NerdWallet's Smart Money Podcast

Learn what a U.S. credit downgrade means for your portfolio, plus find out when it might be time to cancel your travel credit card.

What does the U.S. credit rating downgrade mean for your investments? Should you cancel your travel credit card if the perks no longer justify the fee? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the U.S. government’s recent credit downgrade by Moody’s and how it could impact markets, borrowing costs, and long-term economic stability. Joined by NerdWallet news writer Anna Helhoski and investing writer Sam Taube, they break down the downgrade’s broader implications and offer tips on navigating bond yields, safe investment vehicles, and economic uncertainty.

Then, Sean and Elizabeth are joined by credit cards Nerd Melissa Lambarena to answer a listener’s question about canceling a high-fee travel credit card. They explore the pros and cons of closing accounts, how to audit whether a card’s perks are still worth the fee, and alternatives like downgrading to a lower-fee card. They also cover how to track credit card value, minimize credit score impact when making changes, and optimize benefits like lounge access, rental car perks, and more.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

United Quest card review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/united-quest 

United Explorer card review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/united-explorer  

NerdWallet offers a Treasury account through a partnership with Atomic: https://www.nerdwallet.com/lp/treasury-account 

What is a credit card product change and how does it work? Instead of opening a new account, you could ask to change to a different card. Here's when and how to do so: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/credit-card-product-change 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: US credit rating downgrade, Moody’s downgrade 2024, what happens if US defaults, effects of US credit downgrade on investments, treasury bond yields 2024, how to evaluate credit card perks, downgrade travel credit card, how to keep a high credit score without using credit cards, short-term Treasury bills, Treasury accounts vs savings accounts, investing during economic uncertainty, Moody’s credit rating explained, credit rating agencies, U.S. debt ceiling 2024, credit card points strategy, tracking credit card rewards, how to downgrade a credit card, budgeting for credit card annual fees, short-term treasuries vs CDs, best way to manage multiple credit cards, using perks to offset credit card fees, and investing during economic downturns.

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

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Planning a big move? Learn how to decide whether you should sell or rent your home and fund your next down payment.

Should you sell or rent out your home when you move? What’s the best way to fund a down payment from multiple accounts? Host Sean Pyles talks to NerdWallet writer Lisa Green about the big financial decisions that come with relocating across a long distance. Joined by listener David, they explore how to evaluate whether keeping a home as a rental makes sense, and what it takes to manage that property from a distance.

They begin with a discussion of long-distance landlording, with tips and tricks on hiring a property manager, maintaining a savings cushion, and considering the tax benefits of depreciation and travel deductions. They also discuss which accounts to withdraw from with minimal tax consequences, how to leverage a HELOC before moving, and how the timing of a move can impact your financial strategy.

Learn about down payments and calculate how much to put down on a house: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/down-payment-calculator 

If you’re ready to find the right mortgage with expert guidance every step of the way, get started today at https://www.nerdwallet.com/prequalify/m/mortgage-experts/lp1 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: renting out your home after moving, long distance landlord tips, property manager costs, managing a rental property from another state, home equity line of credit for down payment, how to get money for a home down payment, using Roth IRA for home purchase, cashing out taxable investments for a down payment, capital gains tax on investment sales, moving across the country with kids, how to prepare financially for a move, cross-country move costs, downsizing before a move, furnished rental property tax benefits, rental property depreciation, rental property travel tax deduction, renting furnished home to traveling nurses, comparing cost of pods vs U-Haul, best way to move long distance, property management for out-of-state rental, rental vacancy costs, tax benefits of keeping a rental property, how to handle moving logistics, financial planning for relocation, and how to access money for a house down payment.

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

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Learn what stagflation could mean for your finances and how to tell if you need life insurance.

Do you still need life insurance if you’ve built enough wealth? What does stagflation mean for your financial plan? Hosts Elizabeth Ayoola and Sean Pyles discuss how to determine whether your life insurance coverage still fits your needs and what to watch for as economists warn about potential stagflation. First, along with NerdWallet senior news writer Anna Helhoski and inflation expert Taryn Phaneuf, they break down how to think about your financial protection in uncertain times, discussing stagflation—what it is, why it’s so rare, and what signs to look for now—and offering tips on monitoring inflation, adjusting your savings strategy, and reducing high-interest debt. 

