With Memorial Day weekend upon us, Clark shares important travel know-how. Navigating the rental car counter has become more like rocket science than a simple travel chore, but protecting your wallet starts with a few simple steps. With " car rental rage " on the rise due to surprise charges and poor service, it is critical to follow Clark’s timely rules. Also, if you’re looking for a domestic getaway , soft demand in a normally popular travel market presents a golden opportunity for the savvy t...
May 20, 2026•29 min
10 Essential Duties of a Real Fiduciary Financial Advisor (It’s Not Just Investing) If you think a financial advisor’s only job is to pick stocks, you’re missing out on the most valuable services a true fiduciary provides. In this episode, Wes Moss breaks down the ten essential roles a fee-only advisor should play. Whether you are engineering a retirement cash flow or navigating the emotional rollercoaster of market volatility, learn why a real fiduciary is your "personal CFO" for every major li...
May 19, 2026•29 min
Recent financial statistics reveal something highly disturbing: The average American saves just 4% of their pay. Saving just four cents of every dollar earned is inadequate to provide long-term security and leaves the majority of the country living on the edge of a financial cliff. If you find yourself stuck in this cycle, it is time to embrace the "penny-at-a-time" strategy. Also, the upcoming Memorial Day weekend brings massive sales events at furniture stores . The industry is flat on its bac...
May 18, 2026•40 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, a knock on your door from a roofer claiming they’ve spotted hail damage via drone might feel like a lucky break, but it’s often a trap. While the idea of getting a "free new roof" is tempting, filing small or questionable claims is an abuse the industry no longer tolerates. Clark’s home insurance philosophy is an essential must-know to protect your wallet. Clark Stinks : Segment...
May 15, 2026•37 min
While Congress has made it easier than ever to access 401(k) funds through hardship withdrawals , this can be a dangerous trap for your future self. Losing out on decades of compounded interest has long-term consequences. Before you hit retirement savings to cover a financial bump, use the Team Clark 401(k) Loan Calculator to see the true cost of that withdrawal – it might just convince you to find another way to bridge the gap. Also, Clark breaks down how Amazon has partnered with vehicle brand...
May 13, 2026•34 min
Clark Howard & Wes Moss: Your Top Money Questions Answered! In this special episode, Clark Howard and Wes Moss join forces to answer real-world money questions from people just like you. No jargon, no fluff – just actionable advice to help you reach your goals faster. Mentioned on the show: Roth 401k Calculator - Clark Howard Roth vs. Traditional 401(k): What's the Difference? - Clark Howard Why Clark Howard Is Obsessed With Roth for Retirement Savings Backdoor Roth IRA: How High Earners Can...
May 12, 2026•40 min
In today’s real estate market, you can get burned trying to “flip” homes . The reality of today’s market means the math rarely works for the average investor. Clark explains when we’ll see a healthy environment for investment. Also - The job market is wide open for those willing to roll up their sleeves. Despite foreboding headlines warning of grim prospects for graduates, young people are finding employment more easily than expected. This is especially true for teens looking for summer work. Du...
May 11, 2026•32 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, deciding whether to throw extra cash at your mortgage or funnel it into the stock market is one of the most debated dilemmas in personal finance, especially now that nearly a quarter of homeowners are carrying rates at 6% or higher. While Clark despises debt and champions the psychological freedom of owning your home free and clear, it’s vital to balance that achievement with th...
May 08, 2026•31 min
Health care costs in America have reached a breaking point, with many being forced to drop costly medical insurance entirely. But whether you’re insured or paying out of pocket, you have more power than you think. Today, Clark discusses a key practice you can incorporate to help manage the high cost of health care . Also, we are currently in a period of intense retail instability . Clark explains how your gift cards can become worthless overnight, so in the interest of not wasting money - Clark ...
May 06, 2026•31 min
What Will Our College Grads Do for Work? & Is the U.S. Dollar Dying? In this episode, Wes Moss debunks two of the biggest myths in the economy right now. First, Wes looks at the actual data behind youth unemployment. Despite the rise of AI, the numbers for college grads aged 22–27 remain remarkably stable. Wes explains why the labor market is far more dynamic than the "net new jobs" headlines suggest – and why there is plenty of reason for parents to be optimistic about their children's care...
May 05, 2026•32 min
There’s a new scam hitting inboxes that several of our team members admit would have fooled them. Digital thieves are sending fake party invitations that appear to be coming from your friends. After hacking into email contact lists, scammers send out deceptive invites to download viruses onto your device, giving them access to your financial accounts and private emails. Know what to do before clicking any links. Also today, learn - how to tell if a debt collector is legit, actionable strategies ...
May 04, 2026•33 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today - While the widespread adoption of security cameras has revolutionized public safety, their application is spurring privacy debate throughout the country. The rules of engagement for our data are dangerously lacking. It's time to demand clear state and local laws that delineate how this data is stored and shared, especially when private businesses are involved. Clark Stinks...
May 01, 2026•29 min
Now is a good time for some financial spring cleaning . Take a close look at your bank statements to identify any "subscription creep" draining your wallet. Clark shares a pro-tip to simplify tracking expenses so you know exactly where your money is going every month. Also, a timeshare by any other name — like "vacation plan" — is still a timeshare. And they have seen a massive resurgence. Big-name hotel brands have revamped these contracts, offering "points" and flexibility instead of the old-s...
Apr 29, 2026•33 min
Why Retirement Confidence Is Plunging & Fiduciary vs. Financial Advisor Wes Moss breaks down a troubling shift in the American economy: the rapid decline of retirement confidence. Drawing on three decades of data from the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI), Wes highlights a staggering trend where worker confidence has dropped in 2026. This pessimistic outlook is mirrored by the University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment index , which has hit an all-time historical low. Wes identifies ...
Apr 28, 2026•35 min
Many Americans reaching millionaire status still feel like they are standing on shaky financial ground. Clark explains the psychological and cultural traps that can keep high earners feeling insecure - and how the "bear preparing for winter" strategy can build financial confidence. Also, with all the job scams and ghost job listings out there now, how do you know an opportunity is real? Whether seeking career change or a part-time gig, con artists are using fake listings to harvest your identity...
Apr 27, 2026•32 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today - it’s prom season, and so many kids and parents are breaking the bank to pay for it! Prom has officially turned into a high-pressure, "red-carpet" event driven more by social media likes than actual memories. Clark is here to tell you that you don't have to go into debt to have a great time. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Prom Spending: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Me...
Apr 24, 2026•34 min
Clark takes on the touchy subject of merging finances with a significant other. The transition from financial independence to shared responsibility requires planning and ongoing conversations. Clark warns that silence is the enemy of a healthy relationship. Also today, Clark revisits the popular dream of retiring on a cruise ship. While "living at sea" was once considered a brilliant financial hack, the post-COVID landscape has changed the math entirely. Clark breaks down the current reality. Co...
Apr 22, 2026•36 min
Why Successful People Struggle With Retirement & What’s Going On With the Economy? In this episode, Wes tackles the psychological hurdle that many high-achievers face when they finally reach the "Retirement Green Zone." After decades of using hard work, discipline, and ambition to build a nest egg, it can be incredibly difficult to simply turn that drive off. Wes discusses the "ambition guilt" that many retirees feel when they pursue creative hobbies or passions that don’t generate a paychec...
Apr 21, 2026•30 min
Security cameras can work well to help protect your home and safety. Clark references Consumer Reports and CNET reviews highlighting quality, DIY camera options that offer motion alerts and peace of mind without the recurring bill. Also today - Online purchases mean delivery decisions, amid offerings of ultra-fast delivery from Amazon and its e-commerce competitors. Clark warns that there is nothing "free" about shipping. The trend is to receive items the day you order them, often in hours . But...
Apr 20, 2026•34 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today - the travel industry’s ongoing reaction to rising fuel costs calls for new guidance for booking travel . Clark reveals why he never starts his search on an airline’s website and how a simple shift in your booking psychology can save you hundreds. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 New Rules Of Travel: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: IRS - 2026 Charitab...
