NerdWallet's Smart Money Podcast

NerdWallet Personal Finance

Get smart about personal finance

  • 28 minutes 40 seconds
    How You Can Maximize Multiple Credit Cards for Cheaper Travel

    A personal finance enthusiast with 37 active credit cards shares tips to strategically open and maintain multiple cards to travel cheaply and answers common questions around maximizing rewards.

    How many credit cards can you have at the same time? 

    What can credit card points and miles help you afford? 

    Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss quirky money management techniques and the mastery of credit card rewards to help you understand how to make your money go farther. They begin with a discussion of unusual financial behaviors, with tips and tricks on juggling multiple bank accounts, managing a diverse collection of credit cards and the impact of such practices on credit scores. 

    Then, credit card point expert Erin Hurd joins Sean to discuss the art of optimizing credit card usage for travel rewards. She shares her experience having 37 active credit cards and shares tips for managing an extensive credit card portfolio. They also discuss her strategy for selecting cards for maximum rewards, the financial discipline needed to prevent overspending, how to maintain a healthy credit score while pursuing travel dreams and the right way to close accounts while preserving credit history.

    In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: credit card rewards, personal finance, credit score, credit card points, credit card management, travel rewards, financial habits, saving money, credit card collection, credit card debt, credit card usage, smart spending, quirky money management, financial discipline, credit card strategy, reward collecting, credit card benefits, credit card offers, credit card terms, credit card issuer guidelines, credit card signup bonuses, credit card perks, managing multiple credit cards, credit card autopay, credit card due dates, credit card annual fees, digital wallets, travel credit cards, credit card interest, credit card history, credit card closure, and credit card payments.

    To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].

    Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.

    2 May 2024, 7:10 am
  • 41 minutes 53 seconds
    Presenting Everyone's Talkin' Money

    Enjoy this special presentation of Everyone’s Talkin’ Money, a podcast from our friend Shannah Game, a money wellness expert, financial therapist and Certified Financial Planner. Shannah brings you honest, relevant, and forward-thinking conversations about money.


    This special episode explores how a simple question can unlock secrets to a wealthier life and transform your relationship with money. Say goodbye to complexity and hello to financial mastery as we break down the seven critical areas where curiosity can lead to substantial savings. Get more great tips from Shannah by listening to of Everyone’s Talkin’ Money wherever you get your podcasts.


    Learn more about Everyone's Talkin' Money: https://everyonestalkinmoney.com/

    1 May 2024, 7:10 am
  • 21 minutes 55 seconds
    How to Correct Roth IRA Overcontributions and Maximize Your Savings

    Learn about fundamentals to consider before buying an individual stock and what to do if you over-contribute to a Roth IRA.

    00:58 This Week in Your Money: What fundamentals should you consider before buying an individual stock? What should you do if you accidentally over-contribute to a Roth IRA? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss cautionary tales from the stock market to help you understand how to safeguard your investments. They begin with a discussion of Trump Media & Technology Group Corp (NASDAQ: DJT) and evaluate its performance since going public, then share tips and tricks on the importance of fundamental analysis, the risks of meme stock frenzy, and the value of diversification. 

    09:21 Today’s Money Question: Investing writer June Sham and host Sara Rathner join Sean to answer a listener’s question about Roth IRA contribution limits. They offer a detailed breakdown of Roth IRA contribution limits, strategies for dealing with over-contributions, and ways to circumvent the 6% penalty tax.

    In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: stock market, Roth IRA, investment strategies, Roth IRA contributions, portfolio diversification, meme stocks, DJT, fundamental analysis, Trump Media, personal finance, retirement planning, stock trading, financial guidance, investing insights, stock values, market forces, retirement contributions, penalty tax, excess contributions, income thresholds, traditional IRA, financial decisions, investing pitfalls, stock bets, smart investing, retirement accounts, tax-efficient savings, share values, individual stocks, stock performance, and avoid IRS penalties.

    To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].

    Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.

    29 April 2024, 7:10 am
  • 31 minutes 42 seconds
    Overcome AI Fraud: Navigating Voice Cloning and Digital Scams

    Learn how scammers deceive victims by using AI for voice cloning and learn how you can protect yourself from other AI-related fraud.

