending, money mindset, money and happiness, fiscal fitness, wealth building, financial conversations, money saving challenge, and money decisions. 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.
Student Loan Debt Relief and the SAVE Plan’s Future with Secretary Miguel Cardona
28-02-2024
Student Loan Debt Relief and the SAVE Plan’s Future with Secretary Miguel Cardona
U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona discusses the early rollout of $1.2B in student loan forgiveness and the future of debt relief. Why did the Biden administration accelerate student loan forgiveness by wiping away $1.2 billion in debt nearly six months ahead of schedule? How will eligible borrowers, especially those enrolled in the new income-driven repayment plan SAVE, be notified of this unexpected relief? Hosts Sean Pyles and Anna Helhoski explain the latest in student loan forgiveness before Anna speaks with Dr. Miguel Cardona, U.S. Secretary of Education. They break down the latest wave of debt relief, totaling a historic 138 billion dollars approved for cancellation among 3.9 million borrowers, all achieved through executive action. They also discuss the motivations behind prioritizing student debt forgiveness and the details of the SAVE plan, offering insights into who benefits, how eligible borrowers will be notified, and what lies ahead for student loan borrowers in 2024.  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: student loans, loan forgiveness, Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan, debt relief, income-driven repayment, financial aid, student debt, loan cancellation, loan eligibility, loan notification, executive action, loan benefits, repayment plan, loan borrowers, debt cancellation, loan relief, loan impact, loan insights, loan motivations, federal student aid, and Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). 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.
Unlock the Benefits of 529 Plans to Save for College Tuition and Education Expenses
26-02-2024
Unlock the Benefits of 529 Plans to Save for College Tuition and Education Expenses
Learn how to utilize a tax advantaged 529 plan to help your or a friend’s children save for future education expenses. 00:57 This Week in Your Money: What are the risks of purchasing a home without an inspection? How can you plan for major expenses when healthcare providers can’t tell you how much their services will cost? Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner share their hot takes on unexpected financial challenges, with tips and tricks on handling surprise expenses, understanding the importance of home inspections, and dealing with healthcare industry inefficiencies. 09:46 Today’s Money Question: What are the benefits of a 529 college savings plan? Can you contribute to a friend’s 529 plan to support their child’s future? NerdWallet writer Elizabeth Ayoola joins Sean and Sara to discuss the essentials of 529 college savings plans. They discuss the types of educational expenses covered, the tax benefits associated with 529 plans, and the flexibility of choosing different state plans. They also answer a listener’s question about how to approach the sensitive topic of financial gifts for education with parents, sharing methods for contributing to a loved one’s 529 plan without overstepping boundaries. Then, they discuss the implications of the Secure Act 2.0 on 529 plans, methods for estimating necessary savings for a child's education, and tactful ways to discuss educational contributions with parents. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: 529 college savings plans, financial planning, educational savings, personal finance, budgeting, unexpected expenses, saving for college, tax-advantaged savings, financial gifts, college fund, education expenses, financial pressures, smart spending, investment plans, home inspection, healthcare costs, higher education, financial obstacles, educational funding, educational investments, financial strategies, money matters, budget woes, financial frustrations, financial storms, monetary setbacks, savvy spending, financial goals, state tax deductions, tax benefits, financial contributions, Roth IRA rollovers, financial planning skills, education costs, college tuition, and family finances. 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.
Succeed in Self-Employment: How to Choose The Best Business Structure for Liability and Taxes (S Corps, C Corps, LLCs, Sole Proprietorships)
22-02-2024
Succeed in Self-Employment: How to Choose The Best Business Structure for Liability and Taxes (S Corps, C Corps, LLCs, Sole Proprietorships)
Learn how to choose the right business structure for financial success and legal protection as a self-employed entrepreneur with answers to common questions. How do you select the right business structure when you’re self-employed?  What are the financial implications of different business structures on personal finances?  Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola help you understand how to navigate your business's legal identity by comparing business structures for self-employment. They begin with a discussion of different business structures available for self-employment, with tips and tricks on separating personal liability from business, the ease of filing taxes as a pass-through entity, and the importance of obtaining an EIN for building business credit.  Then, Elizabeth talks to Bryan Jackson, certified financial planner and senior wealth advisor at Beacon Pointe Advisors, about the nuances of LLCs, S corporations, and traditional corporations. They discuss the pros and cons of each structure, the flexibility of LLCs in terms of membership and taxation and the more stringent requirements of S corps. How do you navigate the complex process of business formation?  What should you consider when transitioning from self-employment to business ownership?  Bryan talks through the critical questions that shape your enterprise's future, offering guidance on the implications of single versus multiple ownership, the relevance of non-U.S. partners and the significance of share transferability. He also delves into topics such as the distinction between being self-employed and a business owner, the benefits of formalizing a business early, and the different financial impacts of each business structure on personal finances. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: business structure, entrepreneurship, LLC, S corp or S corporations, sole proprietorship, business formation, financial success, self-employed, types of corporations, liability protection, tax implications, financial planning, business entities, choosing a business structure, small businesses, business credit, pass-through taxation, business ownership, liability, taxes, legal identity, business registration, EIN number, business bank account, corporate veil of protection, liability exposure, side hustles, business credit profile, business incorporation, liability separation, SBA loans, tax preparation, self-employment journey, business liabilities, business profits, and tax filing. 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.
Navigating Surging Mortgage and Child Care Costs
21-02-2024
Navigating Surging Mortgage and Child Care Costs
Explore strategies to navigate surging mortgage and child care costs so you can meet your goals despite rising expenses. How are rising mortgage and child care costs impacting the typical American family? Hosts Sean Pyles and Anna Helhoski tackle the pressing issue of the dual financial burden faced by many households today. They discuss the nuances of the affordability crisis before NerdWallet writer and mortgage expert Kate Wood joins them to shed light on the housing market dynamics, explaining how supply and demand, coupled with higher mortgage rates, are contributing to soaring home prices. They also share insights into the outlook for mortgages in the coming year and practical advice for prospective homebuyers, especially those grappling with high child care costs.  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: mortgage costs, child care expenses, housing affordability crisis, financial challenges, high mortgage rates, home buying strategies, economic realities, rising living expenses, practical solutions, affordability crisis, real estate analysis, family finances, household income, affordable housing, child care budgets, housing market dynamics, financial well-being, financial impact, creative living situations, navigating expenses, financial resilience, child care subsidies, housing market trends, mortgage rates outlook, prospective home buyers, housing market outlook, financial insights, and financial strategies. 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.
Wealth Building Strategies: Investing and Tax Tips for Financial Success
19-02-2024
Wealth Building Strategies: Investing and Tax Tips for Financial Success
Learn investment and tax strategies to help you achieve financial security and prepare for a prosperous retirement. How can you balance saving for emergencies and investing for the future? What strategies can you employ to maximize your tax benefits and build a secure financial future? NerdWallet’s Kim Palmer and Alana Benson discuss investment strategies and tax planning to help you understand how to navigate your financial journey effectively. They begin with a discussion of investment strategies, with tips and tricks on understanding different investment accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs, leveraging compound interest, and the importance of starting investments early. Then, Alana discusses tax planning and filing in-depth, covering the intricacies of different tax forms like W-4s and W-2s, the significance of estimated taxes for freelancers, and strategies for managing capital gains taxes. Kim and Alana delve into retirement planning and the challenges of active versus passive investing. They provide a framework for prioritizing your finances, emphasizing the creation of an emergency fund, taking advantage of employer 401(k) matches, and understanding the role of asset allocation based on age and risk tolerance. Additionally, they tackle the decision-making process in personal finance, such as choosing between paying off debt and investing, and the pros and cons of having a financial advisor. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: getting started with investing, tax strategies, retirement planning, financial advisors, Roth IRA, 401(k), individual retirement accounts, compound interest, investment accounts, passive investing, active investing, index funds, emergency funds, capital gains taxes, how to build wealth, investment strategy, tax filings, W-4 and W-2 tax forms, estimated taxes, freelancing, financial goals, saving money, risk tolerance, asset allocation, tax planning, financial planning, investment tips, tax tips, financial decisions, savings account, and brokerage accounts. 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.
Saving for Retirement When You’re Self-Employed: SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs and Other Plans
15-02-2024
Saving for Retirement When You’re Self-Employed: SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs and Other Plans
Learn retirement savings strategies tailored for self-employed individuals to secure a financially stable future. How can self-employed individuals effectively save for retirement? What tailored retirement plans should freelancers and small business owners consider? NerdWallet’s Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the unique challenges of retirement savings for the self-employed and the different retirement plans available to help you understand how to secure your financial future while running your own business. They begin with a discussion of the hurdles of inconsistent income and strategies to manage expenses, with tips and tricks on proactive contribution, the transformative power of compounding interest, and paying oneself a consistent salary. Ayesha Selden, a stock broker, certified financial planner, real estate investor, and art collector,  joins Elizabeth to discuss the intricacies of various retirement accounts for the self-employed. They delve into the benefits of using qualified plans like solo 401(k)s, SEP IRAs, and SIMPLE IRAs, aligning retirement plans with business models, and the strategy of funding retirement through the sale of a business. They also highlight the importance of diversification to mitigate risks, building strong savings habits early on, and the potential of setting a consistent salary for financial stability. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: retirement savings, self-employed financial planning, retirement plans, retirement strategy, retirement contributions, solo 401(k), SEP IRA, SIMPLE IRA, compounding interest, certified financial planner, financial independence, retirement planning strategies, saving for retirement, business owners, retirement savings options, tax-deferred investments, managing expenses, investment diversification, retirement funding options, self-employment tax, financial management, employee and employer contributions, retirement accounts, consistent salary, fluctuating income, wealth management, retirement savings habits, retirement savings goals, employer matching, retirement savings accounts, retirement nest egg, saving habits, retirement planning advice, self-employment benefits, maximizing retirement savings, investment vessels, financial foresight, and retirement income streams. 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.
Money News: Capitalize on New Car Price Drops and Job Market Resilience
14-02-2024
Money News: Capitalize on New Car Price Drops and Job Market Resilience
Learn why now may be a good time to be in the market for a new car and why two industries are outliers in job layoffs. Why did new car prices drop in January? What’s driving layoffs in tech and media — and what does it mean for other jobs? Hosts Sean Pyles and Anna Helhoski discuss car prices and a recent surge in layoffs, particularly in the tech and media sectors. They kick off with an in-depth look at the auto industry, unraveling the reasons behind a significant drop in new vehicle prices and the impact of credit-tightening on car loans. The hosts share three key takeaways, emphasizing the implications for consumers looking to purchase a new car. Then, Sean and Sara delve into the complex landscape of layoffs, dissecting the trends in tech and media job cuts. They discuss the factors contributing to the tech industry's layoff spree and the challenges faced by the media sector, shedding light on the broader job market resilience despite specific sectorial challenges. In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: car prices, layoffs, auto industry, credit-tightening, job market trends, tech layoffs, media job cuts, labor market resilience, interest rates, new vehicle prices, manufacturing, economic growth, consumer confidence, Dealertrack Auto Credit Total Loan Index, credit availability, inflation, economic indicators, stock market, personal finance news, job market analysis, economic outlook, job gains, unemployment rate, and financial trends. 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.