Clark Stinks & Why Health Insurance Costs Are Surging (and How To Prepare)

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. 

Also, healthcare costs are surging nationwide, and Americans are feeling the squeeze whether they get coverage through an employer or buy a plan on the state exchanges. With exchange premiums set to jump up to 20% in hard-hit areas and employer health benefit costs projected to spike at the highest rates in decades, navigating this open enrollment season will require making tough, strategic choices. Take the time during open enrollment to re-evaluate your coverage, compare providers, and look at alternative plan tiers.

All this and more on the October 2, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark.

• Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2
• Open Enrollment: Segment 3
• Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

• TIPS: The Inflation-Proof Alternative to Standard Bonds - Clark Howard
• Do You Get Better Prices on Hotels From Third-Party Sites or by Booking Directly?
• The Hidden Danger of Booking Your Vacation Through Third-Party Sites
• 35 Clever and Unusual Ways To Save Money - Clark Howard
• Health Insurance Archives - Clark Howard 
• Axios: Large employers drop health benefits as costs rise
• Long-Term Care Insurance Is Getting Harder To Buy. Here’s Why You Might Not Need It Anyway

Clark.com resources:

• Episode transcripts
• Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark
• Clark.com daily money newsletter
• Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

Submit your questions: Ask Clark.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alert: Bank Imposter Scam Draining Life Savings & Shocking Truth About Travel Costs Right Now

Clark exposes a dangerous financial scam that is draining people’s entire life savings and explains why your protections might not apply if you fall for it. Financial imposter scams are becoming sharper and more sophisticated. Clark shares the single mandatory step you must take whenever you receive an urgent alert from a fraud department to keep your hard-earned money safe.

Plus, if you're planning a vacation, Clark reveals why shoulder season travel savings have practically vanished this year and what's really driving up the cost of your next trip. From soaring fuel prices to weakening dollar values, cruise lines and airlines are feeling the pinch and passing the expenses on to you. Learn where you can still find genuine travel deals if you’re willing to shift your strategy on the calendar.

Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the September 30, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark.

• Saving Your Life’s Savings: Segment 1
• Ask Clark: Segment 2
• Travel Update: Segment 3
• Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

• Warning: A Devastating Bank Impersonation Scam Is Draining Life Savings in Minutes
• This type of scam cost Americans half a BILLION dollars last year
• Why Now Is the Best Time To Buy a New Mattress — With One Major Catch
• The Best Place To Buy a Mattress - Clark Howard
• If ‘fall is really the new summer,’ are there any autumn travel deals left?
• International eSIM: The Best Way to Stay Connected | GigSky
• eSIM for Cruise Ships: Stay Connected at Sea
• 5 Steps To Getting a Good Deal on a Hotel Room - Clark Howard
• The Safe Way to Reshop Your Travel Deals and Save Hundreds 

Clark.com resources:

• Episode transcripts   /   Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark
• Clark.com daily money newsletter
• Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

• Best Free Streaming Services in 2026: Movies and TV for Cord Cutters
• The Best Phone Plan For You - Compare Phone Plans - Clark Howard
• What Credit Card Should I Get - Clark Howard 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Secret to Giving Yourself 'Permission to Spend' in Retirement & Are Pensions Back?

Wes dives into new research showing that median-wealth retirees underspend their potential income by 8% – and wealthier retirees underspend by a staggering 47% to 53%. Wes breaks down the psychological difference between spending assets versus spending income streams, and the little-known shift that can give you the "license to spend" without locking your money away in an annuity.

Plus, are pensions making a surprise comeback? Wes explores recent Wall Street Journal data showing thousands of companies adding pension-style plans, why workers want them back, and what this means for the future of retirement.

