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

02.04.26 Love & Money / Which Documents Should You Keep

Valentine’s Day approaches. What can spoil the romance in any relationship? Fighting over money . Clark emphasizes the importance of ongoing "low-voltage" conversations around financial goals. Also - What paperwork should you hang onto and for how long? Clark’s guide provides a clear strategy for organizing your financial life and protecting your assets. Couples & Money: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Record Keeping: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 14 Ways to Save on Va...

Feb 04, 202634 min

02.03.2026 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss

Dollar vs. Gold: Why You Don’t Need To Panic & #1 Retirement Fear (and Ways To Let It Go) While recent headlines might suggest the dollar is "plunging" as gold and silver prices soar, Wes Moss provides a grounded perspective on why the decline, while significant, is still well within historical ranges, and why he believes our economy is still strong. Also, Wes dives into the top fear facing Americans: the fear of running out of money in retirement. As humans, we are wired to prioritize prote...

Feb 03, 202634 min

02.02.26 Going Mobile: Relocation For Jobs And Homeownership

If you’re feeling stuck in your career and/or housing situation, Clark shares something important to consider. With housing inventory rising in nearly 20 states and more affordable markets opening up in the American heartland, being open and flexible to moving your zip code might be the key to unlocking both homeownership and professional opportunity. Also, using the latest data, Clark breaks down the fastest-growing occupations for the next decade. Homeownership & Relocation: Segment 1 Ask ...

Feb 02, 202631 min

01.30.26 Best Cheap Cars / Secret To An Affordable Vacation

Friday normally brings a ripe episode of Clark Stinks but today Clark has an update for potential car buyers. While the cost of automobiles has been soaring, Clark reveals a surprising counterpoint: a selection of reliable, more affordable vehicles. Also in the interest of affordability, travel can easily be too costly. But there’s an often overlooked option that could help you save on spring break or a summer getaway. (Note: Clark Stinks will be back next week!). Affordable Vehicles: Segment 1 ...

Jan 30, 202630 min

01.28.26 Bypass Finfluencers / Can You Spot A Scam?

Many young adults recognize the value of early saving and investing long-term. But with 61% of this age group now trusting social media "finfluencers" for investing tips, it’s more important than ever to distinguish between sound financial advice and sales pitches pushing “get rich” ripoffs and worse - conflating gambling with real investing. Also today - Clark shares a recent story of a retired lawyer who lost $85,000 to scammers posing as Microsoft security, only to have his bank deny a refund...

Jan 28, 202639 min

01.27.26 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss

Is the Middle Class Shrinking? & the Quiet Power of Dividend Growth The middle class is shrinking — but perhaps not for the reason you’ve been told. While headlines often paint a bleak picture of economic decline, the underlying data reveals a much more complex and surprising transformation. Wes Moss dives into the "missing" middle class, using recent data to uncover where those families have actually gone since 1979. Also, Wes pulls back the curtain on a hidden force in the stock market: th...

Jan 27, 202640 min

01.26.26 Regular Retail Vs Costco / The Newly Expanded ABLE Account

Today - A tale of two retail experiences. Merchants are getting eaten up by the cost of returns and stiff new policies are reflecting that, with strict deadlines and fees as high as $45 to process mailed items. By contrast, Costco continues to lead with customer-friendly policies, including a little-known "price drop" perk. Also - The ABLE (529A) program has undergone significant expansion, with millions more people now eligible . Clark breaks down everything you need to know, including a NEVER ...

Jan 26, 202631 min

01.23.26 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / Owning Rental Property

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in this episode, Clark shares a narrow set of strategies for becoming a landlord successfully in today’s fraught housing market. To determine if a property is a viable investment, know the classic 1% rule. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Investment Real Estate: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How To Sell, Cancel or Get Rid of Your Timeshare How To Make You...

Jan 23, 202630 min

01.21.26 Appeal Health Insurance Denials / Fight Skyrocketing Power Bills

Clark dives into the predatory world of health insurance, where companies are under fire for "strategy-based" claim denials - and consumers are faced with outrageous hospital bills . Clark explains why and how you must self-advocate as a customer. Also, as power bills surge due in large part to data centers , you’re not a sitting duck. Clark argues that you shouldn't have to subsidize the energy needs of big tech, and explores the "secret weapons" available to homeowners and renters alike. Appea...

Jan 21, 202631 min

01.20.26 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss

Large Cap vs. Small Cap: Which Is Best? & Why Your Returns Don’t Match the Headlines With the median S&P 500 company now valued at $35 billion and "Mega Caps" like Microsoft reaching the $3+ trillion mark, the scale of the market has reached levels that are difficult to even conceptualize. While large caps have dominated the last three years with returns, Wes highlights why investors shouldn't ignore small and mid-cap categories. With small caps currently catching up in 2026 and offering...