Then, listener Adam joins Sean and Elizabeth to explore whether increasing umbrella insurance means he can lower his auto coverage, when to switch to a group life policy through work, and how to estimate college savings needs for three kids. They discuss comparing life insurance policies, how to factor net worth into coverage decisions, and why regular insurance check-ins are key.

Use NerdWallet’s free tool to compare life insurance quotes and find the right coverage for you and your family https://www.nerdwallet.com/insurance/life/life-insurance-quotes 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: life insurance vs net worth, term life insurance, umbrella vs collision insurance, when to update life insurance, group life insurance policy, employer life insurance coverage, best life insurance for parents, convert group life insurance, stagflation, what is stagflation, signs of stagflation, stagflation 2025, Consumer Price Index April 2025, high-yield savings accounts inflation, saving during inflation, emergency fund inflation, umbrella insurance minimums, collision coverage and umbrella insurance, auto insurance comparison, saving for college with 529, 529 contribution calculator, estimating college savings, tuition benefits, financial checklist after remarriage, insurance tips for high net worth, choosing term vs whole life, how to save on insurance, switching insurance after marriage, family insurance planning, life insurance for spouse, when to drop term life insurance, inflation trends 2025, how to prepare for stagflation, and Federal Reserve inflation targets.

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

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In this month’s Smart Planning segment, a financial advisor discusses when it might make sense to scale back your 401(k) contributions.

Is it safe to invest right now? Should you keep contributing to your retirement account when the economy feels uncertain? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss how to navigate turbulent financial times by focusing on long-term investing strategies and what you can control. They break down what’s going on with recent stock market activity, why the dollar is weakening, and how investors can stay the course by understanding their risk tolerance and using tools like dollar-cost averaging. They also touch on emotional investing and offer practical ways to handle market anxiety without pulling back on your financial goals.

Then, Elizabeth welcomes Ross Anderson, founder of Craftwork Capital and co-host of the Check Your Balances podcast, to answer a listener’s question about whether to reduce 401(k) contributions due to fears about job security. They discuss how to evaluate whether you’re holding too much cash, the trade-offs between contributing to retirement versus living for today, and how the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement can work even if you start later in life. They also cover the impact of retiring abroad, how international taxes can complicate your strategy, and why certain insurance products might not match your goals.

Inspired to navigate your finances with an advisor? Use NerdWallet Advisors Match to find vetted professionals today at https://www.nerdwalletadvisors.com/match 

Learn about dollar-cost averaging as a strategy to reduce the impact of volatility by spreading out your stock or fund purchases over time so you're not buying shares at a high point for prices: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/dollar-cost-averaging-2 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: investing during market volatility, dollar cost averaging, stock market downturn 2025, how to manage risk tolerance, emotional investing, investment risk capacity, long-term investing strategy, FIRE movement explained, barista FIRE, how to retire abroad, retiring in Portugal, retiring in Italy, buying a home in Europe, saving for early retirement, high-yield savings account vs investing, when to reduce retirement contributions, investing vs lifestyle spending, how to handle market swings, tax rules for expats, international index funds, when to use a brokerage account, what to do in a market downturn, life insurance for retirement planning, long-term capital gains tax, when to sell stocks for retirement, CDs vs savings account, risk tolerance vs risk capacity, and when to rebalance investments.

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

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Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. NerdWallet does not offer advisory or brokerage services, nor does it recommend or advise investors to buy or sell particular stocks or securities. Any comments posted under NerdWallet's official account videos are not reviewed or endorsed by NerdWallet or representatives of financial institutions affiliated with the reviewed products unless explicitly stated otherwise. Avoid disclosing personal or sensitive information such as bank accounts or phone numbers. NerdWallet employees do not offer personalized financial advice and will not respond to posts here.

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When is buying “Made in the USA” worth it? Plus, learn where to stash savings for home repairs to maximize your returns.

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Learn how to navigate job loss and reshape your money mindset to feel more in control — emotionally and financially.

What should you do with your money after losing a job? How can you feel better about money and stop stressing about finances? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss managing job loss and improving your relationship with money to help you understand both the practical and emotional sides of financial well-being. NerdWallet writer Kim Palmer joins the show to share her conversation with Aja Evans, a financial therapist and author of Feel-Good Finance: Untangle Your Relationship with Money for Better Mental, Emotional, and Financial Well-Being. They discuss money taboos and financial trauma, with tips and tricks on how to open up about money, build healthier habits, and understand your emotional triggers.