    How can you protect yourself from AI-driven scams that target your finances? 

    What new scams are happening as technology advances? 

    Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner discuss the alarming use of AI in scams and the future of fraud to help you understand how to safeguard your personal security. They begin with a discussion of AI-driven voice scams, with tips and tricks on recognizing potential fraud, staying informed about scam tactics, and the importance of open discussion to empower against scammer tactics. 

    Then, scam expert Bob Sullivan, author of “Stop Getting Ripped Off” and host of the podcast The Perfect Scam, joins Sean to discuss the broader implications of AI technology in scams. They discuss the potential for AI to personalize phishing attacks, the ease of creating convincing fake audio and the importance of skepticism in the face of unexpected calls. Plus, the need for technology companies to embed safeguards, the role of societal learning in approaching unexpected calls and the importance of verifying any financial requests you receive.

    In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: AI scams, voice cloning, digital deception, phishing attacks, personal security, scam victims, artificial intelligence, fraud prevention, identity theft, technology-assisted scams, voice cloning technology, psychological impact of scams, safeguarding against scams, AI voice scam, digital defenses, personalized fraud, ethical technology, data privacy, scam awareness, voice replication, modern scams, voice imitation fraud, AI in criminal activities, big data and scams, combating scams, generative AI, scam prevention strategies, emotional toll of scams, technology and fraud, future of phishing, online vulnerabilities, deepfake technology, AI-enhanced phishing, scam resilience, scam reporting, technology safeguards, and scam detection.

    To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].

    Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.

    25 April 2024, 7:10 am
  • 8 minutes 19 seconds
    Some Investors Are Using AI to Make Decisions. Should You?

    Learn how investors use artificial intelligence to make decisions. Plus: AI’s current capabilities and limitations in finance.


    How does AI affect investment decisions? What are AI’s limitations in finance? Hosts Sean Pyles and Anna Helhoski explore these questions and more with Sam Taube, an investing writer at NerdWallet, who shares insights on AI's role in investment research and stock selection. They break down the potential of AI-powered ETFs and mutual funds, including their performance trends and considerations for investors. They also discuss AI’s current capabilities and limitations in investing, how AI can streamline your investment research process when used correctly, and why caution and human oversight remain essential. 


    In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: artificial intelligence investing, AI in finance, investing with AI, AI-powered funds, AI investment research, AI stock selection, limitations of AI in finance, AI and financial decisions, using AI for investing, AI in mutual funds, AI in ETFs, AI in the stock market, AI for investment analysis, AI and investment strategies, benefits of AI in investing, AI in financial services, AI in wealth management, AI and investment performance, risks of AI in investing, AI and market predictions, AI for portfolio management, AI and stock picking, AI investment tools, impact of AI on finance, AI for financial advisors, future of AI in investing, AI and asset management, AI and robo-advisors, AI and hedge funds, AI for investment recommendations, challenges of AI in finance, AI and investment banking, AI in retirement planning, AI for financial decision-making, AI in trading, AI for risk management, AI and wealth advisors, AI and investment analysis tools


    To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].


    Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.

    24 April 2024, 7:10 am
  • 29 minutes 19 seconds
    Money Management for Couples and the Benefits of Fiduciaries

    Discover methods to achieve financial harmony in relationships and learn why fiduciary advisors are often considered trustworthy.

    0:52 Sara’s Corner: How can couples equitably share the mental load of managing finances? Can you trust fiduciary financial advisors? Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner begin with a discussion about the division of financial responsibilities among couples to help you understand how to create financial harmony in your relationship. 

    12:18 Today’s Money Question: Elizabeth Ayoola joins Sean to explain how you can choose a financial professional to work with, starting with an in-depth look at different types of fiduciaries including Certified Financial Planners (CFPs), financial coaches, and financial therapists. They discuss the nuances of fiduciary compensation structures and explain how you can advocate for yourself when selecting a financial advisor to work with.

    In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: financial planning, financial advisors, fiduciary, relationships and money, financial harmony, money management for couples, certified financial planners, financial literacy, financial responsibility, equal money responsibilities, financial trust, financial wellbeing, harmonious money management, shared financial responsibilities, financial abuse, emotional labor and finances, mental load of finances, managing finances as a couple, money questions, financial decisions, financial therapy, couples finances, navigating financial advisors, fiduciary trust, financial planning for couples, and financial responsibility in relationships.

