You may have noticed how difficult it is to find a company phone number . Turns out, that is by design . For business, Clark discusses real ways to build customer loyalty. And if you’re with a company that only rewards new customers, ignoring your loyalty, play their game to protect your wallet. Also, Clark discusses the financial pressures on the cost of energy this winter in the U.S., as part of the world wide energy market, focusing on what we CAN control. Learn what you can expect to pay and...
Oct 03, 2022•29 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, we all know walking is great for physical health, but it may also help ward off something we all fear - dementia . What is known about how much walking is great for your cognitive health. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Walking for Mental Health: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What Is Disability Insurance and How Does It Work? Emergency Fund Complete Gui...
Sep 30, 2022•31 min
In spite of inflation, there are deals to be had. Amazon is in major overstock mode right now - offering a separate site for discounts , and a section for deals on open box returns - Clark explains. Also, there are those among us who, despite not making a lot of money, are able to save significant amounts. Clark shares how the goal of Financial Independence is achieved. Amazon Cuts Deals: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Secrets of Super Savers: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show...
Sep 29, 2022•35 min
Labor shortages are everywhere, but one sector particularly hurting affects us all - the government. Governments all over the country are short of workers , especially at state and local levels in varied capacities. Some of these jobs may come with the rare pension. You may be part of the solution. Clark paid his way through undergraduate school working for HUD - a good steady job. Also, credit card interest rates are the highest in decades. Long term credit card debt puts you in indentured serv...
Sep 28, 2022•29 min
The clock is ticking on the best inflation investment. Series I Savings Bonds are about to go through a reset in November . Clark explains rates and holding terms. Act now to make inflation work for you. Also, when the free market speaks, industries must respond to survive. Automaker Ford has new rules for anticompetitive dealerships - great news for car buyers. Series I Savings Bonds: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Ford’s new dealership rules: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the sho...
Sep 27, 2022•29 min
A completely illegal practice is going on by nursing homes and their collectors. Under federal law - The Nursing Home Reform Act - it’s illegal to go after family members for nursing home debt. What to do if you’re contacted for this type of collection. Meanwhile, bad investment advice is being peddled to young would-be investors on TikTok and other social media channels. There are 225 professional designations people are using to pitch commission based financial advice! That’s why you must know...
Sep 26, 2022•24 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, Airbnb is a great concept - subject to problematic execution . Learn what potential problems await both guests and hosts and how to prepare. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Airbnb: Opportunity & Hazard: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Why You Should Never Invest With a Bank What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? 3 Places You Should N...
Sep 23, 2022•29 min
Consumers are often told they must use authorized service dealers to maintain a warranty . Not so. What you need to know about parts and repairs. Also, T-Mobile and Apple are utilizing advances in satellite technology to expand communication world-wide, initially facilitating emergency alerts. Clark explains this new safety net, and where this tech is headed. The Truth About Warranties: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Cell Phone + Satellite Technology: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on ...
Sep 22, 2022•29 min
The average American is spending around $15 more a day - all things being equal vs. a year ago. Clark updates the economic lay of the land including housing , gasoline, service businesses and jobs - in global context as we endure inflation rotation. Also, if you’re considering moving , there are new considerations that are absolutely vital now. Homeowners insurance has become a complete wildcard. Clark has MUST DO advice before you buy in an area new to you. Inflation Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark...
Sep 21, 2022•28 min
Many failed to file taxes in 2019 and/or 2020. Well the IRS will forgive those penalties , IF you can hit a fast approaching deadline. Already paid the penalty? More good news. Clark explains. Also, big players like Amazon and CVS are getting into the healthcare industry. But Walmart Health Centers offer unique services and savings to more people. IRS Cuts Late Filers A Break: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 SAVE on Healthcare: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: There’s an Impo...