Then, Bri, a listener from Chicago, joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss navigating job loss and making tough financial decisions. They discuss how to choose between COBRA and marketplace health insurance, when to consider tapping savings or debt, and how to balance job search priorities without derailing your financial future. They also share smart strategies for cutting spending, staying motivated with rewards-based goals, and deciding what to do with old retirement accounts.

Learn more about NerdWallet’s Smart Money Podcast Book Club: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/bookclub 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: job loss finances, what to do after losing a job, COBRA vs marketplace insurance, unemployment benefits, high-yield savings accounts, emotional spending, financial trauma, money shame, how to budget after layoff, unemployment job search tips, how to choose health insurance after job loss, rollover retirement account, how to talk about money, financial therapy, coping with job loss, 50/30/20 budget rule, rebuilding emergency funds, how to negotiate salary, unemployment and freelance work, how to cut spending fast, when to tap retirement savings, mental health and money, money mindset, smart budgeting strategies, financial stress relief, marketplace health insurance, spending triggers, navigating layoffs, unemployment and part-time work, personal budgeting goals, rebuilding after job loss, job loss recovery plan, financial therapy techniques, affordable health insurance options, rolling over 401(k), money taboos, improving financial habits, saving during unemployment, and the emotional impact of job loss.

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

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Learn what a shrinking GDP means for you. Plus: how to handle your HSA if your employer stops contributing.

Is the U.S. in a recession? How do you roll over an HSA when your employer stops contributing? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the current state of the economy and how to manage your Health Savings Account (HSA) to help you protect your finances. Joined by NerdWallet news writer Anna Helhoski and economist Elizabeth Renter, they begin with a discussion of economic indicators, offering insights into why the GDP shrank in Q1, how tariffs and inflation are affecting consumer behavior, and what signs might point to a looming recession.

Then, NerdWallet health insurance expert Kate Ashford joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss HSA rollovers. They discuss when it makes sense to move your HSA to a new provider, the tax implications of selling HSA investments, and how to avoid penalties during a rollover. Whether you’re consolidating accounts or reevaluating where to keep your medical savings, this segment breaks down your options and highlights key deadlines and common pitfalls to watch out for.

Learn more about how (and why) to invest with your HSA: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/how-to-invest-hsa 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: recession 2025, are we in a recession, GDP contraction, health savings account rollover, HSA rollover rules, economic indicators 2025, consumer sentiment index, inflation 2025, core PCE inflation, high deductible health plan, HSA transfer process, in-kind HSA transfer, trustee-to-trustee HSA rollover, capital gains taxes HSA, how to avoid HSA penalties, HSA 60 day rule, HSA rollover timeline, federal tariffs and economy, HSA investment options, HSA fees comparison, emergency fund strategy, when to move an HSA, economic impact of tariffs, HSA cash vs investment transfer, consumer confidence 2025, saving during economic uncertainty, signs of recession, HSA matching contributions ended, managing money in downturn, and investing HSA funds.

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

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Learn smart ways to budget for your wedding and how to navigate tipping expectations without overspending.

What money lessons did you learn from your mom? How can you budget for a wedding without overspending — especially when your family is helping with costs? Sean and Elizabeth discuss the financial values we inherit and the realities of modern wedding planning to help you reflect on your own money habits and make smart spending decisions. They begin with a discussion about the money lessons they learned from their mothers, including the importance of saving consistently, using money to support joy and values, and balancing financial security with family priorities.

Then, Lauren Kay, executive editor at The Knot, joins Sean and Elizabeth to answer listener Colleen’s questions about budgeting for her upcoming wedding. They explore how to prioritize spending when you're working with a fixed contribution from family, how to approach tipping vendors — especially when they own their own businesses — and which costs can easily catch you off guard. Whether you're in the middle of planning or just curious about the financial side of weddings, this conversation is packed with real talk and actionable insights.

