Neera Tanden, domestic policy advisor to President Biden, discusses the fight against junk fees impacting college students.

What hidden “junk fees” are college students facing? How is the Biden Administration addressing fees to make higher education more affordable? Hosts Sean Pyles and Anna Helhoski discuss the Biden Administration's recent efforts to combat junk fees in colleges, from financial products marketed to students like credit cards and bank accounts to textbook costs and unused meal plan dollars. They speak with Neera Tanden, domestic policy advisor to President Biden, about the more than $1 billion annual impact of these fees and the bipartisan support she expects for some of these policies.

Then, in this week's Money News roundup, Sean and Anna discuss issues with the new FAFSA, the Federal Reserve's latest stance on interest rates, and continuing surge of home sales. Get a comprehensive overview of the latest developments affecting your finances and gain valuable insights to stay ahead in an ever-changing economic environment, whether you're a student navigating the labyrinth of college fees or a homeowner keeping tabs on market trends.

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: hidden fees, FAFSA troubles, Federal Reserve, interest rates, housing market, college fees, student finances, financial aid, junk fees, textbook costs, student loans, college expenses, student banking, origination fees, meal plans, tuition bills, open-source textbooks, college affordability, financial literacy, student debt, financial aid applications, existing homes, home prices, National Association of Realtors, mortgage rates, economic indicators, market trends, financial decisions, and personal finance.

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 the truth behind common credit score myths and get a better understanding of digital wallet privacy and security.

00:51 This Week in Your Money: Do you need to carry a credit card balance in order to maintain a good credit score? Does checking your credit score hurt your credit? Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner debunk common credit score myths to help you understand the realities of your credit health. They offer valuable insights into how carrying a balance affects your credit score, the safety of checking your credit score regularly, and the importance of maintaining a history with your credit accounts open. 

09:45 Today’s Money Question: Are digital wallets truly safe and private? Is it safer to pay with a check than online? Sean and Sara discuss the intricacies of digital wallets, explaining the role of tokenization in securing transactions, the importance of phone security features like passcodes and biometrics, and the varying privacy policies of digital wallet providers like Google Pay and Apple Pay. They explain how digital transactions are protected, how to navigate privacy settings in apps like Venmo, and how they’ve used digital wallets in their own lives.

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: credit score myths, digital wallets, mobile transactions, transaction tokenization, credit scores, cashless transactions, credit card balance, checking credit scores, Google Pay, Apple Pay, Venmo, Samsung Pay, digital payment options, digital spending, financial reputation, privacy policies, mobile payments, credit card fraud, secure transactions, consumer data, credit utilization, credit history, biometric data, phone locks, digital payment security, financial decisions, credit score improvement, online bill payments, credit card security, payment tokenization, credit bureaus, credit profile, credit card management, digital wallet adoption, credit score factors, cashless convenience, and payment privacy.

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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Get savvy about car rental services, pros and cons of RV rentals and navigating public transportation when traveling.

What are the best transportation options when traveling with a group? 

When is it worth it to rent a car? 

NerdWallet’s Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss group transportation options and public transportation strategies to help you understand how to move your squad around efficiently and economically. They begin with a discussion of various modes of transportation, with tips and tricks for saving money on rental cars. Then, they discuss the ins and outs of RV travel and public transit in cities. They also talk about RV delivery services, managing fuel costs, the practicality of Amtrak for group travel, and the advantages of public transit over car rentals in urban settings.

Has this episode given you a travel bug? Then check out our list of the 15 Best Travel Credit Cards of March 2024.

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: group travel, rental cars, RV travel, public transportation, Amtrak trains, electric vehicles, travel tips, group excursions, travel with friends, family vacations, RV adventures, RV delivery services, rental car expenses, rental car elite status, downtown rental locations, travel logistics, group transportation options, car sharing apps, travel insurance, travel savings, renting electric cars, Turo, GetAround, group travel strategies, group transportation logistics, hop-on hop-off buses, travel by train, urban travel, group road trips, managing travel costs, travel apps, rental car alternatives, efficient transportation, travel planning, group trip planning, sustainable travel, eco-friendly travel, family road trips, and car rental tips.

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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Discover how a historic change in the way real estate agents are paid could impact prices for home buyers and sellers.