Mentioned on the show:

• What Is an Annuity, and Why Does Clark Think They Stink?⁠

• ⁠How Two Clark-Approved Annuities Can Reduce Retirement Stress⁠

• ⁠Annuity Calculator: Is it Worth It? - Clark Howard⁠

• ⁠How To Turn Part of Your Nest Egg Into a Pension - Clark Howard⁠

• ⁠What It Would Take Each Month To Build Your Own Social Security Check From Scratch⁠

• ⁠The Biggest Investing Lesson From Trump Accounts - Clark Howard⁠

• ⁠Best 529 Plans by State: How Clark Howard Picks the Top College Savings Plans⁠

• ⁠Pensions Were on the Brink of Extinction. Now Companies Are Bringing Them Back.⁠

All this and more on the September 29, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast.  Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask

Discover the research-backed path to a happier retirement – order The Retire Sooner Method by Wes Moss today at retiresoonermethod.com
We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!

Learn more about Wes: 

• BOOKS BY WES MOSS  
• Wes Moss, CFP® 
• Wes Moss - Clark.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How To Inflation-Proof Your Portfolio & The Free Account Everyone Needs To Set Up Before Retirement

Navigating your investments as you age can get confusing, especially when rising interest rates make traditional bond funds a scary prospect. While young investors can comfortably ride out stock market volatility, those approaching their late 50s and beyond need a more balanced portfolio to protect their hard-earned money. Instead, consider Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) as a powerful, inflation-proof alternative to standard bonds, as Clark explains.

Also, there is an urgent security measure you need to take right now – no matter your age. Many people assume they don't need a MySocialSecurity account until they are ready to retire, or they worry the program won't exist in the future. Clark walks us through why it’s so crucial to open an account as soon as possible.

Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the September 28, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark.

• Bond Alternative: Segment 1
• Ask Clark: Segment 2
• Your Social Security: Segment 3
• Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

• TIPS: The Inflation-Proof Alternative to Standard Bonds - Clark.com
• Long-Term Treasuries: What a 5% Return Means for Your Money
• Empower Review: How It Works, Pros & Cons - Clark Howard
• My Social Security: The Free Account Everyone Needs To Set Up Before Retirement
• How Can I Estimate My Social Security Benefit? - Clark Howard
• The Best Car-Buying Services - Clark Howard 

Clark.com resources:

• Episode transcripts
• Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark
• Clark.com daily money newsletter
• Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark Stinks & Deal Alert: Running Shoes

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. 

Also, running and walking shoe prices are finally dropping, creating a massive money-saving opportunity for your wallet. Major retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods are feeling the squeeze from an oversupplied market and slowing consumer demand, leading to deep discounts across nearly every major brand. Whether you need a fresh pair for daily walks or serious training, now is the time to skip full retail and lock in major savings across the board.

All this and more on the September 25, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark.

• Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2
• Running Shoes Discounted: Segment 3
• Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

• 5 Money Tips To Know Before You Travel Abroad - Clark Howard
• 5 Money Mistakes To Avoid When Traveling - Clark Howard
• Mystery Vacation | Groupon Getaways
• How To Get Top-Brand Running Shoes for Cheap Right Now
• Clark Deals - Shoes
• How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion
• Your Passport Could Be Useless - Even if It's Not Expired  /  State.gov   
• How Much Money Do I Need in My Emergency Fund? - Clark Howard

Clark.com resources:

• Episode transcripts
• Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark
• Clark.com daily money newsletter
• Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Your Internet Provider Ripping You Off? & How Clark Finished College Fast To Save Money

Are you still paying the "inertia tax" on your home internet? As giant cable megamergers reshape the market, big providers are steadily jacking up prices on customers who stay on autopilot – just like old landline companies did decades ago. Clark reveals how to break free from the cable monster.

Plus, with student loan interest rates soaring and college costs out of control, Clark breaks down the growing trend of 3-year bachelor's degree programs. Drawing on his personal experience of rushing through undergrad to save cash, Clark explains how accelerated and reduced-credit degree options are helping students bypass massive debt, slash room-and-board expenses, and keep their financial futures on track.

Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the September 23, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show.  Submit your questions: Ask Clark.