Download the free NerdWallet app to get help with your budgeting: https://click.nerdwallet.com/3687710914/smpc 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: wedding budget tips, how to budget for a wedding, wedding tipping guide, who to tip at a wedding, how much to tip wedding vendors, budgeting for wedding expenses, saving for a wedding, splitting wedding costs with parents, tipping wedding vendors who own a business, cost-effective wedding planning, prioritizing wedding spending, how to stay under wedding budget, budgeting for a honeymoon, wedding spreadsheet tips, wedding transportation etiquette, managing family wedding contributions, early retirement inspiration, financial values from parents, learning about money from mom, budgeting lessons from childhood, saving and spending balance, how to use money to bring joy, wedding cost in urban areas, budgeting for a reception, how to cut wedding costs, tips for affordable weddings, tipping musicians at weddings, wedding vendor contracts, tipping etiquette weddings, wedding planning checklists, and wedding planning tools from The Knot.

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

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Learn what rising delinquencies mean for your finances, plus how to decide if you're truly ready to buy your first home.

What happens if you fall behind on your loan or credit card payments? How much do you actually need to buy a house? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss rising debt delinquencies and first-time homebuying realities to help you protect your credit and avoid costly financial missteps. Joined by NerdWallet senior news writer Anna Helhoski, they begin with a discussion of climbing delinquency rates across student loans, credit cards, auto loans, and government-backed mortgages, with tips and tricks on how to spot trouble early, prioritize which bills to pay first, and avoid risky quick-fix debt solutions.

Then, mortgage Nerd Abby Badach Doyle joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss what it takes to buy a home for the first time. They discuss how much you actually need for a down payment, what to expect with closing costs, and smart alternatives to tapping your 401(k). You'll also hear the pros and cons of renting versus buying, why assembling a strong homebuying “squad” matters, and how to find down payment assistance that could make homeownership more realistic — even in today’s high-cost housing market.

Use NerdWallet’s free home affordability calculator to see how far your homebuying budget could take you: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/how-much-house-can-i-afford 

Learn how a first-time home buyer class can help you find grants, down payment assistance and a lower monthly payment: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/first-time-home-buyer-class 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: debt delinquencies, student loan default, FHA loan delinquency, auto loan delinquency, mortgage delinquencies, government loans vs conventional loans, student loan wage garnishment, rising credit card debt, prioritizing debt payments, what is PMI, down payment assistance programs, 401k loan for house, using IRA to buy home, renting vs buying a home, how much to put down on a house, closing costs explained, first time homebuyer loans, home affordability calculator, 28/36 rule mortgage, credit score for mortgage, PMI removal, VA loans, FHA loan requirements, USDA mortgage, best mortgage for first-time buyer, first-time homebuyer class, home buying on tight budget, mortgage broker vs lender, emotional readiness to buy a house, how to get rid of PMI, renting benefits, first-time homebuyer grants, how to avoid default, homebuying myths, home equity, and down payment myths.

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

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In a new Smart Planning segment, a finance expert tackles retirement goals and savings questions with a listener.

How can you gift savings bonds? When is it time to stop saving for retirement early? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola offer tips for “spring cleaning” your finances, including refreshing your budget, resetting your financial goals, updating your insurance and estate plans, and getting back on track if emotional spending crept up earlier this year.

Then, they debut Smart Planning, a new segment where a registered financial advisor helps a listener tackle real-life money questions. In this session, Certified Financial Planner Barbara Ginty, host of the Future Rich podcast, talks with listener Kay about navigating the transition from saving to spending. They dive into how to know when you’ve saved enough to scale back at work, how to plan for rising medical costs in retirement, and how to gift savings bonds the right way. If you’ve ever wondered what financial freedom could look like after decades of diligent saving, this conversation is packed with insight.

Inspired to navigate your finances with an advisor? Use NerdWallet Advisors Match to find vetted professionals today at https://www.nerdwalletadvisors.com/match 

Track your budget and credit score on the NerdWallet app, and let the Nerds guide you toward your financial goals: https://www.nerdwallet.com/p/mobile-app 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: updating financial goals, savings bonds, how to gift savings bonds, budgeting tools, emotional spending, estate planning checklist, updating beneficiaries, Roth IRA contributions, SEP IRA contributions, dollar-cost averaging investing, semi-retirement planning, when to stop saving for retirement, how much to save for retirement by 55, Medicare vs Medicare Advantage, retirement healthcare costs, setting up travel insurance, travel insurance for seniors, Roth vs traditional IRA in retirement, retirement income planning, safe withdrawal rate, 4% rule retirement, and required minimum distributions..

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

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