The Clark Howard Podcast - podcast cover

The Clark Howard Podcast

Clark Howardwww.clark.com
Save more and spend less is more than just a motto for money expert Clark Howard; it’s a way of life. Clark and his crew — Team Clark — are on a mission to empower people to take control of their personal finances by providing money-saving tips, consumer advice, hot deals and economic news to help everyone achieve financial freedom. Clark is a nationally syndicated radio talk show host and a consumer reporter for television stations around the country. His podcast, The Clark Howard Show, receives more than one million downloads each month and is a hub for listeners to get valuable advice on-demand any time. Clark answers questions on the most popular business and consumer topics including; how to buy a cars, financing a home, retirement planning, shopping for insurance and getting the most out of your savings. Join the conversation and submit your question to www.clark.com/askclark . Clark spearheads two free resources — Clark.com and ClarkDeals.com — to encourage consumers to save more, spend less and avoid ripoffs.
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Episodes

12.03.24 Homeowners Insurance Check-Up / Safe Charitable Giving

Over the past 15 years homeowners insurance has become increasingly unstable, expensive and anti-consumer. But with the run-up in home values, many may be seriously underinsured . Clark has direction for home owners to ensure proper coverage. Also today, the giving season requires a warning about charity scams - a real problem. Know how to make sure your charity dollars are used effectively. Update: Homeowners Insurance: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Safe Charitable Giving: Segment 3 Ask Clark:...

Dec 03, 202426 min

12.02.24 SAVE On Domestic Airfare / Amazon Health Services

Clark has new advice for booking domestic flights and the new airline rule on refunds figures into the way you should now search for fares. Also in this episode, Amazon is expanding their medical offerings. Clark has some experience using Amazon health services and shares his insights into this option. One Way Flight Search: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Amazon Medical Care: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Save Money With Google Flights The Best Day and Time to Book...

Dec 02, 202428 min

11.29.24 BEST OF: Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / Clark Rule For Booking Travel

Happy Thanksgiving Weekend! Please enjoy this Best Of episode. Clark returns December 2nd with new ways to Save More, Spend Less and Avoid Getting Ripped Off! Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today - The travel industry can be unstable. Another cruise line recently shut down. Know Clark’s number one rule for booking travel and protecting your money. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Travel Booking Rule: Segment ...

Nov 29, 202433 min

11.27.24 BEST OF: Americans Need To SAVE MORE / Physical Health - Fiscal Health

Happy Thanksgiving Week! Please enjoy this Best Of episode. Clark returns December 2nd with new ways to Save More, Spend Less and Avoid Getting Ripped Off! The percent of income we save, our savings rate - is the key indicator of financial health. So how are we doing right now? Also - How much exercise do you really need to make a difference in your health, and ultimately your wallet? Only 25% of Americans get the recommended amount of exercise. New data reveals what a big difference the minimum...

Nov 27, 202432 min

11.26.24 BEST OF: Saving For College: 529 Plan Update / Upside Down Car Loans

Happy Thanksgiving Week! Please enjoy this Best Of episode. Clark returns December 2nd with new ways to Save More, Spend Less and Avoid Getting Ripped Off! Clark has news for parents and grandparents saving for a child’s college education. Also in this episode, reversals in the auto industry are landing many existing car loans underwater. What to do if you are upside down in a car loan. 529 Plan Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Upside Down Vehicle Loans: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Ment...

Nov 26, 202429 min

11.25.24 BEST OF: The Fate Of Traditional 401(k)s & IRAs / Carry On Karma Vs Baggage Fees

Happy Thanksgiving Week! Please enjoy this Best Of episode. Clark returns December 2nd with new ways to Save More, Spend Less and Avoid Getting Ripped Off! There’s a lot of talk and concern about traditional 401(k)s and IRAs going away. Clark explains. Also, baggage fees are rising again, increasing the cost of flying for customers. What to know before you get to the airport. Future 401(k)s & IRAs: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Airline Baggage Fees: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned ...

Nov 25, 202430 min

11.22.24 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / Technology, Productivity & Jobs

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Later, everyone said the touchscreen ordering systems at places like McDonalds were going to cost jobs, but have they? Clark shares some interesting findings and historical perspective on how technology affects jobs. We’re off Thanksgiving week but will post some favorite episodes. If you’re shopping deals, make sure you’re subscribed to our Clarkdeals.com newsletter. The team will up...

Nov 22, 202435 min

11.21.24 Shopping Season - Return Policies / Got Credit Card Debt?

We’re one week out from Thanksgiving, and holiday shopping is in full swing. One thing to consider - return policies. Clark has a personal story to share that saved him big money. Also, this season of giving arrives with credit card debt at an all-time high. A Clark smart assignment for you. Return Policies: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Credit Card Debt: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Phone Plan Finder – Find and Compare Phone Plans - Clark.com Budgeting Basics: What You...