    To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].

    Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.

    22 April 2024, 7:10 am
  • 37 minutes 30 seconds
    Understand and Avoid Financial Scams: Phishing, Vishing, Smishing and More

    Learn how to spot and avoid online scams, including imposter scams, investment scams, phishing, vishing and smishing.

    How can you protect yourself from financial scams? 

    What steps should you take if you fall victim to one of these schemes? 

    Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner discuss the pressing issue of online frauds and strategies for safeguarding personal finances to help you avoid falling prey to digital tricksters. They begin with a discussion of recognizing and avoiding various scams, with tips and tricks on spotting urgent money demands, identifying false emergencies and being wary of too-good-to-be-true investment opportunities. 

    Then, Lisa Schifferle from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau joins Sean to discuss the alarming scale of scamming in America. They discuss the importance of sharing scam experiences, recognizing payment method red flags and the necessity of being vigilant with personal information. They offer insights into the dangers of unsolicited communications, sophisticated scamming operations, and essential steps for recourse if you've been scammed.

    In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: online scams, cryptocurrency scams, identity theft, fraud protection, internet safety, cyber fraud, financial predators, digital deception, romance scams, phishing scams, vishing, smishing, pig butchering scams, safeguarding finances, tech support scams, scam awareness, investment scams, recouping lost funds, scam red flags, Consumer Sentinel, scam complaints, social media scams, wire transfer fraud, gift card scams, scam prevention, sharing scam stories, urgent message scam, fake family emergencies, financial loss, scam targets, elder scams, digital cons, and technology scams.

    To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].

    Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.

    18 April 2024, 7:10 am
  • 9 minutes 56 seconds
    Save on Home Insurance Amid Rising Costs and Coverage Hurdles

    Learn why homeowners insurance costs are rising, tactics to find affordable coverage, and how to know if you have enough.


    Why are homeowners insurance costs rising? How can you tell if you have enough insurance? Hosts Sean Pyles and Anna Helhoski delve into the factors behind rising home insurance premiums, from climate change-induced disasters to inflation’s impact on repair costs. They’re joined by Caitlin Constantine, an insurance editor at NerdWallet, who breaks down the details. She shares actionable strategies for finding affordable coverage and navigating insurance challenges; insights into how to safeguard your home and budget; and tips for negotiating insurance rates and making informed decisions. Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, this episode provides insights into how to better manage insurance costs and understand the evolving risks of climate-driven financial challenges.


    In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: homeowners insurance, rising premiums, insurance costs, climate change impact, home insurance rates, uninsured homeowners, insurance affordability, property protection, natural disasters, insurance coverage, cost of insurance, insurance trends, home insurance quotes, insurance inflation, insurance migration, home insurance policies, insurance challenges, home insurance tips, affordable insurance options, insurance availability, flood insurance, insurance shopping, insurance market trends, insurance industry, home insurance market, disaster insurance, car insurance, homeowners coverage, insurance premium factors, home insurance insights, and climate-related insurance costs.


    To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].


    Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.

    17 April 2024, 7:10 am
  • 22 minutes 20 seconds
    How to Overcome Common Psychological Financial Mistakes: Framing, Loss Aversion, and the Gambler’s Fallacy

    Learn how to control your behavioral economics biases and whether it’s ever worth it to use a credit repair service.

    00:58 Behavioral Economics Biases: How can you master the psychology behind your financial decisions? Are credit repair services really worth the investment? Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner discuss behavioral finance biases to help you understand the psychological factors that influence your financial choices, including loss aversion, framing, and the gambler’s fallacy, also known as the Monte Carlo fallacy or the fallacy of the maturity of chances. They share tips and tricks on matching investments with your time frame and risk tolerance, resisting the influence of framing on your choices, and avoiding frequent checks on market fluctuations. 

    10:14 Today’s Money Question: NerdWallet credit writer Amanda Barroso joins Sean and Sara to answer a listener’s question about credit repair services. They explain the purpose and costs of credit repair services, the red flags that indicate a scam, and how you can manage your credit yourself effectively for free. They also tackle the pressing question of whether credit repair services can actually improve your credit score. Their conversation explains strategies for DIY credit repair, the importance of identifying and disputing inaccuracies on credit reports, and the role of credit counseling agencies for personalized financial planning.