Jan 20, 202636 min

01.19.26 The Condo Market Now / Moving Abroad

The condo market is struggling around the country, particularly in coastal areas. This creates both opportunity and hazard for potential buyers, and insurance is certainly a factor. Speaking of moving, more and more Americans are moving overseas to save money or retire. Should you become an expat? Clark shares his essential "test drive" rule for anyone considering an international move and breaks down the vital questions you need answered before you commit, concerning taxation, safety, and healt...

Jan 19, 202632 min

01.16.26 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / An Entrepreneurial Moment

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in this episode, the job market is in a lower gear as businesses continue to lay off employees and slow hiring. Clark’s take? There’s an opportunity in the marketplace. If you’ve been laid off or you feel anxious about your job right now, consider Clark’s perspective as a lifelong entrepreneur. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 When 1 Door Closes…: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 ...

Jan 16, 202631 min

01.14.26 Travel Buyer Beware / Clarkonomics: The 2026 Growth Recession

Today Clark shares an important warning about booking travel - info that could save you from becoming stranded or banned from a major airline. Also - Taking into account our current K-shaped economy, a softening job market, and inflation projections, Clark explains the potential for a “growth recession”, and gives you the classic playbook for an uncertain economy . Travel Booking Alert: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Survive The Growth Recession: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the s...

Jan 14, 202630 min

01.13.26 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss

Is It Time To Sell Berkshire Hathaway? & 5 Predictions for Investors in 2026 In this episode, Clark Howard and Wes Moss dive deep into the legacy of Warren Buffett and what the future holds for Berkshire Hathaway as it enters a new chapter. Wes breaks down the staggering math of Buffett’s success, and Clark discusses the "jockey vs. the horse" theory, questioning if the company can maintain its magic without Buffett at the helm. Also, Wes provides his definitive 2026 market outlook by answer...

Jan 13, 202635 min

01.12.26 A Plan For Credit Card Debt / Online Grocery Prices

So many of us struggle with credit card debt , which can be especially acute after the holidays. Clark shares some eye-opening stats, and a 3 step approach to getting debt under control. Also, does ordering groceries online save you money, or rip you off? Clark updates the dynamic pricing angle and online options. Credit Card Debt: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Online Grocery Shopping: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Credit Card Debt Consolidation: 3 Paths To Consider, 2 T...

Jan 12, 202633 min

01.09.26 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / The Future Of Auto Insurance

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in this episode - After years of increases, there’s potentially good news on the auto insurance front. Clark looks at industry trends that point to lower costs for car insurance. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Auto Insurance Prices: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Certificate of Deposit (CD): What Is It, Best Places To Open One Clark's Road Trip Hack: Ren...

Jan 09, 202637 min

01.07.26 What Early Tax Filers Need To Know / When To Take Social Security

This time of year tax forms start landing in your mailbox. Clark clears the confusion and misinformation around the IRS’s Direct File vs Free File offerings. Also, a topic sure to generate a lot of Clark Stinks - Clark’s opinion on why you should wait until age 70 to take social security - with two exceptions. Tax Filing Changes: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Social Security: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: IRS Direct File won't be available next year. Here's what that mea...

Jan 07, 202629 min

01.06.26 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss

Are You Wealthy? Use These Numbers To Find Out & Simple Math Behind Millionaires Are you curious how your net worth compares to the rest of the country? Wes Moss dives into the latest data from the Federal Reserve’s Study of Consumer Finances and top financial institutions to paint a clear picture of wealth in America today. Also, Wes helps to draw the roadmap for the next generation of millionaires. Inspired by the wisdom of the Clark Howard community, Wes outlines a simple, repeatable blue...

Jan 06, 202635 min

01.05.25 How To Handle A Hospital Bill / Lower Power Costs

Never assume a hospital bill is correct. What’s the first thing to ask for? Clark discusses how to handle these bills, and a new way to help get a hospital bill reduced. And speaking of reduced bills, how about a lower heating bill? Clark shares some new innovations to help you Spend Less on home energy. Lower Hospital Bills: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Lower Energy Bills: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Patient uses AI to reduce hospital bill by 83% - HumbleDollar AI is...

Jan 05, 202629 min

01.02.26 2026 Smarter Spending Resolution / Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks

Clark kicks off the new year discussing how you can rethink your buying decisions moving forward. And of course, Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Rethink Buying Decisions: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Clark Stinks: Segments 3 &4 Mentioned on the show: NYT: Shoppers Turn to Discounts and Debt, but Not Just for Holidays Is Borrowing Money With Affordable Payments To Buy Nice Things Really So Bad? How to Save Mone...