Sep 20, 2022•26 min
There’s a right way to use standing desks , and to deal with a traditional sitting desk job - to improve your health. Clark explains. Also - Inflation and supply shortages have made buying used much more popular. Clark shares the secondhand market’s best categories, and a new offering from Walmart - to help you save more. Sit-Stand Desks: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Explore the Resale Market: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Your Biggest Questions About Standing Desks, An...
Sep 19, 2022•26 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also - Clark shares some valuable resources for those considering trade school and apprenticeship programs towards a new solid career path . Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Trade School & Apprenticeship Resources: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Cancel for Any Reason - Travel Insurance Benefit - InsureMyTrip 4 Things To Know Before You Buy Renters Insurance...
Sep 16, 2022•31 min
We’re here to help you avoid rip-offs and scams. Pretext, aka imposter & impersonation scams comprise the top rip-offs and they come in many forms. Be in the know so you don’t get taken. Also, credit card interest rates haven’t been this high since the 1990s - while the banks are pushing offers to get you hooked. Solicitations are as sky high as interest rates. They want to own you! Impersonation Scams: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 The Credit Card Trap: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Menti...
Sep 15, 2022•31 min
Transformational shifts are underway in how we buy and own homes.. There’s a home improvement boom in progress around the country, but timing is everything . Get Clark smart about when to renovate and how to choose a contractor . And - Now hear this! The average price of hearing aids in the U.S. is around $2700, compared to $200 in the rest of the world. The long awaited end of this pricing cartel will bring both opportunity and some pitfalls over the next few weeks. Home Renovation: Segment 1 A...
Sep 14, 2022•30 min
The airline industry has been a mess, stretched thin by labor shortages as the travel industry rebounds. Thanks to DOT and public pressure, for the first time in 40 years passengers have a clear guide to their rights when flights are canceled or delayed. Clark walks you through the new DOT - Airline Customer Service Dashboard and what YOU need to do when grounded. Also, a worker warning : Why you need to be cautious when an employer offers you any kind of internal training. DOT Airline Dashboard...
Sep 13, 2022•28 min
Rents have increased dramatically in a short period of time, the biggest rise since the aftermath of WWII. Clark explains how we got here today and the idea of rent control , plus, some good news on the rental front. Also - Is renting out your car on a peer-to-peer platform to make extra money a good idea? Clark breaks down the pros and cons . The Rental Housing Outlook: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Peer-To-Peer Car Rental: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: AAA Membership: ...
Sep 12, 2022•28 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also - Recent stock market volatility has many worried about their retirement. In the short term, markets go through downturns - as they should. Clark addresses these concerns based on the long term play and your proximity to retirement. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Market Fears-Retirement: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The $10 Travel Essential Clark Howar...
Sep 09, 2022•33 min
School is in session and many teens worry about having enough extracurriculars on their activities resume. But there's another very important route for students that should be top of mind. Also, learn why people are rediscovering gyms now and some guidelines for selecting the right gym for you. For Students: A Key Extracurricular: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Selecting A GYM: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 5 Things To Know About Series I Savings Bonds USHIP - Shippers, m...
Sep 08, 2022•33 min
Clark shares a personal story concerning something every parent worries about - their teenager having a car accident. Also - with mortgage rates rising, there‘s an old tried & true strategy many Americans are unaware of - that could save big bucks on interest: the assumable, non-escalating mortgage. Teen Drivers & Accident Ethics: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Mortgage Strategy: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Want a Lower Mortgage Rate? Take Someone Else’s Loan Cl...
Sep 07, 2022•31 min
Retailers have been fighting from behind since March 2020. Suddenly supply chains are moving and stores have goods aplenty . In a time of inflation - we have never seen before deals in many categories this September. Clark calls out the buys for early holiday shopping. Also, Federal student loan forgiveness - what eligible student and parent borrowers need to know about how the program will work - and how the scams play. Christmas in September: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Student Loan Forgive...
Sep 06, 2022•31 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, this year Clark recommends extra early holiday travel planning AND early shopping and shipping. Know when to expect shipping hikes and the bargain months for online shopping & delivery. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Holiday Shipping: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: USPS says it's hiking prices for holiday shipping - CBS News What Is a Reverse Mortga...