    In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: financial psychology, credit repair services, behavioral finance, credit score, credit health, financial decisions, investment strategies, credit bureaus, credit report, risk tolerance, financial goals, money management, credit repair companies, credit repair scams, Daniel Kahneman, loss aversion, credit improvement, credit counseling, credit repair costs, DIY credit repair, financial biases, credit repair tips, financial success, wealth management, behavioral biases, credit report disputes, credit repair agencies, framing effect, credit utilization, portfolio performance, negative information credit, financial planning, and managing credit.

    To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].

    Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.

    15 April 2024, 7:10 am
  • 31 minutes 39 seconds
    How To Guard Against Cyber Fraud: Essential Steps to Protect Your Identity

    Explore how to protect yourself from identity fraud, understand its emotional toll and learn fraud recovery steps.

    How can you protect yourself from identity theft and fraud? 

    What steps should you take if you become a victim of financial fraud? 

    Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner delve into the unsettling world of identity theft and fraud prevention to help listeners safeguard their finances and wellbeing. They begin with a discussion on the various facets of identity theft, with tips and tricks on identifying fraudulent activity, enhancing personal banking security and dealing with the aftermath of having your identity compromised. Then, they discuss the differences between identity fraud and scams, the importance of good cyber hygiene, and the steps to take immediately if your personal information is breached.

    Sean also speaks with John Breyault, Vice President of Public Policy, Telecommunications and Fraud at the National Consumers League, about the current trends in identity theft and the forms of fraud that are on the rise in 2024. They cover topics such as new account fraud, the impact of zero-day vulnerabilities on personal data security and the necessity for consumers to stay vigilant with software updates and report incidents promptly. They also explore how victims can navigate the process of recovering from fraud, including freezing credit reports, changing passwords, and engaging with financial institutions and law enforcement to document the crime and seek restitution.

    In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: identity theft, fraud prevention, financial fraud, cyber security, bank account fraud, scams, identity fraud, data breach, zero-day vulnerabilities, credit report freeze, two-factor authentication, artificial intelligence, online banking security, phishing, cyber criminals, emotional impact of fraud, credit card fraud, fraud alerts, financial wellbeing, scam awareness, cyber hygiene, consumer protection, financial predators, cyber theft, financial crime, financial education, cyber vigilance, fraud recovery, financial security, scam prevention, identity protection, personal finance, cyber fraud, bank fraud, fraud detection, identity theft awareness, and fraud restitution.

    To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].

    Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.

    11 April 2024, 7:10 am
  • 13 minutes 57 seconds
    Summer Travel Insights: Maximize Your Vacation Budget

    Unlock insights on vacation spending to leverage summer travel trends, and dive into the latest employment report. 

    Planning to travel this summer? In this episode of NerdWallet’s Smart Money podcast, hosts Sean Pyles and Anna Helhoski delve into the world of summer travel. They discuss the key findings from NerdWallet’s 2024 Summer Travel Report, revealing insights into Americans’ vacation plans and expected spending. NerdWallet travel rewards expert Sally French joins them to dissect the latest trends in airline fees, price fluctuations, and factors influencing travel decisions. Whether you plan on traveling across the globe, or staying local, understanding summer trends can help you optimize your travel planning.

    Later in this week’s Money News roundup, Sean and Anna cover the latest money headlines, including the March employment report and a new student loan relief program. From travel and job market trends to initiatives aimed at reducing student loan debt, this episode highlights some evolving aspects of the American financial landscape.  

    In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: summer travel, vacation spending, travel trends, money news, airline fees, travel expenses, travel insights, travel decisions, travel tips, travel rewards, employment report, job market trends, student loan relief, student loan debt, financial developments, personal finance, summer vacations, travel planning, inflation impact, travel industry, airline pricing, travel costs, budgeting tips, financial decisions, economic indicators, financial trends, travel research, travel data, travel analysis, vacation budget, travel hacks, budget travel, money management, financial advice, money-saving tips

    To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email [email protected].

    Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend.

    10 April 2024, 7:10 am
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