Jan 02, 202632 min

12.30.25 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss

Little-Known '3.6 Rule' for a Happy Retirement & Is the Job Market Good or Bad? Wes Moss dives into the critical connection between social capital and financial security, revealing a surprising "magic number" from his 2025 Money and Happiness in America Study. While most people focus strictly on their 401(k), the data shows that intentionality in your social life is just as vital as intentionality in your investments. Also, Wes breaks down the latest labor data to determine if the "Goldilock...

Dec 30, 202537 min

12.29.25 Save On Ride Share Services / Up In ARMs - The Adjustable-Rate Mortgage

Two days from now will be a busy night for Uber and Lyft. Know how to find the best deal when you need a ride. Also today, risky mortgages are becoming popular again. Get Clark’s best advice for buying or refinancing a home. Save On Ride Services: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Risky Home Loan Resurgence: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: [The Washington Post] I tested 80 Uber and Lyft rides and found a powerful way to save Axios: America's big robotaxi rollout Do I Need To U...

Dec 29, 202530 min

12.23.25 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss

The Secret to Affordable Healthcare & Will Mortgage Rates Go to 5% Soon? Wes Moss reveals a critical, little-known healthcare secret that can save early retirees, job-leavers, and other Americans thousands of dollars a month on medical coverage before age 65. Hear the incredible story of Rebecca, who thought she was stuck paying $2,500/month for COBRA but discovered a way to slash her premium to less than $200 through the ACA, thanks to enhanced subsidies. Wes walks through how to use free r...

Dec 23, 202545 min

12.22.25 Avoid Fraud 2 Ways / The Outlook On Gas Prices

Criminals are working overtime to separate you from your money this holiday. Today, hear about the fake online merchant reps ripping people off - and why you should discontinue a common ecommerce practice permanently. Also, Clark updates where we are with gas prices and the factors influencing what you pay at the pump. Fraud Alerts: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Gas Prices: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark’s Christmas Kids 2025 ⁠ Why You Should Never Store Your Paymen...

Dec 22, 202531 min

12.19.25 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / For Christmas Procrastinators

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in today’s episode: What if you still haven't completed your holiday shopping? Will you have to pay more this close to Christmas? Yes AND No. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 11th Hour Retail Strategy: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark’s Christmas Kids 2025 Why Every Family Needs a Code Word The Best Phone Plan For You - Compare Phone Plans Costco vs. Sa...

Dec 19, 202536 min

12.17.25 Household $ Saving Tips / Housing: Buying Vs Renting

How far are you willing to go to save money? We asked our Clarkies to share their best tips and you sure represented! Today we share our Clark Daily Newsletter survey results on the topic of frugality. Also - is home ownership still the American dream? It’s complicated. Clark discusses the decision factors involved in the largest purchase we ever make. How do you build wealth and where does a home fit into it? Frugality Hacks: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Weighing Homeownership: Segment 3 Ask ...

Dec 17, 202530 min

12.16.25 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss

How To Feel Good About Spending in Retirement & Big Changes to Your 2026 Taxes Are you a lifelong saver struggling to spend your retirement nest egg? You're not alone! Many people who successfully save a significant amount face a major psychological hurdle when it comes time to shift from an accumulation mindset to a distribution (spending) mindset. Wes Moss breaks down how to overcome the psychological barrier of watching your retirement balance go down and how to finally feel good about en...

Dec 16, 202537 min

12.15.25 Protect Your Retirement Accounts / Electronic Medical Records

In this episode - Brokerage accounts lack legal protection. Clark explains how criminals have figured out how to target brokerage and retirement accounts, and 2 steps you can take to protect your invested life’s savings. Plus - More doctor’s offices are moving to digital paperwork, but patient uptake is surprisingly low. Know the advantages of having electronic medical records. Safeguard Your Investments: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Electronic Medical Records: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 M...

Dec 15, 202530 min

12.12.25 Clark Answers His Critics on Clark Stinks / Retirement Planning 2026

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also in today’s episode: Take it to the limit - the new retirement account limits. Clark has updates and advice to enhance your retirement saving strategy. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Retirement Planning 2026: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Citi Double Cash® Card Review: 5 Things To Know in 2025 5 Things To Know About the Citi Strata Premier Card Cell Phone...

Dec 12, 202531 min

12.10.25 Mortgage Refinance Guidelines / Switching Banks - Easier Than You Think

Is now the time to refinance your mortgage? Only if you meet certain criteria. Clark breaks it down. Also - Are you with what Clark calls a Giant Monster Mega Bank? If so, you may be paying fees you don’t have to! Clark’s overview of the banking industry makes it clear, the regional, super regional and giant banks are not your wallet’s friend. Hear how people are migrating their money in a way that’s comfortable for them - a method called “ soft switching ”. Mortgage Refi Guidelines: Segment 1 A...

Dec 10, 202534 min
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