Are you missing out on freebies on your credit card? In this episode I describe some great credit card perks you want to make sure you take advantage of. Plus I discuss the National Mortgage Settlement and how it may help homeowners who are underwater or have lost their homes to foreclosure and offer a free resource that can help you if you are struggling with your mortgage. Finally I share how a conversation with former New York Governor David Patterson prompted me to remind you about how you may have free identity theft resolution services available to you. Yes, free is the theme of this podcast! It aired live September 15, 2012.

One of my listeners has a bunch of credit cards. Will closing them hurt hurt his credit? And another listener wants to know what average daily balance on her credit card statement means. Listen in as I answer these credit questions. And if you have a credit question, I'll be happy to answer it for free! Just tune in to find out how. This episode aired live December 15, 2012.

If you can't pay what you owe, you may need help negotiating credit card debt. In this episode of Talk Credit Radio, I talk with debt settlement expert Michael Bovee about how to settle your credit cards. You'll find out how much creditors settle for; why you may strike a better deal if your credit report "looks like a grenade hit it"; and how to negotiate if you are being threatened with a credit card debt lawsuit. Deep in debt? You won't want to miss this one! This episode aired live December 8, 2012.

The new Pay As You Earn program offers students who aren't earning enough to make their full student loans a flexible option. How does it work, and can you qualify? Lauren Asher, president of The Institute for College Access and Success, joins me to explain the program. She also recaps the relief available under the Income-Based Repayment Program. If you are a student with a lot of federal student loan debt - or just struggling to make your payments.

If you are new to the US, you probably aren't familiar with our credit reporting system and how it works. Listen as I describe the process for building credit in the US. It's not difficult - as long as you understand the steps you need to take.

How does debt negotiation work? What kinds of deals are creditors really offering? What are some of the dangers in trying to settle your debt? Plus learn how to get a free copy of my ebook Reduce Debt, Reduce Stress.

Did your credit take a hit during the economic downturn? Lou Rodriguez lost it all - his good credit, home, and his business. But he's bouncing back and showing others strategies for credit repair after tough times. Learn as I talk with Lou about how long it takes to get your good credit back, and also find out about the crucial information in credit reports that most people overlook when they review their credit reports. This episode aired live September 15, 2012.

Looking to consolidate your debt or lower your interest rates with a credit card balance transfer? CardRatings.com's Curtis Arnold shares the latest deals on balance transfers - as well as traps to avoid.

If you are one of the millions of Americans whose home is upside down, aka an "underwater mortgage" you won't want to miss this interview with Mark Moore. His company offers a unique solution that is helping homeowners keep their homes and wipe out thousands of dollars in negative equity. This episode aired live September 15, 2012.

Do you believe the kids need to learn how to better manage money at a young age? Be part of the solution! FInd out how Junior Achievement is helping more than 4 million kids each year learn valuable financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills. I am a volunteer for JA and encourage you to join their efforts too. In this episode, I talk with Maggie Haley Vice President of Operations, Executive Director Junior Achievement. What could be more important than helping the next generation? This episode aired live August 25, 2012.