Will housing costs become cheaper under new real estate commission rules? How will the recent settlement by the National Association of Realtors impact home buyers and sellers? Hosts Sean Pyles and Anna Helhoski delve into the details of the $418 million settlement by the National Association of Realtors, discussing its potential implications on the home buying and selling process. NerdWallet mortgage writer Holden Lewis joins the conversation to break down the changes and their possible effects on home prices. From understanding the intricacies of commission negotiations to potential ripple effects on the housing market, this episode equips you with the knowledge to navigate the evolving real estate industry. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned seller, you'll gain valuable perspectives on optimizing your real estate transactions and making informed financial decisions.

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: real estate commissions, home buyers, home sellers, National Association of Realtors, real estate industry, realtor commissions, housing market, real estate agents, buyer agents, seller agents, real estate negotiations, real estate lawsuit, buyer negotiation, seller negotiation, home prices, home sales, NAR settlement, real estate news, commission structures, buyer-seller negotiations, and real estate commission changes.

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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“Your Rich BFF” Vivian Tu explains how to adopt a millionaire’s mindset and shares key strategies for building wealth.

How do wealthy people think about building wealth? What career choices can lead to a faster increase in income? Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner discuss spring financial planning and wealth-building strategies to help you understand how to effectively grow your finances and navigate career advancement. They begin with a discussion of setting SMARTR financial goals for spring, with tips and tricks on setting realistic goals, checking in on your financial objectives, and planning for home improvements. 

Then, podcaster, social media influencer, and author Vivian Tu, also known as "Your Rich BFF," joins Sean to discuss wealth-building through passive income and active career decisions. They discuss the importance of making your money work for you, the psychological barriers to seeking higher income, and the significance of securing a meaningful raise or position shift every two years. She shares her insights on transitioning from Wall Street to digital media, democratizing financial knowledge, and cultivating a mindset for wealth accumulation. 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: financial growth, wealth-building strategies, smart money moves, financial planning, financial freedom, financial literacy, career growth, money management, passive income, salary negotiation, side hustles, investing, home improvement fund, tax season, budgeting, saving money, personal finance, financial goals, wealth accumulation, money strategies, raise negotiation, professional development, financial wellbeing, emergency funds, financial education, financial independence, increase income, workplace dynamics, financial security, money motivation, financial planning tips, money tasks, personal finance philosophy, financial automation, meritocracy, job switching, raise requests, and wealth-building tips.

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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Discover tips and get answers to common questions for smooth group travel, from choosing accommodations to managing meals and costs for a successful trip.

How can you find the perfect accommodations for group travel without overspending? 

How can you split group expenses fairly? 

NerdWallet’s Megan Coyle and Megan Lee discuss the ins and outs of group travel accommodations and the logistics of planning a group trip to help you understand how to orchestrate a seamless group vacation experience. 

They begin with a discussion of lodging options, with tips and tricks on selecting cost-effective stays, balancing the convenience of hotels against the charm of vacation rentals, and splitting costs to prevent financial surprises. Then, they discuss orchestrating meals for large parties, managing group dynamics by rewarding those who take the lead, and crafting memorable group activities that cater to everyone's interests.

Interested in more travel tools? Then check out our list of the 15 Best Travel Credit Cards of March 2024.

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: group travel, travel planning, group accommodations, vacation rentals, Airbnb, Vrbo, group vacations, travel expenses, travel budgeting, group meals, shared costs, travel tips, group activities, retreat planning, travel harmony, travel expert insights, group lodging, cost savings, group getaways, stress-free travel, group retreats, group travel strategies, travel accommodations, hotel stays, city travel, group dynamics, group costs, travel flexibility, travel adventures, travel amenities, travel experiences, group dining, communal experiences, travel memories, group travel options, group travel challenges, and budget discussions.

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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Understand the recent resurgence of cryptocurrency prices and what the future may have in store for crypto investments.

Why did Bitcoin’s price go back up? Why are cryptocurrencies controversial? Hosts Sean Pyles and Anna Helhoski delve into the recent resurgence of cryptocurrency, particularly Bitcoin, after its dramatic fall in previous years. They discuss the factors behind Bitcoin's recent rally, including the upcoming blockchain reward halving and the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs, shedding light on what this means for investors. NerdWallet investing writer Sam Taube joins the discussion to provide insights into the divisive nature of cryptocurrency, its use as an alternative investment, and the controversies surrounding aspects like mining and environmental impact.

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: bitcoin ETFs, blockchain, digital currencies, ethereum ETFs, crypto investing, cryptocurrency investments, personal finance, cryptocurrency market, bitcoin prices, cryptocurrency trading, cryptocurrency mining, cryptocurrency volatility, DeFi, cryptocurrency regulation, cryptocurrency adoption, and decentralized finance.

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 from others’ missteps in our new segment, “My Favorite Financial Mistake.” Plus: balancing paying debt vs. saving.

00:39 This Week in Your Money: What can you learn from making financial mistakes? Should you save and invest or pay off debt when you get a financial windfall? Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner, along with their new co-host Elizabeth Ayoola, discuss turning financial blunders into learning opportunities to help you set up for future financial success. They begin with a candid discussion about their personal financial missteps, offering insights on mental accounting, the perils of emotional spending, and the importance of maintaining flexibility in your financial planning. 

13:22 Today’s Money Question: Adam, a Colorado firefighter, joins Sean and Sara to discuss cash windfalls and long-term planning. They delve into the intricacies of choosing between paying off debt and investing in a 529 college savings plan, the merits of a zero percent APR balance transfer, and the joy of spending on memorable family experiences. They also explore long-term financial goals and the art of balancing immediate financial needs with future planning. They highlight the benefits of starting an emergency fund with modest contributions, the strategy of tackling high-interest credit card debt while saving, and the value of investing in life experiences. 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: financial planning, money management, paying off debt, 529 college savings plan, retirement savings, emergency funds, financial goals, investment strategies, credit card debt, high-yield savings accounts, long-term wealth creation, financial windfall, financial mistakes, educational savings accounts, budgeting, personal finance, managing finances, mental accounting, emotional spending, financial balance, financial empowerment, financial success, economic stability, budgetary slips, financial blunders, credit challenges, money missteps, financial faux pas, long-term planning, financial fears, and financial shame.

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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Get expert tips on affordable group and family air travel, from maximizing points and rewards to booking the best flights and maximizing airline perks.

How can you make group travel both enjoyable and affordable? 

What are the best strategies for using travel points and credit cards to your advantage when planning group trips? 

Hosts Sean Pyles and Meghan Coyle discuss the intricacies of group travel planning and the mastery of travel points and credit card perks to help you understand how to have a memorable group trip without breaking the bank. They begin with a discussion of group travel planning, with tips and tricks on securing the best deals, navigating planning for multiple people, and leveraging travel credit cards to mitigate extra fees such as those for seat selection. 

Then, Meghan interviews credit card Nerd Erin Hurd about the nuances of booking flights for groups. They discuss strategies for using points effectively when traveling with a group, the benefits of programs like Southwest Airlines' Early Bird Check-In and Upgraded Boarding, and the flexibility of pooling points with hotel programs like Hilton and Marriott.

Has this episode given you a travel bug? Then check out our list of the 15 Best Travel Credit Cards of March 2024. 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: group travel, travel savings, travel rewards, travel tips, budget travel, group vacations, travel points, travel credit cards, Southwest airlines, early bird check-in, family travel, travel planning, airline points, companion passes, airport lounges, group flights, group lodging, travel experiences, airline perks, travel benefits, travel coordination, credit card perks, flight booking, pooling points, credit card rewards, airport lounge access, travel itineraries, airline status matching, airline incidental fees, and upgraded boarding.

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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Understand how you may actually be able to save money on fast food thanks to “dynamic pricing.”

What’s the difference between surge pricing and dynamic pricing? How can you take advantage of supply and demand timing for certain products and services? Hosts Sean Pyles and Anna Helhoski tackle the buzz around Wendy’s controversial new pricing strategy, dissecting the confusion surrounding surge pricing and clarifying Wendy’s actual plan of implementing dynamic pricing starting in 2025. They discuss the potential impact this AI-driven pricing may have on consumers and how it could result in discounts based on factors like weather and demand, and its applications in other areas such as ticket sales, hotels, and airlines.

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: dynamic pricing, fast food costs, AI technology, surge pricing, consumer impact, pricing strategies, Wendy’s, rideshare services, supply and demand, menu changes, digital menu boards, AI-enabled technology, real-time data, pricing decisions, ticket sales, value offers, fluctuating prices, industry trends, and price shifts.

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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