Nov 21, 202431 min

11.20.24 Holidays Deals With Charis! / 2025 Investment Predictions

Today, a special guest joins the show - Charis from our ClarkDeals team shares the best deals of the holiday season and what to look out for. Also today, Clark lends perspective on post election confusion around the stock market right now. Holiday Deals: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Direction For Investors: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: CLARK DEALS How To Find Cheap Flights in 3 Easy Steps Best 529 College Savings Plans By State NYTimes: Even at a Time Like This, Slow a...

Nov 20, 202429 min

11.19.24 Decision: Renting Vs Buying A Home / Long Term Care Insurance

Buying a home vs renting is a tougher decision these days, with several factors and new considerations to keep in mind. Also in this episode, since the long term care insurance industry is broken and financially prohibitive in its present collapsed state, how do you prepare for the assistance you may need in old age? Renting Vs Buying A Home: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Long Term Care: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Best Online Banks: Free Checking and High-Interest Sav...

Nov 19, 202430 min

11.18.24 A Better Way To Save For Retirement / Living Paycheck-To-Paycheck

Pensions are relics and 401(k)s are problematic . We need a rethink on how we save for retirement, and how we allocate those savings with the certainty that people won’t outlive their money. A solution is out there, and Clark shares that with you today. Also, Clark breaks down the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle many find themselves in, and how for some earners, it’s entirely possible to break that cycle. Solving Saving For Retirement: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 The Marginal Propensity To Consume...

Nov 18, 202433 min

11.15.24 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / Three Common Scams

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today, the percentage of people being taken by scams continues to rise. Know how to recognize the common themes in prevalent scams right now in order to better protect yourself. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Scam Recognition-Prevention: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Consumer Reports: Best Most Reliable Used Cars Roth vs. Traditional 401(k): What's the ...

Nov 15, 202436 min

11.14.24 Your Online Privacy / Good News For Car Buyers

It’s important to protect your privacy online and there are some simple things you can do to stop the sharing of your data when visiting websites. Also, Clark shares news on the state of the auto industry, and what it means for car buyers. Protecting Online Privacy: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Auto Industry Update: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Safe Browser Alternatives That Promise Not To Track You Want To Guard Your Privacy Online? Search the Web With DuckDuckGo 7 Th...

Nov 14, 202427 min

11.13.24 Amazon & Walmart Deals / The Power of Positive Thinking

Amazon and Walmart are retail behemoths in a market share fight, and Clark shares 2 new ways you can benefit, including a discount deal on gas. Also today, how much does mindset play into your success at work? More than you think! Amazon & Walmart+: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Positivity - It Really Works: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Amazon Prime introduces a new benefit to save on gas USA TODAY: Walmart unveils Black Friday plans: When customers can expect deals...

Nov 13, 202432 min

11.12.24 Sandwich Generation Challenges / Holiday Air Travel

Are you a part of the sandwich generation , caring for children and parents at the same time? Clark talks about the unique challenges involved, and ways to prepare if you foresee this often difficult squeezeplay in your future. Also today, as we move into the winter weather holiday travel season, Clark shares strategies for dealing with delayed or canceled flights. The Sandwich Generation: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Holiday Flight Tips: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: T...

Nov 12, 202430 min

11.11.24 Robo Advisor Or Financial Planner? / Why Clark Hates Rent Control

A Special Veterans Day Thanks To All Who Have Served, Past, Present and Future. Today Clark goes back to basics, explaining how to determine if a robo advisor or a financial planner is best for you. Also, how rent control can distort a market and limit housing supply. Investment Advisors: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Rent Control: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Who Should Use a Robo-Advisor? (Clark.com) Investing: Self-Directed vs. Robo-Advisor vs. Financial Advisor (Cla...

Nov 11, 202431 min

11.08.24 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / Man On The Street Retirement Survey

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today, Clark shares insights from his man on the street retirement survey. Hear the questions he put to those surveyed and see how your answers compare. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 What Clark’s Retirement MOTS Survey Reveals: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Walmart+ Membership Program: 4 Things To Know These Are the Credit Cards in Clark Howard's Walle...

Nov 08, 202433 min

11.07.24 Are You “Doom Spending”? / Be Your Own Health Advocate

A trend among young adults economists call “ doom spending ” is of concern. Clark addresses why this is happening and offers a different perspective. Also today - why it’s so important to be an advocate for yourself when it comes to your health, and Clark is living proof. Costly Pessimism: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 YOU Are Your Best Health Advocate: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Should You Ever Lease a Car? CarMax vs. Carvana: A First-Hand Experience Selling a Car in...

Nov 07, 202432 min

11.06.24 Behind Those Pharmaceutical Ads / Mortgage Payment Strategy

TV viewers endure an unrelenting barrage of pharmaceutical ads. A recent study reveals information about these ads that every consumer needs to know, plus hear Clark’s recommendation for vetting medicines. Also, mortgage holders with high interest rates are waiting to refinance, but there’s another payment strategy that can save you big bucks over time. Drug Ad Deceptions: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Mortgage Pay Down Method: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: With TV Drug ...

Nov 06, 202429 min

11.05.24 Shrinkflation: The Marketplace Speaks / Job Interviewing 101

Today - remember shrinkflation ? It’s not entirely over but some manufacturers have heard the complaints and are changing course. Also - There are sundry reports these days about post-pandemic young workers having difficulty landing jobs and adapting to new work places . Job interviews have changed and it’s vitally important to understand the basics of how to prepare and conduct yourself during an interview for employment. Shrinkflation Reversal: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Job Interview Know...

Nov 05, 202430 min

11.04.24 INVESTING Update / Just Say NO To These Two Payment Plans

The stock market is overvalued these days so many are concerned about a coming correction or bear market. Hear Clark’s take on how best to move forward with your investment goals. Also today, two ways of paying for items over time that Clark wholeheartedly does NOT recommend. Clark Smart Investing: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 2 Payment Schemes To Avoid: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Investing & Retirement Archives - Clark Howard Warning: How To Avoid Buying a Flood...

Nov 04, 202431 min

11.01.24 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / SAVE MORE on Food Costs

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today, Clark compares the cost of food prepared at home vs eating out. New data on total meal spending shows where we can save more on overall food costs. Clark Stink s : Segments 1 & 2 Save On Food Costs: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 401(k) Rollover: How To Roll Over a 401(k) How Much of Each Paycheck You Should Save or Invest 10 Ways To Save on Pres...

Nov 01, 202433 min

10.31.24 Cross-Training In Company Culture / Skilled Trades For The Win

Home Depot is doing something that all employers should do. Clark talks about what distinguishes a winning corporate culture. Also today, Help Wanted: electricians, plumbers , CPAs, air traffic controllers , police officers and more. Clark shares opportunities for employment that empower workers to create financial security and personal wealth. Employers Should Know: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Employment Opportunities: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: AutoSlash Review: H...

Oct 31, 202431 min

10.30.24 Saving For College - 529 Plans / Auto Insurance Update

Clark discusses the societal changes in how college costs are trending now, the existing burden of student loan debt, and the best way to save in a 529 Plan. Also today, Clark has news on the car insurance front . The cycle has turned. Brace for good news and know how to make the most of it. How To Choose A 529 Plan: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Auto Insurance Update: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Best 529 College Savings Plans By State How To Save Money With Google Fli...

Oct 30, 202431 min

10.29.24 The Debt Trap / Best Used Car Deals

Not only does carrying the burden of debt create an enormous amount of stress, but a new poll shows that it affects so much more. Clark discusses how it can even affect your career mobility. Also, Clark talks about the best deals in reliable used cars right now. Debt Paralysis: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Best Deals In Used Cars: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Debt Archives - Clark Howard Should You Ever Book a Nonrefundable Hotel Room? Your Guide to DIY Home Security S...

Oct 29, 202426 min

10.28.24 Debit Card Risks / Options For Lower Cost Prescriptions

Yesterday Clark talked about using credit cards responsibly to your advantage. Today Clark discusses why he refers to the debit card as a “piece of trash fake Visa”. Know the risks of debit card use. Also - The big pharmacy chains are closing hundreds of stores, and Clark wants to make sure you’re aware of another option for lower cost prescriptions that’s also convenient. Piece Of Trash That Burns Your Cash: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Rx For Less: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on...

Oct 28, 202424 min

10.25.24 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / What’s In Clark’s Wallet?

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today, there’s a market share war with credit card companies. Competition is hot. So how do you choose? Clark has updated his cards and offers a new tool to help you choose the best credit cards for you. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Clark Smart Credit Cards: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Do Not Give Your Social Security Number at These Places 5 Big Tr...

Oct 25, 202435 min

10.24.24 How To Use Payment Apps Safely / Credit Card Receipt Signatures - Why?

Shopping season is upon us and the use of payment apps is commonplace, but more fraud protections are needed. Know the safest way to use these apps including Venmo, Zelle, Cash App & PayPal. Also, when using credit cards, though it hasn’t been required in years, many retailers still have you sign the receipt . Clark has a good idea why that’s happening. Payment App Precautions: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Credit Card Receipts: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What Can...

Oct 24, 202431 min

10.23.24 Convenience Store Rankings / America’s Entrepreneurial Wave

Independent retail chains selling gas and food are becoming an economic force benefiting consumers. So what are the best convenience store chains in the nation? Clark delivers new rankings from the American Customer Satisfaction Index. Also today - One reason the U.S. economy is faring better than most other developed economies in the world is American entrepreneurship . Covid era startups have created over 7 million American jobs. Clark speaks to the potential entrepreneur in you! Convenience S...

Oct 23, 202434 min

10.22.24 SCAM WARNING: Fake Credit Card Text Alerts / SAVE On Eating Out

Our Consumer Action Center is getting a lot of calls about a growing text message scam that appears to be from your credit card company. Know how to spot it so you don’t get taken. Also, Clark shares some ways restaurants at all levels are exploring ways to cut costs. Know what to look for to save more on dining out, including smaller portions for less money. Credit Card Text Scams: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 SAVE MORE Eating Out: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Scam: T...

Oct 22, 202427 min
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