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’s a way to opt-out of having your personal information searchable on Google . College Dropout Rate...
May 12, 2022•32 min
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 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Save Money on Utilities How To Extend the Lives of...
May 11, 2022•32 min
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 the show: AT&T Price Hikes Coming Soon AT&T Raises Prices on Wireless Plans to Address ...
May 10, 2022•34 min
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, including sharing initiatives . Wawa Expansion: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 SAVE on Groceries: Seg...
May 09, 2022•31 min
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: What Is a 403(b) and How Does It Work? Sleep Like The Dead : Independent and Unbiased Sleep Advi...
May 06, 2022•33 min
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 the show: Buy U.S. Treasury Bonds: A Conservative Way To Beat Your Savings Account TreasuryDirect - Hom...
May 05, 2022•28 min
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: Segment 2 Tipping Point: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Should You Sel...
May 04, 2022•29 min
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 special directive for you no matter where you bank. Student Loan Forgiveness: Segment 1 Ask Clark: ...
May 03, 2022•29 min
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: Segment 2 Extra Home Energy Savings: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: See the true...
May 02, 2022•30 min
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 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 2 ways to guarantee yourself a lifetime stream o...
Apr 29, 2022•32 min
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 running balances you can’t pay off? Time to face the charges… Clark can help . Brand WIN-Charging Less:...
Apr 28, 2022•25 min
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 in the US is getting hammered on social media for how they treat their workers - A warning for ...
Apr 27, 2022•35 min
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 Home Sight Unseen: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 The Costco Success Story: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Seg...
Apr 26, 2022•30 min
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 helps you get started. Boomer Retirement: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Financial Education: Segmen...
Apr 25, 2022•32 min
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 Series I Savings Bonds - SavingsBonds.gov What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? Food...
Apr 22, 2022•34 min
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 Ask Clark: Segment 2 New $ Saving Cell Phone Plans: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the ...
Apr 21, 2022•32 min
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 show: Pet owners, stores facing canned food shortage Baby-Formula Shortage Prompts Rationing at Target, K...
Apr 20, 2022•30 min
An upside to the labor shortage: taking your pay rate higher. Walmart’s truck driving program is just one example. But there’s something you should know about company training programs touted as “free” in various industries. Also, the CashApp data breach is huge. What information the criminals have is disturbing but there’s a Clark smart way to protect yourself . Company Training Programs: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Cash App Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Cost...
Apr 19, 2022•34 min
We tend to cycle through electronic devices too fast. Do you have old phones & other devices sitting in a drawer? Clark has advice for selling them , a subscription warning - and a general rule on how long to keep electronics. Also - High inflation doesn’t necessarily make you a sitting duck. We’re getting squeezed from all sides. Clark offers 5 steps to better budgeting & this rule to live by: It’s what you DON’T spend that counts over time. Gadget Management: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segme...
Apr 18, 2022•27 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, debt collectors may soon be sliding into your texts, emails & direct messages on social media. Clark lets you know what your rights are. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Debt Collection & Your Rights: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: FIDELITY Security Overview Use these security keys to lock down your computer and protect your personal info SIM Card...
Apr 15, 2022•34 min
Clark lends perspective on today’s surging housing prices and mortgage rates and offers clear guidelines for making a homebuying decision in this difficult market. And for home buyers considering an ARM - a Clark warning. Also, as war in Ukraine affects the global energy market, the U.S remains the world’s largest energy producer. The expected economic impact at home, our energy future , and what we can control right now to save more. Housing Decisions: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Energy Outl...
Apr 14, 2022•38 min
RoboBurger is here! The restaurant industry must adapt to labor shortage conditions. Clark discusses how part of the solution is robotics offering machine made food and convenience. Also, props to Walmart on developing scam busting software, ultimately recovering $4 million in gift card fraud targeting the elderly. That’s a fraction of the losses caused by this long running scam and its mutations. Heed Clark’s special warning for you and your loved ones. Order Up: The RoboBurger: Segment 1 Ask C...
Apr 13, 2022•30 min
Mark Cuban has taken on the pharmaceutical industry. Clark discusses what he hopes to accomplish with the Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company and how it can help consumers save more. Will Mark Cuban’s New Prescription Company Really Save You Money? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices...
Apr 12, 2022•35 min
As people return to travel, the airlines are caught with staff shortages in all positions, canceling thousands of flights in the past few weeks. Clark has several strategies to help get you where you’re going. Plus - got coins laying around? You can help yourself and businesses at the same time. Coin Shortage: What To Do With Your Old Coins Flight Plan Strategies: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Wanted: Your Spare Change: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Follow These Tips if ...
Apr 11, 2022•29 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, 20% of Americans now live in multi-generational households . A real opportunity that deals with the extreme housing shortage : Accessory dwellings or ADU s. Clark explains the multiple benefits this kind of dwelling can provide. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Housing: ADUs: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Accessory dwellings get another look in tight hou...
Apr 08, 2022•32 min
Financial advisors - even if you think you have a good one, you may be spending way more money than you need to. Clark makes it clear how the industry plays the game and how to protect yourself when you put your money to work. Also, we throw away a staggering 40% of the food we buy in the U.S. With grocery prices high - understanding product dates and what you should & should not pay attention to can = $avings. Fee Only Fiduciaries: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Food Exp. Dates: Segment 3 A...
Apr 07, 2022•29 min
Clark discusses how to choose a printer for work or home, considering your usage and the high price of ink! Consumer Reports has updated the best deals on printers. Also, high gas prices have driven up the popularity of scooters and e-bikes . What to know about using these alternatives. Best Printer For You: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 E-Bikes & Scooters: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Can YouMail Really Put an End to Robocalls? What Is an HSA Account and How Does I...
Apr 06, 2022•25 min
The pandemic reassessment of work continues to evolve , with many older workers returning to phased retirement jobs. Clark discusses the flexibility now required of both employers and workers, and the outlook for entrepreneurs. Also, the 10 states with lowest overall tax burden on middle income earners, including income, sales, & property taxes. The New Nature of Work: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Tax-Friendly States: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Build Credi...
Apr 05, 2022•28 min
Clark explains why you shouldn’t freak out if you get rejections from the colleges of your choice. And what to know about middle skills education and career paths . Plus, Summertime travel blues: Clark talks ways to get a deal despite rising prices & how to navigate a time when travel prices have gone crazy . Learn Clark’s prime travel rule and “the August rule”. College Decisions: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Beat High Travel Costs: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 9 ...
Apr 04, 2022•29 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, Clark discusses how to make the most of the Fed raising rates , covering credit card debt, HELOCs & mortgages, student loan rates - and the most important thing to do in a time of rising interest rates . Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Rising Interest Rates: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 5 Things To Know About Series I Savings Bonds Home equity loan...
Apr 01, 2022•32 min