Sep 02, 2022•30 min
After a chaotic summer, the outlook for fall travel looks better on every front. September is your cue to start planning holiday travel this year. Get Clark smart advice on how & when to book , avoiding the 4 most expensive travel days, and whether you need travel insurance . Also, Labor Day signals a good time to update job market trends. Clark discusses “unlimited vacation” & taking time off , as well as great part-time opportunities for retirees - and an employee tactic that is NOT re...
Sep 01, 2022•31 min
Text message scams keep coming and keep morphing. Know what the latest barrage looks like - deploying new ways to hook you into getting ripped off. Also, high mortgage rates can be avoided when conditions are right for a family member to make the loan . Learn how to lend to loved ones without the tax consequences. New Text Message Scams: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Family Loans & Taxes: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Why You Should Never Click on Random Text Message...
Aug 31, 2022•26 min
People are being hoodwinked by paid influencers on social media. Clark shares how this often works with podcasting , unbeknownst to you, the listener. Also, Amazon Prime has a new option for payment that gets Clark’s seal of approval - part of a trend of added perks for retail memberships. Undisclosed: Podcast Influencers: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Amazon Prime Layaway: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The best time and place to buy appliances A Simple Way To Help Your ...
Aug 30, 2022•22 min
Saving money on streaming TV is an area of expertise at Clark.com . Clark has industry news explaining the current streaming landscape AND a new FREE Channel tool ! You may be shocked to find out what free TV is available where you live. Also - Thinking of selling your home? The housing market has definitely slowed past the peak of the market. So it’s back to the normal playbook - the Clark smart way. Streaming And Free TV: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Home Seller Adaptation: Segment 3 Ask Cla...
Aug 29, 2022•30 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, overlooked and extremely important, including for college students , is renter’s insurance. Clark tells you how to get it for a DEAL . Plus, important advice on condo insurance. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Renters Insurance: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Career Tests Our Top 10 | Monster.com Swagbucks Review: How Much Money Can You Make? Heat Pump S...
Aug 26, 2022•30 min
The big banks persist in paying no real interest on savings . Meanwhile Clark just got 3.3% on a CD from his credit union. Several money market & online savings accounts are paying over 2%. Don’t let inertia be your enemy. Move that money. Also - what destroyed Sprint is a big lesson for companies tracking and ranking their employees. Workers should know - across industries and with the rise of remote work, comes increased use by companies of the “ productivity score ”. Savings Rates: Segmen...
Aug 25, 2022•30 min
Market forces have increased supermarket costs by 13% over the past year, while restaurant price increases have gone up roughly half that. Clark shares how it can actually be more cost effective to eat out at times. Also, there’s been public backlash against airlines shrinking seat size and now there’s an FAA comment period as to whether they should regulate how much space passengers get. Clark weighs in, factoring in designer safety & comfort innovations . Food Inflation-Supermarkets vs. Re...
Aug 24, 2022•29 min
Reported this year - tragic loss of life due to hotel carbon monoxide poisoning . Clark has a new safety device every traveler should consider. Plus a way to avoid a massive home insurance claim. And - Find out the “ mandatory option ” that has sent the automotive press into outrage at GM. 2 Important Alert Devices: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 GM Outrage: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Wirecutter: Water Leaks Destroy Homes. These Smart Gadgets Can Save Yours. How To Pac...
Aug 23, 2022•28 min
New meds are the most expensive ever . 8 of 13 new drugs cost over $200K per year! Clark explains how the big pharma game is played, generic vs “defensive” combo drugs & shares his workarounds for saving. Also - what we pay for cell service can make a big difference in our finances and today there are many ways to reduce cost without compromising service. Clark has great news for your wallet from 2 different cell phone brands - Verizon’s Visible and Boost Mobile . Rx Savings Strategy: Segmen...
Aug 22, 2022•25 min