Apr 17, 2026•37 min
The real estate market is traditionally at its height in the spring. This year, AI is factoring into home sales in two distinct ways. While AI slop infests listings, AI is improving the mortgage approval process. Know what to look out for as a homebuyer. Also, is studying abroad worth the cost? At a time when grads’ job prospects are jumbled by market upheaval, a new study shows that a semester overseas can boost a graduate's starting salary by thousands. And the advantages don’t end there. Clar...
Apr 15, 2026•32 min
How To Find (and Afford) Your Dream Home in Retirement Deciding where to spend your retirement is one of the most significant transitions you’ll ever make, but it requires a systematic approach to get it right. Whether you plan to stay in your current home or relocate to a new destination, your environment directly impacts your long-term happiness. In this episode, Wes Moss shares tips to find – and afford – your dream community in retirement. Many retirees face the "housing overlap headache," w...
Apr 14, 2026•38 min
One in five Americans uses self-storage units. How do you avoid rip-offs in an industry long characterized by bait & switch tactics? Learn Clark’s strategies for avoiding such price hikes, and essential steps for protecting your belongings. Also, you may have seen the news stories about the late Jimmy Buffet’s family doing battle over his estate. Believe it or not, this type of situation is not that rare. The "Great Wealth Transfer" has ushered in a surge of estate disputes. Clark shares how...
Apr 13, 2026•33 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today - Scam artists are getting more sophisticated and they’re targeting your retirement funds . Clark explains this digital crime wave and how fraudsters are using sophisticated tools & tricks to get into your accounts. The first step in protecting your money is being aware of some of the latest techniques these criminals use. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Scam Vigilanc...
Apr 10, 2026•39 min
Today - if you’ve been planning summer travel, you may have sticker shock from hotel & airfare costs. Travel inflation is real, so it pays to know Clark’s "Golden Rules" for booking to ensure you don't overpay. Also, Clark discusses the growing movement to ban cell phones in schools, restaurants , and concert venues . Some businesses and artists are jumping on the cell phone BAN-wagon. Flight & Hotel Booking: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Cell Phone Bans: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 ...
Apr 08, 2026•32 min
Young Investors Are Taking Big Risks & Costly Pension Mistake Are you feeling financially behind? You aren’t alone. Wes Moss reveals that a staggering 73% of Americans feel like they are losing the financial race — and why the "solution" many are turning to is actually a dangerous trap. Wes explains how to leverage your greatest asset to build real, lasting wealth through patient accumulation. Also, Wes tackles the "Pot of Gold" syndrome that haunts retirees. A study from MetLife shows that ...
Apr 07, 2026•40 min
Investing has never been cheaper - or more expensive - depending on where you choose to grow your money. What to know to be a Clark Smart investor. Also - Should you use ChatGPT Health? While AI is revolutionizing medical research and helping patients find specialized care - this all comes with a warning. Investing Expenses: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 AI & Health Monitoring : Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Best Investment Companies for Investors in 2026 - Clark How...
Apr 06, 2026•32 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today - security risks keep morphing via phone and/or account takeover attempts. Clark covers a specific threat targeting iPhone users and the simple fix, plus - the next generation of online security – Passkeys . Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Prevent Hackers: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Buy Now, Pay Later: A Helpful Tool or a Debt Trap? - Clark Howa...
Apr 03, 2026•32 min
Adjustable-rate mortgages ( ARMs ) are booming again, but Clark has a major warning: this "oldie but baddy" could be a financial time bomb. Clark breaks down why banks are pushing ARMs, who they actually work for (a narrow group indeed), and the "reset" risk that could cost you your home. Also, health insurance has become insanely expensive. Many Americans are skipping meals just to pay for healthcare. Clark discusses why catastrophic-only plans are a dangerous gamble and identifies the real cul...
Apr 01, 2026•26 min
The Hack That Turns Trump Accounts Into $3M Nest Eggs & Retire Sooner Method vs. FIRE Wes Moss breaks down a powerful financial "hack" involving the new Trump Accounts that could change the trajectory of your family’s wealth forever. By shifting the conversation to a "Year 0" savings plan, parents and grandparents can use these accounts to kickstart a child's financial life from the day they are born. It’s a dramatic shift in how we think about retirement, proving that the one thing we can t...
Mar 31, 2026•37 min