• Clark Smart Home Internet: Segment 1
• Ask Clark: Segment 2
• Save On College: Segment 3
• Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

• Clark Howard's Tips To Save Money on Home Internet in 2026
• Report: The #1 Internet Provider in America - Clark Howard
• Fixed Wireless Internet: Using Your Cellular Service Provider for Home Internet
• Internet Archives - Clark Howard
• Mint Mobile Deal: Unlimited Plan & Home Internet for $45/Mo.
• Your Discover Card Is Migrating to Capital One: What to Expect 
• What's Going on With Federal Student Loans? | NEA
• The number of colleges getting rid of student debt is growing 
• Home Equity Loan Calculator - Clark Howard
• When You Should (and Shouldn't) Use a 529 Plan - Clark Howard 
• Best 529 College Savings Plans By State

Clark.com resources:

• Episode transcripts
• Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark
• Clark.com daily money newsletter
• Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Dark Side of Retirement (and How To Avoid It) & Lump Sum vs. Monthly Pension Decision Tree

Retirement is often touted as the ultimate goal, but Wes reveals why reaching the finish line can bring unexpected challenges. Wes exposes the sobering statistics behind aging in America, emphasizing why true retirement success requires building a "portfolio of purpose" alongside financial security.

Also, Wes breaks down his brand-new decision tree to help you settle the age-old debate of choosing a lump sum versus monthly pension payouts, introducing his straightforward 6% Rule and four key questions to protect your wealth, fight inflation, and secure a blissful retirement.

Mentioned on the show: 

• ⁠How To Invest a Lump Sum or Cash You've Left Uninvested⁠

• ⁠Pension vs Lump Sum Calculator - Clark Howard⁠

All this and more on the September 22, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask

Discover the research-backed path to a happier retirement – order The Retire Sooner Method by Wes Moss today at retiresoonermethod.com

We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!

Learn more about Wes: 

• BOOKS BY WES MOSS  
• Wes Moss, CFP® 
• Wes Moss - Clark.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The banks are at it again, and Clark wants to make sure you don't fall into a dangerous debt trap. Home equity levels are at record highs as financial institutions aggressively push homeowners to tap equity with HELOCs and cash-out refinances to pay off credit cards or fund lifestyle expenses. Clark explains why turning your home's equity into high-interest debt is a massive financial risk, how it mimics the harmful bank tactics of 20 years ago, and why keeping your low fixed-rate mortgage intact is critical for long-term stability.

On the auto front, while major manufacturers continue prioritizing high-margin luxury vehicles over budget-friendly models, smart options still exist. Clark highlights nine major auto brands still averaging under $40,000 per sale, and reveals why the absolute best financial move you can make today is simply keeping your current vehicle on the road as long as possible.

Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the September 21, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show.  Submit your questions: Ask Clark.

• Home Equity Guidelines: Segment 1
• Ask Clark: Segment 2
• New Vehicles Under $40,000: Segment 3
• Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

• Is a HELOC a Good Idea? The Simple Answer - Clark Howard 
• Which Documents Should You Keep and for How Long? 
• China Extends 240-hour Visa-Free Transit Policy Coverage to 55 Countries
• Report: The Average Price of a New Vehicle - Clark Howard 
• New cars cost nearly $50K. Here are 5 brands for under $40K -USA TODAY
• How To Buy a Used Car - Clark Howard
• When Should I Drop Comprehensive and Collision Coverage?
• The Center For Auto Safety Lemon Law Tips 

Clark.com resources:

• Episode transcripts
• Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark
• Clark.com daily money newsletter
• Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. 

Also, there are new tools for parents to keep track of their babies' health and sleep. These are much more sophisticated than old fashioned monitors. Is there cause for concern? Smart monitors and AI-powered devices are now tracking everything from sleep patterns and health metrics to developmental milestones and growth rates right from birth. While these analytics are popular with parents used to tracking their own health data, you have to ask: who else is watching? Before you install an AI surveillance system in your nursery, Clark shares a warning to consider.

All this and more on the September 18, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show.

• Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2
• AI Baby Health Surveillance: Segment 3
• Ask Clark: Segment 4
  

Mentioned on the show:

• Best 529 Plans by State: How Clark Howard Picks the Top College Savings Plans
• Best Return of Premium Life Insurance for 2026
• Term Life vs. Whole Life Insurance: Understanding the Difference
• Why Your HOA Fees Are Skyrocketing - Clark Howard
• NYTimes: Aw, It’s Baby’s First A.I. Surveillance System
• 12 Ways You May Be Exposing Yourself to Fraud - Clark Howard
• 7 Essential Rules To Get Great Customer Support Every Time

Clark.com resources:

• Episode transcripts
• Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark
• Clark.com daily money newsletter
• Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

Submit your questions: Ask Clark.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark drops an urgent warning for vehicle owners regarding a massive spike in auto insurance claim denials. If you let a friend, colleague, or extended family member borrow your vehicle to run a quick errand, you could be setting yourself up for financial disaster.

Also, a sleazy car insurance tool has made an AI video of Clark endorsing its product. This is happening all over social media. Clark tackles the explosion of sophisticated AI-generated scams plaguing social media platforms like Facebook. From deepfake videos using Clark’s own voice and image to pitch bogus insurance products, to fake ads offering unbelievable discounts on luxury goods, scammers are leveraging advanced technology to trick you out of your hard-earned money. Clark shares how you can protect your wallet, spot counterfeit deals, and why you need to adopt a healthy sense of skepticism—not cynicism—whenever you see trusted public figures or targeted ads popping up in your feed.

Plus, Christa shares your #AskClark questions and Clark gives his take. All this and more on the September 16, 2026, episode of The Clark Howard Show. Submit your questions: Ask Clark.

• Who Gets To Drive: Segment 1
• Ask Clark: Segment 2
• AI Targeted Scam Ads: Segment 3
• Ask Clark: Segment 4

Mentioned on the show:

• Best Auto Insurance Companies and Some of the Worst⁠

• ⁠Credit Card Debt Consolidation: 3 Paths To Consider, 2 To Avoid⁠ 

• ⁠Clark Howard's Credit Card Debt Elimination Strategy⁠

• ⁠Simple Trick To Pay Down Credit Card Debt Quicker - Clark Howard⁠

• ⁠Modern Scams are Getting Harder to Spot. Here's What to Do⁠

• ⁠TSA PreCheck® vs. Global Entry vs. CLEAR+: Which Is Best for You?⁠

• ⁠How I Set My Teens Up for Retirement in 5 Minutes - Clark Howard⁠

• How To Open a Roth IRA

Clark.com resources:

• Episode transcripts
• Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark
• Clark.com daily money newsletter
• Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How To Build Wealth Without a Tech Job & Hidden Dangers of Coast FI

Forget the myth that you have to work on Wall Street or in Silicon Valley to build massive wealth. Wes reveals the power of the "Everywhere Millionaires" – the 3 million Americans who have accumulated a collective $65 trillion by building unglamorous, low-tech, and non-tech businesses. Discover why tactile, essential industries are producing some of the richest entrepreneurs in the country (including a former hot dog stand owner who sold his business for $1 billion).

Then, Wes issues a crucial warning for young investors drawn to the Coast FI movement. While saving aggressively early in life is fantastic, relying solely on compound interest while taking your foot off the savings gas pedal in your 20s or 30s carries massive hidden risks. Wes explains why life’s unexpected variables mean you shouldn't step back from your financial goals too soon.

Mentioned on the show:

• Are You Well Invested? Here’s a 6-Point Check         
• Backdoor Roth IRA: How High Earners Can Still Contribute
• How To Invest a Lump Sum or Cash You've Left Uninvested
• Pension vs Lump Sum Calculator - Clark Howard
• The Biggest Investing Lesson From Trump Accounts - Clark Howard

All this and more on the September 15, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: WesMoss.com/ask
Discover the research-backed path to a happier retirement – order The Retire Sooner Method by Wes Moss today at retiresoonermethod.com

We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!

Learn more about Wes: 

• BOOKS BY WES MOSS  
• Wes Moss, CFP® 
• Wes Moss - Clark.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices