NerdWallet's Smart Money Podcast

Learn how a weakening U.S. dollar affects your wallet and how you can escape the cycle of never-ending credit card debt.

Why is the U.S. dollar losing value and how does that affect day-to-day spending? How can you make progress on credit card debt that feels impossible to tackle? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the value of the U.S. dollar and strategies to break free from credit card debt. Joined by NerdWallet senior news writer Anna Helhoski, they begin with a discussion of what’s behind the dollar’s recent decline, with tips and tricks on how it affects your travel budget, why prices may rise, and what to expect from currency exchange rates.

Then, Sean and Elizabeth dig into a listener’s question about persistent credit card debt through a unique role-play segment. They discuss how to prioritize which card to pay down first, how to manage the emotional burden of debt, and ways to balance living your life while staying committed to repayment. If you've ever felt stuck with revolving debt or curious about how global trade policies might impact your wallet, this episode offers practical guidance and empathetic insights.

Track your credit score, cash flow, net worth, and insurance for free using the NerdWallet app: https://www.nerdwallet.com/p/mobile-app 

Debt Snowball Method: What It Is and How to Use It https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/what-is-a-debt-snowball 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: why the dollar is weakening, dollar value today, what affects dollar strength, how to track dollar index, USDX explained, how tariffs affect the dollar, U.S. dollar and inflation, dollar exchange rate travel, international travel exchange rate tips, how a weak dollar affects prices, adjusting your budget for inflation, credit card debt payoff tips, how to pay off credit card debt faster, credit card debt emotional toll, debt snowball vs avalanche, paying off high-interest cards, how to prioritize credit card debt, managing debt and lifestyle, balancing debt and enjoyment, debt payoff motivation, financial anxiety and debt, impact of Trump trade policy on dollar, Federal Reserve interest rates and the dollar, how investor confidence affects currency, fiat currency explained, weak dollar travel planning, credit card payoff challenges, credit card debt mental health, and making progress on credit card debt.

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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Find out when it’s worth splurging on kitchen gear and how to switch banks without losing your financial footing.

What kitchen tools are actually worth the money? Is switching to an online bank really worth the hassle? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the value of investing in high-quality kitchen gear and what to consider when moving your money to an online bank so you can make smarter, more intentional financial choices. They begin by speaking with Michele Norris, host of the podcast Your Mama’s Kitchen. She explains how you can align your purchases with your cooking habits — without falling for social media hype. Plus, they discuss how to think about home kitchen upgrades, including tips and tricks on choosing the right knife or stove, knowing when to skip premium brands, and avoiding aesthetic-driven purchases that don’t match your lifestyle. 

Then, NerdWallet consumer banking editor Ruth Sarreal joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss how to evaluate whether switching banks makes sense. They explore how to compare rates and fees, keep your auto-payments organized, and transition smoothly without damaging your credit or missing a bill.

NerdWallet’s roundup of the best online checking accounts: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/banking/online-checking-accounts 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: high yield savings account, switching banks, best kitchen appliances to buy, online-only banks, SoFi checking account, bank account switching process, best knives for home cooks, Vitamix vs Ninja blender, Le Creuset alternatives, when to splurge on appliances, budgeting for kitchen upgrades, online banks vs traditional banks, how to switch banks, ATM access with online banks, pros and cons of online banks, choosing a stove, best air fryer to buy, kitchen appliances worth the money, countertop appliances, instant pot storage, what to look for in a blender, managing multiple bank accounts, best checking accounts, how to avoid bank fees, how to transfer auto-payments, comparing bank APYs, personal finance for home cooks, financial planning for kitchen purchases, emotional value of kitchen gear, and sentimental kitchen items.

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 how to stay calm during market volatility and whether a HELOC or cash-out refi makes sense for your home reno goals.

What should you do with your investments when the stock market is particularly volatile? What’s the difference between a HELOC and a cash-out refinance? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss coping with market volatility as well as borrowing against home equity to help you understand how to navigate uncertainty and also make smart decisions about home renovations. First, NerdWallet senior news writer Anna Helhoski and investing writer Sam Taube offer different strategies for approaching recent market volatility, including tips for ignoring short-term investment noise, building financial resilience, and understanding how tariffs affect the economy.

Then, NerdWallet mortgage writer Kate Wood joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss how to borrow against your home’s value. They discuss the pros and cons of home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) and cash-out refinances, how to evaluate which option may suit your renovation goals, and strategies to avoid financial regret down the road.

NerdWallet’s free HELOC calculator can help you figure out whether you could be eligible for a home equity line of credit—and how much you might be able to borrow: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/heloc-calculator 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: stock market volatility, what to do when the stock market drops, HELOC vs cash-out refinance, home equity loan pros and cons, how to fund home renovations, building financial resilience, emergency fund tips, tariffs and the stock market, inflation and investments, Fed interest rate policy, bear market meaning, market downturn tips, investing during volatility, how tariffs affect the economy, bond ladder strategy, best time for HELOC, home equity loan risks, saving for home renovation, California home prices, budgeting for renovations, mortgage and equity options, financial impact of home improvements, refinance or HELOC for renovations, Vanguard FTSE All-World Ex-US ETF, iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF, international stocks vs US stocks, when to use a cash-out refinance, credit card debt vs investing, student loans and home equity, home improvement timeline planning, setting renovation budgets, housing equity strategies, planning for college savings, market correction vs crash, coping with investment stress, and financial planning in uncertain times.

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 how to explore your money beliefs and take real steps toward saving and investing, even on a tight income.

What’s really behind your money habits? How can you build savings and invest if you’re not earning much? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss how your relationship with money shapes your financial behaviors and what you can do to change that narrative. Joined by Shannah Game, host of Everyone’s Talkin’ Money and author of Unraveling Your Relationship with Money, they begin with a discussion of how money beliefs form in childhood, how your body gives clues about financial stress, and how weekly “money dates” can help shift your mindset, spending, and long-term financial outcomes.

Then, Katie, a listener navigating a career change and major life transition, joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss budgeting on a lower income and how to make progress on both emergency savings and retirement. They discuss how to build an emergency fund with irregular income, when and how to roll over 403(b) accounts into an IRA, and how to invest small amounts without feeling discouraged. The conversation also covers tools like the 50/30/20 budget and NerdWallet’s retirement calculator to help Katie — and listeners like her — build a path forward, even if they feel like they're starting late.

Are you on track to save enough for retirement? Use NerdWallet’s free retirement calculator to check your progress, see how much retirement income you'll have and estimate how much more you should save: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/retirement-calculator 

NerdWallet’s roundup of the best IRA accounts: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/investing/ira-accounts 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to fix your relationship with money, money beliefs, financial trauma, budgeting on low income, how to start saving money, emotional spending, how to invest with little money, financial self-awareness, weekly money date, how much to save for emergencies, what is a 403b, 403b rollover to IRA, Roth IRA vs traditional IRA, how to track spending, how to set money goals, compound interest explained, how to save for retirement in your 30s, moving in with a partner finances, financial independence, personal finance for late starters, how to handle a career pivot financially, how to build an emergency fund, aligning spending with goals, how to start investing in your 30s, best IRAs for beginners, saving vs investing priorities, high-yield savings account, budgeting tools for beginners, financial planning on hourly wages, financial literacy basics, how to track expenses, how to make money habits stick, celebrating financial wins, how childhood affects money habits, somatic responses to money, financial therapy, how to stop money anxiety, 50/30/20 budget rule, NerdWallet retirement calculator.

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 how tariffs could impact car prices and how to know when it’s OK to spend instead of save.

Should you buy a car now before prices rise due to tariffs? When is it okay to stop saving aggressively and spend more? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss recent auto tariffs and navigating major money moves to help you understand how external events and internal goals shape your financial plan. Joined by NerdWallet news writer Anna Helhoski and auto writer Shannon Bradley, they begin with a discussion of auto tariffs, with tips and tricks on when to buy a car, how much prices might rise, and when, if ever, they might come down.

Then, personal finance writer Amanda Barroso joins Sean and Elizabeth to help answer a listener’s question about shifting from a strict savings mindset to one that allows for spending with purpose. They discuss how to create a flexible budget, build credit before moving out, and define life goals that money can help achieve.

NerdWallet’s free investment calculator will calculate how much your investments will grow based on your planned contributions, timeline, rate of return and compounding frequency: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/investment-calculator 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: auto tariffs 2025, car price increases, how tariffs affect car prices, used car prices 2025, new car tariffs, imported car taxes, car dealership pricing, buying a car before tariffs, Trump car tariffs, steel and aluminum tariffs, cost of imported vehicles, auto financing tips, how to build credit, authorized user credit, rent reporting services, when to stop saving money, how to enjoy money responsibly, 50/30/20 budget rule, financial goals in your 20s, when to move out of your parents’ house, financial independence early, investing vs life experiences, saving vs spending, credit score for renters, best time to buy a car, federal EV tax credit, retirement savings benchmarks, budgeting for rent, planning life around money, living intentionally with money, tracking net worth, and emotional spending habits.

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 how to store all your important documents and get some last-minute tips for filing your taxes. 

Where should you store your important financial documents? How long should you keep them? What should you do if you’re facing a tricky tax situation? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss some tips and best practices for storing documents like tax returns, bank statements, credit card bills and more, including how and when to dispose of them safely. 

Then, NerdWallet tax writer Bella Avila joins Sean and Elizabeth to answer listener questions about filing taxes. They explain what you can do if you’re facing an unexpected tax bill, what you need to know if you’re working and paying taxes in multiple states, and provide guidance for those who may be behind on their taxes, including some steps to take financially and emotionally to get back on track. 

NerdWallet’s list of best tax software:

https://www.nerdwallet.com/p/best/taxes/tax-software 

NerdWallet’s list of best identity protection services:

https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/comparing-identity-theft-protection-services 

NerdWallet’s federal income tax calculator: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/tax-calculator 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to organize financial documents, storing important documents safely, financial document storage tips, fireproof safe for documents, digital vs paper document storage, what documents to keep and for how long, how long to keep tax returns, where to store estate planning documents, best way to organize personal documents, how to file taxes, tax season 2025, tax filing deadline April 15, IRS payment plan, what to do if you owe taxes, surprise tax bill help, how to adjust tax withholding, IRS withholding estimator, tax penalty relief, first time penalty abatement, estimated tax payments, filing taxes in multiple states, state tax withholding rules, non-resident state tax return, tax filing for remote workers, state reciprocity agreements, taxes for 1099 income, how to file taxes as a freelancer, self-employed tax filing tips, tax tips for gig workers, how to track 1099 income, what happens if you don’t file taxes, how to file back taxes, emotional stress about taxes, tax anxiety help, procrastinating on taxes, getting help with past-due taxes, financial shame and how to overcome it, free tax filing options, IRS free tax help, best tax software 2025, tax counseling for the elderly, volunteer income tax assistance.

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 about the U.S. national debt and how it impacts economics and what options to explore if your employer-offered 401k plan seems limiting. 

What exactly does it mean when you read about the enormous national debt in the United States? What options do you have if you’re not happy with the 401k plan offered by your employer? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola dig into investing options with NerdWallet personal finance lead writer June Sham. But first, NerdWallet senior news writer Anna Helhoski joins the show to break down what exactly is the national debt, who does the U.S. owe, and why it matters to everyday Americans. 

Next, Sean, Elizabeth and June answer a listener’s question about whether it’s worth it to invest in their employee-offered 401k plan even if it feels limiting. The Nerds explain the pros and cons of a 401k as well as alternative options to explore, including a brokerage account or an IRA, and why you don’t have to limit yourself to just one type of account. 

NerdWallet’s list of best IRA accounts:

https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/investing/ira-accounts

Choose the best retirement plan: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/best-retirement-plans-for-you 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: national debt, what is the national debt, how much is the US in debt, US debt ceiling explained, difference between debt and deficit, publicly held debt, intragovernmental debt, who owns the US debt, debt to GDP ratio, US debt crisis, what happens if the US defaults, national debt impact on economy, foreign holders of US debt, Congressional Budget Office debt projections, US budget deficit, treasury securities explained, debt ceiling vs national debt, federal spending and tax revenue, 401k vs brokerage account, should I invest in a 401k without a match, 401k managed by insurance company, 401k fees and disclosure rules, retirement investment options, Roth IRA vs 401k, traditional 401k benefits, taxable brokerage account vs 401k, 401k contribution limits 2025, early 401k withdrawal penalties, required minimum distributions 401k, investment fees and expense ratios, choosing a Roth IRA provider, best retirement account for long-term growth, retirement planning tips, comparing retirement accounts, 401k rollover options, best Roth IRA accounts 2025.

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 myths about building wealth, plus hear from a couple looking to align on  financial goals and values.

Can you build wealth without starting a business? How can couples figure out what to do with extra money in their budget? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola share their “money hot takes” and then talk to a married couple about how they can better align on financial priorities. Sean and Elizabeth kick off the episode with their thoughts on how to become a millionaire without needing to own your own business, and why they believe consistent investing from a 9-to-5 job can help you grow your wealth. Plus are Roth IRAs overrated? They might be when compared to Roth 401(k)s.

Then, listeners Naomi and Andrew join Sean and Elizabeth to discuss how couples can align on their financial goals. They talk through how to define shared values, balance short- and long-term priorities, and decide how to use some new room in their budget wisely, including strategies for emergency funds, retirement, and kids’ future savings.

NerdWallet's list of the best savings accounts: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/banking/savings-accounts 

Get matched with a financial advisor by using NerdWallet Advisors Match: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/investing/financial-advisors 

NerdWallet’s investment calculator will calculate how much your investments will grow based on your planned contributions, timeline, rate of return and compounding frequency: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/investment-calculator 

Are you on track to save enough for retirement? Use NerdWallet’s calculator to check your progress, see how much retirement income you'll have and estimate how much more you should save: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/retirement-calculator 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to build wealth without a business, investing from a 9 to 5 job, becoming a millionaire from salary, Roth IRA vs Roth 401k, Roth IRA contribution limits, backdoor Roth IRA, Roth 401k benefits, emergency fund recommendations, short term financial goals, good debt vs bad debt, paying off debt as a couple, managing money in a marriage, budgeting as a couple, aligning financial goals with a partner, daycare budget reallocation, how to prioritize financial goals, saving for a home addition, using home equity loan, 529 plan alternatives, taxable brokerage for kids, feeling behind on retirement, retirement planning anxiety, compound interest retirement, how to save for multiple goals, financial planning for couples, building credit as a couple, margin in budget meaning, shared financial values, and daycare cost savings.

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 how to prepare for a possible recession and make sure your car insurance coverage is enough to protect your finances.

What should you do to get ready for a recession? How much car insurance coverage do you really need? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss recession risks and car insurance basics to help you understand how to protect your finances. Joined by NerdWallet senior news writer Anna Helhoski, they begin with a discussion of recession warnings, with tips and tricks on budgeting with the 50/30/20 rule, building an emergency fund, and prepping your credit and savings.

Then, insurance Nerd Lisa Green joins Sean and Elizabeth to discuss how to choose the right amount of car insurance. They discuss the difference between liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, what minimum insurance limits really protect you from (and what they don’t), and how umbrella policies and uninsured motorist coverage can add extra protection. You’ll also hear ways to lower your car insurance bill by shopping around, raising your deductible, and finding overlooked discounts.

Compare auto insurance rates in 2 minutes with NerdWallet’s auto insurance finder: https://www.nerdwallet.com/insurance/l/auto-insurance-finder 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to prepare for a recession, signs of a recession, what happens during a recession, 50/30/20 budget rule, building an emergency fund, credit during a recession, umbrella insurance, what is umbrella insurance, car insurance basics, collision vs comprehensive coverage, liability car insurance explained, full coverage car insurance, what is full coverage insurance, auto insurance deductible, underinsured motorist coverage, car insurance tiers, how to save on car insurance, shopping for car insurance, car insurance comparison tips, high liability coverage, car insurance for old cars, what is property damage liability, what is bodily injury liability, best car insurance coverage, understanding insurance limits, home and auto umbrella policy, recession impact on prices, recession and interest rates, how long recessions last, economic indicators of recession, consumer sentiment recession, car insurance for risky drivers, and auto insurance discounts.

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 how to budget for a mortgage, compare lenders, and prep for home buying or selling in today’s changing housing market.

How can you shop smart for a mortgage and pick the right broker or lender? How do you budget for a home purchase? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss mortgage shopping and home affordability to help you understand how to make informed, strategic choices when buying or selling a home. Joined by Jonathon Haddad, president of Next Door Lending, and Kate Wood, NerdWallet mortgage expert, they cover how brokers work, what to look for in a lender, and how to avoid common pitfalls when comparing loan offers.

They begin with a conversation with Jonathon Haddad about the benefits of using a mortgage broker, how much money borrowers could save, and key questions to ask when shopping for a loan. Then, Kate Wood helps answer a listener’s question about selling a home in 2025, including tips on agent commissions and how market shifts could affect sellers. They discuss how to budget for a down payment, what expenses first-time homebuyers often overlook, and how to know if you’re financially ready to buy. 

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 

Here’s what mortgage brokers are and how to find one: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/how-to-find-a-mortgage-broker

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

First-time home buyer programs by state: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/first-time-home-buyer-programs-by-state 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to find a mortgage broker, mortgage broker vs lender, mortgage broker fees, best way to shop for a mortgage, how to compare mortgage lenders, mortgage broker savings, mortgage loan estimate tips, choosing a mortgage broker, home buying budget calculator, how to budget for a house, down payment assistance programs, closing costs for first time home buyers, private mortgage insurance, how to prepare for buying a home, home buying tips 2025, first time home buyer loans, FHA loan down payment, conventional loan down payment, va loan down payment, usda loan down payment, home buying closing costs, real estate agent commission 2025, how to sell your house, how to choose a real estate agent, realtor commission changes 2025, selling a house in 2025, how to budget for home maintenance, moving costs when buying a house, first time home buyer help, what credit score do you need for a mortgage